248
Albums Rated
3.07
Average Rating
23%
Complete
841 albums remaining
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2010s
Favorite Decade
Grunge
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
21
5-Star Albums
28
1-Star Albums
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By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Starfish And The Hot Dog Flavored Water | 5 | 2.47 | +2.53 |
| Make Yourself | 5 | 3.07 | +1.93 |
| If I Should Fall From Grace With God | 5 | 3.34 | +1.66 |
| Smash | 5 | 3.38 | +1.62 |
| Illinois | 5 | 3.49 | +1.51 |
| The Marshall Mathers LP | 5 | 3.49 | +1.51 |
| Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots | 5 | 3.58 | +1.42 |
| Hotel California | 5 | 3.6 | +1.4 |
| Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme | 5 | 3.62 | +1.38 |
| Superunknown | 5 | 3.66 | +1.34 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frank | 1 | 3.45 | -2.45 |
| 3 Feet High and Rising | 1 | 3.45 | -2.45 |
| Diamond Life | 1 | 3.42 | -2.42 |
| This Is Fats Domino | 1 | 3.38 | -2.38 |
| Debut | 1 | 3.37 | -2.37 |
| Ágætis Byrjun | 1 | 3.37 | -2.37 |
| C'est Chic | 1 | 3.34 | -2.34 |
| Brilliant Corners | 1 | 3.33 | -2.33 |
| Meat Is Murder | 1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
| Melodrama | 1 | 3.31 | -2.31 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 4 | 4.25 |
| Johnny Cash | 3 | 4.33 |
| Pink Floyd | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| The Smiths | 2 | 1.5 |
5-Star Albums (21)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
5/5
So here's how big Limp Bizkit was in 2000. My friends and I actually skipped school/work so we could go to Best Buy the day this album was released because it came with an exclusive extra CD featuring a remix by P. Diddy.
Every track is a banger and brings back so many fond memories as I relisten. Sure, it doesn't all hold up - "That's 46 fucks in this fucked up rhyme!" and Durst's ode to Ben Stiller is a little strange.
But as a strictly nostagia album, I can come across this every few years and be glad that I did.
Keep on Rollin' Baby!
4 likes
Earth, Wind & Fire
2/5
As with many things, my introduction to "Shining Star" came from the Muppets, as it was played in "Muppets from Space" in 1999.
I knew of the band, and I know they got some hits. I still love "Shining Star" but as I listened to the rest of the tracks, nothing really did it for me. The disco style of music is one that is fun when you're at a party or with friends, but it's not really great for sitting alone in your car in traffic.
EW&F are fine, but not essential listening in my book.
3 likes
Baaba Maal
2/5
I felt like I was trapped in a neverending Lion King pitch meeting.
2 likes
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
In school, I teach kids about making connections. This was a weird connection. I've been recently watching Fear the Walking Dead in which Ruben Blades plays one of the main characters. I had no ideas he was also a world renowned singer and salsa performer.
That being said, this was enjoyable enough. I have no way to really compare it to any other salsa albums, but I dig it for what it is. I'd give it a 3.5 if that were possible.
2 likes
1-Star Albums (28)
All Ratings
Jack White
4/5
Playing Catch Up on the Weekends.
I've always like Jack White Stripes, but had never sat down to listen to a full album of either. I was also surprised to discover I didn't know any of these songs, even the singles.
This reminds me a lot of when Panic at the Disco! was not a pop band. Their second album, Pretty Odd, experimented with different types of sound, as this one does.
The bluesy Blunderbuss, the piano-heavy Hypothetical Kiss and Hip (Eponymous) Poor Boy were my favorites.
Deep Purple
4/5
Playing Catch Up on the Weekends #2
Smoke on the Water and Highway Star are classics, and Deep Purple obviously had an amazing live stage presence.
However, unlike many, I'm not a fan of long songs that don't need to be long. That being said, as a one-listen experience, it was worth the time.
Jethro Tull
3/5
Playing Catch Up on the Weekend #3
The best rock band to use a flute? I knew of Aqualung, but never knew it was by Jethro Tull.
I enjoyed Wondr'n Aloud, which I had never heard. Great album but gets a little preachy at times.
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
Playing Catch Up on the Weekend #4
I thought I would like this more. I guess I thought I would recognize some of the songs, but even the Superfly theme didn't seem familiar.
It's definitely a product of its time, and I enjoy a lot of the funk and blaxploitation sounds of the 70s, but I didn't love Mayfield's voice.
Marvin Gaye
5/5
How can you not love Marvin Gaye? I didn't know he was killed by his own father! Imagine if he'd lived longer and how much more amazing music we could have had!
Gene Clark
4/5
I'm familiar with The Byrds and David Crosby, but had no knowledge of Gene Clark, his solo efforts, or the fact that he died so young. I'm going into this one blind.
Apparently it was a domestic failure but later was considered one of the best singer-songwriter albums of all time.
With Tomorrow was a really great chill song. And as I listen to the whole album, I realize that chill sound exists pretty much throughout.
The funny thing is I thought about how much these songs sound like BobDylan, and then realized he co-wrote one of the songs.
I dig this.
Pet Shop Boys
1/5
As Jake said, I've never really paid much attention to the Pet Shop Boys before. This duo was massive in England, but they never really found their way to my wheelhouse.
Despite being born in the decade, 80s music is my least favorite - especially the techno/synth/garbage style. I might be in the minority here, but this blows.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
A quick seven track album. Young's second.
I didn't know any of these songs upon listening to the album, though I know I'm familiar with other Neil Young songs.
It was just OK to me. It's one of those singers/musicians where every song seems to be similar to the first, and then similar to the next. Nothing really stands out. But I can't rate it below a three simply based on the rock significance Young has provided.
Lorde
1/5
Don't care. This was a catch up album.
The Stooges
4/5
I knew of The Stooges and the later named, Iggy Pop and The Stooges. This is my first listen to the album, and while I knew Iggy was from Michigan, it was cool to learn that bassist Dave Alexander grew up in the Whitmore Lake, mere miles from my hometown.
I really dug the opening track, 1969. Oddly, the more well-known songs didn't do it for me.
I really wanted to love this, but besides 1969, the rest of the tracks blend together. I'm giving it a four, but only because of their Michigan roots!
AC/DC
3/5
No one has unlimited time in ther lives. We all know AC/DC is a mediocre rock band,(yeah I said it!) so since this is a catch up album, I'm throwing down a 3 without listening. Sue me Geoffery Fieger!
Rod Stewart
3/5
Rod is a legend. This is one example of where the single is justifiably the best song on the album.
I've always liked and respected Stewart, but I really don't celebreate his whole catalogue. A lot of songs were just okay; nothing memorable enough to make me an uber-fan.
Nirvana
5/5
As my brother says, no need to revisit this one. Greatest unplugged album ever.
The Offspring
5/5
Fuck. Yes.
One of the first CDs I ever owned and one of the first, next to Green Day's Dookie, that I knew every song front to back.
While Self Esteem and and Come Out and Play are the long-lasting singles that put them on the map, Gotta Get Away was the anthem for an insecure kid in the 90s and Bad Habit became the song to blare with rage once I got my license and was stuck in traffic.
Dexter, Noodles and the gang put out a masterpiece.
The KLF
1/5
Based on what Jake said, as since I'm trying to catch up, I'm okay skipping this shit.
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
2/5
I don't know.
It was different, and I get why people would like it. It's good music to ignore in the background.
To me it sounds like the soundtrack to a lost Mario video game where all the main characters are just standing around because they stepped in a glue trap...and that's the game.
Björk
1/5
Nope
Rush
2/5
Obviously I knew "Tom Sawyer" and I knew "Limelight" even though I never knew the name before now.
Prog Rock is hit or miss for me. There's a reason why the popular singles ARE the popular singles, and the others are more obscure.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
I've always been interested in learning more about The Boss.
This great album is a mix of heavy guitar jams, mellow ballads, bluesy licks and contemplative coming-of-age stories. Every song is unique and distinct but it flows great as a single album about the trials and tribulations of the working man in the 70s.
Adam Raised a Cain - great guitar playing. Racing in the Street is definitely my favorite and will be added to my regular playlist of beloved songs. Factory reminds me a lot of my dad working at the BASF plant in the 80s and 90s.
The only problem I've ever had with Springsteen, and maybe it's just me, but his voice is so flat in all of his songs. That's the only thing that keeps me from giving it a 5.
MC Solaar
2/5
Don't speak French...Sounds pretty good though.
That's all I've got to say about this douche.
Douche is a French word.
The Pogues
5/5
Totally unfamiliar with this band and their influence on modern Irish music; however, I discovered I did knew Fairytale of New York as it has played in several Christmas movies.
Overall this was great! This is the type of album where I could leave on in the background and one song just flows into the next. I especially liked Bottle of Smoke and Streets of Sorrow.
I'm looking forward to hearing more from these Irish gents.
5/5
So here's how big Limp Bizkit was in 2000. My friends and I actually skipped school/work so we could go to Best Buy the day this album was released because it came with an exclusive extra CD featuring a remix by P. Diddy.
Every track is a banger and brings back so many fond memories as I relisten. Sure, it doesn't all hold up - "That's 46 fucks in this fucked up rhyme!" and Durst's ode to Ben Stiller is a little strange.
But as a strictly nostagia album, I can come across this every few years and be glad that I did.
Keep on Rollin' Baby!
Motörhead
2/5
Motorhead is considered hard rock royalty and an influence to many rockers. I of course knew the Ace of Spades song, but my only other familiarity with the band was HHH's Time to Play the Game entrance theme.
We Are the Road Crew was a nice homage to the roadies, but every song was really, really similar. Lemmy's voice rocks in small doses, but this isn't an album or band I want to hear on repeat.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2/5
Before even starting to listen to this album, I realized how little I know about Elvis Costello. Do I know any of his songs? I know he's famous for having glasses, and he had a funny appearance on The Simpsons. Let's see if I like his jams.
After Listening - I had definitely heard Pump It Up before without knowing it was Costello. Nothing else was familiar.
The music is funky and toe-tapping, but Costello suffers from the same issue I have with Lemmy from Motorhead, every song has the same vocal range. if you took out the music and just placed Costello's singing all on one track, you wouldn't know when one song ended and the next begain.
Meh.
Carpenters
3/5
Much like Costello, I've been familiar with The Carpenters but never knew much about them. I didn't realize they were siblings or that Karen Carpenter died at 32 due to anorexia.
Close to You and We've Only Just Begun are American staples. While they wrote some of their own songs, they also adapted music from The Beatles (Help!), Tim Hardin (Reason to Believe) and several Burt Bacharach songs.
This was just okay. It's a product of its time. I'd be okay listening to it while I rode an elevator.
PJ Harvey
1/5
Not for me.
Too experimental and nothing to really tap your toes to. Most songs just go from really quiet to really loud.
I can understand why some people like PJ Harvey, but these songs just don't do it for me.
Michael Jackson
4/5
I knew we'd come across an MJ album at some time. I really respect how Jackson's music and style changed with the times. That said, this was a total disco album.
Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough is one of Jackson's biggest and most enduring hits, and it was interesting to learn that this was the first song he wrote and sang without any influence from his Jackson 5 past.
I'm amazed by the star power that went into this album: Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, and Fred Durst (that one's a lie).
Almost gave it a 5, but knowing the superiority of some of his other albums, I know the best is yet to come.
Yes
4/5
I normally have mixed opinions about prog rock bands, but this was pretty fun. Each song is unique and displays individual talents of all members involved. I wouldn't say any individual song is particularly memorable, but as a whole, it's pretty good stuff.
Queens of the Stone Age
4/5
I honestly didn't know Queens... have been around since the mid-90s. And honestly, the music sounds ahead of its time.
No particular song stands out better or worse than the rest, but I think that's what makes it work. This is an album I could have running in the background while talking among friends and no one would react one way or another. It's good neutral music.
Michael Jackson
4/5
Some may point to Thriller as the ultimate MJ album (and something tells me that will show up on here eventually too), but Bad, to me, is his magnum opus. The album produced a total of nine singles over a near three year period.
The only question remains - Did Alien Ant Farm do it better????
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
In school, I teach kids about making connections. This was a weird connection. I've been recently watching Fear the Walking Dead in which Ruben Blades plays one of the main characters. I had no ideas he was also a world renowned singer and salsa performer.
That being said, this was enjoyable enough. I have no way to really compare it to any other salsa albums, but I dig it for what it is. I'd give it a 3.5 if that were possible.
Linkin Park
4/5
My friends and I were obsessed with these guys in high school. They were a big deal. But unlike Linp Bizkit, my love for Linkin Park wore off. I rarely feel like revisiting any of their music, and I felt like I just grew out of them.
However, on nostalgia and how big they were to me for a time, they get a 4.
Jamiroquai
1/5
Changed my life.
Public Enemy
3/5
It was fun to hear Flavor Flav's - Yea Boi! on a song. Flav came into the public light for me during his second career as a reality star/doofus.
Anthrax is mentioned on their first track, Bring the Noise, who returned the compliment by creating their own version of the song. This led to a collaboaration and world tour of two VERY different groups, preceding Aerosmith/Run DMC.
It was cool taking a peek at an 80s political rap album that was infuential to so many artists in all genres of music. I'm not world's biggest rap fan, but I can respect good lyrics and a head-banging 80s beat.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
From appearing on The Muppet Show to many appearances on SNL, I've always loved my vertically challenged hero, Paul Simon who also was respsonsible for writing the most popular S and G songs.
Garfunkel...he was there too I guess.
I really like this. I've always loved Scarborough Fair and Homeward Bound, but there really wasn't a song I disliked. It's hard for me to give anything a 5/5, but this is a really, REALLY good album.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
I want to return to this one. Didn’t have time during the new years shuffle.
Van Morrison
4/5
Vanny Mo is a great singer songwriter with an Impressive vocal range.
I Knew Moondance.
Best songs are And it Stone Me (a simple song about boys fishing), the inspirational Brand New Day (featuring a gosepl backing vocal trio) and Glad Tidings (a spiritual twin to Brown Eyed Girl)
MGMT
3/5
Great example of why the hits are the hits. These guys were all over the place when I first moved to Chicago, and I've always enjoyed their well-known songs. However, their extented library is just OK. It was fun to revisit MGMT, but a deep dive wasn't needed.
Jane's Addiction
2/5
Weird Cover...
Been Caught Stealin is a classic. Otherwise, nothing to write home about. I feel like if I were born a bit earlier, like the Gen Xers, I would have probably appreciated this band more. I can only take the voice in small increments.
4/5
Lilke MGMT, Muse was another band that was huge in my mid-twenties, but then I kinda forgot about them. While The Resistance is their peunultimate album, this was a pretty strong offering.
The album as a whole from begining to end seems to be a call to revolution. Almost every song discusses either the problems with politics, the need for change, or a rally cry to revolution. Fittingly it begins with "Take a Bow" which calls out crooked politicians, and ends with the superb "Knights of Cydonia." a war cry that shouts: No One's Gonna Take Me Alive!!
Much like Green Day's Jesus of Suburbia, this could work as a concept album or play/musical.
Frank Sinatra
2/5
Jake is not a Sinatra fan. I'm more indifferent.
This is the kind of music I would play is someone said, "hey, play some music, but I don't want to actually listen to it. I just need some happy shit to play in the background while I wash dishes. Oh, and make it the most whitebread, inoffensive music you can find"
This is what I would play.
Elvis Presley
2/5
Sinatra followed by Elvis. Ironically, both albums are mostly made up of cover songs the famous crooners sang and made their own. In the Ghetto and maybe one or two others are the only original songs on the album.
I respect the history and the story of Elvis, but he just doesn't do it for me. I went in with an open mind but nothing really wowed me. I wish I would have given Sinatra a three because in retrosepct, I liked it better than this one.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Before doing this musical journey, I never thought of The Boss much, but now with a second album that I've listened to in full, I must day I've become a Springsteen fan.
This album is a hit machine. Some of his most classic songs are represented here and the pop culture phenomena that was Bruce is in full swing. The allum cover itself is legendary piece of Americana.
4.5
Terence Trent D'Arby
1/5
Every song sounds like the ending of Ghostbusters 2 where they're inside the Statue of Liberty. Not a fan.
The Specials
2/5
I have never heard of The Specials. I went in with an open mind, and I can respect the sound and the influence they had, and I didn't HATE anything on the album, but Late 70s British Ska is just not my jam.
I am reminded a bit of reviewing Motorhead. Both bands had singers that really had no range. the music was good, but lyrically each song could be identical.
2.5
Garbage
3/5
I dig Shirley Manson's pre-emo/post-grunge vocal stylings. Garbage has always been a band that will turn up on the radio and I have no complaints. I forgot about the song "Queer" which is a good one as well.
3.9
Yes
3/5
My second Yes album on this journey. I've always loved "You're Move." I think I liked the Fragile album slightly beetter but still an enjoyable experience.
3.5
Sam Cooke
4/5
Unless you're a card carrying member of the KKK, you love Sam Cooke. This was hit after hit of good vibes music. I feel putting on some Sam Cooke at any time could turn my frown upside down.
The only reason it's not a 5 is beause I prefer studio versions of these songs over the live recordings.
4.8
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
After getting over the disapointing fact that this was not being performed by one half of the legendary tag team, Harlem Heat, I sat down for a listen.
I had obviously heard Green Onions before in about 100 movies, but I never really knew where it came from.
This was a fun, chill experience. No vocals, just straight musical talent. I guess my only complaint would be that the organ sound can be a little draining after awhile.
Earth, Wind & Fire
2/5
As with many things, my introduction to "Shining Star" came from the Muppets, as it was played in "Muppets from Space" in 1999.
I knew of the band, and I know they got some hits. I still love "Shining Star" but as I listened to the rest of the tracks, nothing really did it for me. The disco style of music is one that is fun when you're at a party or with friends, but it's not really great for sitting alone in your car in traffic.
EW&F are fine, but not essential listening in my book.
Blondie
3/5
Blondie is a fun band. It's pop rock before the term existed. I didn't know Debbie Harry was almost 80! Good listening experience.
3.5
Adele
5/5
I can't not give Adele a 5/5.
This was arguably the last CD that I bought, and I enjoyed every song. I am typically not much of a "chick rock" listener, but her unique voice and style made me a real fan.
Judas Priest
4/5
I knew the two most well-known songs: Breaking the Law and Living After Midnight.
Rapid Fire and Metal Gods were an adrenaline fueled start to a spicy album.
I really liked the song United and have added it to my growing playlist.
Obviously these guys are known as heavy metal influencers, but it's the type of heavy metal that can be enjoyted by both metalheads and modern rock fans. I really enjoyed me some Judas, and I didn't even need 80s cocaine!
Fats Domino
1/5
So Fats Domino is not Chubby Checker.
I did not get to do the twist, and it ruined my day.
One Star.
Metallica
4/5
I've always been a fan of Metallica, but I guess I would be considered a "middle career" fan. These early albums aren't as great as the early to mid nineties ones that started in 1991. Hetfield still hasn't quite developed his bassy throaty vocals just yet. Still, it's Metallica, so I can't go below a 4.
Electric Light Orchestra
4/5
Want to return to this one as I didn't have time to listen in full. 4/5 is a placeholder.
Neil Young
3/5
I had no real expectation going into this one. I know Neil Young and some of his hits, but I never sought him out.
This was strange in that the first two songs, "Walk On" and "See The Sky About The Rain" really resonated with me and reminded me of the struggles of having a shitty day.
But then the rest of the songs just didn't click.
I appreciate having discoverd those first two tunes.
Elvis Presley
2/5
It was interesting to listen just because of the historical significance of this being Elvis's first studio album. I don't know why, but I always have an issue with people who get famous for singing other people's songs. Everyone loves Elvis, but he really had no involvement in what songs he sang or which ones became hits.
Very much like Britney Spears. But she had tits.
Sufjan Stevens
5/5
I only had a minor knowledge of Stevens due to his Michigan album from the early 2000s. I was glad to come across this album as it made me interested in hearing more of this singer-songwriter.
Jake has been a big fan of his for years and I can see why. Only a talented songster can make a song about John Wayne Gacy sound calm and introspective.
Run-D.M.C.
2/5
It's weird....
I enjoyed Public Enemy, and I really respect early hip-hop. As a white boy, I'm most familiar with Run-DMC and Aerosmith teaming up.
I expected to really love this, but it just didn't resonate. I can't place my finger on why. But even the hits didn't do it for me.
I wish I had a reason, but listening to this one just fell flat for me.
Meat Puppets
3/5
It was alright.
That's the most I will probably ever say about The Meat Puppets.
Metallica
4/5
Alright, so I went into this expecting to give it an obvious 5/5. It's Metallica's magnum opus and it created a hits machine for the band. I love so many of these songs and was happy to discover some new ones.
HOWEVER, as I was jamming out, I realized that every single song takes waaaaaaay too long to get the the lyrics. Every song pretty much has a minute or more lead up.
Now a lot of people probably credit that about what makes it so great. The musical talents of the band. But I've always been a lyrics man, which is the only reason I can't give it a perfect score.
4.8/5
Sigur Rós
1/5
Apparently they are more well-known than I thought.
Wasn't for me...
Screaming Trees
3/5
I knew the name. I didn't know the songs.
They were among the grunge pioneers to come from Washington and the influence on Nirvana, Pearl Jam and others is obvious.
I feel like I should be wearing flannel shirts, cut-off jeans and playing Super Mario 3 while I listen.
Look at You and Dying Days were standouts.
Green Day
5/5
My words can't give it justice.
This WAS the most significant album of my youth.
I had a poster on my door.
It was the first CD I owned with swears.
My friends and I would pretend to be the band and put on concerts.
I knew/know every word and every song.
Looking back, this might be the most significant album of my life.
1/5
The fuck was this?
ZZ Top
2/5
The hits are the hits. The rest didn't interest me.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Placeholder.
I’m interested in hearing more Leonard, but I didn’t have time to listen today.
Will revisit
Sabu
2/5
It was exactly as I expected it to sound. I can respect the genre and the influence this had on it, but it’s just not for me.
Depeche Mode
3/5
This is the genre that I can only describe as wuss rock. Similar to The Cure, Tears for Fears and later Simple Plan.
Personal Jesus has appeared in about 100 movies, and the rest of the tracks are pretty okay.
I don't hate it; I don't love it.
Bob Dylan
3/5
I was honestly really excited to listen to this, as I've not had a lot of experience with Dylan but knew so much of his influence.
I found my criticism being the same as most people - his voice is tonally flat and most of the songs blend together.
I respect the man, but, hot take here - his son, Jakob Dylan of the Wallflowers is the more talented singer.
I feel like now that I typed that, a bunch of Vientnam Vets are going to come knock down my door.
OutKast
4/5
In the early 2000s, Outkast was essentially the gateway rap drug for white people. We had Eminem and the Nu Rock sound, but OutKast and Jay-Z made it cool for us to get down with some rap.
I love Outkast. The only reason it doesn't get a full 5/5 is because I hate the early 2000s need to put skits into albums. Except for Tenacious D, skits are never funny when included into an overall good album.
4.5/5
The Doors
2/5
The Doors are highly overrated.
Yea I said it. Come at me, baby boomers.
Country Joe & The Fish
2/5
A big reason for me wanting to go on this journey is because I known my musical knowledge and acceptance is extremely limited. I've always liked what I like, and many friends have teased me for my limited scope in the musical vernacular.
That being said, there are just some sounds, like Country Joe, that just don't do it for me. I always go in with an open mind, but sometimes I know after the first song, that's it''s not for me.
Bebel Gilberto
2/5
I’m with Jake. Wasn’t in the mood for this one.
King Crimson
3/5
Yea it was ok.
Another prog rock album. And perhaps the first of its kind.
Different in an OK way.
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
Clapton, Duane Allman and a crazy dude who killed his mom, among others, make up this one album only release.
Layla is considerd Clapton's magnum opus, and I can't disagree.
This was a really strong blues/rock album. the guitar and vocals were top notch. I had fun with this.
UB40
3/5
Regae British from 1980 from the Red Red Wine People?
Good for what it is I guess.
OOOOOOH Baby I Love Your Way.
Wire
3/5
Late 70s influential British Punk band sounded like exactly what I figured it would sound like.
Enjoyable, if you're in the mood for it.
Kanye West
3/5
I wish Kanye wasn't such a piece of shit because I like his music. I've always liked his music. But he's still just a piece of shit.
Willie Nelson
4/5
My knowledge of Willie Nelson is of his later life persona as a stoned grandpa as well as the song "Look Around You" portrayed in one of my favorite TV shows, Lost.
This was great honestly. No one track stood out, but it felt like I was sitting in the Smokey Mountains with Willie with just his guitar and the atmosphere to set the mood. I look forward to hearing more from The Stranger.
Richard Thompson
3/5
It was fine. I really have nothing else to contribute. It may in fact be the most mediocre thing I’ve ever listened to.
It’s “The Eternals” movie of albums. It was a thing. You acknowledge it was a thing. And then you go about your day never thinking of it again.
Bon Jovi
4/5
What Jake said…
Eagles
5/5
How can I not give it a 5?
One of the best selling album of all time, and one of my dad’s favorite bands. I grew up knowing who Don Henley was before I ever owned my own CD player.
Even the non-hits were stellar.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
They were a big band for awhile but for some reason never came across my radar.
I knew North American Scum as it was used as the intro song to Ron and Fez when I listened to XM Radio, but nothing else was familiar.
It was decent. I can see why it's popular.
The Flaming Lips
4/5
I knew of the Flaming Lips for a few random reasons, but this is my first full-album listen. It was really good, and I look forward to exploring more from the band, which has surprisingly been around since 1983.
I can't give it a 5 only because too many songs bleed together without a true standout. But I will for sure seek out more Lips in the future.
U2
4/5
I knew we'd see U2 eventually.
I used to be a massive U2 fan but over the years I've grown kinda sick of them. After they forced their album onto my iPhone, I took a long break from them.
But I have to admit that old U2 is pretty solid. Even the songs I didn't know were enjoyable.
Talking Heads
2/5
I know Byrne has better music than this...
Coldplay
4/5
Ditto review. I was a hater for no reason.
The Allman Brothers Band
3/5
Still not the biggest fan of live albums, but this was listenable. Pure 70s through and through.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
3/5
It’s like the other early rap: good beats. Terrible spoken/singsongy lyrics.
Johnny Cash
4/5
As far as complete albums go, this is a gold standard. Even non-Cash fans know of this one. Classic.
Steely Dan
3/5
Isn’t this the band named after a sex toy?
It was okay. It more reminds me of other 70s rockers that I’d rather be listening too.
Beastie Boys
4/5
I like the Beastie Boys. Over the years I’ve listened to them less and less. Not sure why. Always a good time though whenever we do cross paths.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
It was fine background music. Nothing more.
I'd rather be watching a wrestling match with Dusty Rhodes while listening to Rick Springfield.
Ash
4/5
Here’s a story:
One of my favorite movies AND soundtracks of all time is Angus. Such an underrated movie and an almost perfect soundtrack.
That’s where my sole knowledge of Ash comes from as their Kung Fu song was a track on that album.
I never really thought I would come across what I assumed was a random band’s song on a mid-nineties soundtrack. But I’m so glad I did.
This shit was great. I am going to go on an Ash deep dive for sure.
4.5
Duke Ellington
2/5
Look…I don’t mind jazz, but I also don’t love it. I also don’t typically like live albums. So what do I do with this?
2.5
Soundgarden
5/5
It would be a sin not to give it a five star rating. This is the band that is credited for starting the grunge and modern rock movement of the 90s.
Beatles
4/5
Classic. Easy to jam to. Loved by everyone. Not their best album, but still fantastic.
The Beach Boys
3/5
I want to like the Beach Boys. I'm still not sure if I do.
Incubus
5/5
They gave me a free day today. I already know every song. Gotta go 5.
The National
4/5
I somehow have never heard of these guys before, but I fucking loved it. Deep ass dive time for me.
Kanye West
3/5
Once again, he has some great songs. This was one of my favorite albums when I was student teaching. But still just SUCH a douche.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Inoffensive generic 60s jams.
Look out for ham sandwiches!🥪
Van Morrison
4/5
Still don’t love live albums, but ever since Morrison appeared on this site once before, I’ve found myself really enjoying his music.
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
She's good. It's not my wheelhouse - 50s, Jazz, Live, but I can respect it.
Method Man
3/5
I like it for the same reason Jake doesn’t. 90s rap is awesome!
Alice Cooper
3/5
I like Alice. Mostly just the hits though. There were no real exciting new discoveries here.
The Who
4/5
This was good. My first time exploring The Who besides the hits. The ties to other 60s rock sounds are there for sure. I was entertained.
Abdullah Ibrahim
2/5
funky. Boring.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Stones and The Who in the same week. Solid. One day I'd like to listen to all the Rolling Stones albums from first to last, but I feel like it would take me years.
The Smiths
2/5
I want to like Morrisey and The Smiths based on their influence. But I kinda hate it. Quit your British bitching.
Louis Prima
3/5
It's King Louie from Jungle Book. That's cool.
Fugees
4/5
Lauryn Hill Wycef John. Third Guy. This was essential 90s jams.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Second Stones album in a week. Just as good, if not better than the last one.
Frank Zappa
2/5
Eh
Rage Against The Machine
4/5
Much respect for these guys. Definite pioneers of the genre.
Prefab Sprout
2/5
I know I’m being hyperbolic here, but all 80s pop music stinks.
3/5
An interesting concept album from the Lola fellas. It was very ok.
David Bowie
3/5
I enjoy some Bowie, but I find he’s never really on my “revisit” list. Except for The Labyrinth of course.
The Smiths
1/5
Pussies
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
Was a fan then. Am a fan now.
Nico
2/5
Her voice didn't do it for me. I like the tunes and instrumentals, but the Nico voice just spoils the milk in an otherwise good bowl of cereal.
Eagles
4/5
I grew up on the Eagles. It's peak 70s and I'm here for it.
Pink Floyd
4/5
I missed this day somehow.
Alice Cooper
3/5
I know 1,000 is a big number, but did we really need TWO Alice Cooper albums?
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2/5
Didn’t like the first Costello album I had to listen to, and I still don’t like this one. It gets two stars because of cultural influence only.
King Crimson
3/5
I’ll go with Jake and just repeat what I said last time.
Yea, it was ok.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
This guy was new to me. I liked what I heard and will explore more!
Stan Getz
2/5
It’s exactly what I expected it to be.
Gram Parsons
3/5
I’m slowly getting more into the country rock sound. This wasn’t a standout, but I say “good effort, lad “
Grizzly Bear
4/5
Yea this is pretty great. Like most music after 2002, I was not familiar with these guys, but I really dig their sound. Great guitar riffs and vocals. Good Stuff!
The Beach Boys
3/5
It seems appropriate to just repeat my last review of a Beach Boys album: “I want to like The Beach Boys. I’m still not sure if I do.”
Fatboy Slim
2/5
When I was in college, the web cartoon Homestar Runner was huge. In one episode, Strong Bad creates an electronic music song and explains that every techno song has one random sentence that just repeats over and over for now reason. That’s what this whole album is.
Eels
4/5
I love 90s music and have listened to this whole album in the past. I forgot about them and was glad to take that trip down memory lane.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
This was good background music. I enjoy a good supergroup. I think what I like most is there’s a different sound/singer in every song, so it never feels stale or repetitive.
Snoop Dogg
4/5
Almost a 5. This came out during my preteen wannabe gangster phase.
Sebadoh
2/5
This album stinks and it boring.
AC/DC
4/5
I never go out of my way to listen to AC/DC, but I’m never disappointed when I do.
Portishead
3/5
I love the 90s, but the last few weeks have been pretty 90s heavy. This was ok but it all kind of blends together. I’m pretty sure many of these songs were played in the background of lesbian seductress scenes in cheesy 90s movies.
Marvin Gaye
3/5
Lots of Marvin on this list.
Slipknot
4/5
Ah 1999. A time where we did it all for the nookie, it was our last resort, and we were all one step closer to the edge.
The Knot was a bit heavy even for a cool kid like me, but it had its place and I respect it.
Class of 2001 mother fuckers!!!
Stephen Stills
3/5
Is safe a word to describe music? This was a very…safe album.
Alice In Chains
4/5
Cee Lo Green
1/5
Isn't he a rapist?
Pink Floyd
4/5
For what it is, the rating is strong. I don’t typically go out of my way to listen to Floyd, but I respect the influence and staying power Waters and the boys have given us. True legends in multiple mediums.
Sade
1/5
Now I can answer the trivia question: who sang Smooth Operator. I don't like her voice. She sounds like a female Boy George, whih confuses my genitals.
Tito Puente
2/5
1. Who knew Tito Puente was American?
2. He will always be known for his role on The Simpsons. "They robbed the school of Tito!"
3. It's not my jam.
Shack
4/5
4.8
First experience with this band, and I really dig it.
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
Not just a great album, but a great WWI trivia question.
Giant Sand
1/5
Giant Sand…in my asshole.
Slint
2/5
Couldn't be bothered past track one.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
Sky and the gang are having fun, but there’s not a lot of relisten value for me.
Adele
4/5
Agree with Jake's assessment.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
As of the last S and G appearance on this list, I love it. I gave the last album a five star rating, but I was pretty drunk when I listened, so I’m comfortable with a sober 4 here.
A Tribe Called Quest
2/5
It’s probably a crime to say this because of how influential these guys are, but it was boring. I swear at one point a dude was rapping about buying a sandwich.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
Legendary. So many hits in one debut album.
Buena Vista Social Club
3/5
An enjoyable surprise.
Amy Winehouse
1/5
Not Doing it
Paul Simon
4/5
Always love me some Paul Simon.
Peter Gabriel
3/5
Decent PG.
Beth Orton
2/5
don't know why, but I didn't like it...
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Marilyn Manson
2/5
I was never a big fan of The Wonder Years.
Songhoy Blues
3/5
Good for what it was. Obviously I didn’t know what the hell they were saying, but music was good
Nine Inch Nails
3/5
I respect NIN. I loved "Head Like a Hole" when it came out. Great early 90s to mid 00s rock. That being said, I don't really need to hear another NIN album. Trent is good, but not great. Just my opinion.
The Flaming Lips
5/5
One of my favorite albums. Stellar.
Johnny Cash
5/5
This was great! The Hurt song was all over the airwaves and TV when I was in college, but I didn’t realize how many other covers he did on this album. I love the first song too as it reminds me of the stellar Dawn of the Dead.
Janelle Monáe
3/5
Great voice. She’ll always be the chick who sang on that Fun. song.
The Kinks
3/5
I love the Kinks. This is not their best album. It’s an ok album. Just like mayonnaise is ok.
Queen
4/5
One of my earliest memories of owning my own cassette tape was the Encino Man soundtrack. I listened so much that I wore it out. One of the songs was Queen’s Stone Cold Crazy. I love Queen. But for that memory alone, it’s a 4.5.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
3/5
Same as the previous album but without Neil Young. Just ok.
The Lemonheads
3/5
They will always be known for a cover song, "Mrs. Robinson" and the band that was once pushed by record company over Nirvana. It was fine early 90s jams, but I don't need to celebrate their entire catologue.
Beck
3/5
Is it possible that Beck is both underrated and overrated at the same time?
Tom Waits
3/5
Did anyone request more Waits? The answer is no.
Laura Nyro
1/5
Her voice is like a gang of squirrels gang banging a didgeridoo.
The Verve
4/5
4.5. Almost perfect.
The Drugs Don’t Work is in my top 10 mellow mood songs. Lucky Man is great too
The singer is weird looking.
The Prodigy
4/5
If you're in the mood to smack a bitch up or start a fire, this is the go-to. It holds up, but you really have to be in the right mood to jam out to this.
I listened to it alone while making lesson plans, and it made me feel like an old piece of shit.
So only 4 stars.
De La Soul
1/5
This album is ketchup.
People love ketchup.
I want to love ketchup.
I don't.
Beatles
4/5
Beatles are always to be ranked highly, but it’s interesting to see that in their very short and popular run, there’s an album that is fairly light on the hits.
5/5
The album many consider to be the band’s magnum opus, and the first to explore new territory from the mop-top I Wanna Hold Your Hand era. It really is a phenomenal piece of music history, and a 5 star is obvious.
Steely Dan
3/5
Did this list need two Steely Dan albums?
The Last Shadow Puppets
4/5
This was new to me. An enjoyable listen. Forgot all about the Arctic Monkeys. Time for a revisit.
Dexys Midnight Runners
1/5
Here's me at a Dexys Midnight Runners concert:
'PLAY COME ON EILEEN AND GET THE FUCK OFF THE STAGE"
Save Ferris did it better.
Tina Turner
4/5
I don’t go out of my way to pop in a Tina Turner CD in my sweet Magnavox portable CD player with skip protection, but if I did, I wouldn’t be mad about it. Girl can belt some good tunes.
The Strokes
3/5
I’ll have to give this one another chance. I love indie rock, and the Strokes have been doing it for a long time, but something about the singer’s mechanized/auto-tuned voice just bothered me. I wonder how they sound live.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
2/5
I put this on and forgot it was playing at various times. I guess that means it's pretty forgettable.
Destiny's Child
4/5
I don't care if you're the whitest goober in the world, you CAN'T NOT (grammar be damned), enjoy the early 2000s bangers from Destiny's Child.
Donovan
3/5
The maker of this list really has a hard-on for 60s Brit Pop.
Without knowing it, I was familiar with a few Donovan songs already. He did “Mellow Yellow” too, which isn’t on this album.
This is a hard one to rate. I’m giving it a 4 because I enjoyed the experience today, but I don’t think I’ll ever revisit Donovan for any reason, so I guess that makes it a 3.5.
Bob Dylan
3/5
I was told by VFW members with shotguns that I couldn’t rate this lower than a 3, and that my pussy commie opinion didn’t matter.
The Cars
4/5
I can’t deny what a hit factory this album was. I knew 6 of the songs while at the time only knew 2 were from this band. You have my respect, Cars. Not the movie with Larry the Cable Guy, that franchise can suck a dick.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
1/5
P.U. What stinks?
This album.
Steve Winwood
2/5
https://youtu.be/CiehMELBpME?si=D4ax39msYq-FDs_5
Enjoy it, Coach Dick and Balls.
On a related note, wasn’t a fan.
Fela Kuti
3/5
I can, without a doubt, say it’s the greatest Nigerian, anti-government, Afrobeat album I have ever heard.
Bob Dylan
2/5
Too soon, yet another Bob Dylan Album, too soon.
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
I have to deal with parent teacher conferences, spirit week, student council, full time teaching, observing other teachers, making flyers, working the budget, creating a pep rally and grading papers.
I just don't have time for experimental German music today.
Stereo MC's
3/5
I enjoyed it a bit. Nothing else to say.
Antony and the Johnsons
3/5
They lyrics were good but his voice was not something I could get behind. Kinda Ray Romanoish.
Johnny Cash
4/5
I didn't now Cash did another live prison concert (apparently he did 3). Like the last, this was an ejoyable experience and works as a live album.
CHIC
1/5
No thank you.
George Michael
4/5
I don’t think much about Boy George except the shitty Christmas song they always plan and the stellar Limp Bizkit cover of Faith.
That being said, homeboy had heart and soul coming out the ass. Strong lyrics and sound. A few songs dragged on a bit, but overall I can finally see why GM is so well regard not just for pounding ass but as a lyricist as well.
Morrissey
1/5
Enough
Eminem
5/5
Nice to revisit this masterpiece. While I still hate “skits” in albums, there’s no denying how amazing and influential this album is and what it did for Detroit.
Beatles
4/5
Enjoyable as always.
The Stranglers
1/5
Sounded exactly like I thought they would.
Could have just been one long track and I wouldn’t have noticed the difference.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Missed it but obviously for cultural impact alone, this is a 5/5
Cornershop
4/5
Like 99% of the world, I only knew one Cornershop song. This was a pleasantly surprising listen.
Nick Drake
3/5
I first thought this was Nick Cave, but it indeed was not. Although similar in some respects. Good, chill music from a dude that lived even shorter than Kurt Cobain.
Nick Drake
4/5
Strange back to back coincidence.
Paul Weller
2/5
I accepted it. No more. No less.
Baaba Maal
2/5
I felt like I was trapped in a neverending Lion King pitch meeting.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
I like Cohen to a point, but he was trying to hard to be an 80s man here. I think he just finished Revenge of the Nerds one day and said, “that’s the sound for me!”
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Had to be 5.
Elton John
5/5
I unashamedly love Elton John and have done a deep dive on his early albums. Along with the myriad of hits, there’s some great hidden gems here too. Possibly my favorite solo artist of all time next to the white dude who raps in the Ace of Base songs, that man is a lyrical maestro.
Ray Price
1/5
Definitely the greatest Ray Price album of all time. 1/2 star.
Talking Heads
3/5
Good. Decent. British.
The White Stripes
4/5
Absolute classic Detroit garage rock album. This is the album that got me tuned into Jack White as a guitarist and musical talent.
Steely Dan
4/5
Did we have a different Steely Dan album already? Either way, I was surprised with the songs I was aware of but never knew it was from SD. This is pure 70s rock and I’m here for it. It’s still a band named after a dildo though right?
Harry Nilsson
3/5
I mean, I love the Coconut song. Everything else I could take it or leave it.
The Temptations
4/5
Any 60s/70s Motown music is great. It’s easy listening and as a Michigander, I love the sound it brought to the mainstream music scene.
Heaven 17
2/5
Joy Division
2/5
I know I said I had to blindly give this album a positive rating but it’s just so….British and so……lame.plus division was my hardest subject in school.
Ok. Something positive. Let’s see….the bassist’s name is Peter Hook. Hook was a good movie when I was a kid. That’s all I got. This shit sucks.
The Adverts
3/5
I don’t like the British 70s/80s punk stuff, but this was surprisingly ok. Every song was a bit unique. I’ll probably never listen again, but it was a decent journey.
Public Image Ltd.
1/5
Meh
Pearl Jam
5/5
5 estrellas inmediatas en este. Este es uno de mis álbumes favoritos de todos los tiempos y uno que moldeó mis gustos musicales a una edad tan temprana. Eddie es uno de mis vocalistas favoritos y este álbum todavía es difícil.
Tears For Fears
2/5
Acceptable hits. Not my scene unless I’m watching an 80s movie.
David Bowie
3/5
It didn't do it for me. I love Bowie and the influene he's had on so many artists. It's a shame this was his final album.
The Darkness
2/5
I honestly thought I’d be all about this as I was very familiar with their hit when it came out. It was a sweet throwback sound. However, the same vocals that made “I believe in a thing called love,” didn’t lend itself to the rest of the album. I wanted to love it but but like TV’s Rosanne, it was just ok.
Funkadelic
3/5
Gotta love anything that comes out of Detroit. Its funky. Which is only applicable in about 27% of my daily life.
Cat Stevens
4/5
Stevens is a cool Cat.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Sonic Youth doesn’t get enough credit for their influence on grunge Gen X music. I don’t know of any SY songs that stand out over others, but it’s a classic sound that takes me back to my 90s youth.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
I fell off a bit over the holidays but there didn’t seem to be anything too pressing that I missed. This however is a great album and highly underrated band. It’s a shame that their music has become part of various TikTok dances, but it’s also cool to see them being exposed to a new generation. It’s like a Gen Xer fucking to Englebert Humperdink.
Run-D.M.C.
2/5
Well this first RUN DMC Album was a snoooooozer. Rock Box was kind of innovative; mixing the rocking guitar lick with hip-hop, but the album as a whole was BORING
(these are totally my original comments)
Dire Straits
4/5
Ok trying to get back into things.
I love Dire Straits. I knew a lot of their songs because they, for some reason, appeared in a lot of 90s teen comedies when I was a kid.
Marty Robbins
2/5
I’d give Marty Robbins a role in the sack.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
4/5
Yeah man. Solid. I forgot how much I loved Tuesday’s Gone. And the non-singles were a good time as well. I’ll always associate this band with Con Air.
Buck Owens
1/5
Buck Owens and The Buckaroos is the most wedgie-deserving bunch of nerd in the history of music. Each Buckaroo is getting a swirly.
SAULT
3/5
There was a lot to unpack here. Pretty much every style and genre was represented. It was enjoyable if not confusing.
Thin Lizzy
4/5
I enjoy me some Lizzy. CLassic tunes and discovered some new ones.
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
It's gotta be a five. Classic songs from a classic era. I don't smash the 'kins as much as I used to, but they have had a strong legacy for a long time.
Corgan's kind of a weiner though.
Radiohead
4/5
Obviously it’s good. But I was never a full-time…..Heady? Radioman? Yorkesman? RHer?
Thelonious Monk
1/5
More like Boreloniois Stunk
Cowboy Junkies
2/5
Exactly. Sweet Jane…and nothing else.
John Lennon
3/5
There’s a reason “Imagine” is the only well-known track from this album. It’s important and has its place in the annals of music history, but when it comes to members of both The Beatles and Nirvana, many people look at anything they do/did with rose tinted glasses.
Arcade Fire
4/5
Radiohead
2/5
Too much RH in one week.
The Slits
1/5
Slits = vaginas
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
They don’t love me like I love you.