Journey in Progress
Discovering music one album at a time
236
Albums Rated
3.51
Avg Rating
45
5-Star Albums
22%
Complete
853 albums remaining
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4
Per Week
410
Days Active
Reviews
236
Written
100%
Review Rate
vs Global
0.15
Avg Diff
3.51
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1950s
Favorite Decade
Blues
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13
1-Star Albums
5-Star Albums (45)
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Rating Style
You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Out Of Mind | 5 | 3.21 | +1.79 |
| Scissor Sisters | 5 | 3.23 | +1.77 |
| Every Picture Tells A Story | 5 | 3.24 | +1.76 |
| Rum Sodomy & The Lash | 5 | 3.25 | +1.75 |
| Beautiful Freak | 5 | 3.28 | +1.72 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Queen Is Dead | 1 | 3.66 | -2.66 |
| Sound of Silver | 1 | 3.42 | -2.42 |
| The Downward Spiral | 1 | 3.34 | -2.34 |
| You're Living All Over Me | 1 | 3.07 | -2.07 |
| Here Come The Warm Jets | 1 | 3.07 | -2.07 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums and high weighted score
| Artist | Albums | Avg | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Rolling Stones | 4 | 4.5 | 3.86 |
| Kendrick Lamar | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Aretha Franklin | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Adele | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Kanye West | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Johnny Cash | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Bob Dylan | 3 | 4.33 | 3.67 |
| Beatles | 5 | 4 | 3.63 |
Least Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums and low weighted score
| Artist | Albums | Avg | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Smiths | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
Popular Reviews
DJ Shadow
2/5
Background music. Not much else to say about this one, it faded into the background and I could not identify any individual songs. Wasn't bad music but definitely not something that stood out to me. I know DJ Shadow is one of the original producers who brought this music to the forefront but it will never be more than working background music for me.
4 likes
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
If I could give this album a 6 I would. Kendrick is an absolute poet and takes the music on this album to another level. The mix of various styles paired with his lyrics and flow creates a true rap masterpiece.
Every song on this album is unique and tells a story that relates to kendrick personally. This is one of my favorite albums of all time so I was glad we got to listen to it.
1 likes
Songhoy Blues
4/5
Sometimes it's nice listening to musics in languages I don't know for the poetry of the sound. I found that I was able to appreciate the voice as an instrument rather than vocals since I didn't know what was being said. I thought the rest of the music was also easy to listen to and enjoy. I wasn't expecting blues music from west Africa but I can see myself coming back to this one.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (13)
All Ratings
B.B. King
5/5
An excellent first album. Classic rhythm and blues. BB King's voice with the instruments in the background is nothing short of iconic
GZA
4/5
The flow, rap and beats are all very 90's hip hop but very good 90's hip hop. One of the more iconic rappers from the Era, the east coast style is on display in this album. Some high highs and a few songs that are okay. An overall solid album.
The Stone Roses
2/5
Probably not an album I would seek out again. Very indicative of the area and time that the album came out in. Some decent songs but nothing to hang my hat on. If I'm going to listen to this type of music it would probably be Radiohead or The Cranberries
Iron Maiden
3/5
Solid album that got better as it went on. Quintessential 80's hair metal to the core, this is not an album I would seek out on my own. I wouldn't be upset if someone played this music but I would go for Rush if I was to listen to this Era of music. Run to the Hills was probably my favorite song
The Clash
4/5
Sometimes the lead singer sounds like he has cotton swabs in his mouth. Doesn't make them worse, just how it sounds.
Highlights:
Jimmy Jazz
Rudie Can't Fail
The Right Profile
Wrong 'Em Boyo
Revolution Rock
Train in Vain (Stand By Me)
A very good album overall. I really enjoyed the varying styles and sounds between different songs. I'm always a sucker for a brass section so those songs were highlights for me. If this album cut 4 or 5 songs it would be a 5 but a few of the songs were forgettable. I would seek this album out again to listen to.
Neneh Cherry
4/5
Following in the footsteps of Abba and at the start of the Swedish pop revolution. The mixing of rap, pop and other music styles is very well done in the album. Her rapping style reminds me of a Lin Manual song. Saxophone. The beats are fire. Some of the songs give me Fresh Prince vibes.
Highlights:
Buffalo Stance
Inna City Mama*
The Next Generation
Heart
Outre Risqué Locomotive*
Genuinely enjoyed this album and would not have known about it without something like this.
Green Day
5/5
Highlights:
Chump
Longview
Welcome to Paradise
Basket Case
She
When I Come Around
Don't need to say too much about this one. An all time punk album and just a slapper in general. The stretch from Chump to When I Come Around is one most bands will never match. Also impressive that every song on the album is under 4 minutes.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Highlights:
Brown Sugar
Wild Horses
Can't You Hear Me Knocking
You Gotta Move
I Got the Blues
Dead Flowers
I've listened to a decent amount of Stones in my life and I am well aware of their pedigree in music. This album completely backs up that pedigree. From start to finish this album perfectly blends Mick Jaggers voice with various rock music styles of the time. Heavily featuring blues style riffs and with saxophones providing a musical balance I will definitely be coming back to this album in the future.
King Crimson
3/5
Very interesting album if nothing else. I liked the various styles and instruments featured. Some of it was a little more out there than I normally like. Moonchild did not need to be 12 minutes long. 21st Century Schizoid Man and The Court of The Crimson King were my favorite tracks.
It's easy to see the influence Crimson King had on bands like Tool. Definitely not an album I would have sought on my own so glad we got to listen to it but probably not one I will come back to outside of the occasional song.
Blur
3/5
Some real bruv sounding lads.
Highlights:
Boys & Girls
Parklife
The Debt Collector
To The End
Lot 105
A generally enjoyable 90's rock album. I liked the various use of instruments and unique songs. Some songs were kind of bland but I can see how this album helped shape the music of its time and location.
Isaac Hayes
3/5
Hello Children! Can't say I was expecting to hear Chef but I forgot he was a singer before joining South Park.
I dont listen to a lot of soul music so I don't have much reference to compare it to, but I enjoyed the album. The instrumentals matched up with his voice very smoothly and the rhythms were very nice. Having only 4 songs but being 45 minutes long is different from most albums but I think it worked well here. The first half of "By The Time I Get To Phoenix" was a bit slow but once he got going the song really cooked.
Electric Light Orchestra
4/5
Highlights:
Turn to Stone
Sweet Talkin' Women
Across the Border
Night in the City
Jungle
Standin' in the Rain
Summer and Lightning
Mr Blue Sky*
Birmingham Blues
Wild West Hero
This album was good. I enjoyed the various use of instruments. You could hear the influence of the time this music came out, with a lot of similarities to Queen, and Billy Joel in sound. A couple of the songs probably could have been omitted but I will definitely be coming back to this album and songs as well. Turn to Stone was a great starting song.
Yes
4/5
Highlights:
Roundabout
Can and Brahms
America
The opening baseline on Roundabout is a great start to the album. The extreme variance in lengths between songs makes for an interesting listening experience. While parts in the middle of the album kind of melded together it was an overall enjoyable experience and an album I can see myself returning to in atleast part.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Song thoughts:
Love Sick - smooth rhythms paired with Bob's ragged voice
Dirt Road Blues - a classic folk western song. The electric guitar sounds great on this song.
Standing in the Doorway - smooth soft rock paired with Bob's signature voice.
Million Miles - love the blues sound to the song, Bob knows how to make music.
Tryin' to Get to Heaven - Bob's unique voice is on display in this soft rock song.
'Til I Fell in Love with You - the instruments all work together perfectly. An easy song to just groove to.
Not Dark Yet - another song where everything works together.
Cold Irons Bound - love the bass line and intro. I can see this song playing over a scene where someone walks into a busy saloon.
Make You Feel My Love - this is a classic song, if you haven't listened to Adele's version you should go and do that. This is another excellent version.
Can't Wait - this song is funky and just makes you want to sway.
Highlands - not many songs can be this long and not feel like a drag.
This was an incredible album. Each song sounds unique while fitting the theme of the album. The instruments are always on point to blend with Bob's unique voice. I will definitely be coming back to this one!
Radiohead
2/5
Definitely a Radiohead album. I enjoyed this album well enough but it wasn't my favorite album by them. There were a few songs that stood out to me but jone on the level of OK Computer, The Bends or Kid A. Overall I probably won't be coming back to this album too much but I will still come back to Radiohead.
The Electric Prunes
3/5
Highlights:
Are You Lovin' Me More
Train for Tomorrow*
Sold to the Highest Bidder
Luvin'
The Toonerville Trolley
This album is very much a product of its time. I enjoyed the various sounds that the songs have. Many are unique sounding and utilize different styles. Not sure how much I will come back to this album but I would not complain if someone put it on. The short song lengths also made the album easy to listen to without worry of being distracted.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Highlights:
Rehab
You know I'm no Good
Me & Mr Jones
Back to Black
Valerie - Live
Cupid
Some Unholy War - Down Tempo
To Know Him Is To Love Him - Live
An excellent album from an excellent singer. Amy Whinehouse has a beautiful voice that is complimented by the mood and pacing of the songs. The first half of the album is nothing short of incredible. The second half doesn't quite hit the same high. The deluxe edition second disc adds some excellent tracks as well. Definitely an album I will come back to and one that I have listened to some of the songs many times in my life already!
Various Artists
3/5
Some classic Christmas songs. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) is best song on the album. Nothing special but enjoyable during the holidays
LCD Soundsystem
1/5
The singing borders on moaning. The beat on Time to Get Away is groovy but the singer keeps opening his mouth. Sometimes less is more, and less singer would definitely help this album. All My Friends is the first song where everything has worked together. Us V Them kind of sounds like the home depot commercial song. The base on Sound of Silver is funky.
I found this album to be jarring to listen to. The singer is not good and actively made songs worse. Most of the good instrumental pieces were made worse by including vocals. All My Friends was really the only highlight to me. This is not an album I have any intention of listening to again.
King Crimson
1/5
Highlights:
Easy Money
Hmm, I don't really know what to say about this album. It felt very subtle in its sound but I just didn't really feel it. Easy money was good but it felt like the only song that knew what it was about. I dont think I will come back to this one.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
I thought the instrumental parts of this album were really good. Elvis Costello doesn't have my favorite voice but it's good enough to not make me turn away from his music. Battered Old Birds and Uncomplicated were my favorite songs. Overall a decent album but one I probably won't listen to much on my own.
Metallica
3/5
Highlights:
Enter Sandman*
The Unforgiven
Wherever I May Roam
Nothing Else Matters
Don't Tread on My sampling the music from "America" in the musical West Side Story is great music writing.
This album was great at its peak and forgettable for a lot of it. Songs like Enter Sandman and Nothing Else Matters are metal music at its peak but many of the other tracks were mostly forgettable and slightly repetitive. This seems like a great album to listen to if you want background noise that involves heavy drums and guitars. I will definitely continue to listen to the good songs on the album but I dont plan on re-listening to the whole thing anytime soon.
Soundgarden
4/5
Highlights:
My Wave
Black Hole Sun
Spoonman
The Day I Tried To Live
Like Suicide
Chris Cornell has one of the most unique voices that makes every song he sings his own. This is a really good grunge album that doesn't feel overly repetitive. Black Hole Sun is probably one of the most well known songs from this era of grunge, but until you've heard my guy Dylan perform this song on Rockband, you haven't lived. Some of these songs were already in my rotation and I plan on coming back to this album.
Missy Elliott
3/5
This was a solid 90's hip hop album. The production and beats were super solid and were definitely a highlight to me. None of the rap was bad but much of it played second fiddle to the beats in my opinion. Not many of the tracks stood out to me individually but the album as a whole was enjoyable. Not sure how much I will come back to this one but one im glad we got.
The Band
2/5
Definitely a product of its time and age. An easy album to listen to but not a terribly memorable one. The Unfaithful Servent was my favorite track. If someone put this record on I wouldn't protest but I wouldn't be the one selecting it.
The Modern Lovers
2/5
I dont have too much to say about this one. The music wasn't bad but it wasn't particularly memorable. Road Runner was the highlight of the album. The singer has an interesting voice but I would rather listen to the Cars if I wanted something that had this feel. Not an album I plan to return to but decent enough music.
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
This album is incredible. Kendrick is a poet in both lyrics and flow. The production is incredible, the features are all on point. M.a.a.d city is probably one of my favorite rap songs of all time.
Ray Charles
5/5
Let the Good Times Roll - big energy song to open the album. Charles voice paired with the band is great music
It Had to Be You - A classic song that fits Charles style perfectly
Alexander's Ragtime Band - a fun swing style song. Big band is a style of music that deserves a comeback. Love the trumpets on this track.
Two Years of Torture - the way the trumpets come in and out really gives this song personality. Paired with the saxophone this is a fantastic track
When Your Lover Has Gone - a solid slower track
Deed I Do - another song where the brass section kills it. A real shame this type of music has faded out of the mainstream. It is truly incredible stuff.
Just for a Thrill - one of the first songs to focus on the piano more. A great combo with Charles voice
You Won't Let Me Go - this song makes you feel like you are sitting in a smoky jazz club enjoying your drink of choice and in the company of someone special.
Tell Me You'll Wait for Me - good song, not too often you can hear a triangle being used
Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin - switching it up to strings, the amount of different instruments featured on this album is impressive.
Am I Blue - like many of the songs on the back end of the album, this one is a slower song that goes from strings and woodwinds instead of brass instruments
Come Rain or Come Shine - beautiful song and great way to end the album.
This was a fantastic album. Charles has a magnificent voice and the backing instrumentals add something different to each song. From heavy brass on the more upbeat songs to strings on the slower tracks, along with Charles' classic piano brining it all together. Putting this record on while sipping a scotch and smoking a j sounds like a truly wonderful time.
Dinosaur Jr.
1/5
What the fuck did I just listen to? It felt like I was listening to a group of teenagers play in their parents garage. The singer didn't add anything, the guitar was decent but felt more loud at times than enjoyable. It wasn't all negative though, the album was only 38 minutes so it ends before your ears can bleed.
Jeff Beck
4/5
Highlights:
Shapes of Things
Let Me Love You
You Shook Me
Greensleeves
Blues Deluxe
I Ain't Superstitious
Thought it sounded like Rod Stewart singing, and then I learned, it was Rod Stewart!
I enjoyed this album. Rod Stewart providing his signature voice on the vocals, Beck's guitar play and the rest of the band bring a lot of personality to this album. Various styles throughout made the album not feel repetitive. Some of the songs were slightly weaker but maybe only 1 or 2 of the 10. Overall a solid album that I will definitely come back to.
The Zutons
4/5
Highlights:
Zuton Fever
Pressure Point
You Will You Won't
Remember Me
Dirty Dancehall
Moons And Horror Shows
Don't Ever Think (Too Much)
Like the use of various instruments and a big fan of the inclusion of the saxophone.
This was a fun album. Started off super strong and ended strong as well. The middle section wasn't at the same level but the album isn't too long so it moves quickly. I will be coming back to this album, atleast in part.
The Flaming Lips
3/5
Highlights:
Fight Test
Do You Realize??
I didn't love this album, but I also didn't hate it. A couple of songs stood out to me and would be the ones I'm most likely to go back to. The singer was okay but he fit the mood and music they were going for.
Justice
2/5
Highlights:
D.A.N.C.E
The Party
DVNO
I think I'm learning that I don't really enjoy the heavy distortion sound. I find it jarring and distracting.
I'm going to start by saying that this isn't music I normally listen to and I have very mixed feeling about this album. On a whole, I didn't really enjoy it, I found it to be over produced with the heavy distortion and distracting from the parts i did enjoy. With that said, I liked all the songs that featured lyrics and thought the underlying base lines to be really good throughout the album. I dont see myself coming back to this one but I probably would dance if one of these songs came on while I was out.
SAULT
4/5
This was a super solid album. I thought it built really well culminating in Monsters and Pray up Stay up. Definitely an album that you want to listen to the whole thing rather than individual songs. Easy to just sit and enjoy in the background, or listen to the lyrics and hear the experience of the author. One I can see myself coming back to in the future.
Malcolm McLaren
2/5
Strange album. Felt more like a bunch of indivual experiments that got combined into one album. None of the songs jumped out to me as something I need to come back to.
Metallica
3/5
The Metallica formula:
Slightly distorted electric guitar as the main feature
Hard Drums
James Hetfield's voice
Slow build
Pretty much all of their songs follow that formula and sound similar.
This album wasn't bad but it was repetitive. Outside of One, which is a great song, most of the songs sound very similar and the easiest way to tell them apart is wait for them to say the song title in the lyrics.
Portishead
4/5
I really liked the mood of this album. The singers voice really brought the melancholy feel and mood of this album to the forefront. While fairly simple and not too varying in style, the album was easy to listen to and culminated in Glory Box. I can see myself coming back to this album if I'm in the right mood.
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
Solid, old school soft jazz. An easy album to listen to and enjoy. This one didn't stand out to me that other similar albums have but it was still a solid album.
UB40
3/5
Highlights:
Tyler
12 Bar
This was an easy album to listen to. Nothing ground breaking but a solid album. I liked the softness of the sound and the general vibe they created in the studio. Not sure if I will come back to this but I wouldn't rule it out.
Billy Bragg
4/5
This is fantastic folk music. The album was easy to listen to and featured a lot of different sounds throughout. The short songs length made it easy to step away for a minute if you needed to pause. This is an album I will come back to.
Black Sabbath
4/5
I've never been a huge fan of Ozzie's voice so I was skeptical of how I would like this album. To say I was pleasantly surprised would be accurate. I thought this album was good from start to finish. Changes is an absolute gem in this album. When you think of Metal, you think aggressive and loud but this album was metal without being either of those. A genuinely enjoyable album that I will be coming back to.
Talking Heads
4/5
Solid album and definitely one I will come back to. Once in a Lifetime is a certified slapper and one of the best songs from the Era of this style. Really enjoyed the varying use of styles and instruments. Some of the songs weren't as good as others but the album as a whole is really good.
OutKast
5/5
Speakerboxxx:
An absolute slapper. If you aren't a fan or rap or interludes, this won't be for you. If you do like rap, this is a must listen to. Big Boi and Andre 3000 helped put Atlanta on the rap map and started a shift away from New York and LA as the rap centrals. The Way You Move is an all time rap song. Bowtie was another song that really stood out to me.
The Love Below:
This feels like Andre 3000's project more than Big Boi's. Hey Ya is probably one of the best songs of the the 21st century and Roses is another high point of this portion.
I liked Spearkerboxxx more than The Love Below overall. I thought The Love Below had the higher highs but the lower lows. Overall an incredible album, a bit long at times but it can easily be split. I would probably give Speakerboxxx a 5 and The Love Below a 4 if I rated them separately.
The Adverts
3/5
A solid punk album. Very much in line with the sound of its time. The album was easy to listen to but not very groundbreaking. None of the songs stood out to me as fantastic or must listen to's but if someone put this on I would enjoy it.
Ice T
4/5
Early gangster rap was just different. Ice T is incredibly articulate and well versed throughout the album. Every song is enjoyable and tells a message. The short breaks help bring more meaning and personality to the album. Body Count is a unique mix of rap and metal. Overall an a super solid album that I definitely plan to come back to. I think there are better albums from this era and of this style, but not many and I can see how this helped influence rap going forward.
Morrissey
3/5
A solid album. Morrissey has a good voice and he uses it well with the various instruments across the album. None of the songs stood out to me as must listens or come back to. But if someone put this on I wouldn't complain.
Foo Fighters
3/5
I wouldn't call this the Foo Fighters best album but that doesn't mean it isn't good and has merit in other ways. It is truly impressive that Dave Grohl basically wrote and performed the whole thing by himself before forming the full band for the tour. I would have to imagine that is was therapeutic for him following the death of Kurt Cobain and end of Nirvana.
As for the music on the album, it is solid. None of the songs were particularly noteworthy but the whole album is easy to listen to and Grohl's soft voice is always paired well with the harder rock of the instruments. I would probably give this a 3.5 if half star were allowed.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Not only does Stevie Wonder have an amazing voice, he is also an incredible musician. This album shows off both of those talents. Songs like Boogie On Reggae Woman, You Haven't Done Nothin', and Please Don't Go really set the standard for this record. Not too long of an album so you aren't committing yourself for too long. Some of the songs didn't stand out but not every song can. Definitely will be coming back to this one and Stevie.
Eels
5/5
When I started the album I didn't know what to expect. When I first heard the singer start I thought I was going to have problems with the album. I'm glad that I was wrong. This album is beautiful. The combination of the singers rough voice with the varying intensity of instruments works incredibly. My Beloved Monster was probably my top song, quick side tangent but I thought the singer sounded familiar and then I realized it was because this song was in the movie Shrek. Back to the review, definitely a worth while album to check out and one I plan to come back to. These are the kinds of albums that make this thing feel extra worthwhile since I never would have known to pursue this one if not for this.
The Yardbirds
3/5
He's always there - Banger
This was classic 1960's British music. I thought it was easy to listen to, featured solid instrumentals and good vocals. The more bluesy guitar rifts added some zest to the album. He's Always there was definitely the highlight song for me. Not sure if I would put this album on myself but I would listen to He's Always There and wouldn't ask someone to turn it off if someone did put this on.
This album is probably a 3.5 for me.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
There is a reason that Aretha is the Queen of Soul. This album is incredible. Franklin's voice paired with an excellent mix of instruments makes this a must listen to and one i will definitely come back to.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Back to back Aretha! Another excellent album from the Queen of Soul. While I enjoyed Lady Soul more due to it's overall uptempo nature. This album is also incredible and further cements her status in pop culture history. Also starting out the album with Respect definitely let's you know that you are in for a banger.
AC/DC
4/5
A lot of this album followed the same formula but if it isn't broke, don't fix it. AC/DC has a great sound mixing their more intense instruments with the Vocals of Scott. Highway To Hell is a great opening song and the rest of the album keeps up the same energy and rock. At 40 minutes the album doesn't drag on and each song is different enough to keep the listener engaged and rocking out.
Peter Frampton
4/5
This was a solid rock album made more fun by being Live. Frampton shows off his guitar skills while being good enough singing to not take away from the music. This feels like it definitely inspired acts like Dave Matthew's Band that lean into the live performance part of their act more than the studio album aspect. Some of the songs are classics like Show Me The Way and Baby, I Love Your Way. One I could see myself returning to for future listening.
The Pogues
5/5
Irish Folk Music is a guilty pleasure of mine so I was very happy to learn this was that. Add in the punk element and you have the recipe for a top notch album. The Band Played Waltzing Matilda is a beautiful and sad song. I will definitely be coming back to this (and diving further into The Pogues)
John Lennon
3/5
Not a bad album but I think I was expecting more from one of the frontmen from the Beatles. Imagine is a great song and I enjoyed a few of the other songs. This album didn't really feel like it was changing the game from what had been released at the time and felt closer to a Beatles album without Ringo, George and Paul
Solomon Burke
4/5
I love this old style music and Solomon has a fantastic voice. It reminds me of listening to Sam Cooke or Otis Redding. Not a terrible long album at 12 songs and 40 minutes. I thought the first have of the album was definitely stronger than the second half but more of a 5 vs 4 so not a huge difference
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Solid soul music. Very much a product of its time. I would probably come back to this and another listen might bring more out of it.
Marty Robbins
5/5
This album makes me feel like I'm sitting in an open windowed bar with a cool breeze and the sun shining. Marty Robbins really takes you away to the old western feel with this one. So many good songs including El Pase, Big Iron, Saddle Tramp and many more. Overall just an easy album to listen to and more importantly an enjoyable album to listen to. Not the first time I've heard many of the songs and it won't be the last.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
This is definitely not the type of music I tend to enjoy or listen to. I was pleasantly surprised though and did enjoy it. I would describe it as mood music and probably not something that will enter my rotation outside the occasional listen if I'm in the right mood. Made me think of the Dido song that is in Love Actually.
The Cardigans
4/5
I kept thinking they sounded familiar and that I knew them from somewhere. Then Lovefool came on and I knew why I recognized them.
This might be the most 90's pop album I've listened to in a long time. I enjoyed the singers softer voice paired with various instruments they used. Overall a solid album and one I know I will hear songs from going forward.
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
If I could give this album a 6 I would. Kendrick is an absolute poet and takes the music on this album to another level. The mix of various styles paired with his lyrics and flow creates a true rap masterpiece.
Every song on this album is unique and tells a story that relates to kendrick personally. This is one of my favorite albums of all time so I was glad we got to listen to it.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
I have mixed feelings on this but I will start by saying I overall enjoyed the album. I think the music is really good and it is easy to listen to.
What i didn't particularly enjoy, and I think it explains my issues with the last Elvis Costello album, is his voice. He sounds like the embodiment of the whiney main character from an 80's movie who definitely deserved to be bullied because he thinks he is better than everyone else. Give me a different singer and this is probably a 4 or 5.
The Smiths
2/5
I think this is a decent album and I can see how the smiths/ Morrissey have influenced music.
For me personally, I wouldn't go out of my way to put this on and it kind of faded more to background music instead of actively engaging me.
Neil Young
3/5
Neil Young has a very distinct voice that has a lot of subtle range. This is an easy to listen to soft rock album that is very much of its time. None of the songs stuck out to me as all timers but i also wouldn't call any of them bad. Overall a solid album but I will probably be searching elsewhere on Young's catalog if I'm going to listen to him.
The Damned
4/5
This was some good quality early punj music. You could hear the influence this album had on the genre. Easy to listen to and each of the songs was unique enough to not feel repetitive. I can see myself coming back to this if I'm in the mood for some punk rock.
Bob Dylan
4/5
Bob Dylan is an excellent writer of music. I liked his other album that we had before kore than this one but it was another solid entry from him. Easy to listen to and offers re-listenability.
U2
4/5
Starts off super strong with Sunday Bloody Sunday. I wouldn't say any of the other songs reach that height but it's still good music. U2 has been around forever and this was definitely one of the records that helped put them on the map.
Gorillaz
3/5
I'm conflicted on this one. On one hand the music is generally solid and switches up styles to keep it interesting. You also have some real strong highs like Clint Eastwood and 19-2000. On the other hand I found the album to be longer than necessary and that stretches would fade to the background. This album is obviously important as there isn't much music like the Gorillaz before this. There are songs I will come back to but I don't see myself listening to the whole album anytime soon.
Queen
4/5
I love Queen and this is some good stuff but it is definitely some of their earlier work. Seven Seas of Rye is an absolute slapper and this album has some solid other entries. Overall a good album that I would come back to. Probably wouldn't be my first choice of Queen but it's still Queen and still good.
David Bowie
2/5
Musically this wasn't Bowie's strongest album and I don't see myself coming back to listen to it again. With that said, this very much is a goodbye album from a man who was dying. The fact that Bowie died two days after releasing this album and recorded it while having cancer shows that he viewed this as his last task and once it was done, he was free to go. From that perspective it is an interesting album to listen to as you can see the influence of his knowledge that he will die after this album. I want to give this a higher score but the music just wasn't there for me.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
I enjoyed this album, I just wasn't blown away or in love with it. For when this came out, it is quite a revolution for music at the time and makes sense that their popularity cane later. I just don't see myself going out of my way to listen to it again.
Janelle Monáe
3/5
There are some real bangers on this album like Cold War and Tightrope. I like the various styles on the album and the ambition Janelle has with the album
I think the album is too long at times and the back half of the middle kind of drags on. I can see myself listening to some songs again but probably not the whole album. I do appreciate albums like this though since I wouldn't have known about it without this generator.
Turbonegro
3/5
Solid enjoyable punk rock album. In classic punk fashion they sing about everything and nothing throughout the album. Gave me Beastie Boys vibes at times which lines up with when the album came out. Probably wouldn't be at the top of my list to come back to but not something I wouldn't listen to again.
Scissor Sisters
5/5
It's fast, it's fun, it's Dominion!
Just kidding but this album was Fresh, funky and fun. Prior to listening to this album I knew of the Scissor Sisters but only through I Don't Feel Like Dancin'. This album almost felt like a modern disco album and you could hear the influence of the Bee Gees, Elton John, David Bowie and Pink Floyd. Every song was different and brought something new for the listener to enjoy. I will definitely be coming back to this album and plan to explore Scissor Sisters more going forward!
Van Halen
5/5
From start to finish this album bangs. Top notch Rock n Roll that brings something different with every track. Plus Eddie Van Halen is great on the guitar.
Radiohead
4/5
At their best, few bands are as creative or good as Radiohead. This feels like one of their older albums but not at the same time. The album really built its way up and by the end i was really feeling it. Not quite to the level of OK Computer or Kid A but a really solid album and one I would listen to again.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
Some good stuff and some okay stuff. A generally enjoyable album that had a really strong first half and a decent second half. I felt they were at their best when going more upbeat but more poetic when slowed down. This is the kind of album that made me wish half stars were allowed as I'm between a 3 and a 4.
Klaxons
3/5
Some good, some not as good. Overall I enjoyed how well they brought the noise together but this isn't my typical music and I don't see myself listening to it much going forward.
The Byrds
4/5
Some of the album kind of melded together in the middle and the ending got a but weird. But overall it was really good music that I plan to come back to. I can see how they influenced Dylan and the Beatles and also how they influenced the Byrds.
Jamiroquai
4/5
Best way to describe this album is funky. It was fun, upbeat and gave me 70s/Stevie wonder vibes. The back end of the album might have dragged a little bit but overall this was very easy to listen to and an artist I plan to explore more.
Charles Mingus
4/5
Jazz is definitely a music style that isn't supposed to be paused and returned to mid song. I did that a few times with this album as I made my way through it which made me re-start a few songs. When listened from start to finish the album is absolutely slapping with funky jazz. Easy to listen to and great music to do something to.
Beatles
5/5
Judging a Beatles album is never easy because the legend of the band is almost impossible to live up to. That said I will do my best. Side note, Paul McCartney is a better musician than John Lennon and that fact would upset him.
This album was really good, very few dips in quality throughout and the energy remains fairly consistent. They also switch up the mood of songs throughout to keep the listener engaged. Golden Slumbers and Carry the Weight really bring the back end of the album up. I can see why this album is so well regarded and the influence it had on music cannot be understated.
Pixies
2/5
I struggled with this album. I had a hard time wanting to continue it and never really got into it. I thought Dig For Fire and Down to the Well were the best tracks on the album. I recognize that Pixies were influential for the 90's grunge/alt rock movement but I will be choosing the bands they inspired over them every day of the week. Definitely not the worst album we have gotten but it isn't for me.
Marvin Gaye
3/5
I enjoyed this album. It was a little more subtle than I was expecting and would have liked to hear Marvin Gaye's range more. The music was solid and it worked well with his Lyrics. I hope we get more Gaye and a chance to see more of his range and style. Ultimately this album left me wanting more.
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
I liked this album. I thought that the music was really solid and very much 2000's rock. What really made this album though was the lead singer. His voice and style of singing was unique and the band knew how to musically bring the most out of it. I plan to explore this band more.
The Cure
2/5
This album was boring. None of the songs stuck out to me, I felt like I was listening to the same thing for the whole thing. I didn't think the music was bad or something I couldn't listen to but my God it just never changed.
Pretenders
3/5
Decent album but not that memorable. Brass in Pocket is probably the only song I'll hear and recognize. The singers voice is solid and the music has rhythm.
The Lemonheads
3/5
Short and to the point. This album almost feels about 10 years ahead of its time but that's probably why it is on the list. Reminded me of foo Fighters but with more punk than grunge. Overall I enjoyed the album and thought it was good. A little bit more probably would bump this up to the 4 or 5 range for me.
The Magnetic Fields
1/5
This wasn't it. Far too long to have any sort of rhythm or flow. Even if there were some songs that weren't bad they got lost in the slog that was this album. I do not plan on ever touching this album again. If the 3 disc's were all individual albums, I might have rated them higher but all together its a mess.
Kate Bush
4/5
Suspended in Gaffe went way harder than I expected it would when the song first started.
I appreciate what Kate Bush is doing here musically and would say it works for the majority. Prior to this I only knew Running up that Hill by her but im glad we got to explore her further. She has a very unique way of singing and constructing a song that I appreciate. I plan on coming back to this and further exploring her music catalog
Yes
4/5
Prog rock is a very interesting category of music. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. This album works. The melodies are nice, the instrumentals are unique and the music is enjoyable. Not sure how much I will explore this artist but this was a worthwhile album to listen to.
Boston
5/5
This album had amazing energy from start to finish. Starting off with "More Than a Feeling", "Peace of Mind", and "Foreplay/Long Time" is such a strong first 3 songs that the rest of the album could have been white noise and I would still give this atleast a 4. Thankfully the back half of the album is also solid, if not quite as good. I can see how this album was yhe best selling debut album at the time of its release.
Foreplay/Long Time may be one of the best rock songs ever written and the transition between the two parts is music genius.
Jazmine Sullivan
4/5
I had not heard of Jazmine Sullivan but I am glad to know who she is now. Super solid R&B album that you could tell meant something to her personally. At times it almost felt like a therapy session of her love life. The beats were good, the melodies silky and the interludes didn't negatively effect the album. I plan on coming back to Sullivan and exploring her music further.
Nina Simone
4/5
Nina Simone has an incredible voice hat she puts on display on this album. I love the way that this era of music sounds and the use of full bands. I thought at times it was a bit slower than I would like but the music was still solid in those times.
Red Snapper
2/5
I appreciate what this album was aiming for and at times it was an interesting listen. Overall though I just don't think this is a genre for me. I don't plan on coming back to this band or album.
Pulp
3/5
Solid British 90's rock. Unfortunately I didn't find it groundbreaking or something where a lot of the songs stuck out to me. Easy enough to listen to but something I probably won't come back to any time soon.
Beatles
3/5
From the Beatles, I expected more. Definitely one of their earlier albums. Outside of the songs I knew coming in, the rest of the album felt forgettable. Still solid music but I will be listening to other Beatles albums before this one in the future. Also, obligatory, Paul is the greatest Beatle of all time and John was a shitty person.
Alice Cooper
4/5
This album gave me Rolling Stones vibes. Makes sense based on the time of release. I was definitely skeptical coming in as I hadn't listened to much Alice Cooper but I was pleasantly surprised! No More Mr. Nice Guy is one i have heard before a great rock song but I was impressed with the rest of the album that I didn't know. Might not join my regular listening rotation but something I will come back to and not be opposed to exploring further.
Sabu
3/5
The guitar switch up in the second half of the album was very welcome. Overall it was enjoyable but a bit repetitive after a while. Drums as a focus always struggle as they are limited by the various sounds they can produce. Good background music but probably not something I will be pursuing for active listening in the future.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Funky, subtle and Definitely thought provoking. Another solid album from Curtis Mayfield. I found the beats to be funky, if not a bit similar sounding but nothing wrong with a sound that works. The subtle instruments work great with Curtis' softer voice. The message of the album is where this album shines as Mayfield sings about being black in America. My biggest issue is that I don't see myself coming back to this album very much, but I liked the music and would listen again.
Taylor Swift
5/5
This was always going to be an interesting review for myself. I am a fan of Taylor Swift but I wouldn't consider this one of my favorites of hers. I also listened to Taylor's Version but did not take the vault songs into consideration.
I think this album will ultimately be remembered as an influential pop album and one of the definitive albums of the 2010's. Prior to this album Swift was mostly known as a country artist who would sing about her ex lovers. This album definitely featured songs about ex lovers but was a drastic shift in her music to pop. And it really works for most of the album. "Welcome To New York" is an absolute Banger and great way to start the album. The first 10 songs are all incredibly strong songs. The back end of the album doesn't reach the heights of the first half but ends strongly with New Romantics. Some of these songs were definitely over played on the radio when they first were released but that doesn't mean they aren't still good songs. I already know I will come back to this album and will continue listening to Swift.
My last thing, we got this album the same day she released The Tortured Poets Department and I'm not sure if that was a coincidence or not. The vault also has some slappers like "Now That We Don't Talk" and "Is It Over Now."
The Doors
4/5
This album kind fo stands out for the Era of rock and roll it was released. Definitely a shame that Jim Morrison died early and wasn't able to continue making music. Got slightly repetitive near the end but lots of greats songs on this album definitely make it worthwhile to come back to.
The Clash
2/5
Ultimately this album just didn't do it for me. I'm a fan of punk and recognize that the Clash are a major part of popularllizing the genre but they have better albums than this. None of the songs stood out as genre defining and much of it melted together sound wise. I will continue listening to The Clash but probably not this album.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Ramble On alone elevates this album as it is an all time great rock song. The rest of the album is also solid. Led Zeppelin is really good at incorporating various sounds and instruments into their music to expand the experience. They have better albums than this one but it is still a worthwhile listen to that I will come back to.
New Order
3/5
Solid album that I enjoyed more than I thought it would. Definitely an 80's album and not one that really stood out as ground breaking to me. The first song made me think I was at the jellyfish rave with SpongeBob. Probably won't be pursuing more of their music but I wouldn't complain if it was on.
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
Definitely an interesting album and not the easiest to rate. There are some absolute bangers on here, Girls Just Want to have fun and Time After Time are true classics. There are also some filler songs, and the albums only 40 minutes long. Overall though I enjoyed it and will rate it so. Not sure if this is one that I will actively pursue for myself but it's good and hearing the music is worth it.
Tears For Fears
3/5
Good, solid album. I've noticed that with a lot of 80's albums I recognize the big songs and I am hearing the rest for the first time. Shout and Everybody wants to rule the world are songs I've heard most of my life and enjoy. I think they have a very distinct sound while still capturing the feel and mood of the Era they made music in. Overall a solid album and one I will probably hear songs from going forward.
Khaled
3/5
Interesting album. Not everyday that we get a foreign language album and they always pose an interesting challenge to judge. I thought musically this was a solid album. I do like to know what the singer is saying a lot of the time so that was a challenge. The use of different instruments and music styles was definitely an interesting switch up. Not sure if this is something I will actively pursue going forward but im glad we got this album.
Brian Eno
1/5
The first half of the this album felt slightly generic but like a solid rock album of its time. Then Driving Me Backwards came on and ruined the album. Just a bad song that ushered in an over usage of distortion on the second half of the album. Blank Frank was another bad song. The majority of this album was forgettable with the remainder being bad.
Talking Heads
3/5
Solid album, definitely earlier work for them. Take Me to The River is a Banger but the rest of the album was a little forgettable and felt like a trail run for their albums to come. Might not come back to this album specifically but I will keep listening to the talking heads
Pink Floyd
5/5
A true masterpiece that culminates in Wish You Were Here. I can see how some people might find the album slow at the start but it does not stay slow for long. Hard to find much fault or anything negative to say about this one.
Air
3/5
Electronic music is generally not my favorite, and while I don't plan to re-listen to the album, it was enjoyable. The beats weren't over produced and made the listening easy. The melodies tended to match the beats and weren't completely unhinged (an issue I have with electronic is the random vocals that are just saying random nonsense). Overall a solid album but one that isn't really for me specifically.
The Teardrop Explodes
4/5
I had no expectations coming into this album but left feeling satisfied. The music is easy to listen to and doesn't come off overly repetitive. I thought the back end started to drag a bit but the first half of the album was super solid and a joy.
The Divine Comedy
4/5
This album has the feel of a play with the way it ebbs and flows while building towards the end. I won't say it was always my favorite music but the album overall was enjoyable and definitely thought through. It didn't drown itself in repetition that can happen as an album approaches an hour. The album reminded me to listening to an Andrew Lloyd Webber production. The Dogs & The Horses is an excellent final track that brings the album together. I think it would take another listen to fully judge this album but my score reflects how I felt after my initial listen through.
Beatles
5/5
The first half of this album made me understand the hype around the Beatles more. Absolutely fantastic music. Blackbird is a beautiful song, though Piggies is certainly a choice for follow up. Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da is super catchy and different from what one would expect. Throw in that no one else had done much of what they did and it is even more impressive. I thought the back half of the album got a bit winded at times but still had some solid entries like Revolution 1 and Helter Skelter. I think this album is probably a 4.5.
Lorde
5/5
A younger female artist who writes her own music and produced by Jack Antonoff, where have I seen this before l?
In all seriousness this album was fantastic. I knew of Lorde's music mostly from the radio so I was excited to get one of her albums. And I was not disappointed. I always think music is better when the lyrics are personal to the artist and Lorde is a great example. Add in the production of Antonoff and you have a masterpiece. This is a great modern pop album that I'm surprised doesn't get talked about more after listening to it. Green Light is a fantastic opening song and sets a tone that stays throughout. The songs don't get repetitive and the album doesn't draw longer than it needs to. Definitely one I will come back to and an artist I plan to further explore.
Blondie
4/5
Super solid album and it's easy to see why this put them on the map. Heart of Glass is obviously the most popular song and deservedly so, it's hard to not feel that beat when it is on. I can see myself coming back to this album, not too long, good, and easy to listen to.
2/5
Musically I would say I generally enjoyed this album. I thought the baselines were funky and where the album was at its best. I'm not a huge fan of Fry's voice, it's trying to be seductive but sounds more whiney. I would listen to more Mark White compositions but I dont see myself coming back to this group. If I could give half stars this would be a 2.5
Shivkumar Sharma
3/5
Perfect background music for doing work. I liked getting to hear various instruments that aren't too common in western music. Overall not the most exciting album and a lot of it sounded similar but I liked it. It was peaceful to listen to and one I could see myself throwing on while at work for background music.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Hendrix is an artist I have struggled to get into despite generally enjoying his music when I hear it. I think he is an incredible guitarist and his music is always solid. He doesn't have the best voice but that's not important with his guitar. I think ultimately, he distorts his guitar a lot and that's not my favorite sound but he doesn't over do it the way other artists have. I could really hear the influence he had on future bands as a lot of the melodies sounded like RHCP songs. Not sure how much I will come back myself, but the music is good and something i wouldn't ask to be changed. Also deserves credit for the influence.
Harry Nilsson
4/5
I really enjoyed this one. I thought Nilsson has a nice voice and i was surprised at the number of songs I recognized. I know some of the songs were covers but they felt like Nilsson tried to make them his own. I can see myself coming back to this album.
Adele
5/5
19 put Adele on the map. 25 and 30 are both excellent albums but 21 is her best work. Book ended by Rolling in the Deep and Someone Like You, this album is incredible from start to finish. Her melodies pair perfectly with the softer music and boom when needed. The only song I wouldn't put on outside the album is Lovesong and even then I won't skip it when listening to the album. One of my personal favorite albums of all time, I knew my score before listening and the listen through re-solidified my opinion.
Tom Waits
1/5
It felt like this album was trying to do a lot but accomplished very little. At times it was hard to hear what was going and he didn't enunciate anything. I liked Gin Soaked Boy but that was the only song that I liked. Maybe I just didn't get the album but it felt like the kind of album I would like in theory.
Donovan
4/5
Enjoyed this one a lot. Season of The Witch was the only song I knew coming in so I was excited to get more Donovan. It felt like he had a concept and executed it the way he wanted to. Easy to listen to and one I will come back to.
4/5
Good, easy to listen to, funky music.
ZZ Top
3/5
Easy to listen to classic rock. I thought at times some of the songs kind of melded together. Waitin' for the Bus was a great opener. Not sure if I would listen to the whole album again but I would listen to certain songs and more ZZ Top.
Michael Jackson
3/5
For me personally, Michael is at his best when the songs are more up beat and he can show off his range and inflection. This album has some of that and is where it is at its best. A lot of this album is a little slower and less to his style. A solid debut solo album but I think his best work comes after this album.
808 State
1/5
I feel like there is a better album that can be used instead of this one for this genre. At not point did the music get above background noise level and it actively got worse culminating in whatever that last song was. I'm not a fan of this genre and I will not be pursuing any more from this artist.
Culture Club
3/5
Fairly generic 80's pop for most of the album, very in line with wham or george michael. Enjoyable album that definitely starts off with its best song. Not sure if I would put the whole album on again but Karma Chameleon is a bop.
Laibach
4/5
I didn't expect to like industrial eastern European rock from the 80's but here we are. Definitely not my normal music but the rhythmic order was very enjoyable to listen to. I thought the first half of the album was stronger than the second but I enjoyed the whole album. The chanting with the banging of the drums is very easy on the ears.
Eagles
4/5
Hotel California might be one of the most overplayed radio songs, but I am loathe to admit that it is a good song. Overall this is a solid album and I can see how it influenced music. Life in the fast lane is a great song and the ones I hadn't heard before were all good songs. I know I will hear many of these songs in the future even if I don't listen to the album by itself.
The White Stripes
3/5
My biggest issue with this album is that it kind of melds together as it goes on, which is a shame as it is enjoyable to listen to and has good songs. I don't know if I would put this album on again from start to finish but I would definitely listen to songs from the album. Musically, they are very talented and that shows throughout the album. I would give this a 3.5 if half stars were allowed.
Steely Dan
3/5
Solid album with some of their beat known songs. Not particularly groundbreaking but good music. I don't think I would put the album in again but I know there are songs I will continue to hear.
Iron Maiden
2/5
Not bad music but it also didn't hold my attention. Faded into the background and melded into the next artist that I didn't even realize the album was over. I won't fault anyone for liking this album or wanting to listen to it, but there are better albums out there.
Beatles
3/5
The Beatles don't really make bad music but that doesn't mean all of their music needs to be placed on an alter. This album has some great song, Eleanor Rigby, Yellow Submarine, Got To Get You Into My Life, are all fantastic tracks that I will continue listening to. But ultimately, too much of this album is forgettable for how short it is.
New York Dolls
3/5
Stones-esque sound. Definitely a lead into punk but with much of the original rock influence. Solid album, nothing special.
OutKast
3/5
At its peak, this album is a 5. Unfortunately this album spends too much time below it's peak. I think this album very clearly influenced how rap was produced the following decade and is a really good album.
A few issues I have are:
Length, any album over an hour starts to be too long and needs to justify that length
Interludes, I like interludes but i feel like the ones on this album don't add too much.
Songs outside the hits, this album is very much defined by the top 3 songs.
I appreciate what Outkast is doing with this album and will continue listening to the songs I like, Unfortunately I just didn't find the album as a whole to be at the same standard as their followup.
Madonna
2/5
Looking back on 90' pop-electronica is like looking back on chrome from sci fi in the 50's/60's. You understand why they might have thought that was the future at the time but know also why it didn't pan out. You are also happy it didn't.
The best way I can describe this album is boring, literally the opposite of what Madonna represents within pop culture. Ray of Light was the only song that stood out, it was also the only song I knew coming in and i now see why. I hope we get another Madonna album because this one wasn't it.
Snoop Dogg
4/5
West Coast rap remains undefeated. This album slaps. I wouldn't consider snoop to be a rapper I go out of my way to listen to but I'm never upset when he is played and this album helped get him going. Gin and Juice is one of the best songs to just put on and vibe to. I do think there is better rap out there so I won't give this a 5, but I enjoyed this album from start to finish.
Björk
3/5
Initially I struggled with this album and I would still say it isn't one I plan to just put on and listen to. That said, I thought the album got better as it went on and the music grew on me. Definitely an interesting album.
4/5
The first 3 songs of this album might be the best 3 song stretch of U2's discography, which is impressive considering how many albums they have. Those 3 songs alone help take this album up a notch. The problem is the rest of the album is fairly forgettable. You could replace the last 8 songs with any random combo of U2 songs and the album would probably be very similar. Overall this album is good and probably U2 at their best, even if I had issues with parts of it
5/5
Hard to find much wrong with this album. From start to finish Bowie takes you on a journey with every song offering something different yet still being cohesive. Starman, Lady Stardust, and Ziggy Stardust are my top 3.
Lambchop
2/5
I wouldn't call this bad music but it wasn't for me. I found the lead singers voice to be distracting and the music kind of faded to the background.
Laura Nyro
4/5
Enjoyed this one from start to finish. She has one of those classic 60's voices that is easy on the ears. The backing instrumentals were also well performed. No individual song really stood out to me but none also made me want it to end. Nit sure how much I will come back to this one but happy we got to heat it.
Deep Purple
3/5
This is some 70's rock if I've ever heard any. Solid guitar rifts with drums and bass being more rythym. Smoke on the water is easily one of the most recognizable openings in rock history. Overall though, probably not something I will be coming back to. I would probably just listen to Boston if this was the music I wanted to listen to. While I thought none of the songs were bad, most weren't memorable or left me with no lasting impression
Lazy has a tremendous opening and I wouldn't have known about this song without this listen through.
Nine Inch Nails
1/5
If I ever here any song from this album, that isn't Hurt (and hopefully then it's the Johnny cash version), it's an instant skip. Industrial rock is just ear torture.
Duran Duran
4/5
Solid album that is definitely propped up by the two most known songs. Rio is a top opening song and really sets the mood for the album. A lot of the songs sounds fairly similar and the middle sort of melds together. I would say this album is better than a 3 but not quite a 4.
Cat Stevens
5/5
I knew of Car Stevens and had heard some of his songs previously (including father and son) but I must apologize for not being familiar with this man's game. This album is a masterpiece of song writing. Every song tells a story and just flows beautifully. He never tries to step outside of the box he can perform within but pushes his abilities to maximize their effects. I can see some people finding this album slower and potentially "boring" but I think those people are wrong.
ABBA
4/5
ABBA has been a band I've listened to for a while, but mostly in association with Mamma Mia or their Gold album. It was nice to get one of their studio releases to see how it holds up. And it does hold up. Definitely an early album from them but filled with some great songs from them. Dancing Queen, Knowing Me Knowing You, Money Money Money, Fernando. All slappers and that isn't even all the ones on the album. This would definitely be a 4.5 if half stars were allowed but a really solid album nonetheless that I will come back to.
Morrissey
1/5
Morrissey is fart sniffing for music snobs. My favorite song was the one where Morrissey sang in a monotone and a soft guitar played in the background, oh wait, that was every song. If the color beige was an album, it would be this album. Please no more Morrissey or Smiths.
The Police
3/5
Solid album that is easy to listen to. Sting has a really unique voice that definitely is on display. Every Breath You Take is a classic. I would have given this album a 4 but I can't let the song Mother go unpunished. It doesn't fit with the rest of the album and has none of the charm the rest of the songs have.
AC/DC
5/5
From start to finish this is just good rock n roll. Easy to understand why this is the 2nd best selling album of all time. Not much to say except Rock n Roll Ain't Noise Pollution.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Fuck. That is album is a masterpiece. The amount of styles and singers utilized, and still making it work together is an impressive feat that isn't easy to pull off. Transitioning from Songbird to The Chain is an absolute wild change in song style and yet it doesn't feel forced. It also helps that both songs are amazing. I could keep pushing over the things this album does but nothing I will say will change the impact this album had, and continues to have, on music.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
Really good album. I think my biggest negatives are that it can sound fairly similar at times, is probably a little longer than it needs to be, and it front loads the best songs at the start. Ultimately those aren't that bad, just the things that kept this album from a 5. With that said, it's an easy to listen to album that throws the listener right in with Around the World. The first 6 songs are the best part of the album and the back end starts to listen more like filler but is still good music. Definitely one that will get play going forward, atleast songs from it will.
Shack
2/5
This definitely wasn't a bad album, but it didn't feel different from a lot of soft british rock made in the 90's/00's. None of the songs stood out to me on an individual basis and a lot of the music just turned into background noise. Probably won't come back to this one but wouldn't care if it was played where I am.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Decent album. The lead singer has a unique voice that definitely helps add to the charm but I wouldn't call the music groundbreaking. Jane Says is the only song I knew coming in and probably the only one I would put on by myself.
The Pretty Things
4/5
I listened to this album broken up over time, so I'm doing my best to review fairly. Overall a super solid album, a lot of the sounds they were utilizing would take off in the decades that follow. Felt like this album would be more well known if the Beattles had released it. Definitely one I would come back to.
DJ Shadow
2/5
Background music. Not much else to say about this one, it faded into the background and I could not identify any individual songs. Wasn't bad music but definitely not something that stood out to me. I know DJ Shadow is one of the original producers who brought this music to the forefront but it will never be more than working background music for me.
Erykah Badu
3/5
Solid album that is both sound musically and vocally. My biggest gripe would be that the album is too long, 20-30 minutes could be cut and the album wouldn't lose much. The other issue plays along the same line, but it's just a bit repetitive. I understand keeping the vibe similar but 1.25 hours of soft r&b needs something to stand out. With that said, she has a great voice and stays within a music range that she can thrive in. I found this to be great work music but probably not something I would throw on in my car or leisure time.
Keith Jarrett
5/5
Absolutely beautiful music.
The Pogues
3/5
Didn't quite hit the consistent high on their other album we've gotten. Still enjoyed it as I like this type of music. Fairytale of New York is a Christmas classic and definitely one I will be coming back to.
Buena Vista Social Club
5/5
I may not have understood a word they said, but the great thing about the universal language of music is that you don't need to understand what they are saying to enjoy it. This was easy to listen to, smooth, and just all around enjoyable. I was also able to recognize some melodies from other songs that I have a sneaking suspicion drew inspiration from this. Definitely one I'll be coming back to. This made me wish I was somewhere warm, with a nice breeze, enjoying a nice cervaza and some chips and salsa.
Jack White
4/5
You know with Jack White what you will be getting, and I was still pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this album. While it had his distinct style that has defined the White Stripes, he still fits in various styles and mixes up the sound. Genuinely enjoyed, but probably not one I'll come back to often just because White Stripes/Jack White is definitely music I need to be in the right mood for.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
Not really my style and at times a bit repetitive and fading into the background. With that said, I enjoyed it more than I initially thought I would. Probably not something I'll come back to, but not bad music.
Rahul Dev Burman
3/5
It's always interesting getting music from different cultures or places. I enjoyed this album, and I'm sure it has some significance but I feel like there could have been a better album to use. Overall solid though, just not one I would come back to.
Funkadelic
3/5
Who would have thought that band with the name Funkadelic would sound funky? Jokes aside this was a solid album that doesn't appear to take itself too seriously. I wouldn't call it my favorite, and the fart noises at the end were definitely unnecessary. Musically it focused heavily in the instruments, which were all solid.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
This album just makes me want to grab a good chair, some cold beers and smoke a joint while enjoying the vibes. This is the first full Bob Marley album I've listened to and I can understand why he was as big as he was. Easy to listen to with some stand outs like Stop That Train. I'm excited to come back to this one and further explore Bob Marley & The Wailers.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
This is classic folk music, easy to listen to but not necessarily overly complicated. I enjoyed it but not one I would put on outside of a few specific instances.
Machito
4/5
I've learned that I need to explore more Latin jazz music. While a lot of it ended up melding together, it was never bad and was great work music. Definitely situational for when I would listen but that doesn't take away from the quality or enjoyment.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
If I've learned anything in the past week listening to the albums, it's that I need to be listening to more Bob Marley & The Wailers. Just genuinely enjoyable music, that all works together and has a good message. Not a single song where I would want to skip and move on. I will give it a small knock for kind of melding together at times, but another good album form them.
Nick Drake
5/5
I'd never heard of Nick Drake and didn't know what to expect. To say I'm glad this album is on here is an understatement. What a fantastic listen. His guitar skills are incredible and he keeps the music within his range. This reminded me of listening to Dave Matthews like at Radio City, one of my favorite albums. I will definitely come back to this one. I also thought it improved as it went on and really hit it's stride in the final 3 songs.
U2
4/5
Overall I probably enjoyed this album as a whole more than The Joshua Tree, but none of the individual songs reached the same level as the opening 3 songs from that album. Going back and listening to the whole albums it is easy to see how U2 became the force in music they are known to be. One is a beautiful song and is easily one of their best written songs. This is an album I could see myself coming back to but there are definitely songs from it that I will continue listening to.
My Bloody Valentine
1/5
If the sound you heard from Tinnitus was an album, it would be this one. The biggest compliments I can give this album are that I was mildly indifferent to it at times and that it ended. If I never hear this album again, I will be happy and content.
Rush
5/5
Neil Peart is one of my favorite drummers, if not my favorite. The way he sets the tone for the band with Geddy Lee's voice is fantastic. This album has some real top songs from them as well, Tom Sawyer and Limelight being the standouts, but the rest of the album is also worth listening to. Definitely an album and a band I will be coming back to.
Calexico
3/5
Solid music that was enjoyable to listen to. It did fade into the background at times and wasn't the most engaging at times. Not something I will be coming back to much but enjoyable enough to not want to avoid.
Kanye West
5/5
First and foremost before I do my review, I would like to acknowledge that Kanye West is not a good person who supports Neo Nazi ideals and refuses to work on his mental health issues as they continue to worsen.
Now to the review where I will just be looking at the music, and not the man
This might be one of the greatest rap albums ever made, and I am skeptical that we ever get another album with this level of collaboration. Every song is unique, and yet they all work together. All of the features are on point, the production is top level, and the album never drops on quality. Runaway is 9 minutes pure gold. I truly do miss the old Kanye who continually pushed rap in new directions before his ego and mental health couldn't separate from each other.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
Solid album. I enjoyed hearing Neil Young going more rock that some of his older stuff and each song was enjoyable. My two biggest gripes would be the length and most of the songs were similar. The album kind of melded together in the middle.
George Harrison
4/5
This album has made me appreciate George more as a musician. I didn't have a hard time with any parts of this album and genuinely enjoyed it. A couple of things I will say is that it is a long album which those tend to be easier to fade into the background. It also very much sounded like a Beatles album, but that is partly to be expected. Overall I thought this was better than Imagine by Lennon and will keep listening to George going forward.
Steely Dan
3/5
Easy to listen to classic rock. I thought the two best songs were the first and last with the middle being okay. It's probably a 3.5 for me if we could give half stars
Songhoy Blues
4/5
Sometimes it's nice listening to musics in languages I don't know for the poetry of the sound. I found that I was able to appreciate the voice as an instrument rather than vocals since I didn't know what was being said. I thought the rest of the music was also easy to listen to and enjoy. I wasn't expecting blues music from west Africa but I can see myself coming back to this one.
Grizzly Bear
2/5
This is sad boy music. I recognized the song Two Weeks and after listening to the album, I know why that's the only song I know from this album. Generally forgettable and tried to do too much. There is worse stuff out there and it wasn't bad as much as mediocre at best.
Les Rythmes Digitales
3/5
This was an interesting album. Definitely not a type of music that I normally listen to or seek out. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the album as the rhythms were very enjoyable. With that said, it was very repetitive at times and not every song did it for me. Overall I enjoyed the album and thought it was excellent work music. Disco II Disco was somehow good and bad at the same time, which I think sums up the album as a whole.
The War On Drugs
4/5
I had no expectations or idea what this would sound like. I definitely wasn't expecting modern rock that was clearly inspired by Dylan and Tom Petty. This was a really enjoyable album. From start to finish they did a solid job of making the music interesting and easy to listen to. There were a couple songs that probably could have been cut but not enough to not make this a good album. I will definitely be coming back to this as well as diving deeper into this band. These are the kinds of albums I love coming across since I never would have found this on my own.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
I wasn't expecting this album to be as blues influenced as it was, but I liked that. If they ever made a list of top 10 album opening songs, Sympathy for the Devil would be honorable mention at worst. Overall a solid album, the stones are obviously a big name in rock so not too much needs to be said about them.
Sepultura
4/5
I will say that I enjoyed this album a lot more than I thought I would. Heavy metal is generally not my favorite genre, and it normally has to do with the vocals or the guitar. I thought the guitar was solid and not overly distorted, which is normally where my problem comes from. The vocals were definitely my least favorite part of the album, but they weren't the worst metal vocals, so they didn't bother me that much. The drums were on point, and I do love hard hitting drums. Overall I enjoyed the album, not sure how often I'll come back to it, but always nice to be proven wrong based on initial thoughts.
Jethro Tull
5/5
Prog rock is one of the most volatile genres we've come across, with no idea what to expect. This was one of the times where it worked. From start to finish this album was easy to listen to and kept the listened engaged. You don't often get a flute in rock feature this prominently and it absolutely worked. I will definitely come back to this album and might explore the artiest further. Would probably be a 4.5 with half stars but I'm going to round up as I enjoyed the whole thing.
Spacemen 3
1/5
Not a fan of this one. I found it to be boring, mediocre, and forgettable. I am also not a fan of overly distorted guitar so it also loses points for that.
Fela Kuti
4/5
Energetic, fun, and easy to listen to. I was unfamiliar with Fela Kuti but it seems I should familiarize myself with more if his work. If you love vocals, you might struggle with this one, but it is good music and easy to appreciate.
The Velvet Underground
2/5
Some of this album was really enjoyable to listen to, some of it not so much. I liked what they were going for but they didn't excute effectively at times. Herion and European Son were big misses for me and definitely dragged down the album. Run Run Run was solid.
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
I don't care for industrial metal/music, and this didn't change my thoughts on it. Incoherently hard to listen to at times, it felt like my ears were being tortured for an hour. I will say that the first half was more jarring than the second, but neither were enjoyable. If you enjoy this music, good for you, but I will leave this to you and continue pursuing other music.
M.I.A.
4/5
Paper Planes was the only song from this album coming in, and it still slaps. I found the rest of the album to be enjoyable as well, maybe not always at the same standard and a few songs dropped the ball. Overall though, I enjoyed this album and was bopping along most of the time.
Sinead O'Connor
4/5
The 90's was quite the time for female Irish singers. I really like Sinead's voice and I think she did a good job of pairing music that matched her range and style. I can't say any individual songs blew me away, but none of them stood out as bad either. Over all a solid album that I enjoyed listening to.
Adele
5/5
Following up her previous album was never going to be easy, but Adele found a way. While I prefer 21 for myself, I have to acknowledge that 25 is a great album. Starting off with Hello, which you couldn't avoid when initially released, she sets the tone for the album right away that she is back with her beautiful voice. I think the next couple songs were slightly lower in quality but when you get to When We Were Young, the album fully hits it stride. I would probably give this album a 4.5 with half stars and have it closer to a 4.75 overall.
Television
4/5
This was a classic case of a good album but not great. All of the songs were solid and worked together, but none absolutely floored me or blew me away. Overall though this is about the album and you could see the influence this album would have going forward. Not sure how much I'll come back to it but certainly not something I'll avoid. Probably a 3.5 with half stars
Madonna
3/5
This album started off super strong with Like A Prayer and Express Yourself. Then it slowly falls off. I didn't think the album was bad but I was hoping for better after the strong start. I liked this one better than the other Madonna album we got but I'm still looking for something better from the queen of pop.
Anthrax
3/5
Solid Metal album. Heavy Metal is jot generally my favorite genre, but I found this more enjoyable than most. The instruments were definitely the star with the singing being good enough. Probably not something I would come back to, but an album I'm glad we got to expand my musical horizons. 3.5 with half stars.
Motörhead
2/5
Not really that memorable. Kind of all just melded into one continues sound. The sound wasn't really bad but it was just loud rock that was hard to distinguish from one song to the next. Not really my favorite genre so I might be slightly biased.
Louis Prima
5/5
You always hear people say "they don't make music like they used to" and I think this album embodies that. I would first like to say that their isn't anything wrong with modern music and we don't need to be making music the same way. But this album has a timeless charm that is different from what is being made in music today. Louis Prima is a fantasictally unique voice, and paired with the upbeat tempos and trumpets, it's incredible. Every song had me grooving and I will definitely be back for more.
Johnny Cash
5/5
Short, simple, and to the point. Not really much to critique on this one. All you can say is, Johnny Cash
Bob Dylan
4/5
After a few Dylan albums you kind of know what to expect from him. Good lyrics that flow smoothly, a nice guitar to go along with it, and the harmonica. And more than not, it's good. I wouldn't say this is my favorite Dylan album, but the music has been enjoyable and I had a good time listening to the album. This album didn't have any songs that I knew and I think that made it good to listen to for expanding my knowledge of his music. Won't avoid this one going forward.
Japan
2/5
I can appreciate the music here, as it seems like this was an earlier synth album. But it was kind of boring and the singer sounded too close to Morrisey for my liking. Probably won't be coming back but I don't think it's bad music.
Brian Eno
4/5
I thought the first half of this album was fantastic! King's Lead Hat was a really good song that I enjoyed. I thought the second half was still decent but I wasn't feeling the slower pace as much. Overall I enjoyed this album. Not sure if I will come back to the whole thing, but there are definitely songs I will.be listening to again. Another album I wouldn't have known about with this list.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Book ending your album with Gimme Shelter and You Can't Always Get What You Want really isn't fair. And while those songs are great and deserve their praise, I was incredibly impressed with the rest of the albums. You could hear the blues influence on this album and it works fantasticly. This might be my favorite Stones album that we have gotten so far.
Public Enemy
4/5
Chuck D and Flava Flav bringing the heat with this one. This album is very 90's rap/hip hop in a great way. Smooth rhymes, well put together songs and an album that flows. My biggest gripe with the album would be length, and that's more nitpicky than an actual problem. Definitely gonna be exploring them more and coming back to this one.
The Cure
3/5
I can appreciate that this album impacted music and that the Cure is a well known band. Overall I thought it was an okay album. There are definitely worse albums we have gotten as well as much better ones. Probably a 2.5 with half stars.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
I think the stones are at their best when they lean into the blues more than some of their other styles. We had Let It Bleed earlier this week and I thought that album did a better job of that. This album was still super solid and has helped me appreciate the stones more as a band than I did before we started this journey. Paint it Black is a great starting song and going home was a good ender. Definitely more of an album to be appreciated start to finish than as individual songs.
John Coltrane
5/5
The saxophone is an under appreciated and under utilized instrument these days. Coltrane shows the power of the instrument and put together an excellent jazz album. Jazz in general doesn't seem to get the love it deserves any more but most people will recognize it's influence for music. I can understand why Jazz can be hard for some people but when that moment clicks and you hear it come together, few other music genres can even compare.
Kanye West
5/5
I would first like to acknowledge that Kanye is a nazi sympathizer and an anti semite. For the purposes of this review I will just be looking at the art and not the artist.
This album is quite the way to announce your way on the scene. So many different styles and bangers. The skits don't feel over bearing or getting in the way of the music and help tell the story of the album. Jesus Walks, Never Let Me Down and many others are absolute rap bangers. It's a shame Kanye hasn't taken care of his mental health and allowed himself to fall from what little grace he had previously
Queen
5/5
Coming into this album, I knew Killer Queen and Now I'm here. Both of those are fantastic, but I was equally impressed by the rest of the album. One thing queen does really well is showcase the talents of all of them. While Freddie is electric and shines the brightest, this album, and queen in general, do not work without Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacan being the quality of musicians that they are. In a Beatles-esque sense, the band works because everyone works together, and by all accounts they actually liked each other. While Freddie's time was cut short, it can't be denied that queen was a force in their day and albums like this are a big reason why. Even trying to be nit picky, I am struggling to find something in this album to criticize it for. I will be back for more.
Scott Walker
4/5
I did not know who Scott Walker was coming into this album. After listening, I'm glad he was included. This was a really easy to listen to album that was enjoyable. I thought he was a bit of a wild man with the lyrics but the music was solid start to finish. I would need to explore further to find individual songs that I like more than others but overall I was impressed and enjoyed listening to the album
The Smiths
1/5
Before starting this album journey I knew who the smiths/Morrissey was but had never listened to them. After their first album I thought I could understand why they were recognized for what they did. After the 5th or so album, I don't get it at all. Fuck Morrissey and Fuck the Smiths. Actual nonsense music that would sound the same if a wailing donkey was singing. The only good thing about this album is that it's under 40 minutes and doesn't drag out the torture.
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Stevie is a madman on the mic and this album demonstrates that. Sir Duke, I Wish, Isn't She Lovely are all fantastic songs that I knew but I was further impressed by the rest of the album. Pastime Paradis surprised me and i now know where Coolio got the sample for Gangsta's Paradise. My biggest complaint would be length, I don't personally enjoy albums that go over an hour as it usually means somethings can be cut. I'm not sure what you would cut from this album. It would probably be a 4.5 with half stars but I'll be rounding up for this one.
4/5
Another solid entry from the Beatles. I know a lot of people rate this one, and while I liked it, I thought it dipped more than some of their other albums. When I'm Sixty Four was one I hadn't heard before that I really enjoyed.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
5/5
Bangers. Big band is a genre that needs to be revitalized. The energy that this album brings is incredible and only surpassed by the quality of the music being produced. I've learned from this journey that I need more Jazz/Swing/Big Band in my life as these albums are all fantastic.
Fever Ray
2/5
I wouldn't say this is the worst album we've gotten, as most of the 1 stars I've given have been for specific reasons pertaining to the music. But overall, it wasn't for me. Musically it was okay, but just not a style or sound that I really care to listen to. If you enjoy this music, good for you and more power to you.
Germs
2/5
My two biggest takeaways from this album were:
1. I have no idea what the singer was saying most of the time
2. This sounded like a band that plays in their parents garage and just uses loud sounds as "music"
With that said, the music wasn't actually that bad but definitely not something I will come back to. There isn't really anything that made me go "wow, this is worth my time."
Hüsker Dü
4/5
I had never heard of Husker Du, but I have definitely heard their influence. This sounded straight out of the 90's/early 00's and it is easy to hear all the various bands that this group influenced. Green Day, and Red Hot Chili Peppers were two that I could hear distinctly. A lot of times with albums with this kind of influence you can see how they shaped music and why they aren't as popular as the ones who followed. Not so much with this one as it is a solid album that is enjoyable to listen to. I'd probably give it a 3.5 with half stars but I'm going to round up because of the clear influence this band/album had on the next decade plus of music.
Rod Stewart
5/5
Coming into this album I was a fan of Rod Stewart's voice but not that familiar with much of his work outside of his big songs like Maggie May. Suffice to say, this album did not disappoint. Leaning into his incredible voice, this album has energy and doesn't overstay its welcome. I'll definitely be back to this one and hope to explore more of his catalog along the way.
Robert Wyatt
2/5
As with most Prog rock, it's very hit or miss. I thought this album started off alright but fell off as it kept going. This wasn't a case of trying to do too much but rather, not having enough there to begin with. Not the worst album we've gotten but definitely in the lower half
Christine and the Queens
4/5
I only listened to the English version so that's all I'll be judging this on. I was pleasantly surprised with this album. Euro electric music is generally not a genre I enjoy that much, but this was a nice blend with pop that gave it more listenable edge. None of the songs made me want to skip them or stop listening which is always a plus. Overall I enjoyed this one, but not sure how much I'll come back to it. Probably a 3.5 with half stars.
Blur
2/5
This album didn't need to be an hour long. Outside of Song 2, I don't think there are any I have heard before or have much interest in hearing again. Some of it started to sound a little too Smith's like, which just isn't it. I know they are one of the big British bands of the 90's but this album didn't do it for me.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Some classic southern rock right here. Hard not to just jam along when CCR is on. They do definitely have a style that they stick to so I'm not going 5, but it's definitely a 4.5 with half stars.
Bee Gees
4/5
This was not the album I was expecting to hear from the Bee Gees, but that's not a bad thing and speaks to their range as musicians. This felt more like a Simon and Garfunkel or Beatles album than what I generally associate with the Bee Gees. Slower and more focused on the lyrics, this album was easy to listen to and showed me a side of the band I need to further explore. I can see why these songs are less known but this album deserves recognition for what it is.
Carpenters
3/5
Where was that jazz flute the whole time? This is some classic late 60's/70's music. A lot of it melded together but I wouldn't call it hard to listen to or unenjoyable. (They Long To Be) Close To You, and Another Song were my favorites and I thought the rest were okay. I was leaning towards a 2 but that jazz flute solo at the end raises the score for me.
Supergrass
4/5
This album embodies so much that other brit pop/rock from the time fails to capture, and that is energy and fun. This is an easy to listen to album that doesn't try to take itself too seriously but delivers on the music. You can see the influence in this album on bands like the White Stripes and Jack White's music in general. I know the song Alright, but was impressed with the rest of the album as well. Definitely glad we got this one and got another Morrissey/Smith's album.
Frank Ocean
5/5
First off this a fantastic album and no one has really match Frank at what he does best. I do think this is an album that grows as it goes and hits it peak in the back half with Pyramids, Lost, Bad Religion and Pink Matter. This album also reminds me of a very specific time in my life and I think that adds an extra layer of depth. While I think it's a 4.5 with half stars, I'm going 5 as it's just better than a 4.
Moby
3/5
This was certainly an interesting listen. I thought it wasn't hard to listen to but all the best songs were the samples. The samples are the only songs I would say are woth coming back to unless you are looking for background music.
Eminem
4/5
Quite the first album to put yourself on the map for Eminem. For a rap album, this is really solid stuff and set up one of the most tracked careers of the last 25 years. Definitely vulgar and hasn't aged the best on some of the lyrics but the production and flow is top notch. An enjoyable album that pushes the length issue I have with albums (I listened to this album split because of that) but all in all I enjoyed the album.
Franz Ferdinand
2/5
I knew one song coming into this album, and it will probably be the only one I keep listening to. The album wasn't bad by any stretch but it was kind of repetitive. Most of the songs sounded very similarly, and it's one thing to have a style, it's another to only have one sound. I don't feel like this album made me appreciate music more than I dis before listening to it.
Django Django
4/5
Was definitely skeptical going into this one, but im leaving very pleasantly surprised. This was a hidden gem I never knew about. Every song was different despite sticking to a specific style. I thought Skies Over Cairo sounded like the backing track to a sand level in Mario kart, in a good way. Overall a unique album that I will hopefully come back to.
Johnny Cash
5/5
I know that many of these songs are covers, but Johnny Cash is such a distinct singer that he makes them his own. There was not a song I disliked on this album, and while I thought of knocking him for doing covers. I find that unfair as he performs all the songs incredibly. Definitely an Album I'll be coming back to.
Arcade Fire
4/5
At its peak, this is a fantastic album, and much of it is spent at said peak. Unfortunately there are a couple of songs that's bring it down. After the Neighborhood run at the start, only Wake Up and Rebellion (Lies) are really too tier. I also found the last song to be unnecessary and leaves me not haply at the end. Overall though, great album that I will definitely be listening to in parts atleast.
Van Morrison
5/5
I've always enjoyed Van Morrison's voice and was familiar with this album prior to listening for this review. The first 5 songs on this album are bangers and classics, no notes. The back half drops a little but still have that Van Morrison charm. I would give a 4.5 with half stars.
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
Too long to listen to the whole thing but I liked what I heard. Ella Fitzgerald has an excellent voice.
Echo And The Bunnymen
2/5
The music was solid but it didn't feel like anything I hadnt heard before. Probably not one I would put on myself. The album mostly faded to the background while I was listening to it.