177
Albums Rated
3.44
Average Rating
16%
Complete
912 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1960s
Favorite Decade
Country
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
19
5-Star Albums
5
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Devil Without A Cause
Kid Rock
|
4 | 2.06 | +1.94 |
|
Bluesbreakers
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
|
5 | 3.16 | +1.84 |
|
Eliminator
ZZ Top
|
5 | 3.38 | +1.62 |
|
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
|
5 | 3.39 | +1.61 |
|
War
U2
|
5 | 3.48 | +1.52 |
|
Brothers
The Black Keys
|
5 | 3.58 | +1.42 |
|
Madman Across The Water
Elton John
|
5 | 3.59 | +1.41 |
|
Hotel California
Eagles
|
5 | 3.6 | +1.4 |
|
Buenas Noches From A Lonely Room
Dwight Yoakam
|
4 | 2.6 | +1.4 |
|
Trafalgar
Bee Gees
|
4 | 2.63 | +1.37 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
|
1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
|
Bitches Brew
Miles Davis
|
1 | 3.3 | -2.3 |
|
The Wall
Pink Floyd
|
2 | 4.14 | -2.14 |
|
Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
|
2 | 3.72 | -1.72 |
|
Ill Communication
Beastie Boys
|
2 | 3.65 | -1.65 |
|
Hounds Of Love
Kate Bush
|
2 | 3.61 | -1.61 |
|
In The Court Of The Crimson King
King Crimson
|
2 | 3.6 | -1.6 |
|
Deep Purple In Rock
Deep Purple
|
2 | 3.33 | -1.33 |
|
Fragile
Yes
|
2 | 3.31 | -1.31 |
|
Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
|
3 | 4.3 | -1.3 |
5-Star Albums (19)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Michael Jackson
4/5
It’s the king of pop! Always great vocals, a couple of well known bangers and a few funkful tunes. Super fun album!! High 4
1 likes
1-Star Albums (5)
All Ratings
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Not huge into techno, but enjoyed the groove of this album. Points for experimentation riffs, but can drag on at times. A couple fun familiar songs as well. Would put on as background music to keep a fun vibe.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
This is Angry Bruce!! Enjoyable, but geez, this guy deserves his own genre. Not something I’d listen to for relaxation. Maybe for reflective times.
Steely Dan
2/5
Points for harmonies. A couple of familiar hits. Added a “new” song to a playlist. Angry lyrics don’t always match the friendly voice and music. Fans of Chicago will like the sound.
Miles Davis
1/5
Unfortunately, without watching a jazz group live, I don’t feel like I can make a connection with these recordings. Professionally done, but not my cup of tea.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
Typical punk rock band: throbbing, driving music. Doesn’t try to stray too far from middle of the road. Very good vocals: doesn’t try to strain voice.
Nirvana
3/5
Not a fan of the occasional screaming and lyric choices, but has a really great sound most of the time. Love the use of “True Stereo” when I threw the headphones!
Skunk Anansie
3/5
I don’t think I’d buy this album based on its title and the band name. That said, I am very pleasantly surprised about the quality of this album. Just the right amount of sound experimentation. Skid Row or Dee Snyder vibes. Each track gets stronger as the album progresses. A high-3 star.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
Beautiful voice. The sound and quality seem to be ahead of its time. Every song could go on a different playlist. Definitely worth further digging into their library. High 3
Queen
3/5
Typical Queen rock opera. Nothing stand out like Bohemian Rhapsody, but definitely building towards it. Album was played in the background and I did not notice when the songs changed. Great sound, but again nothing truly memorable. High 3
The Byrds
4/5
Amazing guitar. Amazing harmonies. Gives you a small array of genres, which is pretty cool. An amazing collection of songs in that era. Despite the fact I’m not a big into folk music, this is a solid 4.
The Smiths
3/5
Did not pay attention to the lyrics, but a definite positive vibe to the music. Excellent for a soundtrack to making Sunday morning breakfast (which I was doing)
Peter Gabriel
3/5
The big songs are still relevant today. Such a mellow sound, even if it’s a more upbeat sound. Cool experimentation. A distinct sound. High 3
Ramones
4/5
Dark humour abounds with this punk album. Not heavy by today’s standards. A very fun listen!! Low 4
The Youngbloods
4/5
This is right up my alley! If you are into The Sheepdogs (my favourite band) you’ll like this. Looking to explore their library further. High 4
Miriam Makeba
3/5
Beautiful voice. Smooth sounding music, sounding culturally African. Excellent album for what it is, just not my regular listening style. High 3.
OutKast
3/5
Not my style of music. Definitely easy to listen to. A few popular songs. Not paying attention to lyrics, but a lot of “E for Explicit Lyrics” warnings. Mid 3
Alice Cooper
3/5
A couple familiar songs. Good hard rock/grandfather of heavy metal sound. High 3
Michael Jackson
5/5
As perfect of an album you can find. A fun sound that The Weeknd is revisiting today. Throw it on at any party and get dancing and singing!
Fats Domino
3/5
A grandfather of rock and roll, of course this was enjoyable! Great sound, up tempo. Fun album!! High 3
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
While you can find musicality in every track, this is definitely a sound experiment with industrial tools, voices calling out. None of these tracks will end up on a playlist of mine. I was very curious to hear what was coming next. Unintentionally absurd and humorous. High 1?
The Avalanches
2/5
Album starts very strong with a couple tracks that modernize the 70s groove. After that, they still use those 70s elements, but start fading into a lot of experimental work. It’s not bad, but a little much for my taste. Mid 2.
Small Faces
3/5
Despite the odd title, many of these songs are right up my alley. It’s a typical 60s rock album... to start. Not a fan of the musical theatre during the last few tracks. Low 3.
Prince
3/5
Typical Prince: high quality, grooving music. A no-name looking at of songs that still rock. No singalongs, but a tone setter for a fun afternoon. Low 3
Spiritualized
3/5
Typical 90s soft rock. Solid, good quality sound, but safe. No stand outs. Low 3
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
Typical Bruce, but doesn’t sound so angry. The title track is a classic! Great sound throughout. High 3.
Orange Juice
3/5
A smooth Duran Duran style. Nothing experimental, but a typical 80s sound. Fun, mood setting music for the backyard. Mid 3
Aerosmith
4/5
Starts with two well known bangers, then continues to rock throughout! Great guitars and bluesy rock. High 4
Wild Beasts
2/5
I enjoy the instruments and overall sound, but not a fan of the upper register of the vocals. Points for trying something different though! High 2
David Bowie
3/5
This is straightforward David Bowie. No swerves, no experimentation. Mellow sounds, beautiful voice. High 3
Throbbing Gristle
1/5
Absolutely terrible experimental industrial rock album. No unintended absurdity to laugh at. An attempt to be serious gone wrong. A bit of musicality here and there. Mid 1.
Milton Nascimento
3/5
Excellent voice & guitar work. Mostly good American pop with some Latino music/flavour mixed in. Lyrics are not English, but it does not take away from the experience. Mid 3
Lynyrd Skynyrd
4/5
My jam!! Great voice, great guitars! Sweet bluesy riffs!! An amazing southern rock album!! High 4!
4/5
Some great 90s punk! Not super heavy, a really good groove. Love the occasional keyboards! I think this is a keeper! High 4
Jimmy Smith
4/5
I’m not usually a “recorded jazz” guy. I enjoy it much more live, or in a movie, etc. where it is easier to make a connection. This is not the case with this album. It kicks off with some familiar sounding tracks, then continues its easy listening vibe to the end. Low 4.
Jurassic 5
3/5
An old school type rap album. They admit, through their lyrics in an early track, that they are trying to give something different. I am not overly familiar with the genre, but I think they succeeded. Meaningful lyrics and a fun backing groove. Mid 3
The Rolling Stones
4/5
There’s a reason that the Stones are still recording albums after a hundred years! Not including the opening and closing classic tracks (and a hidden “country-style” third mega hit), this is a solid rock album!! Solid 4!
Peter Gabriel
3/5
The album starts with an experimental piece and doesn’t seem to get its true footing until the fifth track. It just feels like the band as a whole just held back. Once Gabriel and his band show their strength, they do go full force. Some good stuff here. Mid 3.
Marvin Gaye
3/5
Soulful bluesy and jazzy. A nice mellow sound that you can relax to. Beautiful voice. High 3.
The White Stripes
3/5
Hard rocking guitars with a streak of the blues mixed in. Some track are a little heavy for me, but overall enjoyable. High 3.
Morrissey
3/5
Coffee shop fodder. That’s not an insult. We all need moments with our low-key jams. Music that is built with no crescendo. The sound is comparable to “Friday (I’m In Love)”, “Romantic Traffic”. The tracks are strongest in the middle section of the album. Low 3.
Paul Simon
3/5
A regular, feel-good album from Paul Simon. The guy comes out of the gate showing his humour in a topical song. Up tempo and fun. Low 3
Adele
3/5
Amazing voice. She knows how to write fitting songs to take advantage of it. A bit sad and sappy, but a lot of force behind it. Not my cup of tea, but guaranteed to be many other people’s favourite album. High 3
Kate Bush
2/5
The first track became popular because of “Stranger Things”, but doesn’t offer the punch it does when coupled with the show. At times Kate’s voice is hidden behind the instruments and can be much more powerful. A Linda Ronstandt type of sound, but again, Kate needs to show off her
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
She’s quirky, but I love this album. I call this a “no skipper”. Every track is worth a listen. The 80s synthesizers sneak into a few songs, but the stories and sound is fun throughout! High 4
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
A variety: soft rock, folk, experimental… the harmonies are great. Mostly enjoyable. Solid 3
Carole King
4/5
One excellent album! So many hits! Simple, soft rock with a great voice! Highly recommend this one! High 4!
Buzzcocks
3/5
As predicted before I hit the play button, a British punk band. Nothing different about the sound. Not bad, not memorable. Low 3.
Solange
2/5
R&B definitely has its place in the world. So do political and social messages in song. The talent is there on this album, it just did not interest me. High 2
Deep Purple
2/5
Not really sure how song rights work for streaming services, but Spotify only has the rights to 2 tracks on this album (in Canada)… That said, I do like the more popular Deep Purple songs, these aren’t them. I consider it pretentious when the lead singer (who does have a great voice) screams and moans more often than deliver lyrics in a 10 minute song. The other song is 7 minutes in length. Hmmmm….
The musicality is fine, if not great (guitars and keyboards rejoice!) but I will not be listening to this one again. High 2
Elbow
2/5
Started out well enough. Guitars, pianos and various orchestral instruments taking their turns at centre stage. Nothing really memorable. Then the album went through a “musical theatre” phase before returning to melancholy pop. Not really my style. High 2
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
Great funk guitar to open the album… and it gets better from there! I didn’t recognize any songs, but a definite realist en! High 3
Black Sabbath
4/5
This is an excellent album and I can’t believe I’ve never listened to it before! Fantastic guitar riffs and bass lines. Ozzy is Ozzy, and he was fine. I was probably put off by the marketing of it all when I was a kid. I wasn’t big into the occult, so the schoolyard rumours about what heavy metal bands do in the shadows turned me away. Not even close to as heavy as I thought it’d be. Will keep in my collection for listening over and over again. Mid 4
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
WHAT AN ALBUM! It’s right on the edge of a no-skipper! Great guitars, great blues tracks. This thing totally rocks! High 4
Pink Floyd
2/5
I realize that this is considered a classic album, it doesn’t do it for me. The musicality was a strong, but the overall repetitive drabness really pulls it down for me. Lots of experimental moments (maybe too many?!?) High 2.
note: I understand the drabness and melancholy are the point of the album, and they do it well. Point taken. Not good enough for a re-listen for me.
Def Leppard
4/5
Mint 80s Hair Band. Guitars harder than pop, but not as heavy as metal. Knew many of the songs (this album could substitute for their Greatest Hits) but even the songs I didn’t know felt familiar. This represents my soundtrack of the late 80s. Definitely a keeper. I’ll give it the No-Skip stamp. Mid 4
Traffic
3/5
The first couple tracks on the album seem like they are an experiment to add a jazz sound to their regular rock sound. It was interesting bordering on successful. I enjoyed the addition of the flute on the second song.
The title track seems to be aiming for a rock ballad similar in tone with “Stairway to Heaven”. Not saying it is the same calibre by any means, but an interesting concept that snuggles in nicely with the album.
After that, it seems to follow the general sound of late 60s/early 70s rock. Quite enjoyable. High 3
Coldplay
3/5
The big hits are actual bangers. Musicality is strong throughout. Not “anthem-esque” as I expected. While the supporting songs are not nearly as strong as the AM radio tracks, they do complement the album well.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
Sounds a lot like an early 54-40… maybe a touch more 80s feel to it. Nothing really pops out, nothing I remember from the radio, but musically, totally fine. Low 3
Soul II Soul
3/5
When an album is called “Club Classics” I would expect to know more than one song. I wasn’t the biggest dance club patron, so I could be totally off on this take.
That doesn’t mean this was a bad album. It did have a nice groove to it, but did not start thumpin’ until the rap, which was an unofficial introduction to the remixes. This is where the beat gets heavier, but still not where other songs played at the club would be. I’d put the first hapf on at a wine & cheese party and use the second have as a pre-gamer. Not a heavy beat, but enough to get you excited for the night. Low 3
Buena Vista Social Club
3/5
Fun Latino band. Has all the easy-listening elements you’d want in an album like this. Would love to see them live. Makes me wanna go on vacation now. Mid 3
King Crimson
2/5
An album that is telling the story of the Crimson King. I enjoyed the first track, but then it delves into a bit too much of the storytelling and experimental pieces. Skills are definitely on display at times, but overall a slog to get through. High 2
CHIC
3/5
Starts out with a banger, then eases into background love-makin’ fodder. Low key disco. Typically long songs to keep you in the dance floor. Low 3
Sonic Youth
2/5
Meh. It takes a few tracks before the album appears to rock, but I found it dull, repetitive and not really my cup of tea. Some punk really catches me. This did not. Low 2
Jethro Tull
3/5
I recognized the opening guitar riff, but after that I was taken on an unexpected amazing adventure! A mix of rock and folk music, there is any a boring event on this musical theatre experience. High 3
Cheap Trick
3/5
A fun live album with a few bangers, the expected extended versions of a couples songs and an excited crowd. High 3
Bert Jansch
3/5
A man, his guitar and a bundle of his music. A folk-country collection of songs with excellent guitar picking vibes and a suitable voice. Not a top choice to listen to on n my own, but would love to hear him in a pub with a pint or two in hand. Mid 3
Taylor Swift
4/5
The woman is one of the top singing attractions in the world for a reason. A couple well known bangers and the supporting tracks are more than listenable. A really good pop album. Mid 4
Solomon Burke
4/5
This is a pretty darn sexy album. Bluesy and soulful, I can just imagine the emotion that was put into writing and recording it. Low 4
Isaac Hayes
2/5
In Canada, Spotify only has the rights to 4 tracks, so this may be an unfair review…
Funk guitar to kick off the theme song, always a plus! I did think it would be a bit louder and intense (just thinking it is an action movie soundtrack). Full of soul. From what I’ve heard, high 2 to very low 3.
Dagmar Krause
1/5
Not available on Spotify
The Only Ones
3/5
Starts as a soft-punk or pop-punk album and delves into slightly heavier tracks. A nice album to introduce punk to the masses. Good sound. Mid 3
Robbie Williams
4/5
Really good Brit-pop album which for surely influenced today’s artists like Harry Styles and Ed Sheeran. Definitely a high on the re-listenable scale. Mid 4
U2
5/5
First of all, wow! I didn’t know this album was around since ‘83! This rock sound was 20 years ahead of time! Great listening, sounds modern, even today! Solid 5
ABBA
4/5
A lot of their greatest hits are found here. Beautiful harmonies. Fun disco backgrounds. It’s just my taste, but this is a band that I can only listen to when I’m in the mood. That said, this very well could be a no-skipper album. Solid 4
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
Asking for a curious friend: when a typical song on the radio is 3-5 minutes long, what inspires a band to write and record a 17 and a half minute song? I mean seriously! I get live concerts. A guitar solo gone wild. A drummer needs to let it all out. But a studio recording? C’mon guys! It could be the greatest song in the world and no one is gonna listen to it more than once, let alone the entire duration the first time through.
Even better idea, follow it up with a minute and a half track that actually has some legs! I had no idea that popular bands in the 70s were crazy about musical theatre!
While the actual musicality is solid, the vocal work gets forced from time to time. For any of its merits, not a replayable album. 2
Pulp
3/5
Nothing really pops out when listening to this album. Sounds fine. Would put on during a social gathering where you need some music, but not worried about guests singing along. Low 3
R.E.M.
4/5
I’ve never really delved into REM’s archives, but maybe I should have. They were a definite influence on my favourite band, The Tragically Hip. The sound of a “pop grunge” with a matching voice and excellent guitar work. A few stories thrown into the lyrics for good measure. A very solid 4+.
Bon Jovi
4/5
Absolute banger of an album. It follows the model of a bunch of (excellent) party songs, arena anthems and a couple rock love ballads. Guitars, melodies, harmonies, uptempo fun. The only thing keeping this album from a 5 star review is the overindulgence of a few intros, which in hindsight was probably done to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. Extremely high 4.
Kraftwerk
1/5
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
Pretty progressive for an album from 1980. Reminds me of an early Heart… for those Canadians out there, remember the song Echo Beach by Martha and the Muffins? Almost exact same style. Very high 3
Yes
2/5
I am starting to realize that there was a lot of “Musical Theatre” experimentation in the 70s. The sound of this album is fine, for the most part. The super long (and super short) tracks are a tad annoying. I’d probably enjoy this album more if it was the soundtrack of a live stage production.
Radiohead
4/5
Late 90s alternative rock. Shades of Coldplay, Tragically Hip and Gin Blossoms… pleasantly surprised (I did not listen to Radiohead when there were popular). Low 4
XTC
3/5
Upbeat, chill music. Great for background music in the backyard playin’ cornhole. Won’t interrupt conversation. (Not meant as an insult… sometimes you want to groove, but not get interrupted by a fan favourite tune) Solid 3
PJ Harvey
3/5
Female led 90s punk band delivers the expected. Nothing exciting. Low 3
Britney Spears
4/5
A very good pop album. Interesting to hear the producers take the elements of the boy band craze (at the time) and use it effectively with a female solo artist. More singalongs than I remember. A good album to switch things up on a road trip.
Dexys Midnight Runners
2/5
A mostly dull album, a couple tracks stuck out: One of Those Things - blatantly borrows from Warren Zevon’s Werewolf In London (and repeats the lyrics “it all sounds the same”) and Listen To This - sounds like a soft sequel to Come On Eileen. There will be no repeat listenings for me.
Garbage
4/5
A neat mix of sounds on this album. The first few tracks are rock pretty heavily, followed by a couple that could be used in an anime cartoon soundtrack (in a good way). I recognized a few songs from the radio. Overall a pretty good sound. Low 4
Pink Floyd
3/5
The title song is an unbelievable masterpiece. Unfortunately, the rest of the album is so much more depressing in its sound. I mean, unbelievable work, but I really don’t understand the fascination of recording 11-15 minute songs for the general public. Experimentation is great, but those recordings can stay behind closed doors (or made available to those who really are interested) it really shouldn’t be on a mainstream album.
Amazing musicians give this a 5, but “replayability” gives it a high 2. I’ll split the difference… solid 3
Elvis Presley
4/5
I absolutely love the sound of the guitar in this era of rock ‘n roll. Elvis’ voice is smooth as butter and every song is enjoyable. Solid 4.
Bee Gees
4/5
Pre-Disco BeeGees are a very different beast. The vocals are very different, yet still strong. Not up-tempo at all, lots of ballads. Harmonies are beautiful as always. The sound is more along the lines of the Hollies, Byrds, etc. Low 4
Eagles
5/5
The mainstream bangers on this album were a big part of my childhood family road trips. The non-hits were a pretty good complement. The voice, the guitars, the rock!! Solid album!!
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
Brings me back to my 90s college days. The angry teenager years. A palatable collection of sounds from the time, the unnecessary screaming near the end of the album takes away any pluses it earned from me. Low 3.
The Clash
4/5
For some reason, I thought these guys were a punk rock band. If they truly are, this album put all their other talents on display. A nice mix of different styles that are definitely good for repeat plays. Solid 4
Dwight Yoakam
4/5
Your typical (but very high quality) 80s country album. This has hints of pop country a few years before Shania, but mostly the recognizable guitar & fiddle affair. Not my style, but I didn’t hate it. Low 4
Kid Rock
4/5
Great rockin’ sound. Lots of the rock/rap combo. Heavy guitars. The only thing holding back this album is the large amount of explicit lyrics. Mid 4
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
When you think of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, this is the album you think of. Great sound with the signature machine gun cadence and the funk guitar on many tracks. Some experimenting that makes the music unique. Many songs include explicit lyrics (which brings my replayability score down), but the sound is so awesome, this album still scores an extremely high 4.
Green Day
4/5
Love that upbeat, alternative/punk sound! A fun outing with a few familiar songs. High on the replayability scale. Solid 4
Daft Punk
4/5
A very fun, upbeat electronic dance album. Will definitely have on for backyard games!! A very fun vibe!
The Beach Boys
4/5
Growing up on several versions of Beach Boys Greatest Hits, this was a treat. Hearing familiar songs mixed in with dynamic new-to-me tracks made me smile. Definitely worthy of a replay. High 4
The Smiths
3/5
Am I missing something when I listen to The Smiths? I mean their sound is… fine. High quality, yadda yadda yadda… but to me, it sounds like a British lounge singer crooning for a sad teenager letting them know it’s ok to feel that way and everything is going to be ok. Throw Depeche Mode and Morrisey in that category as well (from the music I’ve heard from them).
Let me make this clear: there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. There is definitely a market for that. When I hear those in the know speak very highly of The Smiths, I am expecting something life changing.
Maybe I’m just hearing it from former sad teenagers. High 3
Sonic Youth
3/5
Typical late 80s-early 90s punk band stuff. Nothing stood out to me. Good quality and all. Just not my thing. Low 3
Paul McCartney and Wings
4/5
Two huge bangers to start the album, then drifts into a laid back comfortable mix. Interesting that the lead vocals were shared throughout the recordings. Low 4
Norah Jones
4/5
Mellow, very laid back. Beautiful voice. Perfect soundtrack for making French toast on a Sunday morning.
Soundgarden
4/5
Heavy (for me), but a great sounding power album. A couple of well known songs in the mix as well. High 4
5/5
Straight up excellence throughout. Not sure about being a no-skipper, but I’d consider this a superb album cover to cover. Low 5
Beastie Boys
4/5
I only know a handful of songs by the Beastie Boys, but this album has their standard sound: punk rap, with voices like Nelson Muntz. They have surprising samples sprinkled throughout. They just seem to be having a blast when they make music. I’m not a rap guy, but I’d listen to this again. Mid 4 for the fun!!
R.E.M.
3/5
Pretty good sounding, standard REM fodder. Would listen to again. Not much more to say about that. High 3
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
Started out as a great uptempo pop punk album. Great female lead, fun backing band. After a few songs, the tone changed a bit and became drab without the pep from the beginning. Mid 3 for quality and a strong start.
Portishead
3/5
Meh. Quality is fine. Just not that interesting. Low 3
Elton John
5/5
I am a big fan of Elton’s popular work. I grew up on his Greatest Hits, but have never really delved into his other work. This album is amazing! I was familiar with the first two songs. After that, a tour de force with the use of organs, a strings section and of course the all-famous piano. A super comforting voice that sends the full message of every lyric. Low 5
The Black Keys
5/5
Absolutely LOVE this band! Great guitar riffs, amazing bluesy sound. Some hard rockin’ tracks in there for good measure! Low 5
Stevie Wonder
5/5
I’m not an R&B guy, but holy cow does Stevie Wonder have an incredible voice. He’s got charisma and a lot of stories to tell. Everything has a positive vibe (regardless of the lyrics) and is of the highest quality. A great album to chill with. Strong 5.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
OMG! I forgot how amazing this album is! I haven’t revisited this one since I was a kid. Dad used to put this in the ghettoblaster on our road trips (we did not have a tape deck… so many D-Cell batteries killed during our summers). The big hits still hit and the songs with titles I didn’t recognize are still amazing (and I totally remember all those songs!) Not quite a no-skipper. High 4
Prince
4/5
Great, quirky 80s album! Very fun, foot tapping tracks. Good for the whole family (although Darling Nikki may provoke some uncomfortable questions from your younger ones!)
Replayability level is high!! Mid 4
Elton John
4/5
Love me some Elton John! Outside of the (very well played) extended instrumental intro to the first track, this is a very fun album, complete with very well known songs and a familiar format that is easy to digest. Love the inclusion of country-western sounds on a few songs. Mid 4!!
The Cars
4/5
Some well known big bangers to the where in a quirky 80s rock album. Not all songs fit the famous Cars mold, but a fun album nonetheless. Low 4
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
That great southern rock!! Brings back memories of summer road trips when my dad threw the CCR greatest hits into the ghettoblaster. Most songs were recognizable from said greatest hits. A couple songs I’ve heard covers from other artists and the ones I didn’t know fit perfectly in like a puzzle piece. High 4!!
Janet Jackson
4/5
Fun album that ushered in the 90s. Definitely replayable. I’ll give it a solid 4.
Rant time. What’s the point of the interludes between EVERY SONG? I see a few angles… 1 - if they aren’t important enough to be part of the song, why include them? 2 - do these count as more plays for the artist on Spotify? If so, for a person in 1989, that’s great insight into the far off future! 3 - if you are making a playlist, it’s great that you can easily cut out the crap… unless you like the content of an interlude, in which case it’ll piss you off.
End of the day, a few interludes did enhance the songs (so just should’ve been on the track itself) others were just space fillers and unnecessary. Cut them.
Rant over.
The Stone Roses
3/5
Decent 90s alternative sound. Reminds me of 54-40. A couple songs that are a bit long, but they do put their amazing guitars on display during that time. High 3
Rush
4/5
I am pretty familiar with Rush’s big hits. Very impressed with this album. Their style is just different enough to keep them off most of my playlists, but definitely great tunes. The driving drums and amazing guitar riffs put them in the same vain as Van Halen. High 4
The Doors
3/5
I’m not a huge fan of psychedelic music, but when I listen to it in isolation, it tends to bring me back to the old Spiderman cartoon show, which makes me feel happy! “Break on Through” could be a great pump song, great choice to start the album. Very High 3
ZZ Top
5/5
To me, ZZ Top is the American AC/DC because they have the same basic guitar and driving beat in pretty much all their songs, yet they are SUPER FUN to always listen to. This album is pretty much the one that put ZZ Top on the map. It’s essentially a greatest hits (of their popular radio stuff anyway).
I know they have other bluesy stuff, but this is the album to dive in on. Not exactly a no skipper, but a great listen nonetheless.
Earth, Wind & Fire
4/5
Going into listening to this album, Shining Star was the only song I knew. Turns out this is a great collection of Funk, Soul and Jazz! Great harmonies, full sound. Upbeat and positive throughout!! High 4
3/5
The album started with two fun, rockin’ tracks. The rest of the album did not match this tone, at it was followed it up with an extra long instrumental and two other longer songs. Not sure if I’d go back at this album, even if it is a high quality sound. 3
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
3/5
So… we start with a 13-minute concept track that could’ve easily been a very good 3- to 5-minute song. Understandable if there is a stage performance to accompany it, but leave the extended version for the live show please. Next we have the banger “Relax”, then back to experimental stuff for a while, then a Bruce Springsteen cover?!? A very odd and wild collection, indeed! As an album, not great. But highlights will definitely bring me back to several tracks. Low 3
Nirvana
5/5
Admittedly, I’m a Boy Scout at heart. If anything comes within a football field away from controversy, I start looking for a way around it. This is how I’ve handled Nirvana all of these years. Their regular work is filled with words that usually make my butt pucker up…. Because of this I’ve skirted them without getting to know the meaning behind the lyrics. That said, I’m not going to bother doing the deep dig on their song history.
This was a “made-for-tv” album, so it was toned down (from what I expected). Wow, are they fantastic! Love the guitars and the overall sound seems to lightly brush the psychedelic era. Very unique and catchy. I like this album enough to explore more of their work, knowing that the bad words are out there and it’ll be much heavier. A solid 5.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
Quite an enjoyable album. Not a fan of the big pitch jumps, but that would be Joni’s signature found in pretty much every song. High 3
The Clash
4/5
A more laid back (?) punk album than I’ve previously heard from them. Not a huge Clash fan, but I enjoyed this album. Low 4
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
5/5
A pretty impressive outing for the group! I only knew 2 songs going in, but the whole album rocked! Great guitars and a positive vibe. Definitely will stay in my collection. A solid 5
Pink Floyd
4/5
Is it true about Dark Side and The Wizard of Oz? If so, was it on purpose? So freakin’ cool.
These guys are amazingly talented, but I find their music so sad. Money is a complete banger, but the rest of the songs are depressing. I have to be missing something. I’m sure someone will fill me in at some point… Low 4
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
I enjoy the mix of 80s pop, Celtic and ska music. Generally has a good groove. Come On Eileen will get everyone up dancing and Jackie Wilson Said is a fun little ditty. High 3.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Quite honestly, an 80s rock album that sounds like a 90s grunge album. A bit ahead of its time. If you enjoy that stuff, it’s recommended. Not really my cup of tea though. Low 3.
4/5
A bouncy, Brit-pop fun album. Great guitar riffs and the addition of a horns section from time to time really pops! Replayable, especially for sunny backyard afternoons. High 4.
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
A bit different sound than I expected. A few moments of experimentation and a couple of bangers. Not a huge fan of the vocals, but it is trademark Pumpkins, so I can give a pass. Would listen again. Low 4
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
I never listened to much Smashing Pumpkins, other than what was on the radio. That said, most of these songs are recognizable. Enjoyable sound. Heavy guitars, but not pounding in your ears. Definitely a niche band though. Low 4
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Grew up on CCR. Enjoy CCR. Even the new-to-me tracks (which weren’t many) I enjoyed. 60s Rock/Southern Rock/Blues. Get it!! Mid 4
Johnny Cash
5/5
Not a country fan. Haven’t listen to a lot of Johnny Cash, but boy oh boy, is this album a fun adventure… literally! Every song about the perils of prison, each track with its own unique story. Definitely a great inspiration for writing!! Low 5.
Alice In Chains
3/5
Not overly familiar with these guys. (I know Rooster” and that’s about it) I suppose they are early enough to be innovators of the genre, but not my favourite style. A bit too heavy for my taste. Mid 3
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
I mean, it’s Jimi!! Started enjoying the album after Voodoo Chile. Low 4
Van Halen
5/5
I was introduced to VH by my dad with the 1984 album when I was fairly young. That was a regular “pump” album for hockey and road trips. I didn’t really follow the band until I got to college, when it was time to explore my OWN musical tastes.
This album is quite amazing! Love the guitars (obviously). The harmonization is always fun. This would’ve been considered pretty heavy (at least in my household) in 1983. Discovering it when I did was the perfect time.
Not my favourite VH album, but so many bangers!!! Low 5!
Radiohead
3/5
High quality sound. There are some elements I like, but this album feels too experimental for my liking. Low 3
Blood, Sweat & Tears
4/5
Strong jazz elements in many of these tracks. Some huge bangers, with an outstanding voice. I’d listen again! Low 4
Al Green
5/5
Absolutely great vibe. Amazing voice. Very much replayable for a laid back, chill kind of day. Solid 5.
ZZ Top
4/5
America’s AC/DC, right? Even in the beginning, these guys have their distinct sound. You can play any track at a party and groove. Great guitars and hopping beat. Gets bluesier as the album goes on. High 4
The Doors
4/5
Usually a Doors album reminds me of the soundtrack of the old Spiderman cartoon, but this one is different. Not as much organ, but still psychedelic at times. Vocals range from radio announcer to opera singer to whiskey and sand bluesy. A few great guitar riffs. Enjoyable. Solid 4
Violent Femmes
4/5
As much as I like “Blister in the Sun”, I didn’t think I would appreciate much more than that. I was wrong. Fun guitars and a vibe that makes you wanna rock! Reminds me of a couple guys grabbing a guitar and playing at a party… including getting a bit sloppy and bouncing back strong! Not all tracks are great, but fun nonetheless. High 3/ Low 4, depending on my mood
Van Morrison
5/5
Holy moly! What a great, laid back backyard kinda album. Great voice. Enjoyed the horns. Keeping it in the library. 5 stars!
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Unbelievable guitar! Fun, up-tempo rock tunes. Overall a great sound. Will keep in the library for future listens! Low 4
Moby
3/5
Every track has a great groove. I’m not a big listener of electronica, so I don’t have a lot of background/input for this album. Something I’d surely put on at a party for easy going ambience. High 3
Big Star
4/5
A banger of an album! Great guitars and vocals. Generally upbeat fun! Keeping in the library. High 4!!
Michael Jackson
4/5
It’s the king of pop! Always great vocals, a couple of well known bangers and a few funkful tunes. Super fun album!! High 4
Motörhead
4/5
For an album that was released in 1980, Motörhead’s sound is definitely ahead of its time. Probably pretty heavy upon release, these guys are definitely the forefather of the Nickelback sound (whether you like them or not). High tempo and driving beat. Great for pump up music in the gym. Definitely gonna keep this one in the collection. Mid 4
Tears For Fears
3/5
The bangers are still bangers, but many of the tunes are products of the times and are a bit dated. High 3
Joy Division
3/5
I’ve heard a lot about Joy Division, but this is my first deliberate listen. Gotta say, I hate the B-52esque voice at first… but the band makes it fit and you get used to it.
Other than that, the overall sound of the music is great!
I’m guessing pioneers for the REM and Tragically Hip crowd. For that I can give this a High 3
Foo Fighters
4/5
Hard rocking. Driving drums and guitar. Distinct & fun Foo Fighters sound. I’ve always loved “Big Me”. The music video is one of the funniest I’ve seen. Low 4
Funkadelic
3/5
Only one song (on Spotify anyway) It’s funk. Keeps a steady beat. Does not do anything exciting. Don’t think I’d search this one out for a replay. Mid 3.
Steve Winwood
4/5
Love the lead song “When You See A Chance”. A lot of synthesizer on the album, but it hits a bit different than the usual songs of the 80s. Voice similar to Peter Gabriel. We get hit with a little funk from time to time as well! Low 4.
Gram Parsons
3/5
A lot of twang in this album. The stuff that starts to lean toward “Country Rock” is pretty good. Cool to hear the original “Love Hurts”. Mid 3
Faith No More
3/5
This album take a little journey. It starts really strong, then gets a bit heavy for my taste, then gets into some drawn out songs that peck at the strengths of “Epic”. It returns to the fun sound again at “Underwater Love”. Great cover of “War Pigs”. I think I’d pick through this album for a mixed playlist, but not an album I need for the collection. High 3
Deep Purple
3/5
It’s good quality music, but the drum solo (which are actually pretty good) and other extended rambles don’t mean that much to me because I wasn’t at the concert to capture the spirit of the moment. Of course, this is the danger of all live albums. I can give this a High 3, but probably deserves more if I experienced it live.
Queen
4/5
So, I was always under the impression that the norm for Queen was Bohemian Rhapsody and Killer Queen. Listening to this album proved me somewhat wrong. To be sure, there are show tunes in this collection, but there were a lot of solid rock songs as well. The guitar work is stellar. I’ll be picking out a few tracks for mixed playlists. Low 4
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
Not a memorable album. Sound is high quality. “Take Me Out” was fun, but also played in the radio a lot. Meh. Mid 3
Beastie Boys
2/5
The album is 20 tracks long. It contains a handful of bangers, a couple songs that are just punk noise and a more-than-comfortable amount of pretentious instrumental tracks. I do enjoy the Beastie Boys in small serving sizes… they were driving me nuts by the end of the album! (maybe they were daring the listener to finish the album?!?) High 2 (saved from a 1 by that handful of bangers)
The The
3/5
Similar sound to Howard Jones as well as Kajagoogoo. Strong 80s vibe that can be used as ambiance music. High3
10cc
2/5
I’m not overly familiar with 10cc, but I enjoy the radio hits. This album leans into the Queen-inspired show tunes vibe. Unfortunately, they weren’t as successful. It takes a lot of cajones to write and release a song called “The Worst Band In The World” on an album like this.
Not my cup of tea, but may be enjoyed by others. High 2
Beatles
5/5
This one brings me back to my childhood when my mom was teaching my brother and I about the ins and outs of a record player. A definite no-skipper filled with harmonies, guitars and short tracks that feel so full. Could listen to this from beginning to end every single day. High 5 stars!
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
Absolutely fantastic album! Green Onions brings me back to the 70s Spiderman cartoon as well as one of my favourite movies “The Sand Lot” many of the other tracks are instrumental covers from the 50s and early 60s pop rock. Will add it to my regular rotation!! High 4
Radiohead
3/5
Mid-Nineties light grunge fodder. Recognized one song, threw it on my 1001 Discoveries playlist. Not inherently bad, it is more of a vibe than anything for me. Would definitely put this album on quietly to set a tone for a backyard bocce tournament. 3?
Dire Straits
3/5
I haven’t listened to this album from start to finish in quite awhile.
Brothers in Arms can be broken up into 3 categories: the bangers, the mid card and the forgettable.
The guitar work throughout is awesome. Vocals sound like a Wilbury that may have taken a side trip (which I wholeheartedly approve!) I will probably throw the big hits on playlists, but the rest can wait to be used in a movie soundtrack somewhere down the line. High 3 (mostly for overall replayability)
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
5/5
When I close my eyes and pretend to be a blues guitarist, this is the album I’m playing. (I’m a beginner-at-best guitar player and never heard this album before.)
I’ve discovered that if you learn to love the blues, it opens up a whole universe of music to bathe in. Totally recommend this album for anyone who’d like to take the plunge! Five-on-the-side!
Cat Stevens
5/5
Absolutely fantastic backyard chill album. I know a few of his songs, listened to the Cat Steven’s greatest hits, but this album tops anything I was expecting. Definitely a permanent spot in the library. Strong 5.
Nirvana
4/5
When this album first came out, I did not listen to it on regular rotation. It was a bit heavy for my liking. Today, it is still a very heavy grunge album, but I have much more appreciation for it. Great guitars, a well-rounded sound that does stray from the grunge sound from time to time.
Still a bit heavy for my taste, but is in my “in the mood” list. Workouts, long distance driving. High 4.
The Darkness
3/5
The guitars are amazing… the voice takes some getting used to, especially early on. If you can power through you are in for a bit of a treat. Pop rock. High 3
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Excellent album front to back. Excellent guitars and snappy, toe-tappin’ tunes. I can see some elements of the heavy metal (for those that believe that Led Zeppelin is the grandfather of Heavy Metal), but it isn’t super obvious. A classic Rock & Roll album that is relistenable. 5
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Another classic rock album! Guitars, foot stompin’ tunes. Many recognizable songs. Amazing throughout, but was not a big fan of the drum solo near the end. High 4
The Who
5/5
Seems like an album that helped transition from the psychedelic 60s to 70s rock. Hints of it early, but then gets into some really great guitar and overall fun rock music! Foot stomping, relistenable to the max! I know many consider it one of the top albums of all time. Well deserved!
Eagles
4/5
I’m not a country western fan, but I like my rock leaning on the country sound. I haven’t listened to much of the Eagles other than their Greatest Hits and the Hotel California album, but this album is definitely up my alley. Enjoyed the full, short and sweet record. Fully recommend! High 4