Oct 23 2023
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3 Feet High and Rising
De La Soul
Loved this! Fantastic, funny, clever, entertaining. I can’t believe I hadn’t got round to listening to this before.
Fave track: Three is the magic number
5
Oct 24 2023
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Fever To Tell
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Not my cup of tea. Pretty raw sounding, felt like I was listening to a local band live somewhere. Didn’t really enjoy the vocals. I gave it a second listen and preferred it the second time around but still not really my thing. Favourite track: Maps.
3
Oct 25 2023
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Frank
Amy Winehouse
I haven’t really made time to listen to any of Amy’s albums before and I was actually pleasantly surprised. While her music is not my usual style, I actually found a lot of the lyrics quite entertaining/downright funny.
Fave track: Fuck Me Pumps (made me lol)
4
Oct 26 2023
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Surrealistic Pillow
Jefferson Airplane
Another great album! It bears similarities to much more modern music so I can only imagine it must have influenced a lot of artists - it certainly sounds ahead of its time to me (although I am no expert). I really enjoyed this.
Rating: 4/5
Fave track: Somebody to Love
4
Oct 27 2023
View Album
You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen
Oof, this one hits you in the feels! It’s an end-of-life farewell. Amazing album, obviously a piece of art even to a pleb like me. Hard to pick a fave track, probably Travelling Light.
5/5
5
Oct 30 2023
View Album
I Should Coco
Supergrass
Firstly, I have to disclose that I really dislike Oasis and I’m not a fan of britpop in general.
This is a lot better than Oasis! Fun and melodic - I would listen to this anytime - but I lost interest in the second half and I didn’t really relate to the songs.
Fave Track: Mansize Rooster
Rating: 3
3
Oct 31 2023
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Blunderbuss
Jack White
It’s objectively good but it just doesn’t appeal to me personally.
Have decided to rate on how much I like it rather than quality.
Fave track: Love Interruption
Rating: 2
2
Nov 01 2023
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
On first listen I really didn't like this. I ended up listening to this three times to give it a chance. In general, I have never liked Proud Mary. I found this album boring, especially the long, rambling tracks Graveyard Train (reading the lyrics for that one helped) and the ridiculous Keep On Chooglin'. I upgraded from an original 1 to a 2 rating as I don't hate it but no thank you, I do not want to Keep On Chooglin'. Please stop Chooglin'.
Fave Track: Didn't like any, Penthouse Pauper appealed the most musically.
Rating: 2 (below Blunderbuss though)
2
Nov 02 2023
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Le Tigre
Le Tigre
I’ve never heard of this one before and I loved it!! Great lyrics/messages and the music was so much fun.
Listens: 3
Fave track: I liked them all, but I found Les and Ray really heartwarming and Deceptacon was awesome.
Rating: 4
4
Nov 03 2023
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Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill
Still hate it 30 years later.
Listens: Could only put myself through one run through.
Fave track: Something For The Blunted because it had the fewest lyrics.
Rating: 1
1
Nov 06 2023
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
If you like the point rammed down your throat, this is for you! I quite like the music itself though. Reminds me of local music so must have had quite an influence here.
Fave tracks: That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore, Barbarism Begins At Home
Listens: 2
Rating: 3
3
Nov 07 2023
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All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
I enjoyed listening to this. However, is it a good *album*? Well, it's too long, the tracks are varying quality and it ends with several long instrumental tracks that basically feel like jam sessions. The good stuff is so good that I can't give it a 3, though. Fave Tracks: My Sweet Lord, Art Of Dying.
Listens: 1 (didn't have time for more)
Rating: 4
4
Nov 08 2023
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Basket of Light
Pentangle
I thought this was bloody awful. May I never have to listen to this again. Interestingly, the last couple of songs were almost bearable - maybe I got used to it? Still don’t like it.
Listens: 1 is enough for me
Fave track: Cold Mountain
Rating: 1
1
Nov 09 2023
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From Elvis In Memphis
Elvis Presley
I'm not an Elvis fan so I had to come at this one with an open mind - the blues/country intersection doesn't do it for me. The first half of the album just felt depressing and I disliked it, but I felt I "got" the second half a little more (which included songs I knew already: "Suspicious Minds" and "In The Ghetto") and it had some 5-star moments.
Listens: 2.
Fave Track: After Loving You.
Rating: First half = 2, Second half = 4-5, so overall 3.
3
Nov 10 2023
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The Scream
Siouxsie And The Banshees
The music is great but I really, REALLY do not like the singing and for that reason I have to give it a low rating. I appreciate the influence this band has brought to others though.
Listens: 3
Fave Track: The Staircase (Mystery)
Rating: 2
2
Nov 11 2023
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Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
This is the first album I’m familiar with (and like), there is almost always a RATM song on my playlist.
Likes: Political message mixed with great delivery, those basslines, high energy
Dislikes: Tracks can get a bit samey, don’t usually like “screamy” vocals (although I think they’re appropriate here)
Listens: 2
Fave Tracks: Killing In The Name, Know Your Enemy
Rating: 4
4
Nov 11 2023
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Face to Face
The Kinks
My thought processes on first listen: “this is OLD”, “ I’m not sure about this” “lol they really do like their sound effect machine” (Rainy Day In June), “hey I know this song!”, “this is ok I guess”. Once again, I do like the political commentary.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Sunny Afternoon
Rating: 3
3
Nov 12 2023
View Album
Kala
M.I.A.
M.I.A is absolute 🔥, absolutely in my wheelhouse (although I’ve listened to Paper Planes too much over the years). As before, she has important strong political messages. I just LOVED this and it’s a personal 5 for me.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: 20 Dollar
Rating: 5
5
Nov 13 2023
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Disraeli Gears
Cream
Note: re. Eric Clapton - I am reviewing how I feel about the music not the musicians and I am aware that many on this list have had problematic behaviour/opinions I don't like but this will not affect my rating unless I notice it in the music itself.
My mum had this album so I am familiar with it. It's a mixed bag - a few excellent tracks, a few okay tracks and a couple of weird ones. The good tracks and that guitar is so good, however, it pushes up my rating.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Sunshine Of Your Love (no competition)
Rating: 4
4
Nov 14 2023
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Juju
Siouxsie And The Banshees
I take it back - this one is a whole different thing, it’s great!! It has a lot more polish and her voice actually feels more tuneful and congruent with the music. Almost a 5 star.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Monitor
Rating: 4
4
Nov 15 2023
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Technique
New Order
I like New Order but didn’t know this album. I listened through once but unfortunately am not feeling well and my headache has prevented me listening a second time so not much of a review. I enjoyed it.
Listens: 1
Rating: 3
3
Nov 19 2023
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Entertainment
Gang Of Four
Very, very monotonous lyrics which amused our family. The music itself was good and sounds modern for 1979. Maybe this is an acquired taste? The songs had things to say but I struggled to listen to them.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: I didn’t have one.
Rating: 2, can’t get past the shouted lyrics
2
Nov 20 2023
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Suicide
Suicide
Very weird, very dark, very uncomfortable, very niche. I think it’s actually good - it creates atmosphere, makes you feel. Has Nine Inch Nails vibes.
Listens: 3
Fave Track: Most powerful is Frankie Teardrop
Rating: 4
4
Nov 21 2023
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Moving Pictures
Rush
The music was quality, but I found the songs cheesy and kinda pretentious. I was already familiar with Tom Sawyer and YYZ thanks to Guitar Hero! It was alright but probably not something I would choose to listen to.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Witch Hunt
Rating: 3
3
Nov 22 2023
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Only Built 4 Cuban Linx
Raekwon
The solo album that really isn’t. Great rapping, shame about the attitudes (misogyny, homophobia) which drops my rating.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Guillotine (Swordz)
Rating: 3
3
Nov 23 2023
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evermore
Taylor Swift
I am not a Swiftie on any level and this kind of music isn’t my style but this is a really good album full of meaningful, well-written and well-sung songs.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: marjorie
Rating: 5
5
Nov 24 2023
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KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
I’ve never heard of this guy before. The music has very 70s vibes. Easy to listen to and chill. The tracks are fine but this really shines as a complete album, the songs flow into each other. Adding this to my playlists.
Listens: 3
Fave Track: Solid Ground
Rating: 4
4
Nov 25 2023
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Moondance
Van Morrison
Let’s just lay it out here that all the albums on this list are objectively good regardless of my rating. Van Morrison is a good singer, the musicians are also good. That said, I would never listen to this, it’s way too lounge-y.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Moondance
Rating: 3
3
Nov 26 2023
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MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
One of my all-time favourite albums - thank you album generator!! I’ve listened to this so many times over the years I can’t really review it objectively at this point but I never get sick of it.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Oh Me
Rating: 5
4
Nov 27 2023
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Let's Get Killed
David Holmes
Another artist I hadn’t heard of. This was fun and funky and I always love interesting drum beats. It first made me think of Orbital or even The Chemical Brothers.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Freaknik
Rating: 3
3
Nov 28 2023
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Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
Amazing lyrics and songs that could be powerful in the right contexts but this isn’t my style. I’m also not a fan of her vibrato. Sadly, not for me.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Four Women
Rating: 2
2
Nov 29 2023
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Third
Portishead
I have always felt like I should like Portishead but I just don’t. I like this album even less than their previous ones. I even listened to it driving through countryside at 5 a.m. after dropping my son at the airport which should be perfect Portishead vibes. Still nope, sorry Portishead.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Silence (the irony haha)
Rating: 2
2
Nov 30 2023
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Heaven Or Las Vegas
Cocteau Twins
Another unknown for me. Pretty regular inoffensive 80s music, nice singing even if the words were unintelligible. Looked up the lyrics, they look like they’ve been put through google translate a few times but this band is Scottish so what’s with that??
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Cherry-coloured Funk.
Rating: 3
3
Dec 01 2023
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The Poet
Bobby Womack
Watched the lyric videos, this guy is kind of a dick (Wikipedia research afterwards confirms this). Musically it’s fine, soul/funk I guess, and he’s got a good voice. Amusingly, So Many Sides Of You sounded like a cheesy sitcom theme song from the 80s (they were probably based on this style of music) and Just My Imagination had this repeating sound in the background like something bad happening in a platformer video game.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Just My Imagination
Rating: 2
2
Dec 02 2023
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Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
If I’m at a coffee shop or restaurant and they’ve got this music going on, I know the food is going to be good.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Minor Chant
Rating: 3
3
Dec 03 2023
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Triangle
The Beau Brummels
These guys were definitely on drugs. This wasn’t my thing, kinda folky/country/psychedelic, although I was disliked it less on second playthrough. I still don’t like it.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Keeper of Time
Rating: 2
2
Dec 04 2023
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Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde
The music was great and catchy, they can rap, but the lyrics were so, so bad. It was as if they were written by a 12 year old with issues. This should have been my thing and I don’t mind a bit of cheek but this took it too far and I dropped from what would have been a 3 or 4 to a 2 based on that alone.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Passin’ Me By
Rating: 2 :(
2
Dec 05 2023
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The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
“Picture book of people with each other, to prove they loved each other, a long time ago”
This album is idiotic bullshit. Sorry.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: I thought they were all stupid.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 06 2023
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Dance Mania
Tito Puente
This one was fun - mambo! I’m starting to think of so many themed dinner parties with these albums. 😄
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Varsity Drag
Rating: 3
3
Dec 07 2023
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Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
I haven’t been able to give this album the time and space it needs, but I’ve listened enough to get the feels and know it’s very good and I will be playing it again when I have the opportunity. It put me in mind of the Leonard Cohen album earlier; it’s another album that deals with death but with a different take.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Don’t know yet
Rating: 5
5
Dec 08 2023
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Psychocandy
The Jesus And Mary Chain
I’ve heard of this band but never intentionally listened to them. I liked it! Reminded me of Nirvana.
Listens: 2
Fave Tracks: Just Like Honey, Taste The Floor, Never Understand.
4
Dec 09 2023
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The Chronic
Dr. Dre
Firstly, I would like to apologise to my mother for all the Dre I blasted across the house in my early teens; I never really considered the lyrics until today. But the nostalgia!! The production!! The beats!! Yet this is the most offensive album yet. But I still love it, I am torn so going to continue with my usual dropping it a point for the lyrical content (although I think in that case I should have given The Pharcyde a 3).
Listens:
Fave Track:
Rating: 4
4
Dec 10 2023
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Make Yourself
Incubus
I’m not really sure why this album is on this list, it really doesn’t feel like anything particularly new that I prefer in other bands. I didn’t actively dislike it, but I didn’t particularly like it either. I was familiar with a couple of the songs, in particular Drive.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Make Yourself
Rating: A low 3
3
Dec 11 2023
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Transformer
Lou Reed
Really entertaining album, I loved it. I knew Perfect Day and Walk On The Wild Side, but was otherwise unfamiliar with Lou Reed and really enjoyed the edginess/sarcasm/humour.
Listens: 2
Fave Tracks: Perfect Day, Hangin' Round
Rating: 5
5
Dec 12 2023
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Homework
Daft Punk
I have never really been much into Daft Punk, I find them a bit too repetitive and lack the progression in the songs I enjoy from other EDM. This hasn’t changed my opinion.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Daftendirekt
Rating: 3
3
Dec 13 2023
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The Colour Of Spring
Talk Talk
I didn’t mind this album and I really like Life’s What You Make It (which most people already know) but I did find the album was a bit boring if I wasn’t in the right headspace. The album it reminded me of was Madonna’s True Blue, strangely, although it came out around the same time period I guess.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Life’s What You Make It
Rating: 3
3
Dec 14 2023
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Let Love Rule
Lenny Kravitz
Apparently Lenny Kravitz wrote, produced, sung and played the music on this album pretty much all himself and he shouldn’t have. This man has no business being a songwriter because he sucks at it. Even singing his own lyrics, he doesn’t seem to get what he is saying. It’s ok as background noise but for the love of god don’t pay attention.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: None
Rating: 2
2
Dec 15 2023
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Django Django
Django Django
I hadn’t heard of this one and was pleasantly surprised. Easily listenable, catchy tunes. Not sure what genre I would call this - Wikipedia put a bunch of weird ones like art-rock but I would suggest maybe alt-pop?
I didn’t love it but it was pretty cool so I think it only just reaches a 4 rating for me.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Hand Of Man
Rating: 4/5
4
Dec 19 2023
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S&M
Metallica
I will disclose that I do not like Metallica. I know many of their songs well enough I could sing them at karaoke, but for some reason their music has always made me feel uncomfortable. (I like other heavy music so it's not the style either). It took me four days to get through this album. I liked Metallica even less with the orchestra. Sorry.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Nothing Else Matters
Rating: 2
2
Dec 20 2023
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Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
I’ve heard people say ZZ Top is good but haven’t really listened to much of their music. It was pretty cool if not my usual style of music. This album contained their well-known track La Grange
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Master of Sparks
Rating: 3
3
Dec 21 2023
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Highly Evolved
The Vines
This one grew on me with each listen and I liked the lyrics but the strong British accent they sing with really annoyed me when I found out they’re actually Australian. I decided to forgive them eventually.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Highly Evolved
Rating: 4
4
Dec 22 2023
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Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
I mean, it’s Jimi Hendrix and everyone has tried to emulate him since. That said I didn’t love the album and some tracks are stronger than others. Pretty amazing album though.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Purple Haze
Rating: 4
4
Dec 23 2023
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Who's Next
The Who
I ran out of time with this one but listened to most of it. The Who is fine, not so much my thing though. I feel this is an album I’ll have to come back to for a few more listens.
Listens: 3/4
Fave Track: Behind Blue Eyes (I agree the Limp Bizkit version is a travesty)
Rating: 3
3
Dec 24 2023
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Paul Simon
Paul Simon
Boring.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard
Rating: 2
2
Dec 25 2023
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Safe As Milk
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Kinda odd. Kinda dug the first half but lost me in the second half. Very 60s.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Sure ‘Nuff ‘n’ Yes I Do
Rating: 3
3
Dec 26 2023
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A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
Various Artists
I don’t do Christmas songs but if I did I wouldn’t mind this.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
Rating: 3
3
Dec 27 2023
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No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith (Live)
Motörhead
A lot of it sounds a bit samey but it’s ok. I already knew Ace of Spades. Apparently this is one of the best live albums of all time. I can’t imagine the energy it would take to play this set!
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Bomber
Rating: 3
3
Dec 28 2023
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Bat Out Of Hell
Meat Loaf
Another possibly unpopular opinion, I don’t really like Meat Loaf. The songs go on too long, the music doesn’t do it for me, and I don’t really care for the lyrics. Sorry.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: I’m not sure I have one
Rating: 3 (It doesn’t actively bother me either)
3
Dec 29 2023
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Back to Mystery City
Hanoi Rocks
If I got AI to generate a generic rock album, it would produce this, right down to the odd band name and track titles (look them up). It’s got that uncanny sounds-fine-until-you-actually-listen quality. Shout out to Back To Mystery City which is Mony Mony (lol) and Ice Cream Summer where you get hit with a sudden exclamation of “bitch!” unexpectedly. Apparently these guys influenced Guns N Roses so take from that what you will.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Malibu Beach Nightmare
Rating: 2
2
Jan 02 2024
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Disintegration
The Cure
I have always liked The Cure and this album is no different. (A Forest has been one of my favourite songs my entire life). I enjoyed this album with a couple of familiar tracks.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Lovesong
Rating: 4
4
Jan 03 2024
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Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
I like the beats and the samples and find myself bopping away to it but I just can’t enjoy their rap style.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: She’s Crafty
Rating: 3
3
Jan 04 2024
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Dare!
The Human League
I got all excited when the super-80s pop synth sounds started (which I love so much) and then the singing started - oof. This album is outrageously bad. Don’t You Want Me is a banger though, they somehow struck gold at the very end of this… whatever this is…which rescues this from being a 1.
Listens: 1.5
Fave Track: Don’t You Want Me
Rating: 2
2
Jan 05 2024
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Songs For Swingin' Lovers!
Frank Sinatra
This isn’t really my sort of thing but it would be perfectly fine music if it was yours.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Anything Goes
Rating: 3
3
Jan 06 2024
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Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
This project has cemented me as an Amy Winehouse fan! This album, while quite sad, was excellent and I really enjoyed it.
Listens: 2
Fave Tracks: Back To Black, Love Is A Losing Game
Rating: 4
4
Jan 07 2024
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New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
I didn’t really give this one a very proper listen through but I gave it two half-listens. It was enough for me to decide this was perfectly fine 80s music but bored me a little.
Listens: 2 x 1/2
Fave Tracks: Somebody Up There Likes You
Rating: 3
3
Jan 08 2024
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
I had no idea who this was until halfway through the album when Without You played, followed by Coconut. I really liked this one, a lot of variety but most of the tracks were really good. I hadn’t expected the random Spanish version of Without You!
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Without You
Rating: 4
4
Jan 09 2024
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Hunky Dory
David Bowie
This is good but it’s not my favourite David Bowie. The track Andy Warhol made me laugh. The themes of these songs are still relevant today for new generations.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Life On Mars
Rating: 3 (almost 4 but a 1-5 rating system is a blunt instrument)
3
Jan 10 2024
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Viva Hate
Morrissey
Kinda like budget-brand The Cure. Not bad but I felt kinda meh about it.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Everyday Is Like Sunday
Rating: 3
3
Jan 11 2024
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Tonight's The Night
Neil Young
It’s good but I can’t explain why. I think it’s because it feels genuine.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Borrowed Tune
Rating: 4
4
Jan 12 2024
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The ArchAndroid
Janelle Monáe
This was interesting and kind of what I expected as I am familiar with a couple of Janelle Monae songs which are usually kind of retro and different. It’s good stuff but doesn’t really do it for me.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Cold War
Rating: 3
3
Jan 16 2024
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Dookie
Green Day
I listened to this album on constant repeat for a few months in my mid-teens. I’m not that big on Green Day but like it as an album.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Basket Case
Rating: 3
3
Jan 17 2024
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Veckatimest
Grizzly Bear
Not really my kind of music - but would be okay in the background. I personally rate it at the lower end of 3.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Two Weeks
Rating: 3
3
Jan 18 2024
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Ambient 1/Music For Airports
Brian Eno
I got a bit behind with my albums so I didn’t have time to give this album a full and fair listen but because it was so minimal I think I was able to get a good idea. It’s hard to rate ambient music. I liked it.
Listens: Almost 1 (heard each track which didn’t change much throughout)
Fave Track: 1/2
Rating: 3
3
Jan 19 2024
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Machine Gun Etiquette
The Damned
Another high-energy (I guess it was punk?) album. I quite liked it although probably not something I would choose to listen to.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: Smash It Up Pt 1 & 2
Rating: 4
4
Jan 20 2024
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Reggatta De Blanc
The Police
Nice to chill to. I felt the album started stronger and weakened with the last couple of songs. Fun fact - this album was released the day after I was born!
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Walking On The Moon
Rating: 3
3
Jan 21 2024
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Hunting High And Low
a-ha
Take On Me is a good song… the rest kinda average.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Take On Me
Rating: 2
2
Jan 22 2024
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Tubular Bells
Mike Oldfield
OMG this is where they got the theme song from The Exorcist! At least the beginning is, then it goes all sorts of places. It’s weird, kind of funny, somewhat simple melodies all joined together, but I found it thoroughly entertaining.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Tubular Bells - Pt I
Rating: 4
4
Jan 23 2024
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Highway 61 Revisited
Bob Dylan
Great lyrics but the music itself isn’t my thing. The kids couldn’t cope with the harmonica when I was listening in the car haha! It is hard to give it a fair listen as I don’t have the time/space right now.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Like A Rolling Stone
Rating: 3
3
Jan 25 2024
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When I Was Born For The 7th Time
Cornershop
I listened to this while doing a rhythm run and it was excellent for the purpose. This one was pretty cool and interesting but probably won’t make my playlists. I enjoyed the variety and international influences.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: It’s Indian Tobacco My Friend
Rating: 3
3
Jan 27 2024
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Real Life
Magazine
My favourite music growing up was an old mixtape of my dad’s containing Visage, Icehouse, and Magazine. This one really showed how context affects my ratings -when trying to listen in the car with the family and lots of noise around I didn’t like it. Listening again at home while I pottered in the kitchen, I thought it was great.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: The Light Pours Out Of Me (I’m most familiar with this one)
Rating: 4
4
Jan 28 2024
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Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
There is a lot of hype about this album and with so many hits packed into it I had high expectations, but I wasn’t all that into it and my opinion even decreased on the second playthrough. If I was going through a break-up it would be perfect, but as it stands it was a bit twangy/country for me.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Go Your Own Way
Rating: 3
3
Jan 29 2024
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Actually
Pet Shop Boys
This is the kind of 80s music I like and I do enjoy Pet Shop Boys - this album was mostly good with a couple of tracks I didn’t really like and, although catchy and political in lyrics, It’s A Sin is obviously just Wild World by Cat Stevens.
3
Jan 30 2024
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Hot Fuss
The Killers
I have heard Me Brightside and Somebody Told Me way too much so I wasn’t too excited for this album but it was actually really good!
Listens: 1
Fave Song: All These Things That I’ve Done
Rating: 4
4
Jan 31 2024
View Album
The Holy Bible
Manic Street Preachers
I like bands who have something to say and Manic Street Preachers certainly do. Some pretty dark lyrics here and they address some pretty harsh issues.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: This Is Yesterday
Rating: 4
4
Feb 01 2024
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1984
Van Halen
The guitar/music was impressive, song content less so.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Jump
Rating: 3
3
Feb 02 2024
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Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)
Eurythmics
I didn’t like it, the title track and last track were ok but the rest was boring and uninspiring.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of These)
Rating: 2
2
Feb 03 2024
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Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
This album had moments of perfection and moments of weird chaos. I think it all worked as a cohesive whole although I struggled a bit with the final track sound effects which were rather… juvenile. The good heavily outweighed the bad though and this one has to be a 5/5.
Listens: 2
Fave Tracks: Super Stupid, Maggot Brain
Rating: 5
5
Feb 04 2024
View Album
Get Rich Or Die Tryin'
50 Cent
Only time for one listen. 50 Cent is easy to listen to although not particularly clever with his raps. Good production.
Listens: 1
Fave Tracks: In Da Club
Rating: 3
3
Feb 05 2024
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Haunted Dancehall
The Sabres Of Paradise
This one was quite different and pretty thematic. I didn’t mind it.
Listens: 1
Fave Tracks: Ballad of Nicky McGuire
Rating: 3
3
Feb 06 2024
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Teen Dream
Beach House
I don’t like this kind of music and found this album really boring. Might appeal to some, it’s not objectively bad and the lyrics (while also not my thing) were poetic.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Didn’t have one.
Rating: 2
2
Feb 07 2024
View Album
The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
Oof - I really, really don’t like country music and this is very country. This album puts me in a predicament because I thought it was very good country but I still dislike listening to it.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Hot Burrito #2
Rating: 2
2
Feb 08 2024
View Album
Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
My daughter thought this was funny as she recognised Chef from South Park. I wasn’t as enamoured with the long, long monologues. Only needed one listen as there were repeated versions of the songs.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Hyperbolicsyllablecsesquedalymistic ( this one was only 10 minutes!)
Rating: 2
2
Feb 09 2024
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Hard Again
Muddy Waters
Very very classic blues. It was good but unfortunately I don’t like blues.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Crosseyed Cat (subject amused me)
2
Feb 10 2024
View Album
Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
I didn’t really enjoy this, it’s not for me. I don’t like the many covers he does near as much as the originals.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Ole Man Trouble
2
Feb 12 2024
View Album
Talk Talk Talk
The Psychedelic Furs
I’m not a big fan of this kind of music and with these guys, singing in particular doesn’t appeal to me nor the subjects of the songs. The music itself isn’t bad.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: All Of This And Nothing
2
Feb 13 2024
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Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
Music for my next highbrow soirée. Actually quite relaxing after a while.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Solar
3
Feb 14 2024
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The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
More jazz! This is very good but not my favourite genre.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: ?
3
Feb 15 2024
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War
U2
I forgot how much I like U2, although this isn’t my favourite of theirs.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: New Year’s Day
3
Feb 16 2024
View Album
Treasure
Cocteau Twins
This is the second Cocteau Twins album I have had. It reminds of Kate Bush a little, whose music I don’t really like but prefer to this. The high singing doesn’t appeal to me.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: None
2
Feb 19 2024
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Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
I like that this is a tribute to their former singer. I had a copy of this on tape. I really like it.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Have A Cigar
Rating: 5
5
Feb 21 2024
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Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
The thing about a lot of hip hop is that it references a culture and experience I can’t understand and haven’t lived. I think it is good to be spoken of and listen to though and this album is important in its messages. The music itself was okay but very much of its era, although clearly influential (I could hear OutKast at certain moments in particular).
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Fight The Power
Rating: 4 - it does what it has set out to do
4
Feb 22 2024
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Bright Flight
Silver Jews
Feels like country meets The Velvet Underground meets Presidents of the USA. While I like those two bands, and while this is a sweet album, I found the strong country aspect too offputting and I couldn’t get past it.
Listens:
Fave Track: Transylvania Blues
Rating: 2
2
Feb 23 2024
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Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
Layla has always been one of my absolute favourite songs. The rest of the album was also good and the guitar was outstanding.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Layla
Rating: 4
4
Feb 24 2024
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Low
David Bowie
I have never heard this album or these songs before. I thought it was really good and quite different from a lot of his other stuff. I was a little less fond of the instrumentals as they went on a bit.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Sound and Vision
Rating: 4
4
Feb 26 2024
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Beach Samba
Astrud Gilberto
I didn’t get it on first listen, but it clicked on the second. This is lovely romantic, sweet music.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: It’s A Lovely Day Today
Rating: 3
3
Feb 27 2024
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Back In Black
AC/DC
The music is slick but very samey. I cannot stand the singing, never have. My lifelong strong dislike for AC/DC continues. They are one of those bands that will make me turn off the radio.
Listens: 2
Fave Track:
Rating: 2
2
Feb 28 2024
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The Renaissance
Q-Tip
Intelligent, softer, kind of old school hip hop/r&b. Q-Tip is a good rapper (and I liked his tracks. Not my usual vibe but I do need to learn to chill.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: You
Rating: 4
4
Feb 29 2024
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Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
Cute and a bit quirky but a bit too Britpop for me. I still liked it.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: God! Show Me Magic
Rating: 3
3
Mar 01 2024
View Album
Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
I haven't really listened to much Simon & Garfunkel honestly, it's not something I've been exposed to other than their extremely well known songs such as The Sound of Silence. This album really had the feel of a soundtrack to a musical. I was pretty skeptical at first but probably had my biggest flip in opinion mid-album yet - I ended up really enjoying this one.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Mrs Robinson
Rating: 4
4
Mar 02 2024
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OK Computer
Radiohead
I loved this album when it came out but haven't been too keen on Radiohead in the last couple of decades - the singing style gets a bit much after a while. However, this album is an absolute masterpiece and as relevant today as it was then (if not more so).
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Paranoid Android (this hasn't changed)
Rating: 5
5
Mar 03 2024
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Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
I'd never heard of this. It was the kind of female vocals I don't really like but was otherwise nice enough. I'm not completely clear on what was supposed to be so special about this particular album and the Wikipedia page didn't add any insights.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: The Architect
Rating: 3
3
Mar 05 2024
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Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
I just can’t get into country and this was too country for me.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Round And Round (It Won’t Be Long)
Rating: 3
3
Mar 06 2024
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Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
It’s not that I mind listening to folk music, it’s just that I’d be rather listening to something else. If this was live I’d enjoy it.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Dos Cruces
Rating: 2
2
Mar 07 2024
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Private Dancer
Tina Turner
I've never been a Tina Turner fan but this album is very good with a few of her well-known songs. Many of the songs seemed to related to her previous abusive relationship so it felt very personal and quite raw.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: What's Love Got To Do With It?
Rating: 4
4
Mar 08 2024
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Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
Another Radiohead album hard on the heels of the previous one. I have to admit that Radiohead is a band I don't think I like until I listen to them and remember actually they are really good.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: The Gloaming
Rating: 5
5
Mar 09 2024
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Figure 8
Elliott Smith
Albums where a singer wallows in romantic relationships that didn't work out are generally ones I don't enjoy, regardless of the artist's talent. I felt worse about this when I heard this was the last album before Elliott took his own life, and that brought an element of poignancy. It's still not my style of music.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Wouldn't Mama Be Proud
Rating: 2
2
Mar 10 2024
View Album
The Infotainment Scan
The Fall
I suspect The Fall might be an acquired taste, I don't know how I feel the choice to yell over-enunciated lyrics over a backing track, albeit those backing tracks are pretty catchy. If I'm leaning any particular way, I guess it is towards like over dislike. 'A Past Gone Mad', in particular, sounds like something that could have come out quite recently, evoking Underworld or NIN.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: A Past Gone Mad
Rating: 3
3
Mar 12 2024
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
Meh - it’s The Beatles.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: In My Life
Rating: 3
3
Mar 13 2024
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Endtroducing.....
DJ Shadow
I was so pleased to get this album as I have been meaning to listen to it for ages! I wasn't sure what to make of it the first time around but after a bit of research to actually understand what it was I liked it better the second time.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Organ Donor, Napalm Brain / Scatter Brain - Medley
Rating: 3
3
Mar 14 2024
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Like A Prayer
Madonna
The nostalgia hit me like a truck with this one - I lived and breathed Madonna throughout my childhood. I had this album on tape but it wasn’t my favourite of hers - I loved side A, never bothered much with the rest of the album after Cherish. Like A Prayer, Express Yourself, and Cherish are absolute bangers though.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: Like A Prayer
Rating: 3
3
Mar 15 2024
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Sign 'O' The Times
Prince
Interestingly, Prince was heavily involved in my previous album (Madonna - Like A Prayer). I generally don't really like Prince except for maybe a few of his bigger hits. I didn't like this album.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Sign O' The Times
Rating: 2
2
Mar 16 2024
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Highway to Hell
AC/DC
Ugh. So samey. Do not like, this one is even worse than Back In Black. I was almost tempted to skip listening to this but forced myself.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: None
Rating: 1
1
Mar 17 2024
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Fred Neil
Fred Neil
Quite country but the guy has a nice mellow voice that’s quite pleasant and I quite liked the guitar. Not my thing but it’s okay. Apparently known for writing Everybody’s Talking from Midnight Cowboy.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: That’s The Bag I’m In
Rating: 3
3
Mar 18 2024
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Mama's Gun
Erykah Badu
This is, unfortunately, exactly the kind of music I really don't like. I just can't.
Listens: 1
No fave track.
Rating: 2
2
Mar 19 2024
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Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
I just don't do disco, although Michael has a beautiful voice.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: I Can't Help It
Rating: 2
2
Mar 20 2024
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Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
I had thought this would be pretty regular 90s alternative/rock with my very limited experience with this band but it’s actually quite bluesy. It was fine but not a standout for me.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: She Talks To Angela
Rating: 3
3
Mar 21 2024
View Album
Cross
Justice
Justice is like Daft Punk but I slightly prefer them. It was okay but, even though EDM is my preferred genre, this probably won’t hit my playlists.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Phantom
Rating: 3
3
Mar 26 2024
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Third/Sister Lovers
Big Star
This ?pop/rock really didn't appeal on first listen, but was okay the second time around. It is quite slow and not really my style.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: ?
Rating: 2
2
Mar 27 2024
View Album
Birth Of The Cool
Miles Davis
It’s jazz. It’s very good jazz, but it’s not my thing. Rating reflects personal enjoyment, not quality (as always, rating reflects personal enjoyment, not quality)
Listens: 1
Fave Track: ?
Rating: 2
2
Mar 28 2024
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A Northern Soul
The Verve
I will gladly tell anyone within earshot that I don't like Oasis and, to be honest, the genre in general (although I do have a soft spot for Blur). The Verve was okay I guess but this stuff isn't really my cup of tea.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: A Northern Soul
Rating: 3
3
Mar 29 2024
View Album
Forever Changes
Love
Yeah, it was okay - better than I thought it would be by a band that calls themselves "Love".
Listens: 2
Fave Track: A House Is Not A Motel
Rating: 3
3
Mar 30 2024
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Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
OutKast
I have positive memories of this album so was excited to see it. I was more familiar with Speakerboxx than The Love Below, although the second was the better part, I think. (Plus definitely had the better-known tracks). Excellent concept album(a).
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Ghettomusick, Hey Ya, Behold A Lady, Love In War
Rating: 4
4
Mar 31 2024
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Abraxas
Santana
Santana is pretty groovy. Great background music.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen
Rating: 4
4
Apr 01 2024
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In Our Heads
Hot Chip
Very poppy, but I thought it was good pop. I enjoyed my second listen and thought maybe I might even choose to listen to this.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Let Me Be Him, Flutes
Rating: 4
4
Apr 02 2024
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
Nice-sounding folk music but not my thing.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: ?
Rating: 3
3
Apr 03 2024
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Green
R.E.M.
I’ve always liked R.E.M.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: Orange Crush
Rating: 4
4
Apr 04 2024
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Fifth Dimension
The Byrds
Very 60s but also quite all over the place. It’s a no thanks from me - I didn’t like anything about this one. Plus the worst cover of Hey Joe I’ve ever heard.
Listens: 1
No fave track.
Rating: 2
2
Apr 05 2024
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Kenya
Machito
Big band jazz + Afro-Cuban drumming. Jazz can be relaxing but the drumming takes away from that and makes it kind of intense and unfortunately I also don’t like brass instruments very much.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Congo Mulence
Rating: 2
2
Apr 06 2024
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Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
This album is a good time! Great guitar, awesome drums, catchy songs.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Massacre
Rating: 4
4
Apr 07 2024
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Pump
Aerosmith
This really contrasted after the Thin Lizzy album and not in a good way. Not really sure what the appeal is with Aerosmith tbh. *yawn*
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Janie’s Got A Gun
Rating: 2
2
Apr 08 2024
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Murmur
R.E.M.
R.E.M is always quality but I probably prefer their later albums. Playing
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Pilgrimage
Rating: 3
3
Apr 09 2024
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Green Onions
Booker T. & The MG's
Everyone knows Green Onions. Cute but quite samey.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Green Onions
Rating: 2
2
Apr 10 2024
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Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
I really liked this - it was grandiose and entertaining and different and I loved the church acoustics/theme. I’m rating it a 4 but it was almost a 5 for me.
4
Apr 11 2024
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Punishing Kiss
Ute Lemper
I hate this kind of sensual female singer, triggers my PTSD.
Listens: 1
“Fave” Track: The Case Continues
Rating: 1
1
Apr 12 2024
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Teenage Head
Flamin' Groovies
Pretty familiar-sounding 70s pop/rock with a strong bluesy feel. I was happy to listen the first time but didn’t really feel like a second one when I tried.
Listens: 1
Fave track: ? (Didn’t have time to pick one)
Rating: 3
3
Apr 13 2024
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Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club
Sadly Cuban jazz is not my jam.
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
Apr 14 2024
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The Good, The Bad & The Queen
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
This is a supergroup with Damon Albarn (Blur/Gorillaz), and includes band members from The Clash and The Verve, and a well-known drummer and producer. I thought it was pretty average actually, but this kind of thing isn’t reallly my genre.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Herculean
Rating: 3
3
Apr 15 2024
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Be
Common
Nice beats, good storytelling, some content was great, some not so much.
Listens: 1
Fave Tracks: Be, Testify
Rating: 3
3
Apr 16 2024
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
I like Led Zepplin but this isn’t my favourite of their albums.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Babe I’m Gonna Leave You
Rating: 3
3
Apr 17 2024
View Album
Isn't Anything
My Bloody Valentine
I want to like it but I... don't. It's like I felt like the sum was worse than the parts perhaps and it's just a lot of noise with the odd catchy riff. I literally couldn't choose a favourite track because I didn't like the lyrics of the ones that were more pleasant to listen to.
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
Apr 18 2024
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Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Lovely relaxing music while I do the dishes in the evening and look out across the valley. Another good cocktail party album. I guess I like *this* jazzz.
Listens: 1
Rating: 3
3
Apr 19 2024
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In Rainbows
Radiohead
Musically not appealing, lyrically good. Sadly my lowest rated Radiohead so far.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: All I Need
Rating: 2
2
Apr 20 2024
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The Band
The Band
Yet another case of not my style.
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
Apr 21 2024
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Chocolate Starfish And The Hot Dog Flavored Water
Limp Bizkit
Limp Bizkit want you to know they don’t care so much that they wrote a whole album about it. Firstly I felt they were ripping off Beastie Boys, other times Incubus and god knows who else. I don’t get the NIN diss track, especially considering Trent Reznor is vastly more talented. I honestly always thought Limp Bizkit were more of a joke band but now I’m wondering if they take themselves seriously? My favourite “Limp Bizkit” song is Cookie by Cookie Monster followed by their section of Angry White Boy Polka by Weird Al. Actual Limp Bizkit…? Ah - no thanks. There were some songs I didn’t mind but the irritating moments outweighed them. This is the first album which I am absolutely perplexed is on this list.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Getcha Groove On - Dirt Road Mix made it into my running playlist because of those basslines
Rating: 2
2
Apr 22 2024
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Songs Of Love And Hate
Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen is a lyrical genius, just amazing.
Listens: 1
Rating: 4
4
Apr 23 2024
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Hotel California
Eagles
I was pleasantly surprised by this album as for some reason I expected not to like it. I was familiar with the singles but not the album itself. I thought it was a solid and well-polished production and enjoyed listening to it. Who knew??
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Hotel California
Rating: 4
4
Apr 24 2024
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Liquid Swords
GZA
As far as rap goes, this was lyrically next-level but it’s another case of appreciating something I don’t relate to and musically didn’t really inspire me.
Listens: 1 1/2
Fave Track: I think I liked the collaborative tracks better in general.
Rating: 3 (for the rap quality, prob 2 for enjoyment)
3
Apr 25 2024
View Album
Garbage
Garbage
Pretty familiar with this album and liked it a lot when it came out. I still like it but I think I’ve both over-listened to a few of the tracks and it has aged a bit.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Stupid Girl
Rating: 3
3
Apr 26 2024
View Album
It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy
What’s good about this album: message, beats, samples, energy, rapping
What is not so much: It is definitely of its age, Flava Flav “yeah boiii”
Listens: 3
Fave Track: She Watch Channel Zero?!
Rating: 5
5
Apr 27 2024
View Album
Stardust
Willie Nelson
While driving through a busy chaotic carpark with this on the stereo, it occurred to me that this was incredibly calming. If I needed a lullaby, Willie would be the guy. It seemed to be largely covers of older songs.
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
Apr 28 2024
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D.O.A. the Third and Final Report of Throbbing Gristle
Throbbing Gristle
...what did I just listen to? Apparently this was the beginning of the Industrial genre of music, which I actually really like. However, this was definitely very weird. I didn't like it but I didn't hate it.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: AB/7A
Rating: 2
2
Apr 29 2024
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The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden have a very distinctive sound. It’s okay but I got a bit tired of it. Not a fan of their cover art.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Run to the Hills
Rating: 3
3
Apr 30 2024
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Tommy
The Who
It’s really weird to listen to songs from a musical I’ve never seen, and therefore difficult to rate.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Pinball Wizard
Rating: 3
3
May 01 2024
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If You're Feeling Sinister
Belle & Sebastian
It’s sweet and gentle with some good songwriting. Would I listen to it again? I’m not sure.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: ?
Rating: 3
3
May 02 2024
View Album
1977
Ash
I believe I had a copy of this album in my music collection on my computer. It’s fine though not really standout.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Girl From Mars
Rating: 3
3
May 03 2024
View Album
Devotional Songs
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
This was the album(s) I have had the most trouble listening through so far. It’s not my least favourite and it’s not even that I disliked the music, it just became tiresome for me relatively quickly and the music is very repetitive.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: ? (They all sounded similar to me)
Rating: 2
2
May 04 2024
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Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Not sure I like Tom Petty’s younger voice very much - I prefer his later music. This album sounded kind of like an early Bon Jovi style.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: American Girl
Rating: 3
3
May 05 2024
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Black Monk Time
The Monks
This is very good for its time, it is described as photo-punk but it’s from 1966. I liked the first half of the album better than the second but I think it deserves a higher than average rating.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Boys Are Boys And Girls Are Choice
Rating: 4
4
May 06 2024
View Album
21
Adele
She has an amazing voice. The music is catchy. The songs sound fantastic. But a whole album of songs pretty much entirely venting about relationship problems… give me strength. It could have been a 4 but I got bored so it dropped to a 3.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Set Fire To The Rain
Rating: 3
3
May 07 2024
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The Atomic Mr Basie
Count Basie & His Orchestra
I got very excited when I heard the name of this album but it turns out it is just jazz with a big band. Oh well.
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
May 08 2024
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The Slider
T. Rex
“Baby, baby, baby, baybeeeeehhh” 🤮
T-Rex reminds me of a boring Guns N Roses but without the catchy riffs. Did not like.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Telegraph Sam
Rating: 1
1
May 09 2024
View Album
Definitely Maybe
Oasis
I am quite vocal about my dislike of Oasis. However, I forgot I had the single/EP? of Supersonic/Live Forever and I think Married With Children was in it back when in the 90s and I really liked it and they are all from this album. This was okay, but I still can’t stand the singing.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Supersonic
Rating: 3
3
May 10 2024
View Album
Heaux Tales
Jazmine Sullivan
I totally respect what she was doing but the subjects did make me uncomfortable and I’m not big into R&B. Fully support what this artist is doing though.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Lost One
Rating: 3
2
May 11 2024
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Van Halen
Van Halen
I liked this album by Van Halen a lot better than the one I reviewed previously (1984), which came later.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: I’m The One
Rating: 4
4
May 12 2024
View Album
Bummed
Happy Mondays
I found this really boring actually. Really average rock with some guy shouting inanely as “singing”.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Rave On
Rating: 2
2
May 13 2024
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Midnight Ride
Paul Revere & The Raiders
For a 60s album, I thought this was really good! Variety in songs, good rock sound, I was happy to listen to this.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: I’m Not Your Stepping Stone
Rating: 4
4
May 14 2024
View Album
xx
The xx
I am already a fan of The xx so my review will be biased. While not quite in my wheelhouse, I especially love the simple beats and harmonising singers.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Crystallised
Rating: 4
4
May 15 2024
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Call of the Valley
Shivkumar Sharma
I liked this - it was pretty!
Listens: 1
Fave Track: The Shepherd Girl
Rating: 4
4
May 16 2024
View Album
The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
This was perfectly fine classical music and I was happy to have it on in the background while I jogged.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Milonga Is Coming
Rating: 3
3
May 17 2024
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Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
I tried with this album… I really, really tried. I feel like I “should” like Joy Division but I just found it boring and slow. I’m sorry, I didn’t get it.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Day of the Lords
Rating: 2
2
May 18 2024
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Hounds Of Love
Kate Bush
This was an interesting album with a lot of variety, and by interesting I mean weird. I used to really dislike Kate Bush but I have to say she is growing on me over time and I didn’t mind this.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: The Big Sky
Rating: 3
3
May 19 2024
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Meat Puppets II
Meat Puppets
The Meat Puppets covers by Nirvana are up there with my favourite songs ever and listening to this album I might see why they appealed to Kurt. However, I’m not Kurt and while the potential is there, the singing sounded very out of tune and I much preferred Nirvana’s arrangements (except for Plateau which was fine here). Points for creativity, maybe not so much for execution. Going to push up to a 3 for writing one of my favourite songs ever (Oh, Me)
3
May 20 2024
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Live At Leeds
The Who
This is the third album so far from The Who and I think my opinion on this band has settled into a “meh”.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Shakin’ All Over
Rating: 2
2
May 21 2024
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Blue
Joni Mitchell
Not my thing.
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
May 22 2024
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Night Life
Ray Price
Apparently this is Honky Tonk as we are told by the singer repeatedly through the album. This guy sings that partying is life and then gets upset that he keeps meeting party girls. A bit of an uncomfortable listen, to be honest. (Subject-wise, musically he is fine apart from the genre)
Listens: 1
Rating: 2
2
May 23 2024
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Mr. Tambourine Man
The Byrds
The second album I’ve had so far by The Byrds l, I definitely preferred this one. Nice catchy pop but the songs did all sound similar to each other.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: I’ll Feel A Whole Lot Better
Rating: 3
3
May 24 2024
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Caetano Veloso
Caetano Veloso
This was very easy to listen to.
Listens: 1
Rating: 3
3
May 25 2024
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Live At The Regal
B.B. King
B. B. King is clearly a great entertainer and I liked this album as well as all his commentary throughout. The live aspect also added to the album, lots of crowd enthusiasm. It's yet another album about endless relationship problems but it's the blues so why not?
Listens: 1
Fave Track: How Blue Can You Get
Rating: 3
3
May 26 2024
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Follow The Leader
Korn
I’ve always loved Freak On A Leash and that still stands. The rest of the album was fine but I feel that Korn is very much one kind of sound.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Freak On a Leash
Rating: 3
3
May 27 2024
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Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Bob Marley is quality although I’m not at all into reggae.
Fave Track: Revolution
Rating: 4
4
May 28 2024
View Album
Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Another Bob Marley straight away. I preferred Natty Dread but this was okay. I still dislike reggae.
Fave Track: Stir It Up
Rating:
3
Jun 05 2024
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Fulfillingness' First Finale
Stevie Wonder
Stevie’s voice is vocal sunshine. I enjoyed this one.
Fave Track: Smile Please
Rating: 4
4
Jun 06 2024
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Siembra
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
I can’t really comment as I’m not very familiar with salsa. It was fine.
Rating: 3
3
Jun 07 2024
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Oedipus Schmoedipus
Barry Adamson
This was a very unusual album, each track wildly different. I liked a few but I really disliked a few as well. Good on him for being creative but I don't think I'll visit this album again.
Fave Track: Something Wicked This Way Comes
Rating: 2
2
Jun 08 2024
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Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
I am not the target audience for this album. The style actually reminded me of a grittier Meatloaf, which I didn’t expect!
Rating: 2
2
Jun 09 2024
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Vanishing Point
Primal Scream
I quite like Primal Scream and repetitive music like this is good for my slower runs. I also like the heavier electronica/industrial sound. However, I did get a bit bored (on my run, no less) listening to this so that's not great. It's a high 3/low 4 rating for me.
Fave Track: Kowalski
Rating: 3
3
Jun 10 2024
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All Directions
The Temptations
Lots of great songs - fantastic album!
Fave Track: Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone
Rating: 5
5
Jun 11 2024
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Aqualung
Jethro Tull
I haven't actually listened to Jethro Tull, other than maybe in the background of a great local cafe that used to exist that was Jethro Tull themed. It was great! Led Zeppelin-ish but a bit more folky and with flute. I have discovered the flute was controversial but I loved the creativity and uniqueness of this album with a great underlying rock vibe.
Fave Track: Locomotive Breath
Rating: 5
5
Jun 12 2024
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Qui sème le vent récolte le tempo
MC Solaar
This came out in 1991? This is amazing for that time. I love hearing people rap in other languages, this is the first French rap I have heard, and this has a funky jazzy sound and even though I don’t speak French, the guy has got great flow.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Caroline
Rating: 4
4
Jun 13 2024
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Truth
Jeff Beck
This was great rock/blues! I really enjoyed the guitar.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Shapes of Things
Rating: 4
4
Jun 14 2024
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New York Dolls
New York Dolls
This is hard rock that sounded like punk which is a genre I don’t like very much. It was okay but the tracks were hit and miss for me
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Trash
Rating: 3
3
Jun 15 2024
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Live At The Harlem Square Club
Sam Cooke
Fun, short, and sweet soul album. I liked it.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Feel It (Don’t Fight It)
Rating: 3
3
Jun 16 2024
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Little Earthquakes
Tori Amos
This was actually very good for a genre I don’t like very much. I still found a couple of songs a bit much but I think she is talented and this album deserves a 4 rating.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Crucify
Rating: 4
4
Jun 17 2024
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A Walk Across The Rooftops
The Blue Nile
Meh, this was boring. The singer sounds a bit like Sting or Bowie to me but I found the tunes monotonous.
Listens: 1
Fave Track: Automobile Noise
Rating: 2
2
Jun 18 2024
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The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
It took me an extra day to rate this one but I decided to not let the couple of tracks I disliked affect the fact that the rest of the album was good! Good music, interesting lyrics, catchy.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
Rating: 4
4
Jun 19 2024
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Only By The Night
Kings of Leon
There are multiple hits on this album but it just doesn’t appeal to me. Some of their songs I found frankly a bit creepy which pushed it down to a 2.
Fave Track: Closer
Rating: 2
2
Jun 20 2024
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Beautiful Freak
Eels
This album is a lot more than Novocaine For The Soul. It speaks directly to my inner angst-filled teenager. The low point for me is that the last song, Manchild, is literally Everybody Hurts (REM) which I thought was a bit lazy. Hard to choose a fave track, but Guest List hits home.
Rating: 4
4
Jun 21 2024
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The Rising
Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen wrote this album after 9/11 so I understand it is meaningful and poignant; however, his music just don’t resonate with me unless I make the effort and I don’t feel the need/have the energy to do so.
Fave Track: You’re missing
Rating: 2
2
Jun 22 2024
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Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
I quite like Neil Young, I thought this was a pretty good album although I probably didn't pay as much attention while it was playing as I could have.
Fave Track: My My, Hey Hey (Out Of The Blue)
Rating: 3
3
Jun 23 2024
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Liege And Lief
Fairport Convention
I’m pretty certain at this point that I don’t like folk music. This was an absolute slog for me to get through.
Rating: 1
1
Jun 24 2024
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Surf's Up
The Beach Boys
Not my kind of sound, but I was pleasantly surprised by their variation and politicality (is that a word?) - better than I had thought.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Til I Die
Rating: 3
3
Jun 25 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Again, a very smooth, soothing singing voice but WAY too country for me. Also one of his songs (Can I Sleep In Your Arms) was just to The Saints Go Marching In.
Rating: 2
2
Jun 26 2024
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Guero
Beck
Beck is cool and I really like some of those basslines. On the other hand, I liked this album but I didn’t find it anything special.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: E-pro
Rating: 3
3
Jun 27 2024
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Searching For The Young Soul Rebels
Dexys Midnight Runners
I like Come On Eileen as much as the next person, but it wasn’t on this album and the singer of this band can’t sing to save himself.. While there is a bit of bop to some of the songs, I would rather not put myself through listening to this again. Tbf, it’s not my favourite genre mix.
Fave Track: Geno
Rating: 2
2
Jun 28 2024
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This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
Some good rock and roll - apparently influenced Elvis and The Beatles. Very 50s. I liked it.
Fave Track: Honey Chile
Rating: 3
3
Jun 29 2024
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Pretenders
Pretenders
I feel like I’m supposed to like the Pretenders but they just don’t appeal to me.
Rating: 2
2
Jun 30 2024
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Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
This is a Genesis I have never heard before - I didn't realise they had a very different, prog-rock sound in the 70s. I thought it was okay but I prefer their 80s pop sound.
Fave Track: Dancing With The Moonlit Knight
Rating: 3
3
Jul 01 2024
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The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan is a good songwriter and I love the purpose and message behind many of the tracks on this album. His points are as relevant now as they were then. However, the music itself isn't to my taste, it's a little too folky.
Fave Track: Masters Of War
Rating: 3
3
Jul 02 2024
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Axis: Bold As Love
Jimi Hendrix
I preferred Are You Experienced over this album. I didn't dislike it but it didn't do much for me.
Fave Track: Wait Until Tomorrow
Rating: 3
3
Jul 06 2024
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Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
Loved the bass groove behind the tracks. This is VERY political but I felt the raps were a bit too blunt/on the nose without the cleverness or artistry of other rappers - it felt more like essays/poetry being spoken over a hip hop beat and I felt that detracted a bit. I think you can make your point bluntly while not making it feel like the audience is being lectured (e.g. Public Enemy).
Fave Track: Language of Violence
Rating: 3
3
Jul 16 2024
View Album
Music
Madonna
I’ve always discounted this album as auto-tune early-2000s bad dance music. After listening to it properly I still don’t like this Madonna like I do 80s Madonna, but it kind of works together and she hadn’t changed as much as I thought. It’s weird they auto-tune her sometimes when she can clearly sing. Probably needs another listen, sadly I don’t have time. I have discovered it has a French producer so another example of French EDM seeming to be not my thing.
Fave Track: I Deserve It
Rating: 3
3
Jul 17 2024
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Damaged
Black Flag
If an angry teenager was music, this would be it. I liked a few of the earlier tracks and was considering giving it a reasonably high rating at that point but by the second half of the album it got a bit much and I found it samey and depressing.
Fave Track: TV Party
Rating: 2
2
Jul 18 2024
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Truth And Soul
Fishbone
This was good. It was a mix of genres I tend to dislike (i.e. ska, roots/reggae) but this was quality and I really enjoyed it.
Fave Track: Ma and Pa
Rating: 4
4
Jul 19 2024
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Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea
PJ Harvey
She is a good singer and I liked how she sounded quite retro but this just isn’t my style of music.
Rating: 2
2
Jul 20 2024
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Fragile
Yes
You can hear how this band was clearly an influence on many other famous bands, so while I don’t deny the significance, I didn’t really enjoy it as it’s not my style.
Rating: 2
2
Jul 21 2024
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Better Living Through Chemistry
Fatboy Slim
I used to listen to this album a lot so it was a bit of nostalgia for me and I’m totally biased on this one.
Fave Track: Going Out Of My Head
Rating: 4
4
Jul 22 2024
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A Short Album About Love
The Divine Comedy
This was really quite weird, a bit like a soundtrack to a musical crossed with an old-fashioned crooner. I didn’t like it.
Rating: 2
2
Jul 23 2024
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Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
I know I wasn’t exactly Rumours biggest fan, but this was…. well, I listened to Rumours again after this and I guess this made me appreciate Rumours more? I can tell my preference against country/folk is in play when it comes to Fleetwood Mac. I am not saying Tusk is bad per se, but it was definitely a step down for this band.
Rating: 2
Rating: 2
2
Jul 24 2024
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You're Living All Over Me
Dinosaur Jr.
This alternative rock album definitely sounded ahead of its time, with more of a 90s sound so obviously must have been influential on other groups. I really liked it, although I did find the distortion a bit too much as the album went on and tired of it. I suspect this is an album I would like more the more I listened to it, so I gave it a 4.
Fave Track: Little Fury Things
Rating: 4
4
Jul 25 2024
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The Downward Spiral
Nine Inch Nails
My teen years and early 20s were awful and this album was a very strong contestant for my favourite at the time. It encapsulates raw emotional pain in a way few do and progresses through different stages of that pain. Purely musically, I also think it is fantastic as Trent Reznor is very clever and does interesting things.
Listens: 1
Rating: 5
5
Jul 26 2024
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Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones have never really appealed to me. I wondered if that might change with this project and apparently this is considered their best album by many but they still don’t do anything for me.
Rating: 2
2
Jul 27 2024
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1999
Prince
Prince tends to be a bit much for me really. He's got some catchy songs and a couple of them were on this album, but actually I found it was more nostalgia and not that I actually liked them. I thought Little Red Corvette was my fave from this album but it just sounded quite dated. :( I didn't like this album.
Fave Track: 1999
Rating: 2
2
Jul 28 2024
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Junkyard
The Birthday Party
It is interesting to me that I find some men's angry barely-coherent screaming music appealing (NIN, Tool), yet I cannot stand another's (this album, a lot of punk). I hated the album art, was even more concerned when I saw it was post-punk and the era (1982) and unfortunately this album was everything I expected and worse. Rating: 1
1
Jul 29 2024
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Bitches Brew
Miles Davis
Thanks, I hate it.
Fave Track: Spanish Key
Rating: 1
1
Jul 30 2024
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Metallica
Metallica
As mentioned, I'm not really a Metallica fan but I believe this is what I consider their best album? Most of the tracks are good, a few are really good. I prefer the ones that are sung rather than growled.
Fave Track: The Unforgiven
Rating: 4
4
Jul 31 2024
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Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
This was quality. Even though these kinds of lovey-dovey songs are really not my style, she does it too well to criticize and I still enjoyed listening to this album.
Fave Track: Son Of A Preacher Man
Rating: 4
4
Aug 01 2024
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Bridge Over Troubled Water
Simon & Garfunkel
I grew up with the impression Simon & Garfunkel were pretty cringe, but it turns out I actually really like them. A couple of great songs, a few good ones, and a couple that missed for me on this album.
Fave Track: The Boxer
Rating: 4
4
Aug 02 2024
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The Stranger
Billy Joel
Yep, it's Billy Joel - who doesn't like Billy Joel? I like Billy Joel.
Fave Track: Just The Way You Are
Rating: 3
3
Aug 03 2024
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American Idiot
Green Day
I think this album was absolutely observant as to the trajectory things have since headed in the last 20 years. I also think it has a strong collection of tracks. However, it also seems a bit lacking in the raw emotion contained in a lot of more political/angry music which seems a bit at odds with the subject, and it did feel samey when I wasn't paying attention - Billie Joe doesn't deviate a lot in the way he sings. I liked the use of double songs. Green Day just don't hit quite right for me so I had to give this a high 3.
Fave Track: Holiday/Boulevard of Broken Dreams
Rating: 3
3
Aug 04 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
Absolutely excellent album. Found myself lost in songs without even realising. Really hard to pick a favourite track as there were four contenders that I liked a lot for different reasons.
Fave Track: Got it down to Brothers In Arms or Money For Nothing but couldn’t choose between them.
Rating: 5
5
Aug 06 2024
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Steve McQueen
Prefab Sprout
It wasn't particularly bad, but it was just kind of boring and a bit... ok, it was a little bit bad.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Bonny
Rating: 2
2
Aug 07 2024
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Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin is an interesting band for me because some of their tracks are would be my top songs ever, yet others I don't enjoy at all. I think this album is particularly strong, though, and although Stairway is one of my all-time favourites, I did consider When The Levee Breaks as a contender for fave track (although it is a cover).
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Stairway To Heaven
Rating: 4
4
Aug 08 2024
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Live / Dead
Grateful Dead
I didn’t like this. The first and last tracks were basically just like a lot of uncohesive jamming and the last one was literally just feedback. Middle songs were average, I didn’t mind two of them.
Fave Track: The Eleven
Rating: 2
2
Aug 09 2024
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Moss Side Story
Barry Adamson
This album is more a movie score than anything. I found it not to my taste, especially as an album to listen through. I don’t doubt they would work well as background music in the right scenes.
Rating: 2
2
Aug 10 2024
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The Cars
The Cars
Just What I Needed and My Best Friend's Girl are both really catchy, I've always particularly liked the former, and as far as 80s albums go I quite like this one, but it didn't really stand out.
Fave Track: Just What I Needed
Rating: 3
3
Aug 11 2024
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Trafalgar
Bee Gees
I don't even like the Bee Gees' popular songs, so this album was never going to do well with me, and it was no surprise when this album of slower ballads by this band was not something I enjoyed listening to. To quote one of the track titles in this album: "Somebody Stop The Music". I feel a bit harsh and it's not the worst album on the list, but this falls below my 2-star albums for me.
Rating: 1
1
Aug 12 2024
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All Hope Is Gone
Slipknot
I had never really given Slipknot a chance due to the imagery they use and I don't like that guttural screaming type of singing. My opinion hasn't changed on the screaming but this album was still really good and I thought they did what they set out to do very well.
Rating: 4
4
Aug 13 2024
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Either Or
Elliott Smith
I liked this one a lot more than the other album by Elliott Smith (Figure 8) I listened to a wee while ago.
Rating: 4
4
Aug 14 2024
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The Nightfly
Donald Fagen
When I was growing up and listened to the radio, this is the kind of easy listening music that informed me I'd hit some old people station and to keep searching for a decent one. It's also the kind of music that makes me afraid people can hear my music through my headphones and think I might CHOOSE to be listening to it.
Fave Track: New Frontier
Rating: 2
2
Aug 18 2024
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Achtung Baby
U2
Despite U2's dramatic fall in popularity over recent years, they still hold a special place for me and I really like their music from this particular era. The Fly was possibly my favourite song for a period in the early-90s. I REALLY like the good songs from this album and there are a number of them; however, there are a few more boring tracks which unfortunately meant it couldn't be a 5 for me.
Fave Track: The Fly
Rating: 4
4
Aug 19 2024
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Whatever
Aimee Mann
If you liked Meredith Brooks or similar back in the 90s, then I would highly recommend this album as this is a strong competitor. Unfortunately, I dislike this genre so I have to give it a lower rating than it probably deserves.
Fave Track: I Should've Known
Rating: 2
2
Aug 20 2024
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The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
Eminem (or whatever persona he's choosing in the moment) is a very technically proficient rap artist. However, I have never been on board with his music because I didn't like him particularly much, but this also means that I have never listened to this album.
This was absolutely disgusting. It was an onslaught of extreme homophobia (he is OBSESSED with gay sex), misogyny and violence and I don't care what point he is trying to make, many of these lyrics are not okay. I struggle because I listen to a lot of music where I have issues with similar attitudes, but I have definitely found my line. I felt physically sick listening to "Kim"; actually, I felt physically sick listening to quite a few of the tracks. It took me three days to get through this album.
I know he has matured since this time, I stand by the fact that his rapping skill is phenomenal, and he has put out some really motivational tracks since, but I am absolutely horrified how popular this album was in its time and I don't care if he has skill, this doesn't deserve anything other than a 1.
Fave Track: Stan
Rating: 1
1
Aug 21 2024
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Harvest
Neil Young
There is something special about Neil Young that just makes me really like his music, even though a lot of this album was very country. That's saying something! I'd probably rate this generally lower than the others of his I've listened to so far but there were some really good tracks.
Fave Track: Words (Between the Lines of Age)
Rating: 3
3
Aug 22 2024
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Emperor Tomato Ketchup
Stereolab
With the first song I was like, yeah this is catchy, this is my kind of music. The next few songs weren't quite as catchy and by the second half of the album I honestly just wanted them to shut up. It kind of reminded me of Django Django but, unlike Django Django, I didn't like album. What is it I don't like about French music? I wish I knew.
Listens: 2
Fave Track: Metronomic Underground
Rating: 2
2
Aug 23 2024
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Picture Book
Simply Red
I really didn’t like Simply Red back in the day, I think largely I was picking up on the fact that the lead singer used to annoy my mum. This was actually pretty good for its genre; not the kind of thing I’d listen to but I need to give credit where it’s due.
Rating: 4
4
Sep 01 2024
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Dirt
Alice In Chains
I know this is an unpopular opinion but I just can't get into Alice In Chains, they always feel like a budget version of other bands I really like so I would probably never choose to listen to them. I think it's the singing in particular. I do think their lyrics are well written though.
Fave Track: Them Bones (probably due to Guitar Hero 2)
Rating: 3
3
Sep 02 2024
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Yeezus
Kanye West
I once liked Kanye, but then when he became awful I removed all his music from my playlists. I think this album came out around the point I made a decision to stop listening to him so I haven't really heard it before. The thing is, while I don't like his lyrics or him at all, the music itself appeals to me so I'll give him a star for that. He's obviously already losing the plot in this album though.
Rating: 2
2
Sep 03 2024
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3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
Don’t really like this style of music but it was pretty chill and I enjoyed the guitar.
Rating: 3
3
Sep 04 2024
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O.G. Original Gangster
Ice T
I think this era of hip hop is my favourite. This album was mostly rap but there was real variety with the odd funny interlude track, some spoken parts, and even a rock track (Body Count). He swings from extremely serious to funny interludes to places in between, which works, and the music is consistently good. The lyrics are often quite centred on gun violence but he explains many times throughout the album that this is his reality in the place he lives.
Fave Track: Mind over Matter
Rating: 5
5
Sep 05 2024
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Dr. Octagonecologyst
Dr. Octagon
This was... extremely weird. I do like concept albums and I really like the similar album Deltron 3030 but while the theme of that was human rights/technology in a dystopian future, the theme of this was a homicidal alien gynaecologist/surgeon which was... not for me, and it was an uncomfortable 20-song listen. The theme was so offputting that this would fall into the 1-star range for me but I'm going to give it an extra star for originality/creativity and good beats. Since it's a crazy album, I gave the "fave track" to the craziest song because it was just funny.
Fave Track: Halfsharkalligatorhalfman
Rating: 2
2
Sep 06 2024
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Our Aim Is To Satisfy
Red Snapper
I really liked this, it was funky and fun, the kind of thing I'd have playing in the background.
Rating: 4
4
Sep 07 2024
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Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
My mother LOVED this album and I used to dislike it because she played it a lot, so I made an effort to try and move past my negative reaction and actually it is a quality album with a couple of absolute classic songs. It wouldn't be something I'd choose to listen to, but she does what she does well.
Fave Track: Fast Car
Rating: 4
4
Sep 08 2024
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Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
I think Leonard Cohen gets better as he ages. His songwriting is still very impressive but I liked the other two albums by him better than this one. This got a bit monotonous.
Rating: 3
3
Sep 09 2024
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Club Classics Vol. One
Soul II Soul
When hip hop Lena’s towards R&B I don’t really like it. I wasn’t a fan of Soul II Soul back then and this hasn’t changed. I find it a bit boring.
Rating: 2
2
Sep 10 2024
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The Doors
The Doors
The Doors have never really been my thing, which has been further proven by this album.
Rating: 2
2
Sep 11 2024
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Out of Step
Minor Threat
As someone who doesn't like punk, this album was not for me but I didn't mind it - I'd put it at 5/10 which is a 3 rating.
Rating: 3
3
Sep 12 2024
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Hypnotised
The Undertones
Nope, didn't like this one, pop-punk isn't my sort of music and I didn't like the vibrato in the singer's voice.
Rating: 2
2
Sep 13 2024
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Talking Timbuktu
Ali Farka Touré
This was like world music/blues and I thought it was actually very good.
Rating: 4
4
Sep 14 2024
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The College Dropout
Kanye West
Dammit, this asshole's music is catchy. I still refuse to listen to him these days other than this project, though.
Fave Track: Never Let Me Down
Rating: 4
4
Sep 15 2024
View Album
Risque
CHIC
Not only is it disco, it's very repetitive, but it's also... well... it's good. It really deserves a 4 or higher but, well, it's disco.
Rating: 3
3
Sep 18 2024
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McCartney
Paul McCartney
This album felt like he was trying to be American which I found a bit weird. Otherwise, I quite enjoyed it - I didn’t mind that it was a bit different.
Fave Track: Maybe I’m Amazed
Rating: 4
4
Sep 19 2024
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Ill Communication
Beastie Boys
I'm not much of a Beastie Boys fan but I did really like this album.
Fave Track: Sabotage
Rating: 4
4
Sep 20 2024
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Dry
PJ Harvey
As with the other album, PJ Harvey is not my style.
Rating: 2
2
Sep 21 2024
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That's The Way Of The World
Earth, Wind & Fire
Ugh, I really didn’t like this one.
Rating: 1
1
Sep 22 2024
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Pet Sounds
The Beach Boys
I hear this was a very important album in the history of music and good for them but, regardless, it's not for me.
Fave Track: Wouldn't It Be Nice
Rating: 2
2
Sep 23 2024
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Hysteria
Def Leppard
The drummer from Def Leppard has only got one arm!!!
I think my years of Guitar Hero and Rock Band playing have given me a soft spot for these 80s hair bands and I quite liked this album, although it felt quite samey by the end.
Fave Track: Love Bites
Rating: 3
3
Sep 24 2024
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The Wildest!
Louis Prima
This was actually quite fun!
Fave Track: Just A Gigolo/I Ain’t Got Nobody
Rating: 3
3
Sep 25 2024
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Rum Sodomy & The Lash
The Pogues
Well, it's a mix of styles I don't like (punk/folk) and sounds kind of piratey (another theme I don't like). Good for them, but not so good for me.
Rating: 2
2
Sep 26 2024
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Boy In Da Corner
Dizzee Rascal
I really like the beats and I used to really like Dizzee Rascal (not as a person obviously - it seems like so many artists have done bad things!), but his music seems to have lost some of its appeal for me.
Rating: 3
3
Sep 27 2024
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Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
I really, really didn't like this one. It was extremely nasal, very old-fashioned country and I honestly struggled to get to the end of it.
Rating: 1
1
Sep 28 2024
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Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes
I’ve never liked Blister In The Sun very much but the rest of the album was okay. Not really for me but somewhat entertaining.
3
Sep 29 2024
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The Idiot
Iggy Pop
I’m not too keen on Iggy Pop, although this album did grow on me as I listened; however, not enough. I didn’t realise China Girl was written and released by both him and David Bowie. I prefer Bowie’s version although I did like the grittiness of Iggy’s version.
Rating: 3
3
Sep 30 2024
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The Soft Bulletin
The Flaming Lips
I love The Flaming Lips, they are funny and different and interesting, and this album was a pleasure to listen to.
Rating: 4
4
Oct 01 2024
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Smash
The Offspring
I have always loved this album. Even though it feels a bit like watered down punk, I'm not a fan of punk so for me that might be a good thing! I enjoy it as much now as I did when it came out so I'm going to give it a 4 (it's a 5 in my heart though).
Fave Track: Self Esteem
Rating: 4
4
Oct 02 2024
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Billion Dollar Babies
Alice Cooper
I like some Alice Cooper but this album was a bit weird for me.
2
Oct 03 2024
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Shaka Zulu
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Lovely singing and harmonising but I did get bored by the third track.
3
Oct 04 2024
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Suede
Suede
I liked this album and I don't believe I have listened to Suede before. It felt a bit like The Smiths crossed with David Bowie maybe? Most of the songs were entertaining with only a couple I didn't like as much.
Rating: 4
4
Oct 05 2024
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Ten
Pearl Jam
This album is undoubtedly my favourite of all-time. I love each and every single track and the way the album flows from start to finish is absolutely perfect. I wondered how I would find it in comparison to listening to so many other albums but that only reinforces my opinion.
Rating: 6/5
5
Oct 06 2024
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LP1
FKA twigs
I think this works and I liked it okay, but didn’t rate her lyrics. I’d like it as background music.
Rating: 3
3
Oct 11 2024
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Vulgar Display Of Power
Pantera
This didn’t do anything for me, I just found it loud and frustrating, sadly.
Rating: 2
2
Oct 12 2024
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Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
I’ve mentioned I don’t like punk. I can certainly hear that this must have been influential but I hope I don’t have to listen to it again.
2
Oct 13 2024
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Moby Grape
Moby Grape
I don’t like the genre but the guitar work was enjoyable.
3
Oct 14 2024
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Another Music In A Different Kitchen
Buzzcocks
I cringed a little when I first heard the singer's "talking" style but actually warmed up to this album as I listened - not my thing but quite fun.
Rating: 3
3
Oct 15 2024
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Electric Warrior
T. Rex
I liked this album better than their previous one (which I think might have been a rare 1 rating for me), it was okay. I still don't get the hype but I thought this was decent for its time.
Rating: 3
3
Oct 16 2024
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Second Toughest In The Infants
Underworld
After I saw the movie Trainspotting and heard Born Slippy, Underworld became my #1 musical artist for a while in the 90s/early 2000s. I still have Juanita/Kiteless on my day-to-day running playlist and had Pearl Diver on high rotation for a while. Coming back to this music, I still really enjoy it even though it can be highly repetitive. My main criticism has always been that their tracks could be just a little bit shorter but when one comes on, you know you can settle in for a wee while before something new comes along. I reserve my 5-star rating for music that gets under my skin emotionally, so that leaves this album at a 4-star rating for me.
4
Oct 17 2024
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Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
I like Jimi Hendrix but this album was long and I liked some tracks more than others.
Rating: 3
3
Oct 18 2024
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The Last Of The True Believers
Nanci Griffith
I still don't like country/folk, although this was sweet.
Rating: 2
2
Oct 19 2024
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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
This album was excellent from start to finish. She's a great rapper, the reggae sounds worked in really well and I liked the beats, plus thought-provoking lyrics.
Rating: 5
5
Oct 20 2024
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Parallel Lines
Blondie
The Heart of Glass/Sunday Girl single record was my absolute favourite from my mum's collection when I was a kid. It turns out this entire album is killer and I liked every single track. Debbie Harry has amazing range and the whole thing was just fun to listen to.
Rating: 5
5
Oct 21 2024
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Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Im a bit of an outlier in that I’m lukewarm on Queen at the best of times, but I don’t think this was their best work.
Rating: 2
2
Oct 29 2024
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Young Americans
David Bowie
I enjoy David Bowie but found this album a bit hit and miss; I really liked some tracks but actively disliked others.
Rating: 3
3
Oct 30 2024
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Step In The Arena
Gang Starr
This was really good early-90s hip-hop. I thought it was excellent.
Rating: 5
5
Oct 31 2024
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Kind Of Blue
Miles Davis
I think we’ve established I don’t like jazz, but this one wasn’t as unpalatable to me as Bitches Brew.
Rating: 2
2
Nov 01 2024
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The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
I found this one pretty average.
Rating: 3
3
Nov 02 2024
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Synchronicity
The Police
I guess I just find The Police quite bland-sounding, to the point where I had a hard time getting through this album. Not for me.
Rating: 2
2
Nov 03 2024
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Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
It's interesting how my opinion changes on multiple listens and sad I don't have the time to do this for many albums at this stage in my project. I didn't like this on first listen, as I felt it was a let down after the previous Stevie Wonder album, but after I let go of that on my second listen I found it okay.
Rating: 3
3
Nov 04 2024
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Fun House
The Stooges
The first 2/3 of this album was good (I clicked it was Iggy Pop a few songs in), but I didn't like the last third where the vibe seemed to change and the energy dropped.
Rating: 3
3
Nov 05 2024
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Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
I've been a long-time fan of Smashing Pumpkins and this is a classic. I definitely prefer Mellon Collie though, this was good but not great - a few songs I really like and a bunch I'm not too fussed over.
Rating: 4
4
Nov 06 2024
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Brothers
The Black Keys
I enjoyed this - catchy, bluesy rock and I'm such a sucker for some strong percussion and/or basslines.
4
Nov 21 2024
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Halcyon Digest
Deerhunter
Indie alternative style music. I thought it was generally pretty good.
3
Nov 22 2024
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Brilliant Corners
Thelonious Monk
It's jazz, I just can't get into jazz.
Rating: 2
2
Nov 23 2024
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Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A.
Oof - the misogyny in this one is just too much.
Rating: 2
2
Nov 24 2024
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Winter In America
Gil Scott-Heron
Very 70s but also really quite funky. It also felt relevant in these times, in particular H20gate.
Rating: 4
4
Nov 25 2024
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Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
I had mixed feelings about this album. I listened to it twice and sometimes I was liking it a lot and sometimes not so much. I thought it was really creative and interesting, either way.
Rating: 3
3
Nov 26 2024
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So
Peter Gabriel
I thought I liked Peter Gabriel but maybe not any more. I found this album quite boring. It was also clearly quite vocally focused, so his voice must be the drawcard and it doesn't appeal to me.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 02 2024
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The La's
The La's
These guys are like pre-Oasis Oasis. They are a bit ahead of their time but I have never liked them.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 03 2024
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
I liked this, it was different, quirky, and kind of nice. :)
Rating: 4
4
Dec 04 2024
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Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
I didn't like it at first but then I got in a really bad mood and it was perfect. I finished the album on my evening run and it was also great for that. I would say it's not for me, except for when it is.
Rating: 3
3
Dec 05 2024
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Time (The Revelator)
Gillian Welch
I saw the album cover and I went "oh no", started listening, "oh no", and things did not improve. This is VERY country and I did not like it, although I did try to relax into it and appreciate it for what it was. There is strong talent here and the songs were good, but unfortunately this kind of music gets on my nerves.
2
Dec 06 2024
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461 Ocean Boulevard
Eric Clapton
This was very mellow, 70s, and actually... quite boring. Not a fan.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 07 2024
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At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
It took me a while to get through it but I enjoyed it while I was listening. Great guitar, although it feels like a jam band the music is really cohesive. Some of the tracks were really long.
Rating: Had some difficulty deciding on whether a 3 or 4 rating but let's go 4.
4
Dec 08 2024
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Heartbreaker
Ryan Adams
This was far too country for my tastes.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 12 2024
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Gold
Ryan Adams
I got two Ryan Adams albums in a row. I preferred this one a bit more than Heartbreaker. He reminded me of Bruce Springsteen in a way. Still too country for me but if I liked country I would probably like this guy's music.
Rating: 3
3
Dec 13 2024
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John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band
John Lennon
I thought I wouldn't like this but I was surprised to find I did actually like most of the songs, particularly Working Class Hero (which is very relevant at the moment) and Isolation.
Rating: 4
4
Dec 14 2024
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With The Beatles
Beatles
It’s the early Beatles. Very 50s/60s. I can see why it was popular when it came out. Nice variety to the tracks.
Rating: 3
3
Dec 15 2024
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Cloud Nine
The Temptations
This album struggled to hold my attention, unfortunately so gets a low rating from me. I think this is the original I Heard It Through The Grapevine and it doesn’t have the catchiness of the cover versions.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 16 2024
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This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
I didn't like this one any better than the other album this gave me by The Fall. The background riffs can be catchy but I don't like the way the singer barks the lyrics.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 17 2024
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You've Come a Long Way Baby
Fatboy Slim
I thought this album was a the best thing ever when it came out in the late 90s and I have listened to it more times than I can count. I still like it but my opinion has cooled somewhat over the years.
Rating: 3
3
Dec 18 2024
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Toys In The Attic
Aerosmith
Have I mentioned I don't like Aerosmith? This album did not change my mind. Not for me.
Rating: 2
2
Dec 19 2024
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Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Wilco
Indie music with a short-wave radio sound to it. I like the idea in theory but still found the album boring in practice.
Rating:
2