300
Albums Rated
3.03
Average Rating
28%
Complete
789 albums remaining
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Rating Timeline
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1950s
Favorite Decade
World
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
43
5-Star Albums
39
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bone Machine | 5 | 2.86 | +2.14 |
| O.G. Original Gangster | 5 | 2.97 | +2.03 |
| Clube Da Esquina | 5 | 3.13 | +1.87 |
| Rain Dogs | 5 | 3.2 | +1.8 |
| 1989 | 5 | 3.27 | +1.73 |
| Emergency On Planet Earth | 5 | 3.27 | +1.73 |
| British Steel | 5 | 3.3 | +1.7 |
| Pornography | 5 | 3.31 | +1.69 |
| Juju | 5 | 3.33 | +1.67 |
| Fear Of A Black Planet | 5 | 3.34 | +1.66 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| good kid, m.A.A.d city | 1 | 3.61 | -2.61 |
| Sign 'O' The Times | 1 | 3.45 | -2.45 |
| Different Class | 1 | 3.42 | -2.42 |
| My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy | 1 | 3.42 | -2.42 |
| Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs | 1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
| You Want It Darker | 1 | 3.34 | -2.34 |
| The Chronic | 1 | 3.33 | -2.33 |
| The Specials | 1 | 3.3 | -2.3 |
| B-52's | 1 | 3.29 | -2.29 |
| Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables | 1 | 3.27 | -2.27 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| The Cure | 3 | 4.67 |
| Creedence Clearwater Revival | 2 | 5 |
| Bob Dylan | 3 | 4.33 |
| Beatles | 3 | 4.33 |
| Tom Waits | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Kanye West | 2 | 1 |
| Motörhead | 2 | 1.5 |
| Morrissey | 2 | 1.5 |
| Kings of Leon | 2 | 1.5 |
| Elvis Costello & The Attractions | 2 | 1.5 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Siouxsie And The Banshees | 5, 1 |
| Sonic Youth | 1, 4 |
| Prince | 1, 4 |
| The Kinks | 5, 2, 3 |
| David Bowie | 3, 5, 2 |
5-Star Albums (43)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Kings of Leon
2/5
The opening track, Closer, is very good.
I honestly hate Sex on Fire. It just gives me the impression of a bad STD. Blech. The other single I knew, Use Somebody, was ok. Fun to sing along with.
17 fell flat - can grown men stop singing about teenage girls?
The rest of the album was bland, generic and sounded a lot of the same. If only the album had remained as strong as its opening. This is a 2 for me.
7 likes
Iron Maiden
2/5
I get they are hugely influential but damn, this was boring. I am not a fan of early metal. It all sounds the same and doesn’t say anything. 2
1 likes
The xx
2/5
This album was ok, nothing groundbreaking or particularly interesting. One of those albums good for background music while working. Didn’t have any favorite tracks. 2
1 likes
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
2/5
I did not enjoy this album. It was a hodge podge of different sounds. Most albums have some sort of cohesive sound - not this one!
Gang Bang does not stand the test of time. The objectification gets exhausting and we certainly shouldn’t celebrate it by including it on a list you must hear.
Vambo Marble Eye was probably my favorite track. Had a bit of a funk feel. I enjoyed it but not enough it to save it to my play list.
This is a 2 for me. I’ve heard worse on this list which is why it’s not a 1.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (39)
All Ratings
Fugees
3/5
Jimi Hendrix
2/5
This album is not for me. I appreciate the impact Hendrix had on the rock and roll scene in the 1960s, but this album is kind of a mess. There are long bluesy riffs, psychadelic synths, and then the poppy Crosstown Traffic. All Along the Watchtower of course stands out as always classic. Voodoo Chile (Slight Return) also stands out as a great rock anthem. The rest fell flat for me.
Bob Dylan
4/5
I don’t listen to folk normally but I really enjoyed this album. I prefer the first half with the electric guitar but did not dislike any of the acoustic songs. Subterranean Homesick Blues and Outlaw Blues were my favorites from this album and I added those songs to my favorites list.
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
Michael, Take Me Out and Come on Home stand out from the rest of the album, which feels a little samey. This is a good album for background music at a party or for noise while cleaning, exercising, etc. Not something I would sit and just listen to. I didn’t dislike anything but wasn’t that impressed overall
Eminem
3/5
This is a more mature album than the Slim Shady LP, although quite a bit of the Slim Shady immaturity comes out, mixed in with the lamentations on fame. This album shows off Eminem’s skill in lyricism and has some great beats. Way I Am is my favorite in the lineup.
And then there’s the elephant in the room - violence, misogyny, homophobia. What we excused in 2000 really stands out in a bad way.
I actually got uncomfortable and a bit bored as the album continued. Kim I could not stomach at all. This was a 5 in 2000. In 2023 I think I can only rate it a 3.
Motörhead
2/5
The title song still rocks - Ace of Spades is a classic.
Jail Bait is disgusting.
Everything else sounds pretty much the same and is nothing special. Very meh album.
Duke Ellington
4/5
Cat Stevens
5/5
Very short album.
I really enjoyed this. I’d heard Wild World before and always loved it. Sad Lisa also stood out a great track.
I guess I like Folk because this is the second album I’ve rated 5 and the other was Bob Dylan.
Marvin Gaye
5/5
Has a great sound, very chill. But the message is very deep. Fantastic album. The title track and Mercy Mercy Me are of course classics. This is the first time I’ve heard inner City Blues and it was phenomenal.
The Young Gods
2/5
This is definitely an odd album with a unique sound. It sounds like the soundtrack to an art house 80s vampire flick. Some of it is quite harsh and industrial and the lyrics are pretty bizarre at times. The singer does have a very rough gravely voice. Not for me.
Madonna
2/5
Like a Prayer, Cherish and Express Yourself still hold up and are classics for a reason.
Love Song, Pray for Spanish Eyes, Dear Jessie are some of the weaker songs on this album and I did not care for them. Til Death Do Us Part and Keep It Together have a generic 80s sound.
Promise to Try and Oh Father are not to my taste but I appreciate the sentiments behind them.
Act of Contrition is bizarre.
This is an overall underwhelming album carried by the hit singles.
Coldcut
1/5
I did not like this album at all. This just sounds like bad club music to me. Maybe I’m missing something or maybe it doesn’t really hold up anymore but this is the worst album on this project so far.
Sam Cooke
5/5
Nick Drake
4/5
I wasn’t sure about this one at first but then it clicked for me. This is a beautiful album. It’s not something I would listen to often so that pushes it towards the 4 for me over a 5. But really touched me. I liked it
Beatles
4/5
Nirvana
4/5
Really great album overall and has some absolute amazing songs. There are a few songs that drag it down. Endless, Nameless was the worst song on the album for me. In Bloom remains a favorite, with Smells… close behind
Kelela
2/5
Lorde
3/5
A little melancholy for my tastes. She has a beautiful and unique voice and I don’t hate it. It’s just not to my taste. I would rate 2.5, so rounding up to 3
Missy Elliott
2/5
Just not for me. I appreciate that Missy came on the scene when there were few female rappers but I just don’t enjoy the sound.
The Waterboys
3/5
Sounds like the band that would be playing at a divey Irish bar. Ok but songs are too long and album begins to get a bit boring. Kind of meh
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
The Who
2/5
Ugh another live album. This one definitely would have benefited from the polish of the studio. Some decent songs on here but they sound kind of terrible. I like the Who, I don’t like this live album
Beatles
4/5
Yes I’m giving a Beatles album a 4. And I do love this album and it has some truly excellent songs. While my Guitar Gently Weeps remains one of my all time favorites. But there a quite a few examples where it seems like they felt every thought that crossed their mind had to be committed to song. While Don’t We Do It in the Road remains one of the Beatles worst songs. I would really give it a 4.5 but lean more to the 4 than a 5
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
Great album with a great sound. Heard some of these before, some were new to me. It is a sound that is uniquely CCR. Glory Be was my least favorite while Bad Moon Rising remains a favorite. But overall great music. I’d rate a 4.5 if I could, so I’ll round up to the 5.
Fiona Apple
5/5
Loved it! Beautiful album. Apple croons like a lounge singer. She has a beautiful haunting voice and her songs are just beautiful. Theee if these (Sleep to Dream, Shadowboxer and Criminal) were favorites from my college days. I enjoyed all but one song on the rest of the album.
Apple fell off my radar after this album, and happy to see she kept making albums and even won more Grammys. I will be checking out her other work.
Fugazi
3/5
I’m not sure how I really feel about Fugazi’s album. I really enjoyed the music and beat, not sure on the vocals. I didn’t hate it and it really did evoke 90s to me. I’m going to go with a 3
Michael Jackson
5/5
Not a fan of Liberian Girl. Just Good Friends and Speed Demon are weaker songs although by no means bad songs.
Otherwise this is a really strong album and has some really great classics. Dirty Diana and Smooth Criminal remain my favorites.
Solid 5
Beastie Boys
2/5
Beastie Boys are best in small doses or as background music in a party setting. Listening to a full album with my full attention is just too much.
I appreciate their role in music history but this album is not for me. It’s a solid 2. Loud, shouty, some very immature lyrics and just too much.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Nice sound. More romantic and less social commentary than the other album from Marvin Gaye I received. I do prefer that album to this one. 4
Beach House
4/5
I have never heard of this album or band, and had no idea what dream pop is. I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed this album. It’s not groundbreaking but has a nice chill sound and is perfect for unwinding or having on in the background while working. I would definitely listen to this again.
Aerosmith
3/5
Decent album some great songs here and some that are just kind of ok. Really like Last Child.
Various Artists
4/5
Hole
2/5
Very very 90s. Some boppers, some meh songs. Not one of my favorites from the era. Love’s voice does grate a bit. She has a whiny quality to her singing voice.
2
Eminem
2/5
Some great sounds but a lot of lyrics that don’t age well. I enjoyed this when I was younger but I just can’t listen to this album anymore. It does not hold up.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Fun background music, has a very 70s feel. Lyrics are pretty deep. Superfly is the stand out track. Pretty short album and weakens in the middle.
I’d probably give it a 3.5 if we could. It doesn’t rise to the level of a 4 for me so I’ll go with 3.
The Clash
5/5
Good sound from with a lot of different genres. There’s the obvious punk but also pop, reggae, jazz. I really enjoyed this album and there is some really fun stuff here as well as some deep songs with a lot of commentary.
Funkadelic
3/5
The Cure
5/5
I loved every minutes of this. Wow what a sound! Atmospheric and beautiful!
Little Simz
3/5
Really liked Wounds, it’s a beautiful song. The rest was ok but really just not my cup of tea. She is definitely talented. This is a 3 for me because I appreciate the talent but don’t particularly enjoy the sound.
Antony and the Johnsons
1/5
I did not like this at all. Melancholy and dreary to start, did not enjoy the singers voice. 1 star
Megadeth
4/5
Enjoyed this. Very energetic way to start the day, loved the heavy guitar and drums. My Creation was my favorite from the album, though pretty short. Overall great album.
Tom Waits
5/5
Let’s start with the obvious - Tom Waits does not have what anyone would consider to be a pleasant singing voice. That said, I love his music. It has such a unique and intriguing sound and never fails to draw me in. The Earth Died Screaming was such a great song to open this album with.
The Ocean was like a beat poet’s fever dream and strangely beautiful. Really vibed to In the Coliseum and Goin’ Out West.
This was a great album. Clear 5 for me
Derek & The Dominos
1/5
Meh album.
Songs just go on too long. Most are boring for what should be love songs. I only like a few, the rest were a chore to finish. Even the good ones ( Bellbottom Blues and Layla) just kept going…and going…
Clapton is overrated. There are much better and more creative rockers. He knows how to play guitar but…meh, most of his songs are forgettable
I’m also not above removing a star for being a noxious human being. 1 star
Marianne Faithfull
1/5
This album was a chore and I did not enjoy it at all. Her voice is terrible, the songs are mediocre, and her version of working class hero is atrocious.
Röyksopp
4/5
Nice album. Had it on while cleaning and it made good background music. I’ve heard and enjoyed some of their music before. 4
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
Morrissey
2/5
This is a very meh album. No songs stuck out as really good, they all have the same dreary, sappy sound.
It was 38 minutes but felt much longer.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Cinnamon Girl is such a great song and still holds up.
Running Dry is beautiful and may be my favorite from the album.
Overall, I enjoyed the album. Probably won’t listen again. 4
Neil Young
3/5
This was my second Neil Young in a row and I didn’t enjoy this as much as yesterday’s. Not bad just not really for me.
I did really enjoy the title track; it may be my favorite from this album.
DJ Shadow
2/5
I liked some of it. I hated some of it. Some songs I would be enjoying and suddenly he mixed something in that threw off the whole vibe of the song. It got worse at it progressed.
I was initially around a 3, but that score dropped as I kept listening. 2
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
2/5
Very meh. This is not an album anyone NEEDS to listen to. Sounds like an average bar band or every other mediocre 80s folksy new age band.
The Fall
2/5
I liked a few songs but overall I’m just not a fan of punk. This just didn’t do it for me.
5/5
Enjoyed this one. It’s a fun album with an overarching commentary, some quite sad. It’s a solid 5 for me.
There are a few songs with a chamber music background that really carries the issues of class that reoccur throughout the album. I really liked Shangri-La, Mr. Churchill Says, and Yes Sir No Sir.
The Cure
5/5
Beautiful album. I was never a The Cure fan growing up, and only knew a few of their big hits. This is the second album from them I’ve gotten and I have loved both.
They have such a unique and melodic sound, moving and moody, and I just love it. I guess it speaks to my inner goth.
Air
4/5
I wasn’t familiar with this and then I listened and realized I knew several of these songs. Enjoyed this album, it made nice background music for work. 4.25 if we could give partial.
TLC
2/5
I’ve never been a big fan of R&B. Creep and Waterfalls remain earworms but the rest just do not appeal to me. Most 90s R&B sounds the same with few outliers and this album is really no exception.
I’ve seen some other reviews that say you had to be a teenage girl in the 90s to get this album. I was, and I didn’t like this type of music then and don’t like it now.
I appreciate their talent so I’ll give this a 2.
Billy Joel
5/5
This album has some of my favorite songs from Billy Joel. I prefer 70s Joel to 80s. I’ve heard and loved most of the songs on here many times before.
Get it Right the First Time - new to me. Ok song, not one of his best, but catchy.
Everybody has a Dream - also new to me and not to my taste. Probably my least favorite on the album. The gospel hint to it makes it a vast departure from the sound on the rest of the album.
Aside from the two above, this is a fantastic album. Anthony’s song is my favorite with The Stranger in close second.
This is a 5 for me.
Kelela
2/5
Meh. Solid 2, not for me
Black Sabbath
3/5
The Kinks
2/5
I really enjoyed the other Kinks album I received. This one is completely different. Some of the songs were very hard to listen to and I can see why it was an overall commercial flop.
I do not like this album.
John Prine
3/5
Not a fan of country. This was ok just not my thing. I appreciate the social messages. Your Flag Decal was hysterical and definitely holds up today.
3
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
Ok not really my type of music.
Culture Club
2/5
I knew Culture Club’s big hits like Karma Chameleon from growing up in the 80s. That one is still a bop. Miss Me Blind is also catchy. Mister Man was one of the better songs on the album.
Overall this is not a good album and I did not enjoy it. Even the hits are catchy, but not “good.” They are very generic 80s, with shallow lyrics. It was painful to listen to this.
I’ll give it a 2, rounding up.
The Offspring
5/5
I still enjoy this album and it took me back to ‘94. I added a few songs to the playlist I am making from this list.
No, they are the most innovative but they had a great sound and are fun to listen to. This was teenage driving music and honestly still sounds great to me.
It’s a 4.5 for me so rounding up.
Youssou N'Dour
4/5
I’ve never listened to music from Senegal before. This was fun background music while I cooked. I enjoyed it. 4
PJ Harvey
3/5
First PJ Harvey offering. It was ok. I liked this album less the more I listened to it. It is definitely an antiwar activist album and I appreciate the message I just think it lacked subtlety. Everything was blood blood death blood more death…
It’s a straight 3
Lauryn Hill
2/5
Public Enemy
5/5
I wasn’t allowed to listen to Public Enemy when this came out. They were banned in my house. Which is a shame, because this is a great album.
Rap is not one of my favorite genres but I really liked this album. Welcome to the Terrordome and Burn Hollywood Burn are favorites.
Gang Of Four
3/5
It was ok. Punk and Post punk are not really my things.
3
Joni Mitchell
4/5
First time listening to Joni Mitchell. Wow, she has an amazing voice and vocal range.
This is a beautiful album and I’m really glad to have listened to it. Blue, the title track, was a stand out for me. Case of You was another stand out.
I’m giving it a 4 because I don’t see myself listening to this being in my rotation.
Little Richard
4/5
I have always loved “Tutti Fruiti”; it is such a fun song.
“Baby” was great, more jazzy than some of the other songs on the album.
This is a short album but really a lot of fun to listen to. There is a lot of repetition and many of the more rock and roll songs sound very similar.
It’s a 4 for me.
Skunk Anansie
3/5
Nice to see a more diverse voice in the rock world.
That said, it was okay. I’ve heard much better, I’ve heard worse. 3
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
Television
2/5
Korn
3/5
This album has some great songs and some meh ones. Korn has such a unique sound. Most of this album still holds up today. Cameltosis is the major exception - it’s shit and the misogyny brings this down for me. Earache My Eye is pretty bad too. 3.5
Favorites: Dead Bodies Everywhere, children of the Korn
Black Sabbath
4/5
War Pigs, Paranoid and Iron Man are old favorites of mine.
Planet Caravan really fell short. Electric Funeral on the other hand was a nice surprise.
Hand of Doom was a little heavy handed but had good sound. Rat Salad was ok, not a big fan of instrumental rock. Fairies Wear Boots was fun.
Overall I’d give it a 4
Alice In Chains
4/5
I was never a huge fan of Alice In Chains as a teen. I much preferred Bush and Nirvana. This album is ok. A lot of it sounds the same and the depressive lyrics get a little much. There are some great songs here though and nothing I strongly disliked.
Overall not bad, not great. Favorite song - Them Bones and Would. Added both to my playlist
Solid 4 for me
OutKast
3/5
First, I hate skits. They don’t belong on albums and pull me out of the music.
Ms. Jackson takes me back - still love it. Overall not a bad album.
The Incredible String Band
1/5
Just awful. Painful to listen to. Waited for it to get better…it didn’t.
Scissor Sisters
4/5
This album was a lot of fun. I really liked Filthy/Gorgeous and Music is the Victim.
The cover of Comfortably Numb on the other hand is just bad. It’s one of my favorite Floyd songs and I just couldn’t enjoy this one.
Joy Division
3/5
Pretty mid for me. I like the instrumentals but the vocals lose it for me. Ok as background music but not something I would purposely put on.
Electric Light Orchestra
5/5
Great album. ELO has a unique sound - you always know when one of their songs come on exactly who it is.
Starlight is a new favorite I have not heard before.
Fleetwood Mac
2/5
This may be one of the worst Fleetwood Mac albums. Why this one was chosen I have no idea. The songs are just boring. 2
Nick Drake
4/5
Not bad. I liked Pink Moon better but this is nice background music. I added Sunday to my playlist for this project; I just really vibed with the sound of that one.
I would rate 3.5 if I could so I will round to a 4
The xx
4/5
Never heard of this band or any of these songs. I enjoyed this album; it was a pleasant surprise. Crystalised was my favorite song, added to my playlist.
Overall pleasant album, 4.
Elis Regina
3/5
It was ok. I saved two songs to my playlist but for the most part wouldn’t relisten to the album.
Finley Quaye
3/5
I really enjoyed Sunday Shining and Supreme I Preme.
In general it was just ok. Nice background music
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
Decent album definitely a product of its time. Somebody to Love and White Rabbit are the standouts. Overall nice mix but all very 60s.
Buzzcocks
4/5
Very traditional British punk - decent instrumentals, terrible vocals. I don’t think there’s anything groundbreaking here that the other more well known punk bands hadn’t already done. It’s ok.
It did grow on me as I continued to listen to it. Get On Our Own was my favorite track. Also really liked I Don’t Mind
Nas
4/5
I enjoyed this. Very 90s era rap. I missed this when it came out since I was busy listening to grunge.
Overall, this was a really good album. Great sound!
The Beach Boys
3/5
Has some great songs, but also some pretty mid ones. Wouldn’t It Be Nice, God Only Knows, Sloop John B are the best on the album.
Many of the other songs are largely forgettable.
Dead Kennedys
1/5
No just no
1
Ice T
5/5
This is a long album but wow, is it good. A lot of usual rap posturing, but also a lot of social and racial commentary.
The album opened strong with Home of the Bodybag. New Jack Hustler is another standout, although I could do with all the repetition at the end of the track.
Ed’s Dead was just a funny little song. I thought I would hate Bitches 2, but it was hysterical. Damn, Ice-T can tell a funny story!
The title track is another phenomenal song. Fly By showed some amazing lyrical skills by Ice and the guest rappers. Body Count was a nice surprise; wasn’t expecting the hard rock song here. I knew Ice had a rock band but haven’t heard any of it. Loved it!
The Tower and its sampling of the Halloween soundtrack was another pleasant surprise for me.
The rest of the tracks were good, the above were the standouts for me. MVPs was my least favorite.
Like a lot of rap albums, this one had skits. The skits were a mix of talking and short songs. I normally hate skits but these were pretty funny.
This album is a clear 5.
Judas Priest
5/5
The album opens strong with Rapid Fire. Metal Gods was fun, and Breaking the Law remains a banger!
Grinder was sort of silly and reminded me of a theme song for a schlocky 80s style horror movie. That’s not a bad thing.
Living After Midnight is probably my favorite on the album. Rage was also fantastic; love its instrumentals!
United, Steeler and Red White and Blue were ok - the instrumentals stood out above the lyrics for me on these. You Don’t Have to Be Old to Be Wise was the weakest track for me.
Overall, great album. Very much the kind of music you throw on and drive! Straight 5
The Divine Comedy
2/5
This is odd. What a weird album! It has a very 60s feel, then suddenly it’s a 40s ballad, then an Irish folk song. It’s definitely eclectic.
I added one song to my playlist, which saves this from a 1. Woman of the World was that song. I can’t say I want to listen to any other songs again.
Living Colour
4/5
Time for some 80s rock. Album opens strong with the hit Cult of Personality. This song still holds up today as an all time great rock song. There is also a great cover of Should I Stay or Should I Go.
The album has a good overall rock sound with some excellent social commentary, and I can definitely hear their influence in bands like Sevendust. That said, no other songs really stood out to me. This is a 4 for me
Neneh Cherry
2/5
I remember listening to the single for Buffalo Stance constantly as a kid. This is still a fun song but it is very dated. And long. The song could have been cut down a minute or so and been better for it.
The whole album is pretty dated and does not hold up. I did not enjoy any of the other tracks. This is a 2 only because of my nostalgia for Buffalo Stance.
Van Halen
5/5
Great album, so many classics. Running with the Devil is my favorite track, though You Really Got Me comes close.
Eruption really showcases Eddie Van Halen’s absolute skill.
Little Dreamer was new to me, first time hearing it. It’s a beautiful song. Ice Cream Man was a lot of fun, and shows both Dave’s range and Eddie’s skill. The album ends with On Fire, another banger.
This is a straight 5. It’s a classic well deserving of the title!
Pixies
2/5
I am very confused by this album. I enjoyed the orchestrals but the lyrics are very meh. Favorite song on the album was Gigantic.
Euphrates was awful. Just terrible noise. I don’t know how this band is considered to be so influential. This album bkows
Deee-Lite
2/5
This album is very mid. Okay to have on in the background while ai do other tasks. Forgettable mix of ok tracks that gets worse as it goes. 2
Dr. Dre
1/5
Violent, misogynistic and offensive. Has not aged well. 1
Fun Lovin' Criminals
3/5
Fun Lovin’ Criminals is very, very nineties rap/rock. It is a bit dated overall and there is nothing ground breaking here.
That said it’s still fun and takes me back to my high school and college years. Scooby Snacks was on the radio all of the time my senior year of high school.
That said, this is another album better for background than intent listening. The beats are better than the vocals by far. 3
Massive Attack
4/5
It’s ok good background music. Favorites are Safe from Harm and Unfinished Sympathy.
Some tracks feel a little dated but overall decent sound.
I’d give it a 3.5 so will round to 4.
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
I did not enjoy this. I don’t even know what genre to classify this as, but whatever it is, it is not for me. Dreary.
He’s a talented singer, just not a fan of what he sings. 2 for me
Santana
5/5
The opening track hits you right away with the smooth psychedelic/latin beats and is a great reminder that Santana is not just Carlos and his guitar, but a very talented band.
Black Magic Woman and Oye Como Va became classics for a reason. Black Magic Woman in particular is one sexy song.
There is not a single song on this album I did not like. This is a straight 5 - great sound, great skill, a pleasure to listen to.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
Some great classics here that are still some favorites of mine - Carry On, Teach Your Children Well, Our House. I think there were some songs missing from the Spotify version as it only had 6 songs.
Almost Cut My Hair had some great guitar and overall good sound. Deja Vu was my least favorite. 4+20 was ok. Overall a 4.
White Denim
4/5
I’ve never heard of this band. Indie Rock with a 60s feel. I was expecting not to like this but was very surprised. Street Joy was my favorite. Is and Is and Is was really good as well. Overall pretty good album - 4
Frank Ocean
2/5
This album is okay. Not to my taste. He is talented but this just doesn’t resonate with me and I would not listen to any tracks again.
Joy Division
4/5
This is a strange album. The vocals are rather monotone and bland, but that seems purposeful, and it works. It almost lends it a dreamlike quality.
The instrumentals are great. The whole album is like an 80s fever dream. I really enjoyed it. Twenty-Four Hours may be my favorite track
LTJ Bukem
4/5
I already have this album saved to my chill playlist, so I must have liked it before :) It's great background music for working. Night Train was one of my favorite tracks, but I really enjoyed the whole album. It's not groundbreaking or deep, just an enjoyable listen. 4
Slipknot
4/5
Some good songs here. Snuff has long been one of my favorite rock songs. I actually enjoyed this album more than I thought I would. It is very screamy, so I understand why some people don’t like it. It’s a 4 for me.
R.E.M.
4/5
It starts with Drive which is a great track. I’ve heard this before and always liked it.
Try Not to Breathe was new to me. Really great sounding track.
Everybody Hurts is a classic, and beautifully melancholy but hopeful.
Monty Got a Raw Deal and Sweetness had a nice, mellow sound.
Man on the Moon remains one of my favorites.
Star Me Kitten was my least favorite track on the album. It’s just didn’t vibe with me.
The rest of the tracks were ok - didn’t love them, didn’t hate them.
Overall I give it a 4 - nice, mellow sound with several standout tracks
Steely Dan
4/5
I knew quite a few of these songs. Do It Again, Dirty Work and Reelin’ in the Years are classics and still sound great. The rest of the tracks were okay. I’d give the overall a 4.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
5/5
This was all new to me. I really enjoyed the sound of this album. Into the Light, Night Shift and Monitor were some favorites. The tracks have a dream like quality, and would fit right into a David Lynch film.
Head Cut was my least favorite track.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
I really like the medieval sound to some of the tracks, like Patterns and Scarborough Fair. Homeward Bound had more country sound and is a very pretty song. The rest didn’t resonate with me; just not to my tastes. Overall I’d say a 2.5, rounding to 3.
Taylor Swift
5/5
I can’t say I’m that familiar with her work. I know a few of the really big singles.
Love Blank Space, Style and Wildest Dream. Bad Blood and Shake It Off are fun.
I know Taylor gets a lot of hate, but honestly this is a fun, enjoyable album, and she is talented. All of the songs were enjoyable and fun to an extent. This is a 5 - great example of a pop album.
The 13th Floor Elevators
2/5
This album has some weird background sounds which are really distracting. I almost liked some of the tracks but the weird reverberation really put me off this album. 2
Ian Dury
1/5
This is awful. His voice is grating, and the lyrics aren’t any better. Opening by saying you are a gift for women then talk about grabbing bums. Ick.
I tried but it doesn’t get any better. 1
3/5
Jethro Tull
5/5
I liked this album overall. It has a great sound and I enjoy rock flute - I know many don’t share that opinion. This album really epitomizes progressive rock. It’s a 5 for me.
Favorite songs: Aqualung, My God, Locomotive Breath
Pink Floyd
5/5
This is a long album but an iconic one, and still holds up as one of the greatest #rock albums ever made. Slows down a little in disc 2, but still has some great tracks.
Favorites: Another Brick in the Wall 2, Mother, Young Lust, Run Like Hell
David Bowie
3/5
Album is just okay, bordering on meh. It is not Bowie’s best and I do question the inclusion on this list. Nothing stood out to me as a favorite.
2.5 - I’ll round to 3 for the iconic voice
The xx
2/5
This album was ok, nothing groundbreaking or particularly interesting. One of those albums good for background music while working. Didn’t have any favorite tracks. 2
The Boo Radleys
3/5
First song, I Hang Suspended, is very 90s alternative.
Upon 9th and Fairchild was great, and reminded me a little of James.
Wish I Was Skinny had a 50s/early 60s vibe, while Thinking of Ways would not be out of place on Sgt. Pepper. I didn't really like these tracks.
The rest of the tracks fit that 90s alternative genre. The album had a mix of songs I really enjoyed, ok songs, and songs I did not like at all. For that reason, I am giving it a 3.
Favorites: 9th and Fairchild; Spun Around, If You Want It Take It
Least Favorite: One is For, Run My Way Runway
The Cramps
1/5
This is awful. 1
Paul McCartney and Wings
3/5
The title track and Jet are classics and still pretty damn good. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five was a nice surprise. The rest of the album is ok. Nothing stands out and not something I would listen to again.
3
Kings of Leon
2/5
The opening track, Closer, is very good.
I honestly hate Sex on Fire. It just gives me the impression of a bad STD. Blech. The other single I knew, Use Somebody, was ok. Fun to sing along with.
17 fell flat - can grown men stop singing about teenage girls?
The rest of the album was bland, generic and sounded a lot of the same. If only the album had remained as strong as its opening. This is a 2 for me.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2/5
Pretty generic. Pump It Up was catchy. I found the rest of the album pretty bland and boring. 2
4/5
The singles - Wonderwall, Don’t Look Back in Anger, Champagne Supernova - are great tracks and still hold up.
Hey Now was very catchy and Swamp Song 1, while short, had some great instrumentals.
The rest of the album was enjoyable enough. It’s a 4 for me.
Any song sung by someone other than Rod Stewart is instantly better. Rod Stewart has an absolutely terrible voice and I don’t know how he ever got famous.
Aside from his horrible wailing, this is a pretty generic classic rock album. I could have gone my whole life without ever listening to this. 2
New York Dolls
2/5
Not for me. I just don’t like punk.
2
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
2/5
I did not enjoy this album. It was a hodge podge of different sounds. Most albums have some sort of cohesive sound - not this one!
Gang Bang does not stand the test of time. The objectification gets exhausting and we certainly shouldn’t celebrate it by including it on a list you must hear.
Vambo Marble Eye was probably my favorite track. Had a bit of a funk feel. I enjoyed it but not enough it to save it to my play list.
This is a 2 for me. I’ve heard worse on this list which is why it’s not a 1.
4/5
Cisco Kid is still a favorite. There are some very long songs here and the album overall makes for some great background listening. The title track is a definite banger!
Overall, really enjoyed the album. 4
Tracy Chapman
4/5
Michael Jackson
4/5
Suede
4/5
I had never heard of Suede, but I enjoyed this. Animal Nitrate was good. Pantomime Horse was also a favorite track. Very moody.
Overall this was a great 90s album. 4
Django Django
4/5
Today’s album is by Django Django.
Never heard of the band. They are ok, good background music, enjoyed the album.
Wor and Storm were my favorites from the album. Added both to my playlist.
Skies over Cairo was a lot of fun.
Overall 4
Aimee Mann
2/5
This is very 90s alt/pop and wouldn’t be out of place in an episode of Felicity or Dawson’s Creek, or accompanying the moody scene in a 90s teen romantic comedy, you know the one where the love interest realizes they messed up and may have lost a good thing.
All that to say this is ok, but is dated and definitely a product of its time. I was a teenager in the 90s so I appreciate the nostalgic sound, but it just doesn’t hit the same notes as Nirvana, Bush or Alannis. No songs stood out and they all sort of sounded alike.
2
Moby
5/5
I really enjoyed this album. It’s very much a product of the late 90s/early 00s, but still has a great sound. I added several tracks to my album project playlist and a chill mix playlist.
The album is a nice mix of dance tracks and chill tracks and makes great background music for working or hobbies.
Favorites: Everloving, Rushing
Rating: 5
Talking Heads
4/5
Blondie
3/5
One Way or Another is still a top tier song, as is Heart of Glass.
The rest was okay. Not my favorite but the talent and Harry’s iconic voice are clear.
3
The Verve
3/5
Favorite track was Northern Soul. Overall I thought this was ok. Nothing spectacular or particularly bad. It’s a straight 3
The Cure
4/5
I enjoyed this, not as much as some of their later work, but it’s very atmospheric and moody. I really vibe with the sound of the Cure.
Favorite: A Forest
Score: 4
Ali Farka Touré
3/5
Chill album, very relaxing. A little repetitive. It’s a 3 for me.
The Rolling Stones
2/5
I listened to the UK version, which is longer and has Mothers Little Helper instead of Paint it Black. Both are great songs.
The rest of the album though- ugh. Stupid Girl is atrocious. Under My Thumb has long been problematic. Going Home just keeps dragging on.
Traffic
3/5
Never heard of them. I do love me some flute though!
Freedom Rider was really good. Glad is instrumental and sounds really familiar. I enjoyed it. Overall I give it a 3.
The Streets
1/5
British white rap. Terrible. His voice is grating, the beats are infantile. 1
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Sympathy for the Devil is one of my favorite songs. And that’s the problem with the Stones; they have some amazing songs but most are meh. This album is better than the last I got.
This album is an improvement, at a 3.
The Residents
1/5
This is dogshit. Why in the world does anyone need to listen to this crap before they die? If I could rate a zero I would.
Lenny Kravitz
2/5
This album is very meh - mediocre, inoffensive, bland. I can’t rate this above a 2, I got no enjoyment from it, but it’s not the worst thing I’ve rated from this list.
Sorry, Lenny, but you’re boring.
The Bees
4/5
I enjoyed this album. It has a really chill sound and makes good background sound for work. I would listen again. It’s a 4.
Duran Duran
4/5
Firstly, I love Duran Duran and I have listened to all of their big hits on repeat since I was kid. This album has the big breakthrough hits Hungry Like the Wolf and Rio.
My favorite track from this album is Save a Prayer. It has long been one of my favorite Duran Duran songs.
Overall, this is an enjoyable album. It’s a 4 for me.
The War On Drugs
5/5
I’ve never heard of this band before.
Red Eye was my favorite track, but I overall enjoyed this album. The Haunting Idle was beautiful and also a favorite track. The overall album has a very low key, relaxed atmosphere. I would definitely listen again.
Has hints of Dylan and Petty, two artists whose work I really enjoy, so no surprise I really liked this album.
5 for me
Killing Joke
4/5
The band is very British sounding, a little reminiscent of The Clash, but their own sound. Opening track The Requiem wasn’t bad, a good start. I did not enjoy the next track Wardance and skipped halfway through. Then came Tomorrow’s World, which has a great beat and overall sound. Bloodsport is instrumental and is a definite headbanger.
SO 36 is another mostly instrumental track that has a great sound and beat. Very heavy on the drums. This was mother of my favorites from the album.
The rest of the tracks were good but didn’t stand out to me either way. Overall, I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. 4
Fela Kuti
4/5
The title track is 13 minutes long. Sounds great, with the early instrumentals reminding me a little bit of something that would be in the background in a heist movie.
Overall the album sounds great and very impactful lyrics. 4
Van Morrison
4/5
This takes me back - Moondance was the theme of my senior prom back in the day. Van Morrison is really the perfect sitting on the deck with a beer type of music. This is a great hanging out album.
Moondance and Into the Mystic are favorite tracks, but there are really no bad tracks here. Very enjoyable album. 4
The Black Crowes
4/5
Jealous Again and Hard to Handle are still very catchy. Seeing Things is a great song, very heartfelt and with a lot of emotion behind it. She Talks to Angels is a beautiful song.
Overall good album with great sound. I really enjoyed it, and knew more songs than I realized. 4
New Order
3/5
The Perfect Kiss really epitomizes 80s New Wave. Love it! I also really enjoyed This Time of Night.
I really enjoyed the music to Sunrise but disliked the lyrics. They just didn’t meld well. Subculture is even worse. Terrible sound to the lyrics.
Elegia may be my favorite track. No lyrics just beautiful music.
This is a pretty uneven album. Some great tracks mixed with ok and some with terrible singing. It’s a 3 for me.
The White Stripes
3/5
It was ok. I’ve heard better heard worse. It’s a 3
Bobby Womack
2/5
Not a fan of the genre. It’s just ok
Pere Ubu
1/5
Ugh
Bob Dylan
4/5
I’m previously had this rated 4
Kendrick Lamar
1/5
I guess I’m just old but I can’t stand the offensive, disgusting language. I had to turn this off, like it turned my stomach. I hope his later albums are better because I don’t know how the person who wrote this won so many awards. And for the love of his, can we please stop calling women hitches? It’s really exhausting to constantly hear your gender treated like garbage in media.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
4/5
Roxy Music
2/5
I don’t understand why there are so many terrible British bands on this list and so few female artists. This is my 149th album. I have had 5 female artists. I can’t count how many obscure and terrible British bands I’ve had.
This album isn’t good but isn’t terrible. Not worth listening to. It’s a 2. And I could do without the near nudity on the cover. What do models in lingerie have to do with country life?
U2
3/5
The album started pretty strong but I felt it lost momentum after the half way point.
I really liked Seconds and added to my playlist. 40 was my least favorite.
Overall decent album. I give it a 3. Was ok, would not listen again.
The Byrds
2/5
This album is a little more folksy than I was expecting. Overall I felt is was pretty forgettable.
Added I See You to my playlist but none of the rest struck me as good enough to listen to again. This is a 2.
Screaming Trees
3/5
I really vibed with the percussion on the opening track. Overall the instruments outshine the vocals. The lyrics are bland and his voice is difficult to like. Only giving a 3 because I like the drums.
George Harrison
2/5
Too long, too full of himself. Why the decision to have multiple versions of some meh songs was made will remain a mystery? A lot of this was a real chore to get through. Clearly the real songwriting talent did not lay with Harrison.
Favorite: What is Life
Rating: 2
Mike Oldfield
2/5
I don’t know what exactly this was even going for. I feel this is more of a tech demo showing off his musical skills than a cohesive attempt at making music. Some parts are good, some are boring and too long with no change, and some are downright abrasive.
Yes he is talented. No I will never listen again. 2
The Rolling Stones
2/5
Neil Young
3/5
It’s Neil Young. He’s ok. There’s worse. There’s better. He’s put out better. 3
Queen
3/5
Killer Queen is one of my all time favorite songs.
This album is very 70s rock. Tenement Funster was new to me and really embodied that 70s rock feel.
Overall, decent album. They are very talented but make some odd stylistic choices (Lap of the Gods and Leroy Brown, I’m looking at you). 3
Maxwell
2/5
Ugh more smooth jazz. Not my thing. 2
Sigur Rós
5/5
I really enjoyed everything about this. It sounds great. Also nice to hear some music from somewhere other than North America or the British Isles.
Herbie Hancock
2/5
This is cocktail lounge jazz. It makes good background music but otherwise is just ok. 2
Madonna
2/5
The title track is a fun song, very catchy. Don’t Tell Me may be the best song on the album. There is a reason these two songs were the singles over the rest of the album.
The remainder veer from generic dance music, to just bland, or moderately catchy but forgettable. Overuse of autotune abounds in these tracks.
What it Feels Like for a Girl is atrocious. I get what she is trying to do, but this missed the mark.
America Pie should be considered a war crime; it is terrible.
2
Thin Lizzy
3/5
FYI The Spotify album only has 4 tracks. Amazon Music does have the entire album.
I’ve heard the big singles (Jailbreak and boys Are Back in Town) before. They were decent enough songs. I prefer the live version of Jailbreak to the radio edit; it just has a heavier sound. Boys, on the other hand, is better in the radio edit. The backup vocals in the live version are not good.
Still in Love with You is gorgeous and the guitar solo really makes this track stand out. It is a beautiful ballad about lost love.
The rest of the tracks were enjoyable and great classic rock. There are really talented musicians here and it shows in the riffs and solos. The only place where being alive album really hurt it was the end of Baby Drives Me Crazy.
Overall decent album, I give it a 3.
Milton Nascimento
5/5
I don’t speak Portuguese so I don’t know what the songs mean and I’m purely going off sound. And based off of sound alone, these songs are absolutely amazing. This may be one of the most enjoyable albums I’ve ever listened to.
This is why I signed up for this project, to find albums I normally wouldn’t come across, not another best of or live version of a Beatles album.
I will definitely be looking more into the artist to find out about this album and what they’re singing about. I highly recommend this album. I added so many songs to my favorites.
R.E.M.
3/5
Finest Worksong was a great opening track with fantastic sound.
Most of the tracks were pleasant enough and very REM.
The singles End of the World and One I Love are still great listens.
Overall, short, pleasant album, but nothing innovative or truly great. 3
John Lee Hooker
4/5
This is a decent blues album with some nice collaborations. I’m not familiar with Hooker’s other work so can’t say how this compares but I enjoyed this. 4
Magazine
4/5
Pulp
1/5
No. Terrible pop music sung by someone who can’t sing. I’ve never heard this before and think there is a reason. Yuck
Sonic Youth
1/5
This is not good. There’s no other way to put it. Terrible.
I’m Gen X and we had much better music than this.
1
Terence Trent D'Arby
3/5
Opening track If You All Get to Heaven was a great start. It has a unique sound and a catchy refrain.
I have fond memories of Wishing Well when I was a kid. It’s still a great earworm.
Sign Your Name remains a total bop. Who’s Loving You has a great retro sound. The rest of the songs were ok but not stand outs for me.
D’Arby has a powerful voice and is very talented.
3 for me - he has a great voice and there are some great songs but I probably wouldn’t listen again, it didn’t vibe with me.
The B-52's
1/5
I’ve always hated Rock Lobster. The rest of the album was just as bad. Painful.
Talking Heads
3/5
It’s okay. Good background music but not really stand out as either great or terrible. Psycho Killer remains a classic.
3
Dolly Parton
2/5
Three very talented singers, but this is not for me. I am not a fan of country ballads. I can really only tolerate rebel country. This album is slow and depressing. 2
Kings of Leon
1/5
This is terrible. I don’t know why this terrible band has multiple albums on the list. The lead vocals are painful to listen to, and the lyrics are shallow and grating.
1
Steely Dan
4/5
I like this album. It’s nothing groundbreaking or innovative but it’s enjoyable and relaxing. Deacon Blues is my favorite track. Also really liked Peg and Josie.
4
Elvis Costello
1/5
Sigh. He is terrible. His voice grates. This is my second Costello album on this list, and as the track says, This is Hell.
1
Boards of Canada
1/5
I got through about 5 songs and gave up. This isn’t music. Terrible. 1
Foo Fighters
5/5
Finally a good band. It’s been a long list of bands I’ve never heard of. And then the Foo Fighters.
They are legitimately one of my top ten bands. I love every thing they do. And I think this album shows why. For a debut album this really showcases a wide variety of rock styles. There are some absolute bangers here. 5
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
Very easy to listen to and great for having on as background music. I enjoyed it and it really does evoke an image of a 50’s or early 60’s dinner party.
4
The Kinks
3/5
Middle of the road fare. Some enjoyable tracks, some real clunkers. Nothing that really stands out against other 60s britpop as new or innovative.
Solid 3
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Blur
2/5
This is the most British album I’ve ever heard, which is not necessarily a good thing. It’s goofy and over the top and just too much. A few times I stopped and said “what is this song?”
Not the worst thing I’ve ever heard but there is much that is far better.
Sorry Blur, I love Boys and Girls, and Song 2 is a favorite from the 90s, but this album is not it.
2
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Visions is a beautiful song. It was my first time hearing this and I was wowed.
Too High - nice intro track. I liked this one.
Living for the City - great sound with great commentary on urban and racial issues
Golden Lady - I thought it started a little slow but the tempo picked up at the refrain. This ends up being a very pretty and enjoyable love song.
Higher Ground - this has always been one of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs and still is. Wow, such a great beat!
Jesus Children of America - decent sounding song
All in Love is Fair - this track really highlights the power of Stevie’s voice. Overall pretty song as well.
Don’t You Worry Bout a Thing - another one I was familiar with. Fun song
He’s Mista Know It All - this was the weakest track and my least favorite.
Almost every track on this album is a winner. This is a great album and Stevie Wonder is a master artisan. 5
Mercury Rev
4/5
I went into this totally blind. I’ve never heard of them, don’t even know what genre they are. Having finished the album, I still can’t say what genre :)
This is a very chill album and I ended up liking it. It’s quirky, and fun and calming.
Favorite tracks- Goddess on a Hiway, The Funny Bird, Delta Sun Bottleneck Stomp.
4
Joni Mitchell
2/5
I found this album very bland and boring.
Sorry, Joni, not a fan. This is the second album I’ve had from Joni Mitchell and I have not enjoyed a single song.
1
Violent Femmes
4/5
I never knew this was from the early 80s. I could swear this was 90s Gen Xer music.
I really enjoyed his. Blister in the Sun and Add It Up used to get heavy rotation on the radio in the 90s and I’ve always enjoyed them. The rest was new to me.
Favorites: Blister in the Sun, Gone Daddy Gone
Least Favorite: Good Feeling
4
Morrissey
1/5
I’ve heard Morrissey is a prick, but I wanted to give this a fair shake. I shouldn’t have - it sucks. This album no is terrible, the songs are bland and not notable at all. This is not a must listen and does not belong on this list.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
2/5
Relax is one of the songs of the 80s. I grew up to this song. The rest of this album blows. Ugh. Frankie, go home.
2/5
Ugh. Just ugh.
Sebadoh
3/5
Cliche was the first track I really liked. Sacred Attention and Homemade had great sound as well.
The album starts off weak and doesn’t really hit stride until about 1/3 way in at the above tracks. Overall I enjoyed it, but not sure if I would listen again.
3
The Blue Nile
1/5
This is pretty bland and boring. The lyrics don’t match the music. And I get the overall feel of elevator music or department store shopping music. I could have lived without ever listening to the band.
1
Beastie Boys
2/5
I grew up around the Beastie Boys. I was a young kid watching them fight for their right to party in MTV. By the time I hit high school, everyone was listening to sabotage. And I still don’t get it. This album like their other album is not good. They have one or two good listens per album and the rest is a mess of painful garbage. I didn’t get it then and I don’t get it now.
2
The White Stripes
5/5
Enjoyed this entire album from start to finish. Great opening with 7 Nation Army. Also really enjoyed Black Math and Girl You Have No Faith in Medicine. There is a lot of heavy drumming here that I love.
5
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2/5
Spotify only has three songs, so what I could listen to was limited. I’m not usually a fan of a cappella and this was just not for me. It was relaxing to listen to but did not move me and was a bit boring.
2
ABBA
3/5
When I Kissed the Teacher was weird and not the best for an opening track. But then we get to Dancing Queen and while I don’t necessarily like the song, it’s hard not to sing along to.
Money, Money, Money is a lot of fun.
And I think that sums up ABBA - not good, but had not to sing or move to and kind of fun. Nothing innovative or great here, just bubblegum. And sometimes bubblegum is ok.
3
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
2/5
The album opens strong with My My Hey Hey. And then the next few songs feel a little samey.
I am mixed on folk music, and really like artists like Dylan and Cat Stevens , but most of this album feels weak with some pretty bland tunes.
Welfare Mothers and Sedan Delivery have a better sound, but bizarre lyrics.
2
Bob Dylan
5/5
This is my third album by him on this list and I have enjoyed all three.
The album has a strong opening with Tangled Up in Blue. Meet Me in the Morning was my favorite track.
Idiot Wind had a great sound and really continues to resonate today, which is a shame.
Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts is a fun ballad. If You See Her, Say Hello is a really pretty track about lost love.
The rest of the tracks were not favorites, but still really show Dylan’s skill as a singer and songwriter and great to listen to. Overall, this is another masterful album from him.
Favorites:
Tangled Up in Blue
Meet Me in the Morning
If You See Her Say Hello
Least Favorite:
Buckets of Rain
5
The Darkness
2/5
Each track starts out ok with some great percussion and guitar riffs, and then the singer opens their mouth and I cringe. They sing like a parody of a hair metal rocker.
I Believe in a Thing Called Love I’ve heard before and has never been a favorite song. It’s okay at best.
This is a 2 only because I’ve heard worse on this list.
5/5
I was familiar with a few songs but this is the first time I’m listening to this album. I enjoyed it. it’s a little odd at times but sounds great the whole time.
Favorites:
Starman
It Ain’t Easy
Suffragette City
5
The Rolling Stones
3/5
It opens with the poorly aged Brown Sugar. Sigh, we can get our exoticism and creeping on young girls out of the way right off the bat.
Sway had good sound but damn, Mick has an awful voice. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. It also doesn’t work in Wild Horses. I have never liked this song. You Got to Move was actually painful to listen to.
Can’t Hear Me Knocking was mid but not terrible. I was a little worried when I saw the track name for Bitch, but it was actually fun. I’ve Got the Blues was a pleasant surprise, too. I think this track is really helped by strong instrumentals.
Sister Morphine, Dead Flowers were ok. Moonlight Mile finished the album strong. The second half of this album definitely improves. This was much better than the other Stones album I’ve gotten on this list. I’ll give it a 3.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
Great album. Ms. Franklin has a lot of talent and such a powerful voice.
Favorite tracks: Save Me; I’ve Never Loved a Man
Sonic Youth
4/5
This is Gen X condensed into an album. 4
Miles Davis
2/5
Like the soundtrack to an early 70s crime drama. 2
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
2/5
Bland and boring, and really highlights Young’s painful singing voice. 2
AC/DC
3/5
I’ve always said all AC/DC songs sound the same and listening to this album supports that theory. They are fun to listen to but nothing innovative. You know exactly what you are getting when you listen to this album.
3
Tom Waits
3/5
I liked every other track. The bluesier songs were great and work with TW’s unique voice. The slower songs were painful.
This I such a mixed bag. I guess a 3.
Favorites:
Mr. Siegal
Heartattack and Vine
Amy Winehouse
3/5
Average album. She had a great voice and some of these tracks are fun but some are so utterly depressing.
I wouldn’t listen to most of these tracks again and that’s why I’m giving it a 3.
Favorite track: Back to Black
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
Ugh no
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
2/5
This was not good. I like the blues - this isn’t it
ZZ Top
4/5
I really enjoyed this album. Good mix of bluesy rock.
Favorite: La Grange
4
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
This was very hippy. There is a definite mix here of quality. Overall not too bad but I don’t think I would listen again. 3
Siouxsie And The Banshees
1/5
I am not a fan of post-punk. I do not like this album or its sound. It’s just not good.
1
Jacques Brel
1/5
I’m sorry this is not a must listen to album. There is so much better music from this era that this does not belong in this list
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
It’s ok but a lot of the tracks sound the same. Makes good background music.
3
Fever Ray
4/5
I really liked this. It has great sound and is great for just chilling.
Kanye West
1/5
I won’t give listens to this asshole. It may be phenomenal but fuck Kanye
Beatles
5/5
I love this album. This was one of the first albums I owned when I first got a cd player and to this day it remains a favorite. Something is one of my all time favorite Beatles songs.
5
Kate Bush
3/5
Motörhead
1/5
I’ve had some of these songs on a previous Motörhead album that came up. Then I thought only Ace of Soades was decent. Mail Bait remains gross and no one needs an almost two hour live Motörhead album.
1
Red Snapper
3/5
I really liked the opening track Keeping Pigs Together.
The album is a mix of chill and club. It is also hit or miss for most of the tracks. I prefer the chill ones. The club tracks are very cliche and just not good.
3
Least Favorite:
Some Kind of Kink
The Rake
Favorites:
Keeping Pigs Together
Don’t Go Nowhere
Bussing
Belladonna
The Smiths
2/5
This album is pure 80s depression. I honestly was not that familiar with the Smiths. I think I’d only ever heard How Soon is Now Before.
These tracks have a similar melancholy sound to that song. Many of the tracks would not be out of place in a David Lynch movie.
Last Night I Dreamt that Somebody Loved Me is odd. Two minutes of people yelling before the track really starts. Morrisey also makes some weird noises on a lot of these tracks.
Overall I was not impressed. I did not favorite any tracks nor would I listen to this again.
2
Throbbing Gristle
3/5
I listened to the whole thing. And you know what, I did actually enjoy it. I wouldn’t listen to it again but it was a fascinating experience. Not exactly musical, but definitely interesting sounds.
Kanye West
1/5
I don’t listen to nazis
Sarah Vaughan
4/5
Laura Nyro
3/5
She’s very talented and has a powerful voice. I enjoyed the album overall but is not a favorite. It’s a solid 3 for me. Ok but probably wouldn’t listen again
Iron Maiden
2/5
I get they are hugely influential but damn, this was boring. I am not a fan of early metal. It all sounds the same and doesn’t say anything. 2
Julian Cope
1/5
Terrible voice, mediocre music. I think he loves the sound of his own voice too much
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
There are a range of tracks here, from boring to very catchy. They are talented but put together a jumble of genres and types here that totally lack cohesion.
Spinning Whell remains a favorite of mine and was a bright point.
3
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
Just too much. She has a gorgeous voice but it’s wasted in these songs. Some of the tracks are great, some are so bland and banal I just can’t care.
Who thought this album over all of her albums should be on a list?
3
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
1/5
For those days when you are just feeling to happy, this album exists to bring you down.
Depressing, bleak, horrible voice. 1
Einstürzende Neubauten
3/5
I listened to the whole album. Like a train wreck, I just couldn’t look away. It was certainly different and unique.
It is interesting to see how people play around with music and sound to create something new. And I honestly didn’t hate it. 3
Elton John
5/5
Brilliant album from start to finish. Levon remains one of my favorites. Madman Across the Water and Indian Sunset were also top tracks.
5
The Stone Roses
3/5
The album has a very laidback and chill vibe, even when the lyrics don’t match (looking at you, Shoot You Down).
Overall it was an okay listen. Nothing jumped out at me either as great or terrible. 3
Fela Kuti
4/5
Tears For Fears
5/5
The Specials
1/5
This is terrible. Ska is an awful genre in general and this album really exemplifies this. It is not enjoyable, it sounds terrible and I couldn’t wait for it to end.
1
Bad Brains
4/5
I’d never heard of Bad Brains before so this was totally new and I didn’t know what to expect.
At first I found the lead singer’s voice of putting, but it grew on me as the album went on. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
Favorite track: Secret 77
4
Burning Spear
4/5
I don’t know much about reggae beyond having heard a few Bob Marley songs. Never heard of Burning Spear.
This was really well done. It has a very chill, relaxing sound, but the lyrics are hard hitting and emotional. It makes for an interesting contrast.
4
Billie Holiday
3/5
I have mixed feelings about this album. It’s very repetitive, with all of the tracks sounding alike. I was also not feeling her voice, and reading that this is at the end of her career after her voice started to decline, it makes sense why. I will have to listen to one of her earlier albums to see for myself what Ms Holiday should sound like.
I did enjoy the album though and it made nice background music as I started my work day and enjoyed my tea. So I am going to go with a 3.
King Crimson
3/5
It’s ok. I don’t mind prog but prog fans can be insufferable and talk about this band like they are the greatest thing ever. They are ok. I wouldn’t listen again but didn’t hate it.
3
Johnny Cash
4/5
Some brilliant tracks and some painful ones. Danny Boy actually hurt to listen to.
On the other hand, The Man Comes to Town and Hurt are brilliant. And while not my favorite version of Personal Jesus, it’s pretty damn good.
4
The La's
2/5
It’s just ok. Pretty generic 90s alt pop. Only song I’ve heard before is There She Goes, which was overplayed and overhyped.
This album has no cohesion between tracks. Some of the transitions are actually very jarring.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Fantastic album, fantastic voice. This was a winner from start to end.
5
Nightmares On Wax
2/5
Good background music but certainly nothing groundbreaking or innovative. Dino need to listen to this before I die? No.
Elliott Smith
2/5
Bland, boring and banal. Ugh
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
1/5
Ugh no. Elvis Costello is the worst and this is the third album THIRD I’ve had from this guy. Please stop.
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
Simple Minds
1/5
This may be the most boring 80s album recorded. It’s a big yawn from start to finish. So bland.
The Rolling Stones
2/5
Oh no not another Stones album. Maybe this one will be good. Over an hour later…nope
David Bowie
2/5
Sigh. This album is so very meh.
The Byrds
3/5
Very pretty sounding and a great example of the psychedelic 60s sound. That said, a lot of the songs ran together and there was not enough variety in the sound. While that makes for a cohesive sound, it does also make it a bit bland.
Mr. Tambourine Man slaps, and I really enjoyed their take on We’ll Meet Again.
3
Tom Waits
5/5
This album is a fever dream. I love it!
The title track was standout for me, although I also loved Singapore and Clap Hands.
The Doors
5/5
Great album, enjoyed it all the way through.
I’ve always been a fan of The Doors and this album reinforces that for me.
Favorite track is Waiting for the Sun, with Roadhouse Blues a close second.
5
Radiohead
3/5
Dreamy, melancholy…and boring.
3
Black Sabbath
4/5
Wu-Tang Clan
5/5
Fun album, enjoyed the he’ll out of it. Has great rhymes and great beats.
Favorites: Da Mystery of Chessboxin: Method Man
5
Prince
1/5
I must be missing something because I don’t get the praise for this album. This is a terrible album and I did not enjoy a single song.
1
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
The hits are hits for a reason. The others are fun but not that memorable.
I didn’t hate anything and overall enjoyed the album. 4
N.E.R.D
1/5
Bland and boring. I didn’t enjoy a single track.
Napalm Death
1/5
No
Iggy Pop
3/5
First, what a terrible album cover. It looks like an awkward yearbook photo.
Lust for life goes on way too long. Shave off two minutes and it’s a great song.
Sweet Sixteen was a first time listen for me and it’s pretty damn good. The Passenger is also one of the top songs on this album. The rest is pretty meh. Nothing stands out.
3
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
Ok album, very mixed feelings about the tracks.
Everyday People is a classic. I also really enjoyed Sex Machine, although it is way too long. You can Make It If You Try was also a favorite.
Overall, 3
Michael Kiwanuka
5/5
The opening tracks were phenomenal. Loved You Ain’t the Problem and Rolling.
Then the middle hit with multiple piano bar tracks. This is the weakest part of the album.
Next we get to Hero. Great track! Hard to Say Goodbye is beautiful, with a very vintage sound. Solid Ground is also a strong track.
This was my introduction to Kichael Kiwanuka and this was a phenomenal album overall. He is very talented and this was a great listen!
Loved Final Days
Devendra Banhart
2/5
This album is very twee. I’ve heard worse but not much. Overall I was bored and waiting for it to end. There was no stand out here - it all sucked. 2
Jamiroquai
5/5
Great album and a he’ll of a lot of fun and energy. 5
The Pogues
5/5
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Orange Juice
1/5
Wow this sucks
Mariah Carey
1/5
I had to endure this drek in the 90s. I’m not listening to it again. Also fuck Mariah Carey and her tone-deaf anti-worker bullshit.
Massive Attack
3/5
This is a very chill album, and makes great background music. That said, there is nothing here to really evoke any emotions. I’ve always liked Massive Attack, but it just doesn’t move me. There is also nothing here that makes me say wow.
3
Neil Young
3/5
It’s an ok album. Neil Young’s voice takes some getting used to; it is very unique to be sure. But it works.
Southern Man, probably his most famous song, is the best track. Nothing else really stood out to me. I enjoyed the album overall.
3
Leonard Cohen
1/5
I just don’t get it. Every song sounds the same because Cohen doesn’t sing along to any tune. He speaks his lines in the same bored cadence. This just sucked. I couldn’t wait for it to be over. 1
Willie Nelson
4/5
This isn’t my usual style of music, but I really enjoyed this. I like the cohesive story of the album and the overall sound was very calm and relaxing. 4
Elastica
2/5
I owned this CD back in 1995, but don’t recall anything about it except for Connection. This is so generically 90s. It’s bland and boring and unexceptional.
2
Dire Straits
4/5
Joni Mitchell
2/5
Wow this is boring. These aren’t songs, these are rambling stories somebody who has the most boring life keeps rambling on about. Sigh.
2
Stan Getz
4/5
What a relaxing album! I really enjoyed having this on as background music.
4
The Byrds
3/5
This was ok. A lot of 60s mod sounds, but also a bit more folk than I was expecting. Overall enjoyable album, but no real stand outs for me.
3
Keith Jarrett
2/5
Not for me. Boring
Destiny's Child
1/5
Nope
The Smiths
3/5
Prince
4/5
Bee Gees
1/5
This is absolutely terrible. I was looking forward to some upbeat disco and instead got this mediocre garbage. Ugh
1
Van Morrison
3/5
It’s very soft and relaxing music, but all sounds very much alike. He has a unique and passionate voice, but I just can’t get excited about anything here.
3
Sister Sledge
3/5
It’s alright. Nothing groundbreaking or amazing. 3