Sep 15 2023
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Raw Power
The Stooges
Gimme Danger and Search and Destroy totally hold up. Old school cool and timeless as well. The rest of the album suffers from some dated sounds, like the weird Robert Plant style sex vocal sounds, but other than that, really solid record. Not a routine re-listen for me but I'd re-visit it every 5 years or so gladly.
3
Sep 18 2023
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Jagged Little Pill
Alanis Morissette
So 90's that it borders on distracting. There are a ton of iconic jams on this album. Alanis' trademark strained vocals fit right into the alt rock / grunge that the 90s were seeing. This is one of those albums that made it out of that decade not looking completely ridiculous in the process. Enough here that anyone could enjoy.
4
Sep 19 2023
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
This album is such a mixed bag. Some tracks I feel myself really getting into it, then out of left field there's one like Coconut. It doesn't really gel for me.
3
Sep 20 2023
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Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
This album starts off with such a jam. Do It Again is such a rad song. Followed up by Dirty Work, another classic Steely Dan jam. So far, this album is just so chill. Easy listening but complex enough to be interesting. In between songs I've heard before, there are some fun jazzy tracks. Very enjoyable. Reelin' in the Years is classic though. All in all, really solid record. Will absolutely be returning this this. Should probably pick it up on vinyl too.
4
Sep 21 2023
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Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
A fairly jammy album. I can see the appeal, but it's not my favorite. Songs like East St. Louis Toodle-Oo are just goofy, but not fun for me. I love the album art and most of these track names are fantastic. I can respect this album, but I probably won't revisit it for some time. Not my favorite Steely Dan record.
3
Sep 22 2023
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Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The Smashing Pumpkins
Beautiful opening arrangement. Tonight, Tonight is so hard not to at least hum along to. I know lots of people don't care for Billy Corgan's voice, but I like it. Even softer hitting tracks like Here Is No Why are great. The first 6 tracks on this album are fantastic. Vocals and bassline on Tales of a Scorched Earth are fantastic. The breakdown in XYU is a lot of fun. For such a long record, it does a good job with moving in and out of tempo and tone.
5
Sep 25 2023
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25
Adele
"Hello" is a fantastic example of voice as an instrument. Adele has such an impressive voice and this song has a beautifully understated accompaniment that builds over the 5 minutes. Total jam. The rest of this album is mostly just pop to me. It's not my style most of the time, but Adele's voice is great.
3
Sep 26 2023
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One Nation Under A Groove
Funkadelic
This album was funky and fun, but for whatever reason it wasn't grabbing me on this Monday morning. I'll re-listen to it someday.
3
Sep 27 2023
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evermore
Taylor Swift
My partner heard the first song come on and asked "is this an ad?". The music is generic to the point of forgetfulness. Champagne Problems seems like it's full of references I don't get. This music is just so predictable. It's distracting how generic this sounds. One of the main issues here is that I'm not the target audience. Since I don't like the music, there's no lyrics to grab onto. It's just frustrating.
1
Sep 28 2023
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Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
The opening track of this album almost lulled me to sleep. The strings and organs on Master Song hint at a more engaging sound but then just fade back away. So many of these songs feel like lullabies. The Stranger Song has such gentle guitar picking and Leo's soft voice barely getting above a whisper. Aside from the accompanying instruments and the occasional guest voice, these songs kind of blend together. The lyrics are poetic and emotionally complex, but Leonard's voice is taking me out of the beauty.
2
Sep 29 2023
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L.A. Woman
The Doors
I felt neutral about The Doors going into this album. Now I think I don't like them much. This specific brand of boomer blues rock just isn't for me. I can't see myself ever giving this album a listen ever again. The one song that doesn't come across as cheesy is Riders on the Storm. Even still, lyrics like "his brain is squirmin' like a toad" are just goofy. The Doors are goofy.
2
Sep 30 2023
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Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots
The Flaming Lips
This album is a ton of fun. The Flaming Lips are at their best when their uplifting sound is juxtaposed by lyrics of regret and fear of the future. This album blew my mind when I heard it in high school and it continues to be a favorite. Will return to this album again soon, just as I have been doing for the last decade and a half.
Favorite tracks: Flight Test, Ego Tripping at the Gates of Hell, All We Have Is Now
5
Oct 01 2023
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Femi Kuti
Femi Kuti
So funky and groovy. The music is uplifting and danceable while the lyrics are political. Very glad to be introduced to this artist.
Favorite tracks: Frustrations, Plenty Nonsense, Live for Today
4
Oct 02 2023
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Woodface
Crowded House
Kind of remind me of Hanson. It's not my least favorite, but there's a lot of stuff I'd rather listen to.
2
Oct 03 2023
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Teen Dream
Beach House
Chill, deliberate, laid back and almost minimalist. I can definitely see the appeal. This music isn't really my style. 2010's style vocals over synth just don't do it for me. It's also just so repetitive. There's not a lot of different choices with percussion or tempo between tracks. Nearly every track is breathy vocals with synth riff and tambourine in the background. I keep waiting for the songs to keep building, but they just end when I expect there to be a pay off or climax. Again, I think this is a selling point for some people, just not for me.
2
Oct 04 2023
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The Coral
The Coral
Reggae, shanties, britpop. Doesn't come across as groundbreaking but it is a fun record when they're leaning more into the harsher sound.
Favorite tracks: Skeleton Key, Bad Man
2
Oct 05 2023
View Album
Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby
Terence Trent D'Arby
Very jammy. The bass line and recorders on Wishing Well are so delightfully silly. Terence's voice is great and the high point of every song. Tracks like Let's Go Forward where he's really letting loose and belting it sound phenomenal. All in all, I'm not a fan of this type of music, but this album had a lot of charm, even with some less than stellar tracks like "If You All Get to Heaven". "Who's Loving You" is a great way to close out the album. Kind of wish more tracks featured sax. Doubt I'll listen to it again anytime soon, but I'm glad I did.
3
Oct 06 2023
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Here's Little Richard
Little Richard
Crazy to think the lyrical content was considered inappropriate at the time. I want to go back in time and show people Cattle Decap or something.
This album is super fun, though. Absolutely love the bluesy sax riffs. Some of the songs run together, so I can't really recommend listening to the album all the way through.
3
Oct 07 2023
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Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
I'd find myself tuning out every now and again but if there was a bass solo I'd tune back in. There's lots of groovy stuff to enjoy in this album. I would throw it on again to work to but I'm not much for active listening to jazz.
3
Oct 08 2023
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The Modern Dance
Pere Ubu
Frantic, cynical and fun. I really enjoyed this album. Can't believe I've never heard of this band before.
3
Oct 09 2023
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So Much For The City
The Thrills
This was a pleasant listen. Definitely the kind of band I would be super into when I was 14. I would add some songs to a playlist, but I don't think I'll give this whole album a listen again anytime soon.
3
Oct 10 2023
View Album
The Low End Theory
A Tribe Called Quest
There's nothing I could say about this album that hasn't been said before. Incredible wordplay and production. Really solid album. I would absolutely buy this to keep for my own collection.
Favorite track: Show Business
4
Oct 11 2023
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Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
I listened to this album at 8:00am very sober. It was fine. Nothing that excited me, save for maybe when they moved on from one idea to the next. Tended to drag at points, but overall it's clear these guys are talented.
3
Oct 12 2023
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Qui sème le vent récolte le tempo
MC Solaar
"Funky beat-eough"
Had a great time with this album. Couldn't understand what the hell he was saying but the vibes were funky, jazzy and laid back. Even the more upbeat tracks were so damn chill. I would absolutely pick this album up if I found it at my local record shop.
Favorite tracks: Matière Grasse Contre Matière Grise, L'histoire de l'art
4
Oct 13 2023
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Music For The Jilted Generation
The Prodigy
Besides the occasional overuse of a really irritating sample (looking at you, broken glass), this album has a lot to love if you're into electronic music. 8 minute long songs with themes that build and layer on top of each other for a payoff that makes you wanna move. Several songs from this album would be on a playlist if I ever were to host a dance party.
Favorite tracks: Full Throttle, Speedway, No Good (Start the Dance)
4
Oct 14 2023
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Superfly
Curtis Mayfield
This soundtrack is so iconic. Absolutely worth picking up if I find a physical copy. Will probably re-listen soon, I already have half this album saved to playlists and stuff.
4
Oct 15 2023
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Brilliant Corners
Thelonious Monk
Just a super enjoyable listen. I've been a fan of Thelonious Monk since high school and it's evident this style helped form my taste in jazz. The way this albums moves between tempos, handing ideas back and forth between the players is just plain fun.
5
Oct 16 2023
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Hearts And Bones
Paul Simon
This album was a bit underwhelming. I don't think I ever gave Paul Simon a chance past some singles here and there. I was expecting more, but I'm not sure why. This type of singer/songwriter acoustic music doesn't really do it for me, but I could see how others enjoy it.
It just injects images of dinner parties in the 80's, throwing on some nice music to eat dinner to.
2
Oct 17 2023
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Physical Graffiti
Led Zeppelin
Thanks to John Bonham and John Paul Jones, the sound is THICK. Big fan.
5
Oct 18 2023
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Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
This is far from Sabbath's best work, but there's a lot to enjoy here. Track's like The Wizard and N.I.B. helped shape an entire landscape of new music for decades. If it's not obvious, I'm a big fan of heavier music and in particular Doom. This album was a blast to revisit.
Since it's clear the folks that put together this list have a frustrating affinity for late 60's / early 70's noodling, this was such a breath of fresh air for music of that era.
Favorite tracks: The Wizard, N.I.B., Warning
5
Oct 19 2023
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461 Ocean Boulevard
Eric Clapton
This album was... fine. A lot of the tracks went in ear and out the other. Took all the edge out of the blues riffs he jacked.
2
Oct 20 2023
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I Am a Bird Now
Antony and the Johnsons
Holy vibrato, Batman. Bordering on Tiny Tim levels of ridiculousness. There are some beautiful piano and string arrangements, but the vocals really detract from the experience for me. It's a bummer, because a lot of the accompaniment are a ton of fun, particularly on "Fistful of Love". I really wanted to enjoy this more, but I think it's just not for me.
2
Oct 21 2023
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The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
The way that this album builds tension and releases it is just fantastic. I like jazz with a bit of edge and this album delivers.
4
Oct 22 2023
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Tigermilk
Belle & Sebastian
This album is delicate and deliberate with the layering of strings, keys, vocals and even in one case, electronic elements. It's a fun album although the first half is so much stronger than the second. I would still listen to it often enough to want it for my personal collection.
4
Oct 23 2023
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The Boatman's Call
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
This album was quiet and deliberate. Not my favorite sound but it was enjoyable enough.
3
Oct 24 2023
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Blur
Blur
I've never listened to this album (except the one song. You know the one.) I was pleasantly surprised. I assumed it was going to be a brit pop slog like a lot of the other albums on this list, but it's just the slightest hint edgier than some. Like when your white girlfriend says the carbonara you made was spicy because it has black pepper in it.
Favorite tracks: M.O.R., Death of a Party, Movin' On
4
Oct 25 2023
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Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan gonna Bob Dylan. This was a fun enough listen, but I can't imagine putting this on to listen to of my own volition very often. The folksy harmonica is the most charming thing about these songs in my opinion, and it borders on irritating sometimes haha.
3
Oct 26 2023
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Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
This album is hard to categorize. Little alt-rock, little orchestral, little electronic. It was a fun listen.
4
Oct 27 2023
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Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
Not my style, but it's fun enough.
3
Oct 28 2023
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The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
The Kinks always feel less polished and put together than the Beatles. I think this is a good thing. Lots of tracks on this album sound like they're having a good time recording. Overall, a fun record but I probably won't be on the lookout to own it for my collection or anything.
Favorite tracks: Do You Remember Walter?, Last of the Steam-Powered Trains, The Village Green
3
Oct 29 2023
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Garbage
Garbage
Somewhere between Nirvana's Nevermind and Nine Inch Nail's Downward Spiral, this album is just the right amount of 90's edge. Not quite grunge and I love that. Songs like Vow are head bobbingly catchy. You can draw a straight line from music like this in the nineties to the ultra edgy early 2000's.
Favorite tracks: Queer, Vow
4
Oct 30 2023
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NEU! 75
Neu!
I liked some of the slower, proggier sections. This album was a little dull at parts however. Fun stuff for the mid 70s.
3
Oct 31 2023
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The World is a Ghetto
War
Jazzy, funky and patient. Definitely lets the sound breathe. The titular track is a standout here.
3
Nov 01 2023
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Lam Toro
Baaba Maal
Enjoyable upbeat songs as well as tracks that sit with Baaba's impressive voice. The king of album I would put on while chatting up a new friend in my living room in order to appear more cultured than I actually am.
Favorite tracks: Toro, Hamady Boiro, Gildelam
3
Nov 02 2023
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Henry's Dream
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Another chore of a listen. Nothing about this album strikes me as innovative or musically significant. The lyrics made me roll my eyes more than a few times. Someone who contributes to this list just really likes Nick Cave, it seems.
2
Nov 03 2023
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The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Didn't expect much from this album, but it was a good listen. The tracks are different enough from each other to be actually distinguishable. I appreciated the genre bending from track to track.
Favorite tracks: Bye Bye Bad Man, Made of Stone, This Is the One, Fools Gold
3
Nov 04 2023
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Synchronicity
The Police
This album is a mixed bag. Odd inclusions like Mother and Walking in Your Footsteps lean away from the sound the rest of the tracks are going for. It's less cohesive than other albums, but it's fine overall. This album is at it's best when it's leaning into themes of possession and power dynamics.
Favorite tracks: O My God, Wrapped Around Your Finger
3
Nov 05 2023
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The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground
Very chill. As much as I hate Lou Reed, this album was a fun listen on a quiet Autumn Saturday morning.
3
Nov 06 2023
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Parachutes
Coldplay
This album was more enjoyable than I remember it. The vocals are slow and hold onto sustained whole notes while the bass and drums drive the song coldly forward. This album reminds me of days getting colder. Trying to get warm in first period after walking to my high school.
I think Coldplay is still a little too poppy for my taste but I can get down with a couple of songs.
Favorite tracks: Don't Panic, Trouble, High Speed
3
Nov 07 2023
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Cloud Nine
The Temptations
Funky, lively and just a delight.
4
Nov 08 2023
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Whatever
Aimee Mann
Albums like this are so difficult to rate. Like, with no context, this album is totally fine. It has some charming songs and it moves from track to track very satisfactorily.
It's when you put this in the context of being one of the 1001 albums you MUST hear before you die. I find that really hard to believe. I can see some people being fans of this artist, but I don't really see anything innovative or significant about this album.
I wish I could say any of these songs really stuck out to me. I don't really have a favorite.
If I was rating this album independently of this list, I would rate it higher. Perhaps a 3/5.
2
Nov 09 2023
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Myths Of The Near Future
Klaxons
True to their name, lots of alarm sounds. Songs with a faster tempo remind me of Muse. Fun riffs, catchy bass lines and synthy electronic hooks.
Slower songs, like Two Receivers and Isle Of Her remind me of Imagine Dragons. Bland. Slower songs can have energy, but these guys just sound so bored unless there's a fire lit under them. I'm sure if I heard this band when I was 14 I would have a lot of nostalgia for them and would routinely listen to them. Unfortunately I can't see myself revisiting this album anytime soon.
Favorite tracks: Atlantis To Interzone, Gravity's Rainbow
3
Nov 10 2023
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Crazysexycool
TLC
This album was super popular when I was a kid and it pretty much holds up. I had a good time listening.
3
Nov 11 2023
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The Blueprint
JAY Z
A good Jay-Z record or a bad Kanye record? You be the judge.
Favorite tracks: Hola' Hovito, Never Change
3
Nov 12 2023
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Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
Truth be told I was stoned and doing the dishes while listening to this album. I'll give it a sober relisten soon, but I had a great time.
When boomers talk about 60s rock having 'feel'. This is what I picture. Obviously Jimi's guitar playing is phenomenal, but Mitch Mitchell's drumming is what kept me engaged with his record. Super jazzy and tight percussion.
Favorite tracks: Manic Depression, I Don't Live Today, Fire.
5
Nov 13 2023
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Forever Changes
Love
A pleasant, if not forgettable, 60s rock record. Just like a lot of the albums on this list it seems.
2
Nov 14 2023
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Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
It's not the best Maiden album, but this definitely set the stage for what's to come. Songs with soaring, operatic vocals. Tight harmonies and even tighter rhythm section. I adore this band, but this album feels more like a blueprint than a complete thought. That being said, I loved it and cherished being able to listen to something with distorted guitars for once.
Favorite Tracks: Phantom of the Opera, Strange World, Iron Maiden
4
Nov 15 2023
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Illmatic
Nas
I knew NY State of Mind but there are so many other tracks on this album worth checking out. Great record.
Favorite tracks: N.Y. State of Mind, The World is Yours, Memory Lane (Sittin' in da Park)
4
Nov 16 2023
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Want Two
Rufus Wainwright
I appreciated how the tone moves from hectic to somber between songs. Can't really accuse this album of having samey feeling tracks. On the more upbeat tracks, Rufus has this almost impish sense of humor about him.
3
Nov 17 2023
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Cheap Thrills
Big Brother & The Holding Company
It's no wonder that Janis went on to have a solo career. Nothing against the backing band, but the tracks where Janis' vocals are allowed to shine (Piece of My Heart, duh) are just phenomenal. The other tracks are fun too, just not as creative or interesting. It's also not often I talk about the album art, but R. Crumb doing the art for this album definitely secures it as a time machine to the late 60s. Looking at his cartoon images transports me back 60 years, complete with racist caricatures.
Favorite tracks: Piece of My Heart, Flower In the Sun
3
Nov 18 2023
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Smash
The Offspring
If you've never driven on the 405 while blasting Bad Habit you haven't lived.
5
Nov 19 2023
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Infected
The The
2
Nov 20 2023
View Album
Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Try as I might, I can't seem to get into even the most accessible reggae. I appreciate the message and the passion, but the music doesn't call to me.
2
Nov 21 2023
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Grace
Jeff Buckley
My expectations were low going into this, so I'm very pleasantly surprised.
Favorite tracks: Hallelujah, Eternal Life
3
Nov 22 2023
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Bug
Dinosaur Jr.
Its hard to put into words what I love so much about Dinosaur Jr. They come across as unpretentious folks just making the music they want to.
This isn't my favorite Dinosaur Jr. album, but this was such a delight to listen to this morning.
4
Nov 23 2023
View Album
1984
Van Halen
Nothing I could say about this album that hasn't been said a million times before. 12 year old me is still in love with Van Halen.
Favorite tracks: Hot For Teacher, I'll Wait
4
Nov 24 2023
View Album
Homework
Daft Punk
It's really cool to see how Daft Punk's sound has changed throughout the years. This is a super 90's record and I love it.
Favorite tracks: Da Funk, Around the World, Rollin' & Scratchin', Rock'n Roll
5
Nov 25 2023
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Tidal
Fiona Apple
Never listened to Fiona Apple before this. I had a great time. Jazzy, moody and just impressive song writing and vocals.
Favorite tracks: Shadowboxer, Criminal
4
Nov 26 2023
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Stephen Stills
Stephen Stills
Another early 70s slogfest. Very competently made album that just happens to bore the hell out of me.
2
Nov 27 2023
View Album
Bandwagonesque
Teenage Fanclub
Overall, I think I would have enjoyed this album more if someone didn't tell me it was one of the best albums of all time before listening to it. Got over-hyped and I was disappointed. That being said, it was a good listen. There's just other bands with music from this era I'd rather listen to.
3
Nov 28 2023
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Rio
Duran Duran
Some really sick bass lines on this album.
4
Nov 29 2023
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Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
Audibly groaned when I saw yet another album described as "singer/songwriter" but thankfully this album has some edge and dynamism to its sound so it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.
3
Nov 30 2023
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Mothership Connection
Parliament
This album still slaps so hard it's out of this world.
5
Dec 01 2023
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O.G. Original Gangster
Ice T
Hip Hop that samples Black Sabbath and horror movies? Sick. This album's lyrics are so over the top at times it's distracting. Still, super fun and thought provoking.
Favorite tracks: Midnight, Lifestyles of the Rich and Infamous
4
Dec 02 2023
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The Fat Of The Land
The Prodigy
This album is so rad. Danceable, intense and just 90s in the best/worst way.
Also, fukcing CRAB
5
Dec 03 2023
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Dry
PJ Harvey
3
Dec 04 2023
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Honky Tonk Heroes
Waylon Jennings
Pre-9/11 country music is a lot of fun. This was a solid album. Will revisit it someday for sure.
4
Dec 05 2023
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A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
Just a fantastic album and a killer listen. I definitely want this album for my personal collection.
5
Dec 06 2023
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Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
Generic, boring, slog of an album. Started my day off with this and now I'm upset.
1
Dec 07 2023
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Chore of Enchantment
Giant Sand
Quiet, intimate and simple. All things I personally don't value in my music much.
2
Dec 08 2023
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Le Tigre
Le Tigre
Oddball and genre bending crappy little rock band.
4
Dec 09 2023
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Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Queen is a band that get's pigeonholed by their hits. Songs like Bring Back That Leroy Brown satisfy in so many ways. What a great listen.
5
Dec 10 2023
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Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
So whimsical at times that it comes across as circus music. There are some songs that take a darker tone, so overall this music reminds me of sad clowns.
3
Dec 11 2023
View Album
New Boots And Panties
Ian Dury
This album really started off interesting with some great bass lines and fun lyrics but it quickly wore me out. It's humorous enough, but it drags for so long. I think this album is more fun in theory than in practice.
2
Dec 12 2023
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Frank
Amy Winehouse
Jazzy and with the right amount of edge. Super solid listen. I could use a bit more horns, but the way it's used sparingly lets Amy's incredible voice be front and center the entire time.
4
Dec 13 2023
View Album
Snivilisation
Orbital
Great example of 90s UK electronic. Not everything was trying to be The Prodigy, some people were making thoughtful, patient tracks you're meant to sit with.
4
Dec 14 2023
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Savane
Ali Farka Touré
Moody and thoughtful, this was a great listen.
4
Dec 15 2023
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Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
An album with lots of peaks and valleys. The piano riffs, guitar solos and horn sections are all fantastic. I just wish there was more!
3
Dec 16 2023
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Rock 'N Soul
Solomon Burke
Not my favorite type of music, but enjoyable enough.
3
Dec 17 2023
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This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Fun as a time machine listen, not something I would listen to routinely.
3
Dec 18 2023
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The Dreaming
Kate Bush
80s pop rock circus clown music. Fun when it leans into the silly stuff. The more generic poppy tracks did not wow me.
3
Dec 19 2023
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Songs For Swingin' Lovers!
Frank Sinatra
It's really cool that the game series Fallout gives these lesser known artists some exposure.
3
Dec 20 2023
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The Holy Bible
Manic Street Preachers
I liked the lyrics a hell of a lot more than the music. Felt generic and bland throughout most of the album. It was enjoyable anyways.
3
Dec 21 2023
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Document
R.E.M.
What a delightful, charming little album. Love me some R.E.M.
4
Dec 22 2023
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From Elvis In Memphis
Elvis Presley
Pleasant enough, but quickly got dull. Thankfully Suspicious Minds is on the back half of the album and got me re-engaged there.
3
Dec 23 2023
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Come Away With Me
Norah Jones
Didn't hate this as much as I thought I would, likely because of the fun piano and guitar work. I can't imagine ever seeking this music out again, but I'm glad I gave it a shot.
3
Dec 24 2023
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Tonight's The Night
Neil Young
A lot of what the critics that built this list is just not what I like in my music. This album is so gentle and intentional. Good music, just not for me.
3
Dec 25 2023
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
Not the best Zeppelin album but it's really, really solid. Only complaint is not enough hobbits.
4 1/2 outta 5
5
Dec 26 2023
View Album
A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
Various Artists
As a Christmas album it's listenable. Why it ended up on this list I'm not sure.
2
Dec 27 2023
View Album
Remedy
Basement Jaxx
Was expecting something more groovy, but it was a fun listen.
3
Dec 28 2023
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Space Ritual
Hawkwind
Long, but fun. The skits in between songs weren't my favorite, but whenever there's full riffage it's a really good time.
4
Dec 29 2023
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Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Started off strong with high energy, frantic rock and roll. Then it got really bland for another hour.
2
Dec 30 2023
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Since I Left You
The Avalanches
Aside from a couple tracks, pretty forgettable. But it was a fun album, very chill.
3
Dec 31 2023
View Album
Violator
Depeche Mode
Fun but dated.
3
Jan 01 2024
View Album
Marcus Garvey
Burning Spear
More interesting than most reggae I've ever heard. Not my favorite genre, but this is a cool and historically important release.
3
Jan 02 2024
View Album
Songs From The Big Chair
Tears For Fears
Very surprising how well this album flows. I totally assumed it was gonna be another "one hit wonder" 80s pop slog, but it was great. Wish there were more tracks with sax solos, but that's like every album with sax for me.
4
Jan 03 2024
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Want One
Rufus Wainwright
Thoughtful, dynamic (in that it goes from super soft a little above speaking volume) and pretty pleasant.
3
Jan 04 2024
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Rain Dogs
Tom Waits
Kind of offbeat and odd, I loved this album. Not something I'd listen to every day but I feel good knowing Mr. Waits made such a kooky record.
4
Jan 05 2024
View Album
Odelay
Beck
Experimental bordering on annoying. That being said, it's a really fun album. The creative usage of objects and instruments to make odd noises is more entertaining than not. Most of the tracks on this album are super laid back and chill, with simple percussion nudging the tempo forward. Not sure if I'd listen to this again soon, but definitely again someday.
3
Jan 06 2024
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Talking Book
Stevie Wonder
What a great listen. Some unexpected low points on this album, but nothing terrible by any means. The beginning, middle and end of the record are all great, there's some filler in between though.
4
Jan 07 2024
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En-Tact
The Shamen
Very fun. Interesting listening to an album that bridges new wave with 90s electronic.
3
Jan 08 2024
View Album
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida
Iron Butterfly
It's a shame that I didn't enjoy any track as much as IAGDV. Maybe on later listens I'll dig it more. Even the titular song is a little self indulgent but it's pretty fun.
3
Jan 09 2024
View Album
Daydream Nation
Sonic Youth
Ushered in the 90s alt rock era. A lot of bands owe success to Sonic Youth and this album. Definitely iconic and captures the feeling of being an adolescent pretty well. Listening to this album gave me flashbacks to highschool, but in a good way.
4
Jan 10 2024
View Album
Red Dirt Girl
Emmylou Harris
Even with such a rich, full sound I don't think this album is for me. Somewhere in the vicinity of Sheryl Crow or the Chicks, but not nearly as catchy.
2
Jan 11 2024
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Duck Stab/Buster & Glen
The Residents
Hearing the first few bars of this album, I just know the nerds on this website are gonna LOVE this.
If art is supposed to make you feel something, this album makes me feel like I'm on a bad trip. Because of this it's hard to rate on a traditional scale. For enjoyment of listening I'd give it a 1/5. For making me think about music in general and talking about this band, this album and considering how it made me feel, easy 5/5.
Grating but wonky in a proto-Primus way at some points.
I did enjoy this a hell of a lot more than the T-Swift album I heard a month ago. This album definitely reminds the listener that art is subjective.
3
Jan 12 2024
View Album
Out Of The Blue
Electric Light Orchestra
Obnoxiously chipper at times, but damn if it's not infectious.
5
Jan 13 2024
View Album
Play
Moby
Music for people who think they were losers in high school but were actually bullies.
3
Jan 14 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Just some solid country music.
4
Jan 15 2024
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The Madcap Laughs
Syd Barrett
Yet another album that's a lot more interesting to read or talk about than listen to.
2
Jan 16 2024
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Lady Soul
Aretha Franklin
Just delightful.
4
Jan 17 2024
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Supa Dupa Fly
Missy Elliott
Lots of great samples on this album. Its fun to draw a straight line from Nicki Minaj and other artists popular today back to the late 90s and Missy.
3
Jan 18 2024
View Album
Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
None of the tracks on this album jumped out and bit me. It was enjoyable enough but maybe I'm just not a huge fan of the Cure. It was encapsulating of a certain vibe, tough to pin down.
3
Jan 19 2024
View Album
The Lexicon Of Love
ABC
Surprising how fun this album was. Great bass lines, some kooky 80s synth, it was great. Probably won't be on my rotation anytime soon but glad to be introduced to this artist. Bonus points for how many people rated this a 1 because it was "way too 80s" lmao.
4
Jan 20 2024
View Album
Parallel Lines
Blondie
The first time listening to a whole Blondie album front to back and holy cow, what a voice. Gorgeous and full, with the perfect amount of vocal fry to give it a bit of edge on a few tracks. This album would be a perfect 5/5 if all the tracks had as much pop and punch as One Way Or Another.
4
Jan 21 2024
View Album
Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Not my favorite CCR album but it's always a good listen.
4
Jan 22 2024
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I Against I
Bad Brains
If you don't like this album, you don't get it. You never will.
5
Jan 23 2024
View Album
Bryter Layter
Nick Drake
Very gentle, but full of emotion. The whole album reminds me of being on the verge of tears but not actually crying. Love the instrumentals, especially the sax and flute. I wish there was more of that on this album, but it's enjoyable.
3
Jan 24 2024
View Album
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
The ideas in this album are fun, but they kind of feel like "leftovers" from stuff that didn't make it into Demon Days. Entire songs made up of the crooning and guitar work that would be the bridge of a Gorillaz song. I definitely miss the hip hop influence that Gorillaz has here. Without that energy, the songs are a little too dull for me.
3
Jan 25 2024
View Album
I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
This album is so influential, it's hard to rate it. It's not the kind of album I would put on to listen to very often, but lots of albums I do listen to often are directly influenced by Aretha.
3
Jan 26 2024
View Album
Ágætis Byrjun
Sigur Rós
One of those unbearably pretentious hipster post-rock nonsense bands that was passed around for indie cred in the 2000s. I was always much more of a GY!BE fan, but I have to admit this band is pretty talented. Ambient, moody and just a wee bit psychedelic.
Also, anyone else remember the webcomic Questionable Content?
4
Jan 27 2024
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Bossanova
Pixies
Nothing I could say about this band that hasn't been said hundreds of times before. Pixies are quiet but loud, angsty but calm and terrible but great. I love 'em.
4
Jan 28 2024
View Album
Real Life
Magazine
Sax parts were cool. Not sure if there's anything else of note here, but its fun.
2
Jan 29 2024
View Album
Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Lookin' Out My Backdoor is a masterpiece. There's just so few tracks on this album that aren't fantastic. Hard 4 to soft 5.
5
Jan 30 2024
View Album
The College Dropout
Kanye West
Good production and Happy Gilmore references only get you so far. Kanye's personality is so strong for better and for worse.
3
Jan 31 2024
View Album
Aha Shake Heartbreak
Kings of Leon
Music for christian high school girls going through their rebellious phase.
1
Feb 01 2024
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The Stooges
The Stooges
Love the amount of edge these clowns brought to music at the time. Unfortunately, the sound has evolved so much since then.
3
Feb 02 2024
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Back In Black
AC/DC
My mom grew up in the 80s, so this album was super nostalgic for me. I had a good time with it, but I'm happier adding some of the songs to a playlist rather than listening to the whole thing front to back. Some of the chord progressions bleed together...
4
Feb 03 2024
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The Wildest!
Louis Prima
Man, this music is just fun. Gets me dancing.
4
Feb 04 2024
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Trout Mask Replica
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Of course people don't like this album on this site. It's not anything like the rest of the late 60's guitar masturbation or smarmy pop rock that this list famously pushes.
Call me a contrarian if you want, but so many cool things in life are going to be beyond your understanding if you can't learn to enjoy things that are a little grating on purpose. Movies, music, books, places, people, you name it. There are plenty of things out there that are ultimately worth it even though they aren't "easy" to get through.
4
Feb 05 2024
View Album
Here Are the Sonics
The Sonics
Total mixed bag of an album.
3
Feb 06 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
Listening to boomer rock is my business and business is a BOOMIN.
4
Feb 07 2024
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Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
So surprising. This album was just fantastic from start to finish.
5
Feb 08 2024
View Album
Picture Book
Simply Red
Fun 80s pop. I can totally get why someone would nerd out about this, it's just not my thing.
I was dancing a little listening to this though, there's something to be said about that.
3
Feb 09 2024
View Album
The Colour Of Spring
Talk Talk
Duran Duran x Pink Floyd x R.E.M.
Simple piano and some fun bass lines really carry this album for me. Super chill listen.
3
Feb 10 2024
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Dire Straits
Dire Straits
Sultans of Swing alone makes this a 4/5, the rest of it is good too.
4
Feb 11 2024
View Album
Deep Purple In Rock
Deep Purple
Seminal hard rock album. I can't deny how influential this album and this band is, but listening to it in 2024 just makes me wish I was listening to Motorhead or Iron Maiden.
4
Feb 12 2024
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Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
It's not the best Talking Heads album but it's got some great tracks.
4
Feb 13 2024
View Album
Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
I wouldn't go as far as to say this outright sucks, but it's definitely not as good as I remember. The late 2000's indie sound is just not my favorite any more, it all sounds so radio ready and fabricated. Disingenuous is the word that comes to mind. That all being said, I dig the organ and strings on this album.
2
Feb 14 2024
View Album
Music
Madonna
This album immiedieteely hooked me with it's techno/trance-esque production and fun, anthem-like lyrics. Runaway Lover especially was just a blast. Starting with I Deserve It, the album took an odd turn into this country inspired pop territory. I wasn't a fan, save for the percussion being wicked tight and reminded me of trap beats. After a short dip into generic pop land, we're back into this odd, spacey auto tune slow jam with Nobody's Perfect.
This album is at it's best when it's less Sheryl Crow and more Bjork.
Also, probably the best version of American Pie I can think of.
4
Feb 15 2024
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Heaux Tales
Jazmine Sullivan
Some fun, poppy R&B. I'm curious to see how influential this album becomes.
3
Feb 16 2024
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
It was... fine. Kind of hard to come up with things to say about an album that's so non-offensive.
2
Feb 17 2024
View Album
Abraxas
Santana
Pretty iconic album. Short and sweet, unlike a lot of the rest of the late 60s/early 70s jam nonsense this list shoves down my gullet.
4
Feb 18 2024
View Album
Scream, Dracula, Scream
Rocket From The Crypt
Pretty fun!
4
Feb 19 2024
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Eagles
Eagles
*Insert The Big Lebowski reference here*
4
Feb 20 2024
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Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading
3
Feb 21 2024
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Roxy Music
Roxy Music
What a pleasant surprise! Diverse sound, lots of great instrumentation and fantastic energy throughout. Super solid album.
4
Feb 22 2024
View Album
Spy Vs. Spy: The Music Of Ornette Coleman
John Zorn
Think of how much blow these guys were doing recording this bad boy.
5
Feb 23 2024
View Album
I See You
The xx
Non-offensive and a little dull, but I can appreciate the production.
3
Feb 24 2024
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Urban Hymns
The Verve
This album undoubtedly had a lasting cultural impact, but about half the tracks on this album feel derivative of each other. I had a good time listening through this, but probably won't revisit it again.
3
Feb 25 2024
View Album
Fishscale
Ghostface Killah
Just a solid hip hop album.
4
Feb 26 2024
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Endtroducing.....
DJ Shadow
Probably my favorite smooth jazz album.
5
Feb 27 2024
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Live!
Fela Kuti
Pretty phenomenal album that ends in near 20 minute drum solo.
4
Feb 28 2024
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White Blood Cells
The White Stripes
This album is kind of a mixed bag. Some tracks are so dorky that they're fun. Others are Jack White trying so hard to be cool that he's dorky. Lots of fun riffs and powerfully simple percussion on this album. Fell In Love With a Girl is still incredible, it's too bad the rest of this album doesn't reach those heights.
3.75/5
4
Feb 29 2024
View Album
Sunshine Hit Me
The Bees
Soft, a little boring, a tad tired and mostly just background music. Not very engaging at all. Maybe I wasn't in the right headspace to listen to this today but I'm not impressed.
2
Mar 01 2024
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Traffic
Traffic
A pleasant but typical late 60's rock band. A little technical when they want to be, but not enough to hold my attention. Fun jams though.
3
Mar 02 2024
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At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
Sarah Vaughan is undoubtedly talented, witty and funny.
4
Mar 03 2024
View Album
Kala
M.I.A.
Every time I start an album that doesn't sound like late 60's guitar masturbation or pop-rock, I rush to the comments on this god-forsaken website to read the salty reviews. It sustains me.
So many music "fans" can't listen to anything outside of their little genre circles they've sequestered themselves in.
This album is not what I expected at all. Paper Planes was so pervasive in my high school experience. It was everywhere in the late 2000's. It's definitely a stand-out on this album, but if you can't bob your head to the percussion on the rest of these tracks, you're probably dead inside. The thick sound on songs like 20 Dollar are just infectious. The world music influence on this album is incredible.
I understand this type of music not being your favorite, but calling it "unlistenable" is childish. Grow up lmao
4
Mar 04 2024
View Album
The Band
The Band
I feel like a lost of the magic of these late 60s rock bands are really lost on me.
2
Mar 05 2024
View Album
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
This album is historically relevant, but I can't find a good reason to listen to Elvis in 2024.
2
Mar 06 2024
View Album
Remain In Light
Talking Heads
Unfortunately, this album is as good as the nerds at /mu/ say it is.
5
Mar 07 2024
View Album
Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
Short and pleasant.
3
Mar 08 2024
View Album
Suzanne Vega
Suzanne Vega
Wasn't expecting much, but this was a fun little album.
3
Mar 09 2024
View Album
She's So Unusual
Cyndi Lauper
Very encapsulating of the 80s.
4
Mar 10 2024
View Album
Nixon
Lambchop
Reminded me a bit of Radiohead.
3
Mar 11 2024
View Album
Winter In America
Gil Scott-Heron
Fantastic album this late winter morning. Here sipping my coffee, this album was a joyful, sardonic and bitter delight.
4
Mar 12 2024
View Album
Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3
Mar 13 2024
View Album
Fred Neil
Fred Neil
Just reminds me of that Futurama episode where Zapp and Kif leave the DOOP.
3
Mar 14 2024
View Album
You Are The Quarry
Morrissey
Pretty forgettable, but mostly pleasant tunes.
2.5/5
3
Mar 15 2024
View Album
Chelsea Girl
Nico
Very surprising. Great alto voice, the strings and flute were arranged so well. These songs are somber and thoughtful but move forward at a reasonable pace. I especially enjoyed the noisier elements of the songs. Discordant strings were a lot of fun.
3
Mar 16 2024
View Album
Music for the Masses
Depeche Mode
What can I say? It's Depeche Mode. Formative but there's other things nowadays I'd rather listen to.
3
Mar 17 2024
View Album
Queen Of Denmark
John Grant
I think that rampant homophobia, the christian theocracy and general bigotry is a huge problem not just in the US, but world-wide.
I don't doubt Mr. Grant had a tough time being gay growing up, but his garrulous use of slurs that don't apply to him comes off like a vapid suburban teen and the music suffers for it. There's something so frustrating about a white man using the N-word like this. It's so tone deaf and insipid. It's lazy. If you want to shock people, learn word play, don't just rattle off a string of slurs.
I can see how this music would appeal to some folks, but I just can't looks past the painfully simple, skin deep musicality. This music borrows a little too much from the music that inspired it. Entire riffs and motifs are pulled from other songs 30 years prior.
I think my major problem with music from the last couple decades on this list is a lack of measurable impact they have on music today. This music has already aged fairly poorly, it's not classic at all. Are there bands out there today citing this album as being seminal for them? Perhaps there are, and I'm just not clued in. Very possible.
2
Mar 18 2024
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Mott
Mott The Hoople
My understanding was that Mott The Hoople wouldn't have amounted to anything if not for Bowie's intervention. Is this not the case? Are they valid on their own merit, or are they included here for being involved with that coke fiend?
3
Mar 19 2024
View Album
Marquee Moon
Television
While I can appreciate the impact this album allegedly had on rock, I just didn't have much of a good time listening to it. Just wasn't my cup of tea.
2
Mar 20 2024
View Album
In Rainbows
Radiohead
Breddy gud :DD
4
Mar 21 2024
View Album
Juju
Siouxsie And The Banshees
Driving bass lines? Check.
Songs about Halloween and Witchcraft? Check.
Annoying noises in the song mix? Check.
Yeah, it's Goth time.
4
Mar 22 2024
View Album
Moss Side Story
Barry Adamson
How to get considered for the 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die:
Step 1: Have connections to Nick Cave.
Step 2: Record an album that's vaguely inspired by detective noir soundtracks, label it as a "concept album."
I really don't think this music is that interesting or special, but the inclusion here feels confusing. Who is picking these albums?
2
Mar 23 2024
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
Gentle arrangement and very deliberate, despite it's relaxed sound. Mr. Stevens has certainly done a good job making this album sound effortless. The production lends itself well to this. That all being said, I don't know if this music is for me. I had a hard time differentiating songs and it was a bit too long.
3
Mar 24 2024
View Album
2112
Rush
So funny to me that people are complaining about a song being too long. I guess enjoy your subway surfers and Family Guy: Funniest Moments Compilation 6.
5
Mar 25 2024
View Album
Searching For The Young Soul Rebels
Dexys Midnight Runners
Tickles me that this super upbeat music is from the same place Black Sabbath was formed.
4
Mar 26 2024
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Heroes
David Bowie
I liked that the second half of this album is less pop and more free form. Haven't actually listened to this album front to back before so it was a pleasant surprise.
4
Mar 27 2024
View Album
System Of A Down
System Of A Down
So rarely are my middle school tastes in music vindicated.
5
Mar 28 2024
View Album
Gasoline Alley
Rod Stewart
Virtually no song called out to me on this album, but it was pleasant enough.
3
Mar 29 2024
View Album
Tapestry
Carole King
Music was totally fine. Great kitty on the album art.
3
Mar 30 2024
View Album
Coat Of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
Not gonna lie, I was expecting more camp. I hadn't heard this album of Dolly's, but it's pretty good. I just love me some old school country music.
3.5/5
4
Mar 31 2024
View Album
Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
Had a good time with this album. Definitely a pleasant surprise knowing none of Dusty's music aside from that one song in Pulp Fiction.
3.5/5
4
Apr 01 2024
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I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail
Buck Owens
Fun but typical honky tonk.
3
Apr 02 2024
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Blue
Joni Mitchell
Pleasant :)
3
Apr 03 2024
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Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill
Hell yeah
4
Apr 04 2024
View Album
Heartbreaker
Ryan Adams
This album started off pretty strong, but lost steam quickly. The inclusion of speaking lines before songs start comes across as faux-sincerity. Felt like a deliberate move by a producer to make this music feel more genuine.
All that being said, it's nice, gentle music. If that's your thing, go nuts. I have a hard time with these hour long lullaby albums.
2
Apr 05 2024
View Album
Junkyard
The Birthday Party
How have I only seen 200 albums but 4 of those have been Nick Cave albums?
Anyway, this band was described as dark and challenging. I was a little disappointed as a result. Just feels like being edgy on purpose and as a result feels really safe. I don't know. I like noise, I like grindcore, I like powerviolence, but this just isn't those things. I can see how being a 17 year old in 1982 and hearing this for the first time would blow your mind, so I appreciate it from that angle.
2
Apr 06 2024
View Album
Fever To Tell
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
I thought I was so deep and esoteric listening to this band in 2007 growing up in a rural Montana town. I was just so desperate for any music was wasn't church hymns or post 9/11 country.
I think this album holds up. It's definitely another indie record that I think the breakout single overshadows much better songs. Y Control is just so much more fun than Maps, but to each their own.
Solid album, will listen again.
4
Apr 07 2024
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A Wizard, A True Star
Todd Rundgren
Some absolutely fantastic prog rock constantly interrupted by cartoon BOINGYOYOYOING sounds.
7/10, I had a good time.
4
Apr 08 2024
View Album
Is This It
The Strokes
I tried to approach this objectively, because I can't stand people who never shut up about how great the Strokes are.
A refreshingly short album. I appreciate how much the bass stands out in the mix. Tight, poppy rock music.
A decade earlier, Nirvana changed the face of rock music and the Strokes did something similar for the 2000's. Definitely a beginning of an era, it's just not my style. I like my rock music a little less polished and with a bit more edge. It's not my favorite, but I can appreciate it's place in music history.
4
Apr 09 2024
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Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
Beautiful piano riffs on this album.
4
Apr 10 2024
View Album
Heartattack And Vine
Tom Waits
Super bluesy and Tom Waits has such an incredible voice.
4
Apr 11 2024
View Album
Sail Away
Randy Newman
Well, they say the world's your oyster
Man, but oysters ain't for me
You're the belle of the ball
But you ain't my cup of tea
They always vote you Best in Show
But this doggie disagrees
'Cause I like life in Paddy's Pub...
There's a place for me, it's the place I go
Where the beer is cheap, and the lights are low
It's Paddy's Pub
I like Paddy's Pub
Let the record show
The greatest place to go
Is that bar called Paddy's Pub...
[Harmonica Solo]
I like life in Paddy's Pub...
2
Apr 12 2024
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Country Life
Roxy Music
Totally fine!
3
Apr 13 2024
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Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
Feels like a collection of b-sides more than a complete album, but it's pretty fun.
3
Apr 14 2024
View Album
The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
Devastatingly haunting vocals, soaring guitars, bombastic drums and rocking bass lines to glue it all together. This is Maiden at their best and I fuckin' love this record. Can't overstate enough how important this was to me, growing up in rural Montana. Music that was technical, evil/epic sounding and most of all it felt good to play it LOUD.
Iron Maiden goes so fucking hard.
5
Apr 15 2024
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Kings Of The Wild Frontier
Adam & The Ants
Doesn't feel like anything super special. Fun 80's romp.
3
Apr 16 2024
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We Are Family
Sister Sledge
Funky bass lines. Great voices. Just groovy.
4
Apr 17 2024
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Odessa
Bee Gees
This is definitely conjecture, but after reading about this album I think the only reason it was included here was because it almost tore apart the band. No 70's Bee Gees, the exposure to disco white people get looks very different.
Regarding the actual music, it's a typical late 60's slog. Virtually nothing stands out to me here, aside from the vocal work, but it's just a reminder of what's to come. This is a sub-par Bee Gees record, compared to themselves. It's nothing to write home about in the genre it exists in, either. The album is annoyingly long, too.
Just a slog to get through.
2
Apr 18 2024
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3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
Groovy.
4
Apr 19 2024
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Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
Totally fine 50's country music.
3
Apr 20 2024
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Either Or
Elliott Smith
This music feels so delicate if I listen to it wrong, it's going to break. The lyrics give weight to the music, so it's kind of top heavy. Didn't think I'd dig it, but it's pretty good.
4
Apr 21 2024
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Gold
Ryan Adams
Man, this album was just painfully boring. It's just so flaccid and safe.
1
Apr 22 2024
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Nothing's Shocking
Jane's Addiction
It's cool these guys were making this kind of music in the late 80's, pre grunge explosion. Unfortunately, they get kind of lost in the shuffle afterwards.
3.5/5
4
Apr 23 2024
View Album
Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
Just chock full of classic lines and hooks. Fantastic album.
5
Apr 24 2024
View Album
On The Beach
Neil Young
Neil Young's influence and success speaks for itself, but personally I never got the hype. This album has some fun solos here and there, but the lyricism really pulls me out of it.
Thankfully, this album isn't very long. If you're into laid back guitars, almost funky bass lines and songs that make remind you of being on the beach with your family, this might be for you.
Also, maybe it's just that so many local acts I see sound exactly like this and I'm super sick of this sound.
2.5/5
3
Apr 25 2024
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C'est Chic
CHIC
Having only heard "the hits", this was a surprisingly fun album.
3
Apr 26 2024
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...And Justice For All
Metallica
Not even close to the best Metallica album, but it's still pretty shreddy and bombastic, like good thrash should be. The lyrical themes stay topical to this day.
It's a weaker thrash album, but it was signaling metal's eventual move to mainstream music. On a list of other thrash albums, I would put this one lower. But since it's on this list, 4.5/5.
5
Apr 27 2024
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Young Americans
David Bowie
Chill listen this morning.
4
Apr 28 2024
View Album
The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
Can't tell how much I actually enjoy Bob Dylan's music. Might be one of the blandest but most earnest albums I've ever heard.
3
Apr 29 2024
View Album
Songs In The Key Of Life
Stevie Wonder
Absolutely classic, timeless music. Incredible stuff.
5
Apr 30 2024
View Album
Brothers
The Black Keys
Totally acceptable white boy blues rock slog from the worst decade of music!
3
May 01 2024
View Album
Third
Portishead
Mostly non-pretentious electronic inspired rock. You'll probably know within the first half of the first song if this is something you'd wanna listen to for an hour.
4
May 02 2024
View Album
The Real Thing
Faith No More
Already a cool album, then they busted out the Sabbath cover.
5
May 03 2024
View Album
Everything Must Go
Manic Street Preachers
Totally fine mid-90's rock. I didn't understand why The Holy Bible was included in this list and I don't understand this inclusion either. But it's fine!
3
May 04 2024
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Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
I listened to a lot of grunge when I was younger and that led me to heavier music like thrash and death metal. I don't often listen to alt rock any more, it all comes across as being palatable to the most amount of people it can (capitalism baby).
I think what I like about the Foo Fighters is that this music sits right in the middle of my and my father's music taste. We don't agree on a lot, but when I visit him some sort of Foo Fighters radio playlist is what we're listening to. He genuinely loves it and I am not bored to tears by it.
I suppose I'm rambling at this point, but this generic-ass rock band did bring a father and son closer together, and I appreciate that. Seldom though they are, there are enough hardcore punk influences on this album that it's a good listen.
4
May 05 2024
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The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
I understand how this was cool 6 decades ago, but by today's standards it doesn't hold up for me.
That being said, I respect that it's just a bunch of kids doing drugs and making music.
2.5/5
3
May 06 2024
View Album
Leftism
Leftfield
Fun electronic music with lots of cool influences. Very much so the kind of music I like to listen to while focusing on work.
4
May 07 2024
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
As far as 2000's indie rock nonsense is concerned, these guys are fine. Kind of like the Decemberists, they're getting by on acapella vocals and gentle guitar work.
3
May 08 2024
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Sweet Baby James
James Taylor
Musicality is too few and far between to make this an interesting listen. Mostly its a just a soft rock slog.
2
May 09 2024
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All Hail the Queen
Queen Latifah
Funky, jazzy, and just a ton of fun. Some of the samples remind me of 80s electro and it's just goofy enough to be so enjoyable.
4
May 10 2024
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White Light / White Heat
The Velvet Underground
SHE BEEN SUCKING ON MY DING DONG
SHE BEEN SUCKING ON MY BING BONG
Same as the last VU album I listened to, I can appreciate this for being edgy back in the 60s, but it doesn't make for good listening today.
2.5/5
2
May 11 2024
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Ill Communication
Beastie Boys
This album is so much fun. The samples, the instrumentality, the attitude. Peak 90s for me.
5
May 12 2024
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Jack Takes the Floor
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
Back when country music was about real shit... like getting eaten alive by bed bugs and coke.
3
May 13 2024
View Album
Buffalo Springfield Again
Buffalo Springfield
As far as late 60's rock slogs go, this one was pretty fun. Jazzy and light hearted, it does not feel like it takes itself to seriously.
3.5/5
3
May 14 2024
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Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
I'm not much for singer/songwriter music, but at least this is genuine. Unlike T-Swizzle, I am not rolling my eyes throughout the entire album.
3.5/5
4
May 15 2024
View Album
D
White Denim
It's no shock to me that the song with the most plays on Spotify is Street Joy. It definitely sounds the most "of the era." I'm not the biggest fan of that late 2000's / early 2010's indie pop rock sound, but this was already really tight and enjoyable.
What really got me about this album was the transitions! Taking pop rock into psych was just great. The compressed and simple percussion on Street Joy turning into the tightly wound but light drumming on Anvil Everything was a lot of fun.
Overall, very surprisingly enjoyable record. Being a senior in high school when this came out, I would have loved to hear this, but it must have slipped my radar (living in a rural area pre social media empire will do that).
4
May 16 2024
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Double Nickels On The Dime
Minutemen
This album is fuckin' perfect. If you don't like this, we can't be friends. Not sure why you'd wanna be friends with scum like me, but there you go.
5
May 17 2024
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Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
It's almost spoken word at some points in this album. These tracks are so gentle, soulful and intentional. Usually things I don't really value in the music I listen to regularly but the rhythm section is just so damn tight and groovy.
4
May 18 2024
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My Aim Is True
Elvis Costello
Most of these songs are pretty decent on their own, but listening to the whole album front to back gets a little repetitive.
3
May 19 2024
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Boston
Boston
This album is so special. I listened to it so much in high school, singing along but not having my own experiences to relate to the lyrics. Over a decade later now, hearing these songs again forces me to look back and appreciate the people in my life who aren't there any more, for any reason.
Just an incredible rock record, in my top 25 albums of all time.
5
May 20 2024
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Virgin Suicides
Air
This album is only a little pretentious.
3
May 21 2024
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Music From Big Pink
The Band
I wouldn't go as far to say this album was boring, but it was on the slower side. Aside from The Weight, I just can't picture remembering any of these tracks.
2
May 22 2024
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Get Rich Or Die Tryin'
50 Cent
The grip that "In Da Club" has on my generation to this day is crazy. All in all, pretty tight album for it's era. I never really got into this particular brand of tough guy hip hop.
3
May 23 2024
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Pictures At An Exhibition
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
I liked this album, but there's prog out there I'd rather listen to. Possibly my favorite thing about prog is how much it makes people mad. My favorite review someone wrote of this album was just:
"Not fun at all. Weird and boring."
God, I love the simplicity of that.
"This music is yucky to my ears, it made me feel bad :("
4
May 24 2024
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Born To Be With You
Dion
Another in a long list of albums that ripped off their song entirely from the black community, spruced it up with good production and sold it to the Mayo Americans. I can see how this album is historically relevant, but good lord why would I ever sit down and listen to this in 2024 (the year of our lord.)
2
May 25 2024
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Channel Orange
Frank Ocean
The way this album starts fucks so hard. The PlayStation and Street Fighter sounds really put me into a different headspace right away. Then, Thinkin Bout You starts and it's so delicate and intimate. Very cool way to start an album. Wordplay and references were very enjoyable. Not my typical style, but I had a good time with this album.
4
May 26 2024
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Throwing Muses
Throwing Muses
Pleasant listen, although a bit forgettable.
3
May 27 2024
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London Calling
The Clash
So varied and seminal for a lot of artists.
4.5/5
4
May 28 2024
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Sea Change
Beck
Not my favorite Beck record, but really nice. Somber, thoughtful and intentional.
3.5/5
3
May 29 2024
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Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
This music is a lot of things. Massively influential, irritating, obnoxious, fun-loving, etc. A friend of mine and I got Beastie Boys banned from our band room in high school for repeatedly playing Brass Monkey and Girls on the xylophone and bari sax.
4
May 30 2024
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Lost Souls
Doves
Definitely an album that if I had heard this in high school, I'd probably remember it fondly but not listen to it much. It's a fun album, but it is more impressive when it leans away from that indie pop sound. Starts off great, but "A House" is not impressive enough to end satisfactorily on.
3.5/5
4
May 31 2024
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Pump
Aerosmith
There's good horny (industrial music, R&B), then there's whatever the fuck this is. This music tastes like stale vomit on someone's breath, dried beer on their clothes and the faint idea that you're making a mistake. There's not a lot musically or novel happening, it's just a couple of singles that Jack F.M. will play relentlessly.
2
Jun 01 2024
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Power In Numbers
Jurassic 5
"Some of you like the way my words caress tracks
While some of these politicians secretly suppress facts"
Fantastic album. Community centered and progressive lyrics, funky beats and overall just a fun listen.
4.5/5
4
Jun 02 2024
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The Joshua Tree
U2
By the end of With or Without you, I was ready to stop listening and try again later. However, the use of overtones in the intro to Bullet The Blue Sky convinced me to stick it out. Unfortunately, the rest of this album is a by the numbers pop-rock slog, complete with crooning vocals, lyrics that make you wanna groan and repetitive song structures throughout. This music is fucking corny.
1
Jun 03 2024
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Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
Always fun to hear time capsules like this.
3
Jun 04 2024
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That's The Way Of The World
Earth, Wind & Fire
Delightful from start to finish.
4
Jun 05 2024
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Ocean Rain
Echo And The Bunnymen
I always enjoy an album that's shorter than 45 minutes. Besides that, this is fun pop-rock. It's hard not to compare Echo & The Bunnymen to The Cure, but I think I prefer the former.
Highlight track on this album for me is My Kingdom.
3
Jun 06 2024
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Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Late 60s soft rock slog. Aside from the vocal harmonies, there's not much I enjoy about this type of music. I'm sure this album inspired so many talented artists to make music, but I don't know if the entire album holds up today.
2.5/5
2
Jun 07 2024
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Nighthawks At The Diner
Tom Waits
Tom Waits has a rugged wisdom that really makes him feel genuine. This album is fun, thought provoking and hilarious. What else could you ask for in a spoken word jazz album?
4
Jun 08 2024
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
Totally fine!
3
Jun 09 2024
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The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway
Genesis
Solid prog rock album. Even being a double album, I never felt I had to take a break or finish it later. Some of the tones and effects were fun, others a little irritating, but I feel that comes with the territory, haha.
4
Jun 10 2024
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Station To Station
David Bowie
Every time I get a Bowie album generated, I think something like "he's got some good hits, but listening to an entire album might drag a bit."
Every single time I'm wrong! Golden Years is a stand out for me here, but Station to Station, TVC15 and Wild is the Wind are all bangers.
4.5/5
4
Jun 11 2024
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Hot Rats
Frank Zappa
This album is wicked fun.
5
Jun 12 2024
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Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
Steel Ball Run
4
Jun 13 2024
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Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
Changes sounds like it came off a solo Ozzy record 10 years in the future.
5
Jun 14 2024
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Africa Brasil
Jorge Ben Jor
Reminds me of Quincy Jones.
4
Jun 15 2024
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Hunky Dory
David Bowie
MAKE WAY FOR THE HOMO SUPERIOR! -The Sovereign
4
Jun 16 2024
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1999
Prince
Fun pop record. Way dirtier than I thought it would be, but I have never really listened to Prince. Great vocals, synth, percussion. All around super solid.
4
Jun 17 2024
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The Downward Spiral
Nine Inch Nails
Visceral and intense. I cannot stress how important this music was for people like myself, living in rural America. Before you could just go find music on the internet, finding a CD like this one was life changing.
5
Jun 18 2024
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Sticky Fingers
The Rolling Stones
Flashy, fun and just shy holding my attention the entire time.
4
Jun 19 2024
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Groovin'
The Young Rascals
This music is non-offensive and little dull. I'm glad to have heard of them, but I won't be revisiting this album any time soon.
2.5/5
3
Jun 20 2024
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Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club
Very relaxing.
3
Jun 21 2024
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Goo
Sonic Youth
The noisy tracks on this album elevate it so much. Feels like a bunch of folks getting together to jam. Having a blast.
4
Jun 22 2024
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The Next Day
David Bowie
I just don't see this as being influential or sonically impressive. There are much more interesting and impressive albums that could be on this list.
Do I think it's impressive that Bowie was making music up until the end? Yeah, sure. I don't think this album can be cited as being seminal or groundbreaking.
This album is fine. Enjoyable for sure. But why is this album on this list? I really should pick up the book that explains this stuff.
3
Jun 23 2024
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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
Some really great stuff on this album. As per the usual, the hits were not my favorite. Final Hour was excellent, and the piano on the ending track was so wonderful.
3.5/5
3
Jun 24 2024
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Goodbye And Hello
Tim Buckley
Not bad! Was expecting to dislike this, like most of the 60s rock nonsense that's on this list, but the prog elements really upped this for me.
4
Jun 25 2024
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Van Halen
Van Halen
I had totally forgotten about the scatting on I'm the One.
But yeah, these songs are seminal and still culturally relevant today. It's just sad that they've been relegated to radio rock.
4
Jun 26 2024
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Inspiration Information
Shuggie Otis
Not bad!
3
Jun 27 2024
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Destroyer
KISS
Definition of style over substance. Kiss are a boy band with a costume gimmick. While I wasn't actively angry while listening to this album, it did make me sad. All that said, it should get a star for being culturally relevant back in the day.
2
Jun 28 2024
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The La's
The La's
Fun blast from the past with There She Goes, but the rest of this album is a fairly forgettable. 90s british pop band. Its funny to me that we had a zillion beatles clones in the 60s, then 30 years later we got a zillion more. Don't you people get tired of hearing the same old song over and over again?
It's a decent album, but nothing really stirred me.
2.5/5
2
Jun 29 2024
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Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
I've always liked Getz and this album is a classic. These saxophone licks are buttery smooth but complex enough to snap me out of working to listen.
5
Jun 30 2024
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Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
What can I say, this album is just fun and beautiful.
4
Jul 01 2024
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American IV: The Man Comes Around
Johnny Cash
Despite having a couple of covers, this album is phenomenal.
5
Jul 02 2024
View Album
The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
"Um, actually it's super cool to include a minute long skit of blowjob noises, playing pretend that two grown men are fantasizing about you while they blow each other." - Eminem fans
This album is cringe-fest wannabe cool guy garbage.
1
Jul 03 2024
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Like Water For Chocolate
Common
Chill album. Like a lot of hip hop from decades past, it has it shortcomings but overall a really fun listen.
4
Jul 04 2024
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Good Old Boys
Randy Newman
More boring than anything. Had to fight to keep attention on it.
2
Jul 05 2024
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Clandestino
Manu Chao
Would put on during dinner with my parents.
3
Jul 06 2024
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American Idiot
Green Day
This album is massively overrated, but it's still good.
4
Jul 07 2024
View Album
Dare!
The Human League
Went back and forth on 2 or 3 for this one. On one hand, it's historically relevant. On the other, it's just boring. Other than one or two tracks, this album was a bit of a slog.
We'll call it 2.5/5
2
Jul 08 2024
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Welcome to the Afterfuture
Mike Ladd
Philosophical and poignant. The sci-fi inspired futurism theme really does it for me.
4
Jul 09 2024
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Slippery When Wet
Bon Jovi
The hits are radio rock fodder, but pleasant enough. I wanted there to be some underrated jam on this album, but no dice. Maybe I'm being too harsh here, but this is the definition of 80s rock mediocrity.
I must admit I am a sucker for that synth keyboard.
2
Jul 10 2024
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Second Toughest In The Infants
Underworld
90's electronic music, my love.
4
Jul 11 2024
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Sulk
The Associates
Quirky, but not enough to warrant another listen. If this album was literally an hour shorter it would be a lot more impressive. The instrumentals are pretty fun, though. The keyboards complement the bassline pretty well, I just wish this album had more high points. It's definitely a slog to get through.
2
Jul 12 2024
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Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
3
Jul 13 2024
View Album
Aja
Steely Dan
I always kind of liked Steely Dan, but I think I'm becoming an actual fan. This album is really jazzy, kinda funky and just overall really pleasant.
4
Jul 14 2024
View Album
Let Love Rule
Lenny Kravitz
Music for people with no personality made by a nepo baby. At least some of it is catchy!
2
Jul 15 2024
View Album
Peace Sells...But Who's Buying
Megadeth
Still a great thrash album.
5
Jul 16 2024
View Album
Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
Easy listening soft rock for millennials. Art is supposed to make you feel something, all this makes me feel is bored. The soundscape stuff has the most interesting ideas on the album, but it's short lived and completely displaced by this derivative soft rock nonsense.
2
Jul 17 2024
View Album
Superfuzz Bigmuff
Mudhoney
Listened to the original 6 song EP first. This shit rips. Album name does not disappoint. Fuzzy, grungy and absolutely filthy guitar sound. I wish all of the albums on this list had half the distortion that these tracks have. I get it's not everyone's cup of tea, but I can't think of a better way to sweeten my morning beverage than with some Mudhoney.
5
Jul 18 2024
View Album
The Rising
Bruce Springsteen
Right off the cuff, these lyrics are insanely vapid. The music itself is pretty boring, but the lyrics actively make me roll my eyes, at least once a song.
Into the Fire might be the worst part about my day.
Overall, a frustrating album to get through. Definitely not my cup of tea.
1
Jul 19 2024
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Axis: Bold As Love
Jimi Hendrix
While it didn't blow me away like their first album, this is such a solid psych rock record.
4
Jul 20 2024
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You've Come a Long Way Baby
Fatboy Slim
Iconic album. Like all good electronic music, it's just a little annoying.
4
Jul 21 2024
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Made In Japan
Deep Purple
As far as live albums go, really solid. Would rather listen to this than any Greatest Hits compilation.
4
Jul 22 2024
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All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
A pretty self indulgent album. Lotsa peaks and valleys. There's a lot here I love, and even more I feel ambivalent about.
3
Jul 23 2024
View Album
People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm
A Tribe Called Quest
Killer album.
4
Jul 24 2024
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Group Sex
Circle Jerks
Quick and dirty. Fuckin' excellent album.
5
Jul 25 2024
View Album
Cafe Bleu
The Style Council
This album was totally fine. There were interesting elements to it, but they were buried under a lot of generic smooth jazz and 80s pop nonsense.
3
Jul 26 2024
View Album
Shleep
Robert Wyatt
Somewhere between Pink Floyd and Radiohead. I liked this! Gentle, proggy little album that feels like it's reaching beyond what other acts in the 90s were doing.
4
Jul 27 2024
View Album
At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
Boomer blues rock jam band nonsense. I don't hate this music, but it's really not my thing. I appreciate the musicianship, but overall not that enjoyable of an album for me.
2
Jul 28 2024
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Madman Across The Water
Elton John
Nothing I could really say about this. It's good, give it a listen.
4
Jul 29 2024
View Album
Get Behind Me Satan
The White Stripes
It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking The White Stripes only have one sound. Listening to this album was fun because I had forgotten that these guys have more than one sound. They actually have two!
4
Jul 30 2024
View Album
OK Computer
Radiohead
Not much to say. Solid pop record.
4
Jul 31 2024
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Green Onions
Booker T. & The MG's
Half an hour of some fun, iconic jams.
4
Aug 01 2024
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Fear and Whiskey
Mekons
Maybe I need another listen, but I hardly found anything of note in this album. Some things I enjoyed:
1. Short album. Love when albums are sub 45 minutes.
2. Spoken word lyrics with improv sax in the background.
Other than that, it's pretty meh.
2.5/5
3
Aug 02 2024
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Dirty
Sonic Youth
Solid pacing throughout, knows when to rip and when to chill.
4
Aug 03 2024
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Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Solid white guy jazz album. I enjoy Getz' sax playing, he was an inspiration for me when I was in high school. This album just doesn't have enough bite for me to love it.
4
Aug 04 2024
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Rising Above Bedlam
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
Reggae, dub, Spanish guitar, this album is definitely someone's jam, but it wasn't mine.
2
Aug 05 2024
View Album
The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
While I liked this more than Neon Bible, I still think this album suffers from being too long, too generic at it's low points and not ambitious enough.
I was in high school when this band was in their prime. I might have a change of heart in the next couple of decades, but this was less of a blast from the past and more of an experience I can't wait to move on from.
Still, gotta give credit where credit is due, there are a couple of jams on this album, just not enough to justify the 1hr+ runtime.
3
Aug 06 2024
View Album
You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen
I think Leonard Cohen has a really interesting voice, but that's about it. Thankfully this album was short, but I am not really impressed with the composition.
2
Aug 07 2024
View Album
Your New Favourite Band
The Hives
Tight, fast enough and with more (sadly) distorted guitar tone than 70% of the music on this list.
Which is saying something, because these guys are basically a Buzzcocks knockoff.
Not a bad album, but curious who is citing this album specifically as being formative for their sound today.
3
Aug 08 2024
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Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand
I assumed this wasn't gonna hold up, glad I was wrong. Even with Take Me Out being one of the most overplayed songs in modern history, this album was a great listen.
4
Aug 09 2024
View Album
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
Still relevant social commentary but it's this type of brit-pop just isn't my thing.
Favorite tunes: Brainwashed, Australia
3
Aug 10 2024
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Machine Head
Deep Purple
CAM ON
CAM ON
LETS GO SPACE TRUCKIN'
4
Aug 11 2024
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Moby Grape
Moby Grape
Feels more rhythm and blues influenced than some of their commentaries. Songs like Someday make me really glad to find artists like this, but it just isn't enough for me to want to revisit the entire album.
3
Aug 12 2024
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Definitely Maybe
Oasis
I wouldn't go as far as to say this sucked, but it is really not for me. I found it uninteresting and dull.
2
Aug 13 2024
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Nevermind
Nirvana
An album near and dear to my heart. Even though this was ultra popular when I was growing up, not many of my peers were listening to grunge in the mid 2000s in rural Montana.
It's distorted and raw for radio rock.
I can see how someone would think this is overrated today, but those people probably don't understand the massive influence this album and others like it had on the landscape of alternative music.
One bad thing I can say about this album is the endless number of corporate plant bands that flooded the market after this.
5
Aug 14 2024
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Street Signs
Ozomatli
Super hit or miss. Some tracks suck me right in with an infectious arrangement, but others just feel derivative and boring.
3
Aug 15 2024
View Album
Chris
Christine and the Queens
I think something I like about euro pop is the trance and house influence. Reminiscent of Bjork at points, this album was a super pleasant surprise. I think the double album holds it back, unfortunately. Judging the album as a whole, having a second disc that is basically the same as the first is definitely a hindrance.
Being the pretentious ass I am, I prefer the French side.
4
Aug 16 2024
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The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
Phenomenal improv. Incredible musicianship.
4
Aug 17 2024
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Elephant
The White Stripes
There's a couple massively overplayed songs on this album, but overall its a good one.
4
Aug 18 2024
View Album
Histoire De Melody Nelson
Serge Gainsbourg
Every time I found myself enjoying the music, the vocals really ripped me out of it. Not for me.
Thankfully, it was a short album. Likely would rate lower if it was much longer.
2
Aug 19 2024
View Album
Boy In Da Corner
Dizzee Rascal
Mixed bag of an album. The electronic music is very apparent and also very UK. The tracks where the production is taking a front seat are my favorites.
I typically prefer US hip hop to UK, so it's no shock to me that some of these tracks didn't work for me. There's enough interesting ideas on this album to make me glad I checked it out, though.
3
Aug 20 2024
View Album
Aftermath
The Rolling Stones
I don't care much for this 60s rock nonsense, but I can't deny the cultural impact the Stones have had. This is a great example of an album that I'm positive has resonated with millions of people worldwide that I just don't care for.
Under My Thumb is my pick for high point of this album, and it's so early on.
2
Aug 21 2024
View Album
Stankonia
OutKast
The variety on this album makes it's long runtime worth it. The songs flow seamlessly into each other. Massively talented people at the top of their game.
5
Aug 22 2024
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Pearl
Janis Joplin
Great pipes!
4
Aug 23 2024
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Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
Not challenging, unoffensive but very pleasant. This music is a cut above the usual milquetoast, boring 60s crap that infests this list, but I will likely never listen to it ever again.
3
Aug 24 2024
View Album
The Stranger
Billy Joel
If you asked me on the street if I liked Billy Joel, I'd probably have a pretty non-committal answer. I don't listen to him often, but I did know 90% of the songs on this album. What can I say? It's just fun.
4
Aug 25 2024
View Album
Car Wheels On A Gravel Road
Lucinda Williams
Pre-9/11 country music, my beloved.
4
Aug 26 2024
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Stardust
Willie Nelson
Pleasantly short album of only covers. Willie is a great artist and I love his music, however I likely will not revisit this album any time soon.
3
Aug 27 2024
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At Newport 1960
Muddy Waters
Mad respect for this musician.
4
Aug 28 2024
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Guitar Town
Steve Earle
Totally acceptable country music :)
3
Aug 29 2024
View Album
Olympia 64
Jacques Brel
It's not my style of music, but I can appreciate the clear love of music that Jacques has. Probably a 2.5/5 for me.
3
Aug 30 2024
View Album
Horses
Patti Smith
Spoken word over mildly interesting guitar and piano.
3
Aug 31 2024
View Album
Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea
PJ Harvey
Enjoyable but I likely will not revisit.
3
Sep 01 2024
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Pills 'n' Thrills And Bellyaches
Happy Mondays
It's fine :D
3
Sep 02 2024
View Album
Countdown To Ecstasy
Steely Dan
This album was chill, jazzy and just a blast.
4
Sep 03 2024
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Figure 8
Elliott Smith
Elliot Smith is good, just wish I was listening to this in High School.
4
Sep 04 2024
View Album
Aqualung
Jethro Tull
Excellent album with a lot of replayability.
5
Sep 05 2024
View Album
Ambient 1/Music For Airports
Brian Eno
Ahead of it's time.
5
Sep 06 2024
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Court And Spark
Joni Mitchell
This album was super pleasant. Joni's vocals, the warm guitar tones and the jazzy composition really made it for me. Will probably revisit in the future.
4
Sep 07 2024
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Abbey Road
Beatles
Nothing I can say about this that hasn't been said before.
4
Sep 08 2024
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Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
Incredible prog album.
5
Sep 09 2024
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Deja Vu
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Solid folk rock, some proto jam stuff going on. All in a tight sub 40 minute package. Ideal.
4
Sep 10 2024
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Melodrama
Lorde
I have a hard time with these albums. I don't see this as groundbreaking or seminal, so putting a 2017 album on the 2018 version of this list seems short shorted at best. It's a fairly by the numbers electropop album. I wish I could say I was delighted or surprised by anything the tracks were going for.
I think I also sort of ruined this album for myself by reading the wiki page while I listened. Being told there were industrial and noise inspired tracks on this album got my hopes up.
In a vacuum, this music is fine. It's pleasant and achieves the mood the artist was going for. In the context of this list, it's definitely ranked lower. I don't understand why music this generic and new gets put on this list when there's actual groundbreaking music being released today.
2
Sep 11 2024
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The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
Phenomenal album. Glad to have been introduced to it.
5
Sep 12 2024
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Repeater
Fugazi
If you don't get it, you don't get it.
5
Sep 13 2024
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Steve McQueen
Prefab Sprout
A solid 80's pop album.
3
Sep 14 2024
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Queen II
Queen
As far as Queen albums go, this was less bombastic and over the top than I hoped. Not a bad album, but I expected more. I can see why music historians consider this important, but it doesn't hold a candle to their later albums.
3
Sep 15 2024
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Fulfillingness' First Finale
Stevie Wonder
Stevie makes good music.
4
Sep 16 2024
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Teenage Head
Flamin' Groovies
Totally fine blues rock from the 70s.
3
Sep 17 2024
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S&M
Metallica
This is a SFSO album first and a Metallica album second.
4
Sep 18 2024
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Shalimar
Rahul Dev Burman
Catchy music and well done, just not my thing. Probably won't revisit it, but I enjoyed being exposed to it.
2
Sep 19 2024
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Rocks
Aerosmith
A wholly uninteresting record on it's own, but I have to give credit where it's due. The blueprint laid here for 80's rock bands is hard to ignore.
2
Sep 20 2024
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Medúlla
Björk
Layered, intimate and epic. This album was excellent. Bjork doesn't miss.
5
Sep 21 2024
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Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
Went in blind, super happy to have heard this. Lovely album.
4
Sep 22 2024
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I Should Coco
Supergrass
Surprisingly good album. Was expecting another 90s britpop slog, but this was innovative, full of youthful energy and not pedestrian like their contemporaries.
4
Sep 23 2024
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War
U2
After listening to the absolute slog that was The Joshua Tree, I was dreading listening to this album. I was pleasantly surprised at the deeper than skin lyrics and interesting musical motifs. Way to go, U2! You cleared the bar that was on the ground.
3
Sep 24 2024
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More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
Quirky without being irritating. This is the secret to Talking Heads success.
4
Sep 25 2024
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Make Yourself
Incubus
Put grunge, reggae/ska and hip hop into a blender and you get this. I think this is important music on one's journey to heavier music.
4
Sep 26 2024
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The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones
The Stones' influence can't be denied, but I'd much rather listen to the countless bands they inspired.
3
Sep 27 2024
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1977
Ash
Shines when it's more distorted guitar solos and less britpop nonsense. Still a good album, though.
3
Sep 28 2024
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If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
Just an excellent folk album with the perfect amount of edge.
4
Sep 29 2024
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Armed Forces
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
What if Talking Heads was irritating?
3
Sep 30 2024
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Cupid & Psyche 85
Scritti Politti
It's... fine. I can't really imagine listening to this again in the future.
2.5 / 5
2
Oct 01 2024
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Ellington at Newport
Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington's piano playing provides an incredible foundation for these insanely talented musicians to solo over. The rhythm section is killing it and everyone sounds so tight. Fantastic album.
Man, it would be so fun to be a part of a big band like this. I played in jazz band in high school and this music is just a blast to play.
5
Oct 02 2024
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Modern Life Is Rubbish
Blur
Might be the least interesting or creative Albarn project I've ever heard, but it's passable.
3
Oct 03 2024
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Another Music In A Different Kitchen
Buzzcocks
I don't know if I have a solid opinion on this band. Definitely feels ahead of it's time in '78.
3
Oct 04 2024
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Calenture
The Triffids
These Aussies are trying their best.
3
Oct 05 2024
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The Wall
Pink Floyd
Transgressive (for the 70s) lyrics and some classic prog rock. Big fan.
5
Oct 06 2024
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Born To Run
Bruce Springsteen
Gotta admit, this is pretty fun.
4
Oct 07 2024
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Joan Baez
Joan Baez
Solid folk album. I don't really have anything meaningful to say about it.
3
Oct 08 2024
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Tommy
The Who
I enjoy concept albums. This one is hit or miss, but mostly hit.
4
Oct 09 2024
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Dear Science
TV On The Radio
Fun electronic soft rock album, but the vocals and vapid lyrics really hold it back.
3
Oct 10 2024
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Risque
CHIC
Those bass lines kept me engaged. Not a ton of diversity of sound in this album, but its a short little ripper. I would totally be in a CHIC cover band.
4
Oct 11 2024
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D.O.A. the Third and Final Report of Throbbing Gristle
Throbbing Gristle
Patient, aggressive and grating. Before even looking at the other reviews I'm willing to bet most people hated this.
I like electronic, ambient and noise. Those genres wouldn't be the same without Throbbing Gristle.
4
Oct 12 2024
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So
Peter Gabriel
I like Genesis, I like Phil Collins, turns out this was good too. Who woulda thunk it?
4
Oct 13 2024
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Penthouse And Pavement
Heaven 17
I'm not a big fan, but I can see where others might be. The bass lines were especially fun.
3
Oct 14 2024
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Mask
Bauhaus
Evokes images of the Peanuts gang, wearing all black, dancing along to these songs.
3
Oct 15 2024
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Parklife
Blur
I still prefer Gorillaz, but this was a solid 90s britpop album.
3
Oct 16 2024
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Destroy Rock & Roll
Mylo
Very surprising. Fantastic house album.
5
Oct 17 2024
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Frampton Comes Alive
Peter Frampton
Peter Frampton's boomer ramblings and irritating stage personality made this live album a real slog.
There is zero reason for this album to be nearly 2 hours long.
1
Oct 18 2024
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Disintegration
The Cure
Ya' know... it's the Cure. Not unlike your goth phase, it sticks around a little longer than it should.
3
Oct 19 2024
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If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears
The Mamas & The Papas
Beautiful vocal harmonies, warm production and fun. This album is better than most other 60's records I've heard thus far. Really happy with the runtime too.
4
Oct 20 2024
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At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
A classic and formative to my taste in music.
5
Oct 21 2024
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Only By The Night
Kings of Leon
This music is so self-indulgent and vapid. It's marketed towards people who want to fit in with everyone else, but also feel unique.
1
Oct 22 2024
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The Chronic
Dr. Dre
A classic 90's gangster rap album. The sense of humor is the biggest allure here for me. These tracks are such a great portrait of Dre's personality. A lot of my favorite rappers drew inspiration from this, you gotta respect it.
5
Oct 23 2024
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Signing Off
UB40
I'm not a huge fan of Reggae, but I am a fan of it's history. This album was a little long for me, but the saxophone and lyrics kept me engaged enough.
I think I would rather listen to the Specials.
3
Oct 24 2024
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Truth And Soul
Fishbone
Very eclectic and varied sound here. Ska, reggae, elements of nu-metal, punk, soul, etc. This album somehow feels ahead of it's time but also steeped in late 80's cheese. No doubt this was a seminal album for a lot of acts I listen to, but I fear this album is more interesting to discuss than listen to. Still glad I got to hear it!
3
Oct 25 2024
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Scum
Napalm Death
Anyone dismissing this music as "angry noise" is missing the point. Poignant and philosophical lyrics juxtaposed by absolutely brutally simplistic music.
This album turns 40 in a couple years. Sad to say that the world has just gotten worse. Fuck Thatcher. Fuck Reagan. Those of us lucky enough to be born too late are inheriting a dying and broken world. This album was ahead of it's time and seminal for tons of acts.
5
Oct 26 2024
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Brown Sugar
D'Angelo
I've never been drawn to R&B, but I can't deny this album is very jammable. D'Angelo's instrumentation and vocals are showcased well here, it's a very fun album.
3
Oct 27 2024
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Heroes to Zeros
The Beta Band
Like a less quirky, less memorable Gorillaz. Still had a good time.
3.5/5
3
Oct 28 2024
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Sound of Silver
LCD Soundsystem
LCD Soundsystem is so iconic, I hate to admit their better than I thought they were in High School when this music was new.
4
Oct 29 2024
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A Hard Day's Night
Beatles
I enjoy this era of the Beatles. They are over their Twist and Shout days and are moving into more iconic territory. This 30 minute ripper was solid. Any longer than that and I would definitely rate it lower.
4
Oct 30 2024
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1989
Taylor Swift
Started off fairly pleasantly, Welcome to New York is catchy enough. Blank Space was groan inducing, though.
A lot of the album was a pop slog inspired by the synthwave/electronica of the late 2000s. It wouldn't shock me that someone who never heard production like this would find it groundbreaking, but there's nothing here that's innovative. It's simply marketed to a large and musically ignorant audience. This music was designed to be catchy and it delivers here. I just wish there was something more substantial. This is by no means an original thought, but these vapid lyrics really bring it down for me. I also recognize just by virtue of being a man in my 30s, this album isn't really for me.
It's not meant to be consumed as an album. This is a huge bag of jellybeans, not a full prepared and balanced meal.
2
Oct 31 2024
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Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables
Dead Kennedys
To evoke a tired trope, the lyrics on this album are more and more relevant with each passing year. The biting political commentary made accessible with humor and catchy hooks exemplifies youth counter culture. As others have said, the surf rock influence is the big draw musically.
Absolutely seminal album for so many hardcore acts. If you don't see the appeal of this music I don't know what to tell you other than I hope your stocks crash.
5
Nov 01 2024
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Giant Steps
The Boo Radleys
The poppier tracks tend to lose me, but the walls of sound are interesting enough to keep me engaged. Pleasant surprise. Some tracks guitar tone reminds me of Dinosaur Jr.
4