592
Albums Rated
4.31
Average Rating
54%
Complete
497 albums remaining
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1970s
Favorite Decade
Hip-hop
Favorite Genre
UK
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Enthusiast
Rater Style ?
289
5-Star Albums
2
1-Star Albums
Taste Analysis
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Ratings by genre
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Rating Style
You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trout Mask Replica | 5 | 2.28 | +2.72 |
| Oar | 5 | 2.46 | +2.54 |
| Chocolate Starfish And The Hot Dog Flavored Water | 5 | 2.47 | +2.53 |
| Timeless | 5 | 2.53 | +2.47 |
| The Madcap Laughs | 5 | 2.62 | +2.38 |
| Pictures At An Exhibition | 5 | 2.65 | +2.35 |
| Cee-Lo Green... Is The Soul Machine | 5 | 2.66 | +2.34 |
| Slipknot | 5 | 2.68 | +2.32 |
| Space Ritual | 5 | 2.68 | +2.32 |
| Orbital 2 | 5 | 2.7 | +2.3 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Here Are the Sonics | 1 | 3.16 | -2.16 |
| The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan | 2 | 3.63 | -1.63 |
| This Is Fats Domino | 2 | 3.38 | -1.38 |
| Chirping Crickets | 2 | 3.29 | -1.29 |
| Spy Vs. Spy: The Music Of Ornette Coleman | 1 | 2.22 | -1.22 |
| Golden Hour | 2 | 3.09 | -1.09 |
| evermore | 2 | 3.04 | -1.04 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Neil Young | 4 | 5 |
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 4.75 |
| Radiohead | 4 | 4.75 |
| Talking Heads | 4 | 4.75 |
| Joni Mitchell | 3 | 5 |
| Yes | 3 | 5 |
| Metallica | 3 | 5 |
| Black Sabbath | 3 | 5 |
| Nirvana | 3 | 5 |
| Steely Dan | 3 | 5 |
| Queen | 3 | 5 |
| Beatles | 3 | 4.67 |
| Brian Eno | 3 | 4.67 |
| The Smiths | 2 | 5 |
| Amy Winehouse | 2 | 5 |
| Iron Maiden | 2 | 5 |
| Aerosmith | 2 | 5 |
| Michael Jackson | 2 | 5 |
| The White Stripes | 2 | 5 |
| Eminem | 2 | 5 |
| Peter Gabriel | 2 | 5 |
| Prince | 2 | 5 |
| Kendrick Lamar | 2 | 5 |
| Common | 2 | 5 |
| Emerson, Lake & Palmer | 2 | 5 |
| Beastie Boys | 2 | 5 |
| Dire Straits | 2 | 5 |
| Rush | 2 | 5 |
| The Who | 2 | 5 |
| The Prodigy | 2 | 5 |
| Public Enemy | 2 | 5 |
| Kate Bush | 2 | 5 |
| Bob Marley & The Wailers | 2 | 5 |
| Red Hot Chili Peppers | 2 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 2 | 5 |
| Stevie Wonder | 2 | 5 |
| Deep Purple | 2 | 5 |
| Simon & Garfunkel | 2 | 5 |
| AC/DC | 2 | 5 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 2 | 5 |
| Kanye West | 2 | 5 |
| Oasis | 2 | 5 |
| OutKast | 2 | 5 |
| David Bowie | 6 | 4.17 |
| R.E.M. | 4 | 4.25 |
| Madonna | 3 | 4.33 |
| Van Morrison | 3 | 4.33 |
| Creedence Clearwater Revival | 3 | 4.33 |
| The Kinks | 3 | 4.33 |
| Bruce Springsteen | 3 | 4.33 |
Controversial Artists
Artists you rate inconsistently
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Bob Dylan | 2, 4, 5, 5 |
5-Star Albums (289)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
The Residents
3/5
they say that art disturbs the comfortable and comforts the disturbed. an album that would make zappa proud, no doubt. dissonant, alien, surreal, anxious... a majority of the songs seem less like songs and more like cries for help. a few decent tracks like the one i've picked make you feel like you're in a demented moshpit, but a giant majority are just...
weird.
6 likes
Aphex Twin
5/5
i already knew i was going to rate this five-stars as soon as i saw the title. i love this album so much. this album is the iconic debut of aphex twin, with that cool, experimental techno music that he's known for.
this music is ahead of its time. not just 90s, but ESPECIALLY 80s too. a lot of it was just richard james just dicking around, playing with drum machines and synths... it works extremely well. compared to a lot of other tracks that aphex twin is known for, this album is a lot more dreamy and relaxing. it stands by itself, not just serving as a solid foundation for techno music, but it's still so jaw-dropping to listen to today. seriously, some of these sounds are so insane, you'll scratch your head wondering how it was all made.
2 likes
Jane Weaver
5/5
probably one of the more obscure albums on this collection. this album doesn't even have a wikipedia article about it. i've never heard a sound quite like this before.
mind-bending and cosmic, this album evenly blends pop, electronic, new wave rock, and something else entirely. if you enjoy the likes of beck and gorillaz, you'll initially be put off by its slightly strange sound, but you'll end up loving it so much by the second or third track. this album was made for me. even if you don't end up liking it, at least i do! it's groovy.
2 likes
Syd Barrett
5/5
quite the interesting listen today, it's definitely a rock pop album but it doesn't sound like any other i've listened to, especially from this time period.
barrett's voice is tired and almost delightfully deadpan as he sings, invoking a certain emotion that he most certainly felt after leaving pink floyd. it's simple and doesn't have too much going on in terms of instrumentation and production. you can feel exactly how exhausted he felt, being a musician and all.
i fuck with it. imagine making a typical "perky" rock album when you're tired of making music in the first place.
2 likes
Ray Charles
4/5
music for the oldest of oldheads, full of soul, melody and wit. leave it to ray charles to make a hefty collection full of mostly lovely tunes for swinging or cuddling. oh yeah, and my favorite track broke me. it's the track that plays in the ending scene of tezuka's metropolis (fantastic movie, perhaps someday soon it deserves to be streamed). and holy damn i didn't expect it. not only did i think of that but of course i thought about myself and my own relationship... it's. it's a lot. i wailed like a fucking baby.
2 likes
1-Star Albums (2)
All Ratings
Funkadelic
5/5
starting off with probably the happiest, possibly SILLIEST funk album ever produced. the sort of collection where you can vividly imagine the group smiling and enjoying every last groove being dropped. bootsy took me on a trip straight to funkytown and i'm still high from the glitz and glamor. i listened to this shit normally, imagine listening to this shit when you're high. put on your seatbelts, it's gonna be a bumpy, exciting ride.
there's a track in here called "promentalshitbackwashpsychosis enema squad (the doo doo chasers)". they don't give a damn and i am here for every last second.
David Bowie
3/5
david bowie is certainly a pioneer when it comes to his gritty and sometimes spacey rock tracks, and i definitely think he's up there with one of the greats. however as innovative and as probably influential this album is, it's not as good as i thought it would be. the first tracks had a promising start with more of the rock flavorings, but the second half of otherworldly ambience is... i mean i suppose it's nice, but really it's nothing too worth of note i feel like. and it's a real shame.
Keith Jarrett
4/5
imaginative. loose. resonate. this is a performance that needs to be heard to be believed. jarrett lays resonating foundations that build upon themselves to create wonderfully creative and engaging solos. this collection of only four tracks would be perfect for studying or creating all sorts of outlines or sketches... i would give it a perfect 5 if i could, but as great as it is, it's not something i would imagine residing in a spot in my collection, or at least not yet. maybe a relisten is in order.
also jarrett's occasionally grunts and exclamations. that's something! hell, maybe i'd do the same if i was that skilled at the piano and making improvisations as i go.
The Offspring
4/5
time to take your shirt off, let your hair flow loose and mosh like a rabid creature while you shred the gnar. this album is VERY punk. not just extreme punk, but TOTALLY X-TREEEEEEME punk music. a mostly solid collection of pumping, punchy tracks that'll make you feel like a teenage boy who spent his birthday money on vans kicks and blind skateboards.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
wow. this was.... maybe i'm tired. maybe it's something else but i did not... feel this album. as much as i should. the scratchy vocals, the distorted guitars... this is a certain level of the genre that unfortunately i just don't understand fully. i wish i could tell you further than that, it's just not for me at all. is this a good album? i would say that yes, it is. it just has a sound that i personally do not care for. if you like artsy indie tracks with a deep grimy sound, you'll be a fan!
Arcade Fire
4/5
now THIS is an indie vibe that's considerably better than yesterday's listen. emotion-filled tracks with moving guitar strumming, natural acoustic drums, occasional orchestral samples and lyrics filled with a great amount of sentimental value and overall warm, although sometimes sad look back at a past time. if this album wasn't an album, it would be a long, yet pleasant drive across the north, ending the journey at your grandma's old trailer home.
The Zombies
5/5
what a good listen!! this collection is a prime example of the turning point in music trends between the very late 60s and early 70s. every last song is wonderfully played out, allowing you to really take a nice little gander at the colorful and dare i say sunshiny side of music around this time. absolutely brilliant.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
led. freakin. zeppelin. his name alone should already prepare you for what's to come in this collection. boy do i feel that... that edge, that wonderfully slammin' true hard rock sound that persists within the whole album... absolutely a great variety of stuff that'll get you interested.
Various Artists
3/5
this album was most likely suggested to be played on the big day, which i guess we're a little behind one. anyways... it's fine. it's vintage christmas music, typical campy pop from that era. the vocal performances are actually pretty alright! there's just only so much i can say about a woman beltin frosty the snowman.
Peter Frampton
5/5
this album by peter frampton is... uuuuugh this is good, really really good. something about the energy of the crowd, the clear-as-day instrumentals sweeping in, and peter's voice... if you close your eyes are really allow yourself to become one with the audio, i swear you feel like you're actually there. i love this. i love this with every fiber of my being.
The Jam
4/5
hell yeah love me some new wave, british new wave especially has a style all on its own, and i can feel it with most every track. even as a new wave fan myself this is a band i don't recognize, but after giving it a shot i very much enjoyed it. the lyrics especially are some of the most intriguing parts, some stuff that sounds simple ends up being quite profound. what the album sort of lacks in length, only about 35 minutes or so, makes up for in its creative value and relatability i feel. give this one a shot if you're looking for something smooth and moody.
Ella Fitzgerald
5/5
this is only a small sample of ella's entire collection of recordings done of the gershwin songbook, or the great american songbook, a collection of, you guessed it, american written tracks from a century ago. this "best of" album is more than enough to show me just how talented and vocally beautiful ella fitzgerald is, every track is so pleasant to the ears... ella could literally sing some of the vilest darkest heavy metal tracks and she'll sing it in such a way that'll make you curl up in bed and daydream.
Fats Domino
2/5
13 is an unlucky number, and it appears that this day is probably the most... mixed reaction thus far. fats i've read is a great pianist, and his voice has a real nice tone and twang; i truly do feel like he could make some awesome stuff if he really wanted to. but unfortunately, this album is just not one of those great ones. typical typical typical rock from this time. half the songs sound the same to me. it's just... this isn't one i would recommend.
Paul Revere & The Raiders
4/5
talk about a cool vibe to kick off the new year. this album is such a good example of some of that real early rock that set the foundation for many more artists, bands, and fans that would come along the line. this is nitty-gritty OG rock... or perhaps punk in its infancy, and man is it a good listen. yes, these guys did the whole revolutionary war getup. i love that.
The Smiths
5/5
just like if someone says they don't like the cure, they're lying, the same thing goes for the smiths. absolute peak. every bassline, every hazy guitar riff, every last word sung by morrissey, it all builds right up to create a wonderful set of tracks for your best and your worst days. other members in my family have a certain fondness for the group and i just have to agree with their thoughts.
Malcolm McLaren
4/5
out there is an understatement when it comes to this album. holy moly. if i were to give a good summary of this stuff? a very wacky trek around the world. we're going to africa we're going to mexico we're going to america we're going where?? this album was actually not mainly written by this malcolm mclaren guy, but rather this is believed to be the very first album by the art of noise, crazy experimental synths, sample-flipping and all. being their first ever album, you can immediately hear their style being established, and while charming it's a little rough, but nothing too bad!
The Soft Boys
3/5
you know what really stinks? listening to albums and you legit have nothing noteworthy to say about it. it's got a real original vibe i would say, like if the beatles were new wave. basically. but i really couldn't give you any... thoughts about this album at all, it just exists. it's just there. that album art is real interesting though.
Supertramp
5/5
now this is an album i can get behind. i absolutely adore supertramp, between them and electric light orchestra they have SUCH a full and almost healing nature to their songs; every track literally makes you feel like you're cloud hopping and skydiving gracefully back down to earth. breakfast in america is probably the more iconic album, but that's not to say this earlier venture isn't downright incredible.
Van Halen
5/5
rock on babyyyy!! eddie, wherever you are i hope you know that your crazy ear-shattering guitar solos will echo onward throughout the universe for a millennia. if we were to talk about definitive metal albums that changed the world, holy damn this may be that album. please give this one a listen!
Giant Sand
4/5
now normally i'm not the kind of guy who listens to country, but this ain't your normal country album. usually i grow tired and miserable over the more mainstream genres of country but this is a real... true country vibe that somehow works. i feel like i'm in a trailer park smoking a cigarette. a generally solid and lengthy collection of bassy, throaty vocals, classy sampling goodness, lamentful atmospheres and really artistic compositions.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
5/5
thought-provoking. wonderfully written. downright... relaxing. damn, half the songs featured here i listened to with my eyes closed, just trying to set a scene with each track. imagining myself sitting in a rusty carriage with neil at the other side, playing his guitar and i'm genuinely just holding my heart and nodding along. i can't say anything else, other than i feel... i feel like this album is so pretty it'll make you tear up. i didn't tear up but i almost wanted to.
Elton John
5/5
sir elton john is up there with a few select musicians that are unapologetically original and inspiring to me. the kind of musicians where you get down on your knees and have a revelation as soon as they start playing the piano. and this album. pure. audio. orgasm. there's a reason why this album specifically is said to be the best one elton has ever written. the man is a composing god, if bach or mozart witnessed a live concert by elton they would scream, cheer and beg for more. gay people sure know how to make music. seriously. some of the best ever musicians are gay dudes. elton john. freddie mercury. george michael. i worship the ground they walk on.
T. Rex
4/5
this website really seems to like showing me glam often, not that i mind! it's really interesting hearing true glam; to an outsider i feel like the genre makes people think of shit like twisted sister... when really the actual style of the genre is much more... artistic, diverse, gritty and brash. this album is smooth and bumpy at the same time, some really good rock tracks that i feel like a lot of people, especially newcomers would enjoy if they took some time to themselves. nothing too complicated, nothing too confusing... just juicy, fuzzy, invigorating rockkkkkk.
Richard Thompson
3/5
we've reached yet another album where i unfortunately don't have a lot to say on. the production value is great, the thompson's voices (especially linda's) are easy on the ears, but while there's a few songs that stand out to me, most of the songs i honestly didn't bat an eye to. i don't know why, just another one of those albums where i'm not feeling it too much. the few songs that are good, they're REALLY good, especially the one i've chosen as my fave.
Tom Waits
3/5
holy blues. half of it is some REALLY gritty americana blues, tom's INCREDIBLY deep and throaty voice compliments the sleazy rough sound the accompaniment has, and another half is some somber light chamber stuff, which I favor. there's a lot of merit in this album, with tom giving his thoughts and experiences about what it can be life to live in this strange forsaken place we call earth... despite his unique voice and meaningful songs it's just another collection that isn't really for me.
Neil Young
5/5
another neil young album! i really liked the first one i listened to, and surprise surprise i like this one too. compared to the sometimes melancholy feel of the first one, this one feels, while not OVERLY cheerful just a tad more positive in terms of mood, swapping that pre-grunge sound for more of the humble and hunky-dory country... according to an interview it's a bit calmer due to neil unfortunately hurting his back; he couldn't stand up and perform during that time. very glad he was able to pull through and still make some beautiful songs despite his condition.
Magazine
5/5
yeah, honestly i really liked listening to this! definitely an album that's ahead of its time, being released in the 1970s but having a sound that's commonly associated with 1980s alt rock, trippy synths, drums reverberated to hell, and voices so crackly and gothic you can picture their pure black eyeshadow and lipstick. i am flat out embracing this vibe. it is a part of me.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
my god, now this is an album i feel like is worth talking about for hours. this is not an album, this is a journey across the land. what a listen. i absolutely adore every track; just listening to those guitars for a millisecond makes me instantly spellbound, enchanted. i am here and i am happy to listen to every bit of joni's life and the clear-as-day imagery she expresses in every single line. there's certain albums that i've just... i've never heard in my life and after hearing this, i can safely say that this entry is one that has changed my life forever. it's so gorgeous.
Amy Winehouse
5/5
humorous, breezy and uber-jazzy. the late and really great amy winehouse's debut album is a spectacle of trip-hop jazzy beatflips, sexy, blunt and honest lyrics, and a REALLY bold and romantic atmosphere all mesh together and make a truly great soul album that i can't get tired of. it's really a shame her life ended the way it had to, but i'm blessed to have listened to her works.
Eric Clapton
4/5
today we have quite the chilled-out album on our hands, every track mellow, mild, and really really lazyyyyyy, like you're on a boat or lounging in a chair on a porch. quite a number of good tracks here and there, especially the one i've chosen as my favorite, but i can't say this entire album is full of notable ones. where it does shine though, it certainly does. i hear there's better out there when it comes to ol' clapton. maybe there's more to come, we'll see!
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
4/5
another little world endeavor like duck rock, and i'm being really honest with you? this one is better. even if there's a decent amount of it that's almost... intelligent slam poetry? that may be a weird description. there's a fair amount of sung but also a fair amount of really good beats over... sonnet-level spoken word. it's certainly good in its own right, but, at least for my first listen i was more stunned than interested in it,, there's plenty to like though! a lot of producing techniques are AMAZING.
Ghostface Killah
4/5
venturing right into our first actual hip hop album and this one is actually pretty good i would say! i know there's at least a number of people who aren't into the vulgarity and sometimes shocking material in terms of rhymes, but if you realllllly have an open ear like i am you'll hear all sorts of life experiences and really cool wordplay; even for something like gangsta rap, which subject material tends to lean towards at least a few common topics... probably the whitest white guy take on that but am i wrong? like past albums, not every track is a winner, but the ones that win certainly win. also i'm LOSING my mind with these beats. SO good.
Iron Maiden
5/5
yet another group that pretty much defined the genre in such a way that they should be considered the eternal kings. perfect headbangin, toe-tappin, and adrenaline packin heavy metal music. metal so unbelievably good it's scary.
Aerosmith
5/5
continuing on our metal kick, yet ANOTHER hall-of-famer group! gosh... while last night's listen, i grew a mohawk, tonight it's swapped with a lush and volumized blonde set of hair. despite the big glam rock energy that persists throughout, the blues influence also has a heavy positive factor in making this album memorable. steven tyler's energetic voice is just the icing on the cake, and some of the lyrics dive a bit into heavy material that's worth civil discussion.
The xx
3/5
this indie pop album has its fans; apparently one of the tracks was used as menu music for fifa 18. can't really say i found it too interesting of a listen though, even with the often relaxing electronic beats and moderately interesting lyrical content. sorry, it's just not my thing.
Ray Charles
4/5
music for the oldest of oldheads, full of soul, melody and wit. leave it to ray charles to make a hefty collection full of mostly lovely tunes for swinging or cuddling. oh yeah, and my favorite track broke me. it's the track that plays in the ending scene of tezuka's metropolis (fantastic movie, perhaps someday soon it deserves to be streamed). and holy damn i didn't expect it. not only did i think of that but of course i thought about myself and my own relationship... it's. it's a lot. i wailed like a fucking baby.
The Sonics
1/5
oh boy. this album is mostly... irritating. lame uninspired progs, songs that sound so similar you wonder if the player is skipping, ear-bleeding mastering. speaking of ear-bleeding this singer. whoever he is. he looooooves to just hold that microphone really close and SCREECH. like he's SCREAMING into that mic. every single song he does it. UWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUGHHH!! is it that necessary?
Gotan Project
4/5
very smooth, very chic. the romantic strings and the passionate accordion hits compliment the beats greatly. greatly classy instrumental flips all throughout, mixing the beauty and grace of the spanish tango with uber-hip electronic sounds and drums makes for a nice album i'd say. certain tracks almost have a housey vibe to them.
The Cramps
2/5
enough!! enough!! enough with the 12-bar blues prog!! i've counted at least 6 or 7 songs that had it and it's genuinely pissing me off!! jfc what did you guys do, smoke a blunt, find that progression and think "HOLY SHIT WE COULD MAKE AN ENTIRE ALBUM OUT OF THIS"? the lord taught you that?? the whole aesthetic is so cool but it's just been taken down so much by the lack of compositional value.
Johnny Cash
3/5
this is true country music. my mom tells me how lame johnny cash is but i tell her time and time again, him, along with the likes of dolly parton and willie nelson are the true faces of country music. in johnny's case he tells all sorts of stories about his time as a criminal, and he has plenty to tell. despite the genuine stories and interaction with the audience, unfortunately i can only really call this album fine... even as someone that calls this type of country good, for me it's only alright.
The Residents
3/5
they say that art disturbs the comfortable and comforts the disturbed. an album that would make zappa proud, no doubt. dissonant, alien, surreal, anxious... a majority of the songs seem less like songs and more like cries for help. a few decent tracks like the one i've picked make you feel like you're in a demented moshpit, but a giant majority are just...
weird.
My Bloody Valentine
4/5
an album that feels like it came from a dream. soothing, distorted and full of emotion... really i listened to this and i felt like it really really resonated with my mind, body, and soul. in terms of how i'm feeling right now this album nails it to the wall. ughhhhhhh jesus christ on a motorbike.
Michael Jackson
5/5
out of the first three michael jackson albums produced by quincy jones, this is my personal favorite. michael's versatility in style and substance paired with quincy's uber-hard hitting and almost metallic instrumentals make this a fundamentally perfect album. every track, even the filler tracks are without any flaws. michael jackson truly will be remembered as the king of pop for now and forever.
Primal Scream
4/5
listened to this whole thing while on a walk and i liked it a lot. it's giving james bond but if we tossed out the smooth tuxedo and replaced it with a rough leather jacket. rugged and rustic, this album has more than enough cool... i dunno, windy kinds of sounds, and i was pretty into it.
Teenage Fanclub
4/5
another power pop set that's more promising than my last listen when it comes to the type of music. energetic and fresh, many of these tracks are peppy and quite rockin'. it's just a generally nice piece of work that gets you nodding your head with the players, and i feel like that's really what the genre is all about. good stuff!
Q-Tip
5/5
funky fresh hip hop for funky fresh individuals. big beats, vinyl flips and luscious lines from q-tip all meld together to create nothing short of a hip-hop masterpiece. the album's title makes perfect sense, this album does feel like a renaissance period when it comes to this kind of material.
Blur
4/5
posh, quirky, and still absolutely fresh sounding to this day. i've already known about the first track for ages and it's been getting plenty of replays in my spotify account. the rest of the album is just... genuinely solid, pop that feels both spunky and almost... regal. love you damonnnnn
Jazmine Sullivan
3/5
personal stories, stories of heartbreak, relationships and growing up as a woman. it's pretty empowering, but its got that modern typical trap hip-hop flow and plenty of lyrics that are unsurprising at best, talking about money and her pussy at all. the money and pussy mentions aren't just bragging but even so i just... couldn't get into it too much.
Calexico
4/5
some decently juicy earthy texy-mexy stuff. a lot of tracks are really really just... nice to listen to, humble, dainty and full of sounds straight from the edge of the border. some songs have lyrics but a big majority are instrumental.
Snoop Dogg
5/5
snoop's debut album and quite the debut at that. this dude was only 19 years old!! and here he is laying some ultra smooth rhythmic rhymes that's perfect for bumpin at a party or blasting in your car. i ain't even high. completely sober! and yet i feel that buzzzzzz. this album is the shiz. nit.
The Birthday Party
3/5
a really vicious, feral, ragged punk album. this album reeks. like a well-used towel in a locker room. literally, if there was a word to describe this collection, it would be wet. alas between the reverberated drums, ringing guitar twangs and really... really peculiar vocal qualities, it doesn't really do much for a guy like me.
The Zutons
4/5
the 60s influence is strong in this album, initially i was a liiiittle skeptical after the first few listens but i soon grew to enjoy it! not just 60s pop energy, but i'm also feeling a little bit of ska here and there and i'm honestly quite happy with what i just heard.
PJ Harvey
3/5
warbly rock that stands out from the rest. pj has this... like i've said. this interesting, warbly voice that persists from start to finish. she kinda sings like bjork. at times. and it's pretty alright i guess! it's just... weird. some albums really hook me, some only reel me close, and some, like this one... it's at a standstill. good stuff but not my cup of tea too much.
Harry Nilsson
5/5
i've always enjoyed nilsson's discography. a year or two ago i discovered his album "the point", a wonderfully dreamy rock pop album with an equally fantastic animated film containing a fantastic message. but alas we're not here to talk about that one.
like that album, this album is absolutely equal when it comes to song quality and keeping my invested. his folksy instrumentation and his WONDERFUL tenor voice go hand in hand. it's half emotional half chill.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
swingin' classic pop from sinatra. instrumentation is glitzy and glamorous, his voice sparkles like wine, and it's the ideal music for that time period when out and about, taking your partner by the hand and dancing in the moonlight. however, as with many albums around this era, there's a lot of tracks that are just... samey. it's nice sure but ol' hipster me wants variety. gimme a decent menu to peruse.
Charles Mingus
4/5
luscious impressionistic jazz music that makes you think. a seamless blend of groove, whimsy and chaos... only a few different tracks but containing very long lengths, jam packed of solos that just go on and on and on, keeping you engaged all the way through. this one's pretty good.
Pixies
4/5
it's big, it's wide, it's... it's quite the sound, you literally feel like you're surfing the soundwaves. the grungy influences and the deep moody... sort of presentation makes for something i thought was pretty good while it lasted.
Mj Cole
3/5
another album that has a nice vibe but every song is very very similar from one another, mainly the beats. i know i've said before there's a few albums that are like that but this is probably the clearest example of it which i've heard so far. you'll hear the same drum pattern again and again. plus many of the vocals i found more corny than groovy.... but those few tracks that break the cycle? good stuff. but overall it's only aiiiiiiight.
Japan
4/5
a really late 1970s new wave album that definitely inspired other bands in terms of sound, many people seem to say that japan's whole energy served as a heavy inspiration for duran duran's work especially. moody, mysterious, and sometimes synthy... most songs are pretty nice, really lets you relax your head on a pillow and be one with it all. those basslines are killer.
Femi Kuti
4/5
groovy and optimistic beats and teachings from the heart of nigeria. blissful and reflective lyrics that discuss life as it is. the drums awaken the soul, the voices of the choirs make you wanna sing along... this album is just fun. really really fun, just standing up and clapping along is the mood i get.
Paul McCartney and Wings
5/5
god, paul... i love everything you do. this album is just a small sample of his massive, massive musical library. progressive, colorful and just fantastic rock music with tracks for just about every occasion. this is album you really don't wanna pass by, no matter your age, musical taste, views, you just have to agree that this is a good one.
William Orbit
4/5
a VERY interesting ambient electronic album with lots of the worldly influences with SUPER deep grooves. this is an album you listen to in the shower at 3am. this is an album that would serve as the soundtrack for a really unheard of exploration action game with tank controls for the ps1.
Yes
5/5
yes is one of the main names when it comes to prog, you've most likely heard a few of their songs before, either on the radio, on tv, or... yes, the memes. this album definitely has some of the more unheard of songs that most casual listeners have yet to hear.
this album, containing only 6 really long tracks is another solid contender in their library. i really can't say anything too complicated other than it's a worthy listen, and just taking some time out of your day to gander would be ideal.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
eh. meh. bwah. *blows raspberry*
this album is fine. early-era rebellious rock music from the original pioneers of that sound. i know that the rolling stones have done better than this though. much much better. it's not to say this album is bad, it's just serviceable.
Nick Drake
5/5
very pretty little album. i really liked all the songs i heard. it's soft. it's quiet. it's... it's the musical equivalent of a lovely little garden. the guitars and the occasional strings really add to the experience i feel... straight music therapy, both happy and sad. this man went through a lot... they say he was the van gogh of music. it's unfortunate because you can hear that. in his voice.
The Dandy Warhols
3/5
another album that's just fine. just eh. i just didn't hear anything that's... that interesting. lyrics are fine. guitar chugs are, they're chuggin. at periods it sounds like the most... bored rock band i've ever heard. it's just. fine.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
an early, early folk album, just a simple guy with a simple ol' guitar singing campfire stories to anyone and everyone. it has charm, but it's mostly simple in terms of what the songs are about and how they're played. i just can't be too harsh on it.
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
jefferson airplane are the kinds of bands that have... no attitude whatsoever, the opposite of any rebellious nature, edginess or anything of the sort. they have the peppiness of the archies but with less of the corny nature. mostly happy with the touch of sadness... this album is pretty good.
LTJ Bukem
4/5
damn i didn't expect a dnb album here out of all places...! as someone who frequents the genre when i can i know that ltj is one of the greats. this album is a massive 2-disc collection full of juicy dnb from the era where it shined the most. crazy drumbreaks paired with atmospheric pads and weird samples... what more could you want? my only gripe is that these songs are wayyyyyy too long,, plus when you have 20 or so tracks, this makes for a huge huge album. if it was a little shorter i would rate it higher.
Hole
4/5
for those of you who like 90s grunge, this album is full of it. makes sense, as one of the founders for the band was courtney love, who was the wife of the late and great kurt cobain.
this album is very... emotional. very... very enraged. literally one track she screams "FUUUUUUUCK YOUUUUUUU". and i fuck with that hard. sometimes you're angry at the world, at yourself... and this album is a good listen to when you're having those days. vulgar, honest, and really... really just full of pain.
Curtis Mayfield
5/5
a flavorful and groovy soul soundtrack. mayfield's melodic voice goes hand in hand with the super duper smooth instrumentation... like this is peak early 1970s soul, and it's so, so... good. like this isn't just smooth soul, this is SEXY soul music. will definitely be checking out more of this guy in the future!
Simply Red
5/5
another band i have never heard of until now and DAMN do they slap. seriously, my jaw was to the floor the moment the first track played,
with really awesome keyboard accompaniments, super catchy lines, and a whole theme centered around the appreciation for life, then and now... this is absolutely an album i will be listening to again and again.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
2/5
i'm sorry. i just don't care. it seems that before the mid to late 1960s, music was just so utterly plain. i'm growing a beard out here waiting for some action, and the action never comes, does it? buddy holly, i will not deny that you are literally the founder. the genius. probably the sole reason why rock exists. but even so. i'm not headbanging. i'm not dancing.
those crickets sure are chirping.
The Isley Brothers
5/5
yet another funky funk album that's on this massive list, and it's another that i really enjoyed listening. some of it love-makin' music, some of it smooth sailing and chillaxin' to the max...in. my descriptions suck, but this album is awesome. greatly written, greatly mastered. love it love it love it! funk me up daddy.
The White Stripes
5/5
many people, me included believe that this album is probably one of the most iconic rock albums of the 21st century, a modern... blues album. very fuzzy, thumping and infectiously raw. i know you can already hear that iconic riff from seven nation army. lots of people can hear it. a great album with great stories to tell.
Madonna
5/5
madonna's 7th studio album i think was the last of her great era. she's unfortunately past her prime now, or maybe I'm just saying that because i haven't heard enough? i dunno.
madonna swaps her usual dance pop style for a really trippy and atmospheric techno new age sound, and she pretty much nails it. beautiful vocals and uniquely produced instrumentals that haven't aged a bit.
Metallica
5/5
the heavy metal album to end all heavy metal albums. it's so extreme, so commanding in its often speedy guitar solos and booming, exploding drums. the kind of music that feels like it was written by not just metalheads, but the ancient gods of metal, zapping you with lightning and supercharging you into the night.
The War On Drugs
3/5
this one's alright! some pretty mellow indie rock tunes. but nothing else to it. i ended up taking a nap directly after listening to it... maybe it was because i was sleepy and the chilled out stuff only encouraged that.
The Chemical Brothers
4/5
big phatt beats that despite being loud are quite easy on the ears, super tight and super cool. even as a fan of the genre and these guys in general though, i can't say this is the best album i've heard from them, as most tracks stick out but there's a few scattered about that i couldn't care about as much. still though, if you're looking for expertly crafted big beat sounds, this is a good pick.
1/5
oh my god. this... okay this album gives me a headache. i don't like it very much. this is like... actual freeform. actual avantgarde jazz. drums pound at unimaginable tempos. saxophones squawk like a pair of birds. there's brief periods of stuff that i am able to follow but the big majority of this album is actually... i just didn't like it. it's not for me at all. i would say if you're an academic who's trying to get all they can when it comes to avant-garde jazz samplings, listen to it. but this album actually ruined my day.
Pretenders
4/5
an early new wave album with quite some merit to its name. lovely sets of songs with just the right amount of edge, spunk, and grace. lots of feel-good tracks. but that's about it. can't really say too much other than it's a nice little set of tunes
Linkin Park
5/5
confusion. rage. anxiety. every lyric i hear in this classic album is just so goddamn resonating with a guy like myself. jesus i can feel it down to my bones. this album is great. first-time listeners will be quick to call it angsty "emo" music but when you're going through plenty... this is an album that really expresses all that anguish and turmoil.
Burning Spear
3/5
pretty mellow classic reggae music. super slow tempo tracks that'll have you close your eyes and just nod along to. plenty of good messages too... but it's just another album i've listened to and can't write home too much about.
Van Morrison
4/5
this album was pretty good! with the mixture of guitars and sweepin strings, it makes for a... i dunno, this album feels magical in a way. lots of these songs make me feel like suddenly i've slipped and i'm floating in the air. it happens sporadically.
Black Sabbath
5/5
this... thissssssss. a pretty great example of true classic heavy metal. ozzy is the king of this sort of thing. his voice haunts you in all the right ways. those slick riffs are jawdropping. if this is how metal STARTED, then clearly only things are going to get better from here. all hail the prince of darkness.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
another really early new wavy dreamy album on our list. i kinda zoned out and just let the music control me in this instance. cool cool cool. album for dancing at a club, album for sitting on the toilet at 3am.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
another rolling stones album on this list, huh. it's definitely got much more of a bluesy sound compared to the last one i listened to, like i can definitely hear it. this album is better than the last one i heard but it's just a sound that doesn't make me bat my eye too much. i don't know why, especially with a band like this.
Heaven 17
4/5
an enjoyable and lively synthpop album. there's a good amount of funk and i would say maybe disco influence scattered here and there. it starts off relatively on the pop side and then goes a little deep with the synthesizer and drum machine experimentation later on. this was definitely around that era of early 80s business capitalism... rebel stuff mixed in with current sociopolitical issues around that time. it's rad.
Sam Cooke
4/5
now normally i would rate this a little bit lower as i am still not too keen of this genre, but where this album shines is the fact that it's live. and it's not just a normal live album, both cooke himself and the roars of the crowd breathe so much life into this album. the way he engages with the crowd and everything, if i was there in person i would be clapping and singing along too.
Hüsker Dü
4/5
some really good mostly high-energy rock-ish pop-ish goodness. great lyrics, and super innovative sounds. probably one of the best jangle pop albums i've heard in this collection thus far. can't think of much else to say.
5/5
a wonderfully animated song set that serves as a little memoir of bowie's alter ego. with spacey psychedelic runs and lyrics that literally make you zone out, it's a nice musical journey. this is the bowie i know, unique and sometimes surreal but no pure noise.
R.E.M.
4/5
this is a great album. songs of recollection and existence... it's beautiful, emotional and melancholic from start to finish. it's done in such a way like no other. this mellowed out rock is just sublime, really makes you think. not sure if i'm feeling a perfect five but a four will suffice.
Afrika Bambaataa
4/5
this is real old school breakdance hip hop. seriously this is the kind of music where there's two teams composed of young men in flashy streetwear flipping and spinning at one another for hours on end. one may be initially turned off by the slightly corny plinky-plonky synth arps but this album is full of classic bombastic programmed beats and crazy stabs.
Pavement
3/5
another indie album i tried to get into but i couldn't get into that much. super-duper sleazy. i feel like i've used that word a few times in the reviews i've done but i don't know any other word to describe it. it's a very... tired sounding album. it's another day where i appreciate the vibe but it just doesn't click. oh well.
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
i've listened to arctic monkeys most recent-ish albums, this album from earlier in their discography is a lot more uptempo and louder than those. very great example of fresh punk that has inspirations from the rebellious and sometimes rockabilly aspects of the past while also bringing something new to the table. alex turner. what a voice
David Bowie
5/5
day 96
——————
aladdin sane
david bowie
1973
hard rock, glam rock
yet another bowie album!
probably the PRETTIEST bowie album i've heard out of the bunch. not only is his songwriting at its peak around this point, i also have to give props to the pianist, mike garson. seriously there's so much life in this album and those amazing flourishes make you feel like you're in heaven.
Os Mutantes
5/5
ahead of its time is the first thought i can give this album. seriously, with some of the processed effects i'm hearing... this was the 1960s! it's very surprising.
an interesting amalgamation of tropical and surreal, blending all sorts of genre influences from north america, south america and europe. brilliantly odd. a treat of an album.
Kraftwerk
4/5
prototype electronic techno goodness. in the 1970s, this is what the future could've sounded like. vocoded vocals, space-age zaps and beeps, driving sweeps, pads, and wide analog drones... this album is quite the trip. the main track is about a road trip.
King Crimson
5/5
this album is like the abbey road of prog rock. since it's initial release people cannot and will not stop talking about how amazing it is. this album's first side starts like a beautiful nightmare and the second shifts into a very colorful dream. it's almost perfect if not completely perfect in terms of how it's written and played. probably the best usage of a mellotron i've ever heard too.
Super Furry Animals
4/5
this album is fascinating in the sense that... i've listened to plenty of fusion albums before but this feels more like... a collage of different genres. is it pop? is it rock? is it electronic? is it indie? it's a very interesting little hodgepodge of sound. a good hodgepodge! i really like how some of the tracks start off in one way then end off sounding completely different.
Stereolab
5/5
catchy and sophisticated unremitting bossa-pop from another plane of existence. not everyone would be too keen on the soundscapes that this band lays upon listeners but i am absolutely obsessed with them. if i saw them live i think i would die.
Sister Sledge
5/5
day 102
——————
we are family
sister sledge
1979
disco, r&b, soul
very sexy, glamorous and confident disco music. every single track oozes positivity; this is an album that'll cheer you up when you're down. some tracks are faster, some tracks are slower... but at the end of the day the entire sound, the entire picture is consistently wonderful to listen to.
Electric Light Orchestra
5/5
utterly amazing in every single aspect. elo is yet another band that i've adored for years, blending in poppy melodic hooks and grooves with dramatic and dreamy orchestral sounds, especially strings. i love their discography and i love this album because it's like a big ray of sunlight in the darkness. it's classy, it's fun, it's so engaging in every aspect. don't let it pass you by.
Flamin' Groovies
3/5
another rock and roll set with not too much to say. songs are alright all around and it's got a rough ol' sound to it for the most part, but it's another case of either the genre isn't for me or it's the same set of chords again and again. there's some talented songwriters here though.
Suzanne Vega
5/5
a very beautiful soft folk album. compared to vega's more experimental ventures later in her discography, her debut is somber, sweet, and just... it's a very relaxing album for a rainy day. listening to the album made me just long for better days.
Eminem
5/5
oh, eminem... it feels unsurprising for me to like this album as i'm a white guy but hey, i liked it and i think that's all that matters.
eminem can be very vulgar and VERY shocking when it comes to the material he raps about, so if you can't handle that sort of subject material i would highly suggest staying away. this album isn't just mindless shock value fodder though, it's full of real life experiences and frustrations from his own point of view, growing up and seeing the harsh realities of life and dealing with rabid fans.
Santana
5/5
jaunty funky latin rock with a strong progressive structure throughout its runtime. some tracks are slow and steady, others get so unbelievably epic you'll be on the edge of your seat. dig those crazy congas.
Merle Haggard
2/5
typical classic country music. sentimental, simple and decently personal. some tracks are perfect for bootin' and scootin'. but i genuinely... i just don't like this genre that much. i'm sorry, i just don't. end of story.
Radiohead
4/5
definitely one of the more experimental albums from radiohead for sure, swapping their usual grunge sound with quirky atmospheric futuristic tracks, some pretty firm and industrial while others totally ambient. it's a nice change of pace compared to their usual stuff. there's still plenty of the rock sound if you're looking for it.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
a great album from a great songwriter. i'm not at all surprised peter gabriel worked with the likes of phil collins... both are just incredibly talented men who have made countless amazing tracks. this album in particular has a sound all its own, gated drums, soft keys and... xylophones?
George Jones
4/5
more old country music from way back when. very sentimental and sad compared to the other stuff i've listened to? wow. this guy has a really good voice, and when you're sad, you listen to sad music. mostly sad love songs. normally i'm not too fond of country but this album was actually alright. that's rare.
John Lennon
4/5
the whole situation between john and ono was... nuts. there's certainly no denying that john's music was equally such. really emotional and psychological stuff. it's absolutely quite the album but it's definitely not the most comfortable i've felt. wow what the fuck.
Judas Priest
4/5
badass early 80s metal music. rough, tough, and straight up thrashin'. music to listen to when you're riding your big harley davidson across the highway with a cigar and sunglasses. oh yeah brother.
Iron Butterfly
3/5
this album is alright i suppose. it's got the typical sort of sound that one would expect from a rock album of this era; even as it's labeled as psychedelic rock it's more of the slightly hazy sort of rock that maybe the beach boys would do? it's got some nice foundations and a VERY long 17 minute track to boot but... yeah i dunno. it's fine. i like the drums and the panning effects.
The Temptations
4/5
original motown flava. a lot more slow and steady compared to the other funk/soul albums i've listened to thus far. many of the albums were peak getting down on the floor and shuffling but this one is a lot of slow dance stuff. there's a dance hit or two in here though!
Janet Jackson
5/5
the musical talents run through the jackson blood. not just michael, but her sister too. my god.
imaginative catchy new jack swing, but don't get too distracted by the amazing beats, plenty of lyrics about the human condition and the issues of the world today, the good, bad, and ugly. ah who am i kidding the music itselfffff it's so good not to ignore. few artists actually know how to do the new jack stuff right.
Carole King
5/5
what is it with the 1970s and their pretty rock songs? this album is so pretty. i love every track. i just... i can't put it to words. i just could put this stuff on, lean my head back and relax. it's just so pleasant from beginning to end. a talented singer and pianist, that's for sure.
Ms. Dynamite
4/5
slow bumpin' ragga hop. the instrumentals are pretty great and niomi's flow is marvelous, but there's a lot of emotional subject matter that makes these songs feel like they're dragging you down a bit. not at all downplaying the probably meaningful material, it's just i'm a positive guy and i like hearing positive stuff, you know?
Nine Inch Nails
5/5
holy damn. a downward spiral is right, this whole album is pretty much the audio concept of someone experiencing just that. from denial to anger to lust to... completely hitting it rock bottom, accepting you're stuck in a big ol' pit. dark subject matter aside it's an AWESOME rock album with the craziest shreds and beats you've ever heard. like running nails against a chalkboard in the best way possible.
Prince
5/5
thank goodness the world never ended in '99. this is a very funky early synth pop album, absolutely fabulous vocals, an almost poetic and SEXY atmosphere and one-of-a-kind drum machine experiments make prince's songs really stand out among the rest. so good.
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
wow, this album is pretty heavy. a big theme of this album is reflecting on your life and leaving a legacy... there's a lot of pondering in these tracks and a big part of the lyrics i heavily relate to. i don't know what will happen. and every day i think about a lot of things about my life... i might not get the answer but at least i have music like this that expresses these feelings. i initially wasn't too interested in this album but as time went on? wow.
The Pretty Things
4/5
apparently this is one of the first rock operas ever made, and it's pretty solid. while it definitely has the standard sound that's usually heard on these types of albums from this era it does it in a really good way. there's good psychedelic and then there's the really pretentious stuff and thankfully this is the former. some of the percussion lines are killer.
5/5
after taking hallucinogens shortly after expressing dissatisfaction with their previous discography, the beatles would go on a crazy musical journey like no other.
this album is a delightful trip from beginning to end. happy, sad, dreamy, fucking nightmare inducing. all of these and more are packed in this undeniably iconic beatles album. truly the epitome of honest and true psychedelia that'll stand the test of time.
50 Cent
4/5
peak 2000s hip hop. another kind of album that'll make you want to blast it in your car driving down the avenue. every single track, you WILL bump your head. you will get yourself comfortable and bump the FUCK out of this song. perfect club music honestly.
Jeff Buckley
5/5
very chilled out rock. it's mostly mellow but steadily goes into grunge territory. keeps you very interested with what's going on throughout. is it prog? maybe not, but it's very close to it in more ways than one i feel. shame this album was the only one he did.
White Denim
5/5
yet another band i haven't heard of til now with an INSANELY great sound. what happens when you take a typical prog band and take it all the way to the bottom of the states? you get an incredibly sounding collection of impeccable moving and windy rock songs, that's what. this is like... canyon prog. desert prog. dusty prog. does that make sense?
Pearl Jam
5/5
pearl jam babyyyyyyy. this debut album is absolutely amazing. it's passionate, it's very charged and just full of that... i dunno it's a staple of grunge. say what you will about nirvana. nirvana's great, amazing even, but don't you dare sleep on pearl jam.
Dolly Parton
4/5
dolly is no doubt the most graceful country singer-songwriter out there, as someone who doesn't really like the genre too much. this album is pretty fine! mostly soft, slow and sentimental. the songs are great, don't get me wrong. it's just a little too... i dunno. a little religious, a little... just... downcast in a way.
i'm still giving it a 4 because it's pleasant sounding.
Sparks
5/5
another band i hold dear to my heart. these guys have been making music for 50 years!! 50!! can you imagine that? they still make stuff today!
an incredibly bonkers and theatrical rock album. it's very demented, it's very over the top, and it's right up my alley. these guy's voices are very operatic and i feel like you don't hear that very often in art rock from this era? it's great. it's giving kimonos with powdered wigs.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
4/5
many people know this guy, me included for trout mask replica, a really infamous avant-garde/outsider music album. this one is definitely a lot more cohesive, really mellowed out yet really trippy rock. early panning experiments.
is that a thermin?
The Go-Betweens
4/5
pretty nice, mostly soft alt rock love songs. it's quite heavy with the acoustic guitars and it has a SUPER romantic, almost impressionistic vibe to it all. lots of the songs make you want to hold hands with your partner. i feel like if the cure was a little less new wave/punk, it would be these guys.
Beatles
4/5
another beatles album. a mixture of original tracks and covers, including some songs that were pretty popular during that time. while it did sound nice, and those panning techniques are ever-present, this is probably only a four star for me just because this album is more of their earlier sappy love song ventures. beatles in their PRIME beginnings. yeah yeah yeah yeah baby!
Astrud Gilberto
5/5
absolutely gorgeous and breezy bossa sounds. many tracks just feel like the wind is blowing through your hair as you lounge in the summer sun with a tropical fruit drink in hand. this album's a lot of fun especially if you like your bossa samba smooth dancin' tracks.
Common
5/5
seriously a lot of these beats i listen to i feel like is missing from modern-day hip hop music. low-key and deep, this is a collection of really smooth really poetic hip hop that talks about family, prejudice and emotion. both the words and the music whisk you away... i dunno i liked it!
Sarah Vaughan
5/5
a beautiful classic jazz album and live performance. sarah's soulful and resonant voice paired with her bubbly personality keeps the audience, me included interested in her act all the way through. this was recorded in the 1950s but the quality is absolutely phenomenal for this time; makes you feel like you're there.
Morrissey
4/5
a morrissey album, similar sound to previous stuff i've listened to both on this list and before i even started. this album is a lot slower, moodier, and softer than his earlier tracks. still though it's much of the same! lots of lesser known songs here and there.
Television
4/5
slightly dreamy, overall very smooth sailin' art rock i would say. lots of the tracks are very artistically driven but keep the tone considerably quiet and cool all the way through. while it didn't stick out TOO much to me, it had a very nice sound and i got in the zone a bit when i listened to it.
Pixies
4/5
day 138
-----------------
surfer rosa
pixies
1988
alternative rock, grunge
the pixies' debut album is pretty typical grunge, almost... gothic grunge at points. i would say it starts like how edgar allen poe would write if he was in a punk band and it gets so bonkers later on. billingual thrash... sonnets. it was pretty solid, but the lyrics sometimes fall flat. lots of... bones and body talk? okay i guess.
that album art ROCKS.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
blues-ish rock with a humble, almost country influence. not really much to say about this one, besides the warm instrumentals and the vocals, nothing really spoke out to me. but it's nice. it's a nice little album, like a road trip album. driving out to the woods and letting the wind blow you in your face.
also this album's pretty short. it does what it sets out to do and i think that's good enough for me.
U2
5/5
i've only really listened to u2's stuff that came out in the late 90s and 2000s, so this was very new to me. this album is fantastic. very lovely dance punk with strong meaning and merit. something about the almost... echoey ghastly... REALLY punchy mastering makes it for me i feel. great listen. really relatable tracks too, some about the unfortunate reality of the world.
2/5
eh... not feeling this one too much. distorted, painful... and yep, pretty noisy noise rock. it feels like your ears are scrubbed with a cheese grater. there's the select few tracks that are quieter, but it's just so... wow.
wow. there's only so much i can say about a song that goes "#_($+$+_(_+__-+$+::++)]]]BLOODBLOODBLOOD+&+_4++!!-_" some of the beats are creative i'll admit!
Crosby, Stills & Nash
5/5
this album was pretty good! i really like me some relaxing rock to soothe the soul. there's a few ballads and a few songs that just rock you till you're nice and buried in your chair.
i feel like i'm on a boat. maybe that's why they call it yacht rock?
Fairport Convention
4/5
out of all the folk albums i've listened to thus far, this one is REALLY on the folk side, like straight from the mountains folk. with the calling vocals that almost sound like a shepherd calling its flock, occasional fiddles and colorful guitar strums, this album is the... well... the straight up folkiest i've heard in a good while.
Pixies
4/5
we can never get enough pixies, can we?
these guys are... really they're good but i just can't fully get into the genre a lot of the time. i don't know why, i don't know how. that's not to say this album isn't good. it's great! very grungy, a lot of tracks are almost hypnotic in nature, especially with those guitars. certain tracks stand out among the rest. this is the best pixies album i think i've heard out of this list.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
5/5
i feel like such a pretentious hipster for saying all the time "I LOVE PROG ROCK I LOVE PROG ROCK" but it's so true. when the first track is a gigantic 20 minute rock symphony you already know it's going to be the album of the year.
Lorde
3/5
i'll be real i think the only song i've heard from her is royals. and team. this was an interesting little dive into her discography, i'll say that much. lots of songs are melancholy, plenty of material about relationships that could've gone better. it's a very... sleepy album.
it's eh.
GZA
4/5
really good beats here, the usage of classic action film/TV samples and absolutely KILLER drum loops create a nice consistent energy throughout. so many subgenres i'm learning about, all these different areas of the US each having their own style of hip hop...
10cc
5/5
delightfully creative and quirky tracks, melodic classic rock so BOOMING it'll make your speakers weep in joy. an actual exhibition of sound that you really really wouldn't want to miss out on listening to. this album is... colorful. absolutely brilliant.
Beastie Boys
5/5
REALLY hard-hitting 80s rap rock that's either so unbelievably loud you'll thrash your head like a maniac or you'll cackle at how silly it is, it's both. seriously if they ain't shoutin' some sick bars they're just having a lot of fun. the way the beastie boys rap is like a whole bunch of sarcastic middle school skater boys and i love it.
The The
5/5
a distinct and very synthy rock album that while very much sounding like from the time, has a fresh and creative energy i've never ever heard, plus really romantic, almost poetic and... kinda astonishing religious references. this one's a diamond in the vast rough of lesser known 80s alt bands.
it's very... dare i say, infectious.
The Louvin Brothers
2/5
really old country music. the brothers really know how to harmonize well, and i do like the strummin' techniques, but really it's just a genre that is not made for me. from the subject material to the sound, it is literal textbook country music.
i feel bad for rating it this low because it's sincere. but even so...
Nirvana
5/5
all of the unplugged performances are legendary, and this one is no exception.
seriously this performance is historical. kurt's iconic tracks get a relaxing, and... well, acoustic take live on MTV's unplugged. the significance paired with every single song being so naturally great in terms of how it's played... it's the kind of live performance where you couldn't believe it was live.
Isaac Hayes
4/5
more of that good classic soul to keep the mind, body and... well, soul in check. this one only has a few really lengthy tracks. it's a really well produced album, i especially like the trippy wailin' guitars... but a lot of the songs end up being a little stagnant, just draaaaaaaagging for long periods of time. one of the tracks is more spoken word than sung.
Robert Wyatt
2/5
a very... interesting album indeed. peculiar ambient soundscapes, strange dissonant instrument ensembles, a whole bunch of tracks that just make you go... huh?
i'm sorry, this is like actually avant-garde. i can't deal with the squawking horns for that long. seriously, what?
it starts decently enough though.
3/5
she's got a really good voice! it's not my genre still but this time around it's at least pleasant to listen to. it just really puts it into perspective i feel, songwriting techniques in country pop music didn't really change ever even today, there's a lot of songs i can imagine being written and produced, like... now. just take modern country music but literally have the exact song structure and you've got yourself pretty much a similar experience. very romantic.
Beastie Boys
5/5
later on in the beastie boys' discography, they eventually moved from simply guitar chugs and sound machines to smooth funky flipped breaks AND a live band. some of the hip hop beats are paired with fast thrash rock. it's still just as loud, in your face and WICKEDLY awesome.
Don McLean
5/5
this album i've certainly heard before, and it's fantastic.
it's very emotional, it's very poetic in the sense that it deals with heartfelt tributes and somber... maybe not melancholic lyrics but very very bittersweet and conscious ones about the realities of life.
it's heavy to some. but it's great.
Paul Simon
4/5
this one is pretty nice. generally soft rock this time. i wanna say there's a bit of a tribal, sometimes disco influence in a few of the tracks... it's a very quiet yet notable and animated album. obviously i prefer the more beat heavy songs when compared to the slowwww tracks.
k.d. lang
3/5
soft and bluesy country music. this is the music you hear when you're out on the farm and looking at the stars with your hot wife as both of you sit on a truck.
it's very nice sounding, but it's just more of the same country,, there's gotta be good country out there, come on...
N.W.A.
5/5
straight up gangster rap. another one of those albums where it's pretty much the definition of the genre. it's very vulgar, a lot of the material is absolutely not for the average audiences. this is an album you really, REALLY wouldn't want your parents listening to and i mean it so strongly.
is it still good? absolutely. scratchy boomin' beats, violent, and yet really catchy lyrics, and despite all the shock value, is objectively great and is a raw and true glimpse at gang culture during this time.
The Cure
4/5
the cure is certainly a darker alternative rock group, and this album is probably the most gothic i've ever listened to in terms of that. it's haunting. the kind of music to listen to when you're wearing a top hat, cane, and ghastly pale makeup. it's solid all the way through, but sometimes it gets pretty morbid.
The KLF
4/5
classy nightclub tracks. soulful vocals and whispered poetry paired with uber-clean beats and basslines. i had a generally good time listening to it all; i do enjoy some house and this one was one of the better dives. some tracks are better than others.
i like the tracks that sound more like shit from streets of rage and less of the... positive choral psychedelia.
Dire Straits
5/5
this album is sickkkk.
moody little songs in a variety of fun little styles, certain songs having a tex mex vibe. it's very impactful and so playful in terms of composition that i just gotta rate it high.
SAULT
4/5
at the height of arguably the most craziest time of the year, not just with the pandemic but also with the cultural divide leading up to protests, this album really embodies the empowering and undoubtedly unbreakable black spirit. it's very conscious and very low-key soul music.
Waylon Jennings
4/5
songs with real stories, real experiences, and real merit. jennings recounts many of life's journeys, hurdles, and realities in a sweet and simple little collection of ditties. this guy is up there with johnny cash when it comes to gritty, tried and true country music. it's solid.
Tito Puente
4/5
if you're looking for mambo, this album is certainly... a mambo album! it's very joyful and very groovy, unsurprisingly it IS the kind of music that you'd put on if you're dancing with yourself or with your lover. can't say too much else about it other than it's well produced and performed.
everybody mamboooooo!!
Eminem
5/5
eminem's second album release. very ruthless rap that's shocking, but also feels like parody. while some listeners would be quick to call it immature, i like that the guy doesn't take stuff seriously when it comes to how he throws down bars.
it's like a slasher/snuff movie in audio form. not for everyone but it's a great one. seriously his humor gets FUCKED.
The Yardbirds
4/5
60s rock that serves as a good example of how experimentation paved the way for what's to come. varied yet consistently jangly and vivacious tunes with creative panning effects. despite having a sound that goes right along with other bands during this time, this album at least does it in a way in which i enjoyed. i like listening to songs where the bands sound like they're having fun you know?
Aretha Franklin
5/5
hopeful, confident, romantic and god-conscious, this groovy soul album is straight from the heart, mind, and body. the first track is what most people know this album by, but the remaining tracks are something to listen to as well. a POWERFUL voice of a generation that nobody can match.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
another joni mitchell album! i really really liked the last one i listened to.
just like the last one, this one is VERY pretty when it comes to composition and writing, the perfect album to listen to when you're sitting in a patio and sipping some wine. emotional, relatable, and transcendent in time. what a great listen.
Doves
4/5
this album's pretty good for the most part. compared to some of the other indie rock albums i've listened to this one is a bit more lugubrious and spacey in nature. it's the perfect blend of depression and euphoria. it's equally moody, it just balances out. the orchestral sections are also creative.
Living Colour
5/5
this is almost... pop metal. it's very bold, brash... there's absolutely no doubt it's the loudest craziest metal you've heard but it's very uplifting and oozing with a certain kind of cheese that only the 80s could have. it's like if phil collins wrote rock. it's kickass.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
4/5
a deeply rooted industrial album, almost like a massive rusty factory came alive and suddenly made music for the masses. it's almost liminal in a lot of aspects. ghastly hits of metal objects, prophetic lyrics... it's groundbreaking above all else.
The Cure
5/5
arguably the greatest album that robert smith has ever put out in the cure's history.
the lush and divine soundscapes transport every listener to a foggy garden behind a rickety house, full of wilted flowers. it's so utterly gloomy, but it's a picturesque sort of gloomy that resonates with a lot of people including myself. a truly artistic and impactful album.
Big Black
3/5
this rock music is pretty noisy but i'm not sure i would call it noise rock exactly. it's very harsh, tinny, like if a band was stuck inside a cheese grater. it's distorted, it's fast, it's like a sludge but it's still got rhythm. albini's vocals are very stubborn and his lyrics are... pretty much the opposite of pop. it's very creative with how drum machines are used.
The Doors
4/5
the last doors album to feature jim morrison, a return to tradition for the band in terms of sound. it's got a solid groove the whole way through.
jim didn't exactly end it off with a bang, going for more of a relaxed, almost western blues style. while not every track hits for me, this album as a whole is pretty damn nice.
Rush
5/5
a gallery of evocative and immense prog rock from the early 1980s, beefy guitars and even beefier synthesizers create a sound that almost feels...
i dunno, it's a very great sound. it's not flamboyant... i guess it's just dramatic. really really dramatic. i pictured a mighty wizard shredding a guitar on a cliff as lightning strikes in the background. it's a very creative feat for the genre, a different taste compared to previous dives.
Jurassic 5
5/5
incredibly syncopated hip hop with some of the funkiest beatflips i've heard in a good bit. if the wutang clang were jazz or swing nerds, this is what the result would be.
it's not too often when you listen to some underground hip hop and you wanna listen to it a thousand more times but here we are. literally a group i've only heard of till now and i'm a fan.
Rod Stewart
4/5
a heavily acoustic rock album that just oozes in positive instrumentation. this is an album written and performed by a man that doesn't know where he's going but he's absolutely content with it anyways. he's almost a one man band, marching his way down the avenue and just singing about whatever's going through his mind. the album itself takes hints from blues, folk, and even a little bit of gospel; one of the songs literally ends with a rendition of amazing grace.
he's really got a rasp in his voice that i enjoy.
Sonic Youth
4/5
grunge with a very sharp and noisy edge to it all. this is a band that is both incredibly scratchy and staticky in sound and full of experimental and emotional merit.
my favorite track out of the bunch is a song dedicated to miss karen carpenter, one half of the carpenters, whose life was lost too soon.
Nirvana
5/5
nirvana's last album, this one as dark, dreary and impactful as all the others in their discography. something about kurt's depressed and acceptant voice and lyrics tugs at the heartstrings. it's grimy, shocking, and it's possibly one of the greatest grunge albums out there.
Willie Nelson
5/5
relaxing, lovely country songs. willie is the sweetest little country musician i've ever had the pleasure of listening to, and a lot of tracks just make me feel all safe and content. it's just so... it's just nice. so nice. even people who hate the genre would listen to this once and go "oh gosh, isn't this nice?"
The Who
5/5
you know i've always liked the who. these guys were the original kings of classic rock, and this live album showcases that. despite being played live it really sounds like a studio recording. if that's not enough to convince you, i don't know what will. those guitars will sweep you off your feet, and so will those drum fills.
Jack White
5/5
this album was actually pretty good! yet another guy i haven't heard of and i really dig his modern take on blues music, it's VERY soulful and introspective.
the way that a lot of songs are arranged and sung seriously reminds me of similar blues and even yacht rock songs from the 1970s; this guy nails the style to a T.
Bee Gees
4/5
i've listened to the bee gees' saturday night fever disco tunes, but this album is a side of them i haven't dived much into till now. do you like relaxing rock? this is the album for you.
with the tight upright pianos, gentle drums and an orchestral flair, this album is as influential as sgt pepper's. i'm only giving it a four because while the album is very pretty, some of the songs get meat loaf levels of dramatic.
Sly & The Family Stone
5/5
super-groovy and creative funk, some songs upbeat and toetapping while others slow and steady. the energy is unmatched, especially with an album of this time, when the genres experienced quite a peak.
this album came out at the end of normalized prejudice and right at the beginning of the civil rights acts in america; many songs embrace afroamerican-centric joy and a sense of treating every race, not just black people... with common respect. we have to ask ourselves, even in this day and age, why can't we all get along?
also i like the tracks where sly stone distorts his voice and scats, making himself sound like a guitar.
The La's
4/5
another generally good alt rock collection, this one having a good mix of dark and light. there's a hit song or two in there, but this is yet another case of an album i only have so much to say on... it's strange, i can't put my finger on it, but it feels like something is missing.
it's got a bit of jaunt that i like.
Metallica
5/5
yet another heavy metal hall-of-famer. come on now, the album literally opens with enter sandman. despite what a newcomer may think this album isn't all loud and fast and crazy, with quite a few tracks slower and emotional. nevertheless there's no overstating how wickedly amazing these shreds are. metallica is... metal.
5/5
very striking and fervent music this time around. usually i don't really favor classic dance and soul tracks that go on for long lengths, but this album does it in a way that keeps me engaged and interested throughout its duration. the trick is to have a nice few variations if you got a base progression going on.
the vocals are smooth, the drumlines are smooth... everything is just so buttery.
Bob Dylan
2/5
i'm not really feeling this one too much. just a dude, his guitar and his harmonica. singing about the world...
nothing interesting i'm afraid. it's not that the songs are bad, certainly better than what i could write but... i dunno it's just not hitting. at all. it's the kind of songwriter guitar music that'll get you bored to tears. and i hate saying that because that sounds mean but... i just didn't enjoy it too much. i know bob dylan has made better.
Frank Zappa
5/5
a marvelous merry-go-round of sound. zappa is unmatched when it comes to odd experimentation in his albums, and this album in particular is a shining example of his genius.
combining progressive lines with experimental motifs and charming, almost ringing strangeness, this mostly instrumental album is like no other. it's just so silly. i love it. is zappa okay? who knows!!
Booker T. & The MG's
3/5
you can't go wrong with some sleazy 60s soul muzak. there's a good amount of tracks that stick to traditional doo-wop-pop progressions, but it's done in a way that's easy on the ears.
if there's one thing i can say, this album is stylish but it seriously lacks variety. you'll listen to one track, you've basically listened to all of them. it's alright for what it is though. the perfect album for relaxing in the sun.
Grizzly Bear
4/5
this album starts with this really really captivating psychedelic rock composition and i was at the edge of my seat ready for more, but as the album went on a lot of the other songs became hunky-dory quiet slow guitar pickin' and mellow pop goodness. it started off so strong!
it's not to say that this album isn't bad, i think i just expected it to go a completely different direction than it actually did, and unfortunately it did kind of disappoint me for that reason.
k.d. lang
4/5
another k.d. lang album on this collection. she's really got a specific style of writing country music, softer and sophisticated. this is country not for chugging beer, but for sipping wine. this is mother country.
honestly it's pretty decent. lang's voice paired with these glitzy and relaxing instrumentals go hand in hand. it's a very pretty sounding country album. i wouldn't say it's the kind of music i listen to normal but i'm giving it a shot and a seal of approval.
The Prodigy
5/5
a truly groundbreaking big beat album that literally puts you exactly in the era, the turning point between the 20th and 21st century. such a cultural turn needs massive and monstrous beats. this is the album you listen to when you're chugging mountain dew, watching the matrix on vhs and downloading questionable programs on limewire.
the rapping is infectiously aggressive, every drumloop and record flip sticks the landing, and it all adds up to an essential part of an electronichead's music collection. sit down, brace for impact, and get ready to smack your bitch up.
The Sabres Of Paradise
4/5
ambient and experimental techno music. the effects are really creative this time around, the mixture of phasers, delays, and gated reverb techniques create instrumentals that sound like an interstellar space lounge.
it's an alluring, enchanting album. it reminds me of an i spy picture, like the pictures from the books. everything is so vast, colorful... yet liminal and otherworldly. you can't help but look away, or in this case to stop yourself from listening.
it's an oddity.
Stan Getz
4/5
an album that introduced the genre of bossa nova to the general masses. the titular track, "the girl from ipanema" has been known across generations.
overall it's very relaxing bossa nova, stuff to turn on when you're taking a load off. the duo's voices complement each other, the mixture of english and portuguese blending well. it's tranquil, and if you're looking for the perfect album to soothe yourself to, give this one a gander.
The Velvet Underground
4/5
soft and sleepy rock music, something about this era of rock has just a specific sound that a lot of bands share and this one is no different. compared to the other bands i have listened to, these guys are very... like i said, soft. quiet. it's very much rock but it's low-key, instead of shouting in the mic and playing passionately they play gracefully, conservatively... even the louder tracks almost feel like the band members are holding back. not that it's a bad thing, it's just these guys like things mild and mellow.
it feels like... prototype indie. and it's really cool.
Turbonegro
3/5
fast paced and high energy power rock. it has a very pop-esque sound, but with vulgar lyrics like these i'm not too sure i would call THOSE pop. i feel like this is the hard kind of rock that your older brother would listen to growing up, if you had an older brother. they don't fucking give a fuck motherfucker!! shit!!
the energy and the instrumentals i like, but most of the lyrical content is... yeah it's not my forte. it's like middle schoolers wrote the lyrics. one song they literally go "anus! anus!!"
Ravi Shankar
5/5
an informational and detailed introduction to traditional indian music. the album is full of spoken easy-to-grasp knowledge and demonstrations of musical modes, scales, and improvisational techniques that are known across the country of india, and the meaning and feeling what it comes to how it is played, from the sitar to the tabla.
i am giving it a high rating not only because of its cultural and historical significance but also its educational value.
5/5
finally, true early punk that's not like doo-wop rock with extra screaming.
now this is a good example of a band that does it right, loud, nasty, and earth-shaking performances that get both you and the recorded audience all hyped up. this was the era where music experienced quite the big shift in creativity and i'm pleased to report that this is one of the good examples of that. there's the wannabe "punks" with the pompadours and jackets and the REAL punks with the crazy hair and CRAZIER vibes. sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll.
ABBA
5/5
you really can't go wrong with ABBA, the swedish pop group that makes songs that are so peppy you'll actually hurt yourself if you attempt to frown or restrain your body from moving.
every song captures your attention and keeps you entertained. it's a deeply energized and harmonious album that'll make you feel great. seriously, who doesn't like ABBA?
Gillian Welch
4/5
melancholy and thoughtful country from the mountaintops. it's an album that makes you think with its lyrics. i really like albums that are like poetry, having plenty of tunes about the human condition and the pondering thoughts about it all... it's also very relaxing. i could probably sleep like a damn baby listening to this.
Parliament
4/5
more of that 70s funk goodness. this is a big interstellar themed one, having an introduction by, like... an alien or something?
it's a nice album, but it has more of the typical funk stylings from this era, carefree tracks that go pretty long, funky solos but doesn't break far from the initial foundation. also what's with funk albums having incredibly long track names? seriously like half of these have a track that's named like "superdupergroovydanceyfunkamegaultrasuperebolatuberculosis".
i like the clavinet that sounds like a wet fart.
Sade
5/5
the sexiest elevator music you'll ever hear and i mean this in the most positive way possible. this music is so damn pretty. mixing rnb, bossa nova, and vocal pop, sade has created an album worthy of praise and preservation. it is the sheer epitome of class; absolutely spectacular.
Fleet Foxes
4/5
an album that sounds like a foggy forest hike in the middle of winter. there's a true rustic feel to the album, how it's played and sung makes me feel like i'm one with nature. like believe me, you've most certainly heard plenty of folksy tracks but this is folk at its core, with natural vocal harmonies, guitars and... i think those are bodhrân drums. once the first half of the year ends and all that head and sunshine turns into cold temperatures and withering leaves, i'd say this is the perfect time to listen to this.
The Beta Band
4/5
that album art kicks ass. i assumed this would be some really loud epic rock music that would be out of a comic book or video game, but i was pleasantly surprised by how it actually sounded; this album is full of soft and embittered compositions. many people might think this album is a bit simple and quiet, but i honestly really enjoyed this listen, hearing all the different ways these guys produced their tracks and all.
the title is gripping. once respected, now feeling like outcasts.
The Kinks
4/5
this album i really liked, very creative and witty especially for this time. i really like not just the instrumentation but also the occasional sound design and foley that is heard throughout.
it's kinda funny how it seems like every single rock band from this time sounds like the beatles. like the way they sing, it's practically identical. i wonder why that is. it can't just be because "well, they're popular". maybe it's just the accent.
Lauryn Hill
5/5
yet another album that's frankly a contender for a perfect example of a genre. everything from hill's voice to the production value is immaculate, her songs often involving real-life stories and lamentful tales about heartbreak and convictions. the bouncy and lowkey beats weave a collection of songs that feels like a fairytale.
Joan Baez
3/5
a folk album that's guitar and voice only, you can't get more simpler than that. the songs are not original but up to centuries-old folk songs that make up the roud index.
the songs are rather lovely, but baez's voice makes it fall a little flat for me. i feel rude for saying that, but her shaky and operatic voice, while initially sweet sounding, almost sounding like a disney princess at times, eventually gets a little grating on the ears. she can absolutely sing, but it's just not the kind of voice style that i would listen to for long.
Foo Fighters
5/5
i love you dave grohl oh my god. if you want some good grunge, look no further than foo fighter's debut album.
grunge rock that isn't overly pretentious, depressing for the sake of being depressing, and/or grimy audio sludge. if kurt was still alive, i truly think he would weep tears of joy listening to this album. also this guy recorded this whole thing in a WEEK. that's nuts.
James Brown
5/5
yet another incredibly exciting live concert album from years ago. i absolutely love vintage live recordings where you can literally feel and hear the awe and wonder from the audience, the young women absolutely SHRIEKING as soon as james sings the first word. some songs are for slow-dancin' others are for boogying down. it's short and sweet.
Underworld
4/5
ambient and slightly minimalist breakbeat goodness. deep pads are paired with infectious drum loops and strange samples. another album i found pretty entertaining, but there's a few tracks that drag on, and some tracks feel like a single loop or riff played over and over for like... 5 minutes. nevertheless it's very solid especially if you're a y2k aesthetic autist like me.
Hole
5/5
really loud and really awesome rock music. if you're looking for alternative rock that's really vocal centered and almost has a strong rebellious force to it, please give this one a gander. it's kinda giving no doubt if it was grunge.
this i feel like is an album that's perfect for playing in the summertime, where the sun is blinding and there's not a cloud in the sky. courtney love's voice REALLY shines in this one.
Girls Against Boys
3/5
hmm.... not sure what to think of this one if i'm being honest with you. very ominous hardcore rock with an emphasis on noisy, hedonistic sounds and vocals. this isn't goth, this isn't grunge, this feels and sounds more like... emo... punk? i don't know. it's a peculiar sound, but unfortunately it's not the kind of sound that i enjoyed too much.
Alice In Chains
5/5
another alice in chains album, and it's another i really like!! those vocals alone are so hypnotic, they'll legit transport you to another plane of existence. it's very depressing subject material, but in such an impactful and human way. everything from the deep harmonies to the expressive guitar solos makes this for me. i love every album these guys have put out.
Public Enemy
5/5
this album hits hard in both message and instrumentation. a very angry and political hip-hop album bringing light to the divisive issues that america faces, especially against african americans. even with civil rights movements and acts in place, why must injustice and police brutality still occur day after day, week after week? why must big organizations and smaller groups treat afro-americans like lesser beings? not only are the lyrics aggressive, but the beats are as well, mixing BIG drum loops with vintage funk samples. also flava flav is featured in this album.
white supremacy is a fucking disease.
Weather Report
5/5
very warm and perky fusion jazz music that has a fair share of bossa and latin pop influence. heavy weather is a great title, i feel like this album literally sounds like this big.... windy storm, but if said storm had a dozen musicians just circling around and around. these basslines especially drive me crazy in the best way.
there's just something so engaging about a lot of fusion albums, even if the songs were written with such thought and complexity, the average listener still has a positive mood and usually can always imagine every band member just smiling and having a grand ol' time. it's what makes these albums, including this one special.
Kate Bush
5/5
kate bush is another musical artist that writes songs like poetry, her whimsical and ethereal tracks are a treat to the ears. the titular track, "running up that hill" got a resurgence a few years back, introducing her artistic works to a more widespread audience.
her operatic voice paired with creative synth and sample techniques weave a marvelous collection of songs that will absolutely captivate both young and old. a brilliant anomaly of an album, this is.
Al Green
4/5
groovin' and lovely early 70's soul. perfect for relaxing with your significant other i would say, it's another one of those chill soul albums that radiates in positivity and... well... love. nothing else matters, just give your girl a hug and a kiss and a cuddle. i was pleasantly surprised with this man's expansive career, writing all sorts of tracks well into the 21st century and never breaking his classic romantic aesthetic.
The Afghan Whigs
4/5
kinda dark-ish punk rock with a mild pop sound. if there's one thing that sticks out compared to all the others i've heard it's the guitar riffs, probably the nicest sounding i've ever heard in my life. i don't care as much for the slower tracks as usual... while not every song hits for me, it's a well-crafted, almost classy punk pop album. if you like maroon 5 and/or grateful dead, it's a good pick for you. once again, wish i had more to say...
Anita Baker
5/5
VERY jazzy r&b music; taking inspiration from city pop tracks and romantic soul creates an album that sounds VERY nice to listen to. it's said that the likes of whitney houston took heavy inspiration from baker's discography, and i see why, with very jazzy chords, sappy lovey-dovey and moderately religious lyrics, and a voice so firm and strong it can save a soul from a deep depression. i had a great time all the way through.
Bob Dylan
4/5
this album by bob dylan is a bit different compared to his usual stuff, and i like it better than the last album i heard of his. with a mix of both acoustic and electric rock sounds, this album, while still not 100% my thing, like i've said this album is a lot better than the last. it's almost a nostalgic album, yet i can't pinpoint on what it's making me feel nostalgic for. the sometimes nonsensical lyrics are something else i tell ya!
hey mr. tambourine man, play a song for me.
Christina Aguilera
3/5
while i don't really turn an eye to aguilera's works, this vintage inspired hip-pop album is an example of how her voice can work somewhat well depending on genre. when she's not singing country, her pop material is confident, loud, and her style is... fascinating to listen to.
the main problem with aguilera is that while other artists just sing straight up, she constantly feels the urge to let all her listeners know that she can, in fact, sing. every single track just has constant and neverending adlibs and runs that more often than not break the immersion for me. don't let her sing the national anthem because this woman will spend 10 minutes trying to infinitely run instead of finishing the song.
the production really saves this album from lower ratings i feel, it's probably the best part of the album.
Tom Waits
4/5
while initially i wasn't feeling this spoken word live performance, the more i listened the more i honestly liked it. waits just has this voice like no other, he croaks every line and a lot of the lyrics he recites really resonate. the jazzy accompaniments also are nice to listen to... like with other albums on this list, this one isn't everyone's cup of tea, but if you treat it with the respect it deserves, it's a artistic live performance. kick up a chair and smoke a cig, you dig?
The Auteurs
4/5
the way these guys sing and play their tunes is a fusion between the beatles and the pet shop boys. this is almost... indie new wave, but refined. fancy. the punk band from high school but it's a very prestigious private school.
if you like your melodramatic rock like the cure and morrisey, you might get a real kick out of this one. i thought it was alright!
Traffic
4/5
this one's pretty good. mildly low-key jazz rock. many of the instrumentals are melodious but calm, cool, and consistently smooth as butter. john barleycorn is not a person, but rather a personification of the barley grain, and the fifth track in the album is an adaption of a centuries old folk poem.
yet another album on my list that, while not life-changing, i liked. it has a peaceful and nostalgic vibe to it that i feel like both young and old can enjoy. if you also like those vintage kitschy instrumentals with saxes and flutes thrown in, you'll love this.
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
i'm not surprised people talk about kendrick lamar so strongly when it comes to modern pioneers in the circle of hip hop. there's nobody like him, at least not that i know of.
lamar's flow is unlike any other, unpredictable, fresh and varied. conscious and at the same time absolutely innovative and almost downright MAD when it comes to writing his bars. paired with his jazzy beats, it's a perfect mix of sound you don't hear in a lot of albums, let alone any hip hop albums.
Lambchop
3/5
very interesting one this time around, what happens when you mix soul music with soft country influence. not only are the songs pretty mellow throughout, unfortunately the tracks aren't too interesting to listen to. they're not bad, just... i'm just not amazed. i feel nothing when i listen to this. it sounds nice, but just... yeah. nothing. i don't have a lot to say. it puts me to sleep, and the sudden high notes from the singer put me off if anything else.
Brian Eno
4/5
strange, charming, and a bit ahead of its time, this world-funk fusion collection pairs creative instrumental music with various found speech samples. it's a weird poetic showcase on the creativity and absurdity of humanity, especially with some of the samples that are played and replayed throughout the course of the album.
the album's concept is interesting too, telling the story of a lost mortal in the world of ghosts... it's creatively made, but it's not totally my thing.
Rage Against The Machine
4/5
rage's debut album makes a strong political statement right away the moment the listener presses play. fusing metal, rap, and a little bit of funk, this album is an ambitious contender in this list.
anti-censorship, anti-authority, and straight up hardcore leftist. it has a wickedly hardcore sound, but the lyrics couldn't be anymore blunt. that's not to say i don't agree with what they're saying, it's just so unbelievably straightforward and vulgar in how it is said, which... makes it at times feel like a punk band from a liberal arts college. tom morello is a god.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
5/5
janis joplin has SUCH a voice, her rasp can literally shake up whatever room she's in i feel. this alone makes me rank it pretty high.
this album is a loud, trippy and almost choral sounding ride. while some people may find it a little bonkers, it's this pivotal turn in rock music that was refreshing especially for its time.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
5/5
sometimes religious, sometimes lovey-dovey, always smooth sailing with someone like bob marley.
this album is nice. very nice, very relaxing... it's the ultimate feel-good reggae album. leave it to bob to write songs about the beauty of love, life, and realizing that everything really will be okay, in the end. let's cherish this life and spend every moment of it grinning from ear to ear.
Hot Chip
4/5
what happens when an indie group makes a 80s-inspired dance album? the influence from years past is clear with analog synthesizers, drum machines, and a smooth mysterious sound that plenty of artists had then.
just like with other indie albums i've heard in this collection, this album too has that mellow indie sound, never too loud, often meta, and sometimes awkward. i can never get into this sound fully, but it's a decently nice album if you wanna listen to synthpop with a modern twist.
Bad Brains
4/5
got some mid 80s groggy murky punk music, with hints of new wave pop and even a bit of reggae here and there. song material is about identity, society, and confusion. the lyrical and musical content featured throughout is generally nice, especially for all you tried-and-true punksters out there looking for a few jams to mosh at. my favorite part of the album is absolutely the guitars. every single chug rattles your bones.
there's a guitar riff that was sampled in a song by hive, all you newgrounds heads might recognize it.
Bon Jovi
5/5
holy damn, no, holy GLAM. i can feel the fishnet tights and the fuzzy blonde hair. there's certainly no denying that this album is a prime example of what makes jon bon jovi's music memorable.
belting scratchy lead vocals, deep power strummed guitars, dramatic (and maybe a little cheesy) synthesizers... this album will blow your speakers and your socks clean off. there's the classic tunes like living on a prayer and you give love a bad name, and the other tracks featured throughout are on a similar rockin' sing-along energy. i really enjoyed this one. play this album to your dad and he'll probably love you to death.
David Bowie
4/5
another groundbreaking song collection from bowie. apparently in interviews he's stated that he doesn't remember writing this album which is crazy to me.
it's unfortunate that i expected a bit more. this album is very good, as with a lot of stuff created by bowie, and i can't deny that he's an important musician in the 20th century, but i just can't get into his sound as much as i'd like to. i don't know what it is... i love the songwriting and especially the lyrics, i just turn less of an eye to how the tracks actually sound. maybe it's his... creative vocal harmonies.
Pet Shop Boys
5/5
with their mysterious, soft and entrancing rhythms and futuristic instrumentation, the pet shop boys have a wonderful new wave pop sound that'll make you move your feet and get controlled by the beat.
songs of overcoming societal norms, passionate love and moody relationship reflections... it's a happy and sad album at the same time. what a treat.
Björk
5/5
the average listener often feels that björk's music is surreal, strange and even alien. the icelantic musician's experimental songs have sparked discussions about music as a whole and how it is deconstructed as an art form.
david attenborough has perfectly summed up how I feel about the artist; björk's music isn't simply background music that you can just turn on, to fully enjoy her music you need to sit down, think, and analyze every word and note. and this album really does make you think, with thought-provoking sonnets in uncommon cadences, ambient soundscapes and sparkling bell instruments, calling this album a raw musical exhibition barely even gives it enough credit. wow.
Steely Dan
5/5
i love me some classic yacht rock to ease the mind, and steely dan is a good example of that!
groovy and relaxing rock music with moderate funk and jazz influence, with lyrics that are sometimes simple and emotional, sometimes batshit and surreal. it all blends together nicely throughout, consistently upbeat and engaging; tracks are progressive and complex but not too strange, making it perfect for the casual and the hardcore rock listener. the strums of the guitars paired with the lush rhodes electric piano create this... wonderful, wonderful album.
Leonard Cohen
5/5
gentle and whispered folk music, mostly just voice and guitar. it's sweet, sincere... and honestly pretty emotional.
all sorts of songs about being together with someone, losing said someone and being alone with yourself and your thoughts. many of the comments featured throughout each track on youtube is full of stories from people sharing their emotions and memories... this is clearly an album that speaks to a lot of people, and it spoke to me too. if you're moody and if you want an album that'll soothe you, give this one a spin. this album makes me feel nostalgic... bittersweet and nostalgic.
Emmylou Harris
3/5
soft country music, sung in a slow, soothing and emotional way. many tracks almost make you feel sleepy, the somber subject material, melodic harmonies and quiet strings set the scene quite well, with many songs about what it's like growing up in the country.
it has a pleasant sound, but it didn't hold my interest for too long. if you like your country and you want something to relax to or listen to on a rainy day, you might like this one, but... yeah, i don't have too much to say for this one. i feel like i might listen to this one again and i might rank it higher.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
5/5
we're looking at a golden jewel when it comes to alternative rock, the often immature and smug, yet meaningful and creative red hot chili pepper's top albums is fun to listen to.
catchy lyrics, infectious arrangements, sometimes you can't help but wondering how they cooked up some of this stuff in the studio. i think "california" is said at least 100 times in this album.
The Pogues
5/5
very jaunty rock music with an unafraid and EXTREME celtic influence. a single track will make you wanna riverdance in a pub where a dozen red-haired thugs chug heavy drinks and get into heated fistfights.
all members of the group create quite the hootenanny with their songs, slurry, and dare i say almost drunken-sounding singing and passionate instrumentation make this album stand out among the rest. if you don't like the sound, maybe you should take another drink lad.
Marty Robbins
3/5
more of that true, classic outlaw country music that we americans have seemed to abandon, especially after 9/11. the opening track, big iron is a historic staple of country music from this time.
besides that track though, not too many tracks held my interest for that long. is this good western music? absolutely. is it for me? not really. but i can at least appreciate its significance in music history.
Spiritualized
3/5
literal space rock, songs that were made to feel like you were in the endless void of it. just floating, who knows where you're going. you're just here.
it's a nice album if you're into ambient prog, but unfortunately a lot of it is SO ambient and hazy it only does so much to please me. perhaps it would be nice if it was a dream sequence in a movie but this atmosphere only gets me so interested.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
oh joni, never ever change with your pleasant jazzy tunes and intriguing, poetic songwriting...
this is another standard joni mitchell fair, however this one doesn't get afraid to dive into the earthy and experimental side, some songs having an african influence. i really do enjoy how joni writes, it's the kind of lyrical content that someone would write on a whim. on a walk, in a café. this album feels... human. does that make sense?
human music. i like it!
Michael Kiwanuka
5/5
this is an album that takes heavy inspiration from the smooth and soft soul music that came about in the sixties or early seventies. this personal and meaningful album seems to be treasured by both young and old for good reason; you really don't see a lot of artists make music like this anymore.
sleepy and sentimental, these quiet track exude theme of self expression, expectation and the beauty of transient things.
The Incredible String Band
3/5
experimental and eccentric psychedelic folk music. with sitars, foreign vocal runs and an almost medieval sound, this album is peculiar among anything else.
this is an album that almost feels like a portal into the renaissance era, with all the stringed instruments, posh sounding keys, pipes... despite the usual psychedelic trends that happened around this time, this album does it in a way that's a little different from the others. this is music that a family of gnomes would listen to, sitting in a quaint little cottage in the cold autumn.
Pulp
5/5
a beautifully crafted and volatile british rock album, with plenty of raunchy and rough sounding songs about humanity's turmoils and random turns. partying, exhaustion, love, anxiety. the almost sinister and gothic atmosphere is perfect for those who like their alt rock and gloomy new wave.
i love that the material is never too scary, but rather refined in nature. it's a classy emotional, and uniting rock album.
Orange Juice
4/5
what happens if the likes of david bowie made new wave instead of experimental art rock?
this early alt rock blends the usual new wave sound with a bit of a breezy, almost sunny atmosphere. especially for its time, it's very classy and funky at the same time... it reminds me of 1970s japanese funk music at points, but it makes itself stand out with expressive baritone vocals.
it's a shame i haven't heard much of these guys before when it comes to new wave discussion, these guys deserve to be up there with the likes of blondie.
Pink Floyd
5/5
an album that has reached levels of notoriety where people who haven't ever heard a song from it easily recognize the album art.
this is an quintessential rock album, with simple yet impactful lyrics, lush and spacey instrumentals, and a message so strong it relates to anyone from 10 to 100. expressing existence, change, and the essence of human nature, this album will literally change your life.
Black Sabbath
5/5
ozzy is back with another classic heavy metal staple; plenty of iconic tracks and forgotten gems are scattered about in this edgy and psychological album.
with headbanging-level songwriting, flashy drum fills and gritty guitar riffs, this is a pretty good example of black sabbath and early heavy metal as a whole in its prime.
Boston
5/5
an equal mix of both loud and quiet rock music; i wanna say it's the sort of music you and your uncle would listen to in the car as you stare out the window, seeing endless fields and a golden sunset.
i can really see why they call it arena rock, it's definitely the sort of rock and roll that'll get a crowd jumping, whenever it's an arena, party... heck, even a church. the last track especially has a fast gospel-inspired finish.
Beck
4/5
beck is pretty standard if you're looking for soft... is it rock or is it pop, i'm not too sure to be honest with you. this album is a shy away from what he usually puts out.
originally i wasn't too into this album, but the more i listened to it, i actually kinda grew fond over the quiet, mostly acoustic and mildly ambient ditties. the wistful and sometimes indifferent energy that persists is likely due to the singer's breakup at the time.
Laibach
3/5
this mostly german industrial rock album has a very heavy military influence, many lyrics are shouted like a sergeant, the brass stabs are frantic and the big drums are perfect for getting someone to march in place.
dramatic and triumphant, this album is interesting, but it doesn't hold my interest too long. boom boom boom, ja ja ja ja nein nein nein nein. i feel like this album would be great for an action movie score. there's some interesting stuff in here; above all else the aesthetic captures my attention.
4/5
an album that's said to embody the energy of new york city, the good, bad, and the ugly. pj makes this abundantly clear in her music, which can be either upbeat or slow; her voice is very pretty as well.
it has a nice sound, i like the variety in tracks. it's just accessible and it has a nice selection of tracks for all sorts of moods and vibes. wish i had more to say!
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
4/5
grim and funereal, this album definitely isn't a good pick if you're looking for something happy to listen to. this often morbid and dreary sense of songwriting can resonate with plenty of people.
it's another one of those albums on here where you have to sit down and listen to it to fully enjoy it. just like how positive and euphoric emotions can be used as an outlet for music, the same thing goes for these complex at times emotions too.
R.E.M.
4/5
r.e.m.'s debut album is a little different compared to their most known discography, instead of the usual quiet rock their debut is akin to dreamy alt pop rock like the police.
i honestly think a lot of this material is better than their most popular songs... maybe it's just me, but i would give this one a listen if you're looking for really solid 80s alt rock.
Neil Young
5/5
another really good neil young album in this collection. his immersive storytelling through his songwriting has some full-fledged soft 70s rock sounds thrown in this time around. this sort of raw, imperfect and... natural rock music could only be made back then, which says a lot.
the music is emotional and nostalgic, but also very easy and comfortable to listen to. what a guy.
Air
5/5
retro inspired, lovey-dovey downtempo beats. this album is impeccable when it comes to this genre and time period of electronic music, mixing vocoded voices and half-century instruments with dreamy mixing and synths. this is a near-perfect blend of old and new. think daft punk, but with a HEAVY 60s funk infuence.
it's AMAZING.
The Doors
4/5
this album by the doors is a return to their roots, mainly blues tracks that pack a mighty whallop, with a hard-hitting rockabilly energy and ultra-rooted guitar progressions, this album is a pretty good one.
some of the later songs get into a shuffle, definitely the kind of songs made for moving your feet or driving at high speeds. the best part of the album by far is morrison's vocals.
Stevie Wonder
5/5
stevie wonder's music is consistently good; his jazzy, carefree ballads and dance tunes can make anyone feel good after a rough day.
he's a true virtuoso of sorts when it comes to composing; i often find myself grooving along with the tracks and being blown away by his mesmerizing hooks and accompaniments... it should come to nobody's surprise that even if someone can't physically see anything, let alone an instrument or a sheet of music, they can still understand music on such a deep level.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
a classic rock album from arguably one of the most iconic rock bands from the time, this album doesn't surprise me as to why it's in the history books.
their second album has plenty of their usual loud tracks, with a few softer ones thrown into the mix to change things up. there's some really crazy audio effects too which are just as mind-blowing as they were when the album first came out. at the turn of the 60s and settling right into the 70s, this album embraces both tradition and experimentation. good stuff!
A Tribe Called Quest
5/5
i'm still a firm tribe called quest defender, and just like the last album i listened to quite a while ago, this one is just as good!
poetic and clever rhymes are perfectly blended with the coolest beatflips you've ever heard in your life. it is physically impossible to listen to this album and not bump your head to every single beat. these guys are a master of their craft. from beginning to end, this album is a hip hop masterpiece.
5/5
imaginative, blunt, animated and quintessentially british, this album is a staple of 1990s british pop. the air is cold and the atmosphere is murky and you really couldn't have it any other way.
many songs in the album never feel afraid to be honest, damon almost venting about his conflicting emotions about himself and the world around him; predatory business practices, purpose, and a few cheeky inside jokes thrown in and you've got yourself an amazing and unique rock pop collection.
Gary Numan
5/5
some true early new wave music. this is new wave music in its raw infancy, and it's an eye-and-ear-catching spectacle.
sweeping analog synths and a clear turning point at the end of the progressive era of rock; this album is mysterious, futuristic, and astonishing. while these early synth techniques are starting to show their age, which may throw a few listeners off, this almost neo-classical take on songwriting will keep you intrigued.
Rush
5/5
another prog album that takes its listeners on a ride across the world, including time and space. this album is surreal and fantastic, the first track being a 20 minute suite.
dealing with emotional journeys, tribulations, and literally going across who knows where, this album is a prog masterpiece, nothing else more needed than that. it'll resonate with a lot of listeners, it did for me, and i'm sure it does to plenty of others.
Earth, Wind & Fire
5/5
a crazy and funky pop album from one of the most eclectic bands from the 70s. combining some bossa, latin, gospel, and a few dreamy stabs and drum lines.
many people of course are quick to think of tracks like september and the like, but i feel like this is a good example of why you shouldn't always just mindlessly flock to the top hits. an arguably graceful and fantastic funk album, this is. this album could save a life.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
5/5
yet another good album from the king of reggae music, catch a fire gives listeners an all-you-can-listen buffet of reggae tracks for every part of the day.
from moving songs about manmade dilemmas, to rastafari history, to some feel-good anthems, to... getting a little frisky? whatever the case may be, bob marley further emphasizes his free spirit and wise words in his music.
Radiohead
5/5
arguably one of radiohead's best albums. compared to their more known and darker tracks, this album is easier to listen to.
this sort of jangle actually makes this album sound even greater; while some people may be hesitant, despite the less grimy sound, it's still emotional and elegant to the point of me being obsessed. it's a great album.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
sexy soul music; the first track is known to most any person as the first thing you think of when you think of "baby-making music". every single track is smooth, sensual, and seductive.
behind the pleasant sound lies a bit of reflection; some of the tracks are made for lying down and thinking about life. it's a good enough time for a guy like me.
Miles Davis
4/5
this experimental and impressionistic jazz album is pretty much a 1970s version of something claude debussy would've written during his lifetime.
while having a simple verse chorus structure, these tracks challenge the listener by their loose and abstract solos. there's some tracks that linger, but most are diamonds in the rough.
Tom Waits
5/5
tom waits is such an interesting case throughout this journey in music this year alone. he's one of my past coworkers favorite musicians, and i've always found it interesting dabbling into his work.
this album, which debuted after a small hiatus on regularly releasing albums is from another world, with many of these tracks sounding like they're from the pits of hell itself. it's a heavy listen.
grim and grimy, this album is much more innovative and peculiar compared to his typical jazzy, bluesy rock music, dealing with issues of mortality, absurdity and and deep thoughts. i like his songwriting, but his instrumentation is a little out there.
Pink Floyd
5/5
really it doesn't take a genius to see why pink floyd's works are on here; these symphonic and progressive masterpieces will stand the tests of time. every single track is an experience that nobody will forget.
songs of loss, the music industry, and spacey rock movements span this record. it's impressive.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
a creative and peppy-sounding rock album; this falls right in line with the optimistic and acoustic sounding band music that persisted from the 60s up until the late 70s.
with piano (and glockenspiel) riffs, this album feels like you're happily skipping your way down the yellow brick road, with plenty of stories on every choice of the way. some of the songs sound samey. i feel like this is the kind of music you'd hear in an old 70s/80s movie where the main cast jumps in the air, there's a freeze frame, and then the credits roll.
The Flaming Lips
4/5
a quirky and spacey rock album, the aesthetics inspired from japanese science fiction and a title dedicated to a japanese musician.
this album gives listeners a fresh and technologically-advanced take on the progressive genre at times, with other influences from pop giving it a sound all its own. it has a short length, and some tracks are a bit hazy or not as interesting as others, but generally this one is a good listen.
My Bloody Valentine
5/5
my bloody valentine's tracks seem to always be there for your life's worst moments. if you're remotely moody in any way, mbv's pure auditory sludge rock will be a light in a pillar of darkness.
with incredibly hazy and mindboggling tracks, this debut album from the group is a treat to listen to. some of the production techniques, and notably some of the tricks with the guitars make this album really stand out, especially for the time. good lord.
Metallica
5/5
another one from metallica, this one just as epic and aggressive as the last one. with a strong sociopolitical centered theme, this one packs a punch.
many people think this album is poorly mixed, but the instrumental and lyrical content really prevented me from actually noticing. it's just a really good metal album, like most others in metallica's discography.
Buena Vista Social Club
4/5
a real prime example of music from the caribbean, this album has a lot of dance tracks that's suited for fun gatherings and vacation destinations.
it's simple, and straight to the point. while not too complex, nor rich with any deeper meaning, it's definitely an album you could turn on when you're down. i feel like songs get better as the record goes on.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
light pop music that's easy to listen to. this is a band that's trying to find their way when it comes to the musical world, and their discography, including this album is a good example of that.
with songs of family, heartbreak and nostalgia, the vocal and lyrical content are pretty good. the production value makes it seem like a lounge or muzak album, and not necessarily the good kind; it has a "fake" sound that maybe sophisti-pop tracks had at the time, especially with the drum machine usage. it's probably the kind of music you'd hear in the waiting room at a dentist. if you like sappy and somber ballads you miiiight enjoy this album?
it's got potential, but it mostly falls flat for me.
ZZ Top
4/5
what happens when you take the experimental synth ventures of the 1980s and fuse it with the cool and classic rock music that's been present since at LEAST the early 70s?
this badass and pleasure-seeking album could only come from the united states. texas if we're being a bit more specific. get in the truck or bike, chug some beer, watch some football. this album is the definition of "heeeeeeeellllll yeah brother".
Queen
5/5
queen.
no fancy intros. everyone and their grandmother knows about how legendary this rock band is, and this painstakingly precise and theatrical rock album will blow your mind and speakers. there's just nobody on this planet that can write catchy melodies and riffs such as these.
Adele
5/5
adele to me was always an interesting case for as long as i've lived.
with lyrical pop tracks that are heavily inspired by the likes of ella fitzgerald, adele's second album stood out when it released and it still stands out pretty well today. she's a very talented singer and songwriter, and even if a song or two on the album is a cover, it's still fantastic to listen to.
Sugar
4/5
another alt rock album from a forgotten band... it's always fascinating to listen to bands that i've never heard of till now, and i was pleasantly surprised with what i heard.
a very melodic and somewhat muddy rock album, when the album first started i didn't think it was anything special, but the more i listened the more i ended up tapping my foot to some of the tunes. some diamonds in the rough here.
Coldcut
4/5
animated, pumping synthy dance music from the late 80s. this is music that would fit right at home at a party, whenever it's one you're having in your house or one in a big nightclub.
making usage of scratches, samples, creative drumbeats and processed vocals, this album is fun, above all else. i prefer the anthems and cool ambient breaks; i really could care less for the corny breakdancing music.
Syd Barrett
5/5
quite the interesting listen today, it's definitely a rock pop album but it doesn't sound like any other i've listened to, especially from this time period.
barrett's voice is tired and almost delightfully deadpan as he sings, invoking a certain emotion that he most certainly felt after leaving pink floyd. it's simple and doesn't have too much going on in terms of instrumentation and production. you can feel exactly how exhausted he felt, being a musician and all.
i fuck with it. imagine making a typical "perky" rock album when you're tired of making music in the first place.
Van Morrison
5/5
a wide hodgepodge of different songs on this one, everything from easy listening acoustic songs to peppy pop tunes. there's a lot of songs that are made for you to sing along to.
i don't know, something about happy soft rock from this decade is just a treat all the way through. i always seem to fall in love with the songwriting... it's a good listen and it'll put a smile on your face when you're down. my favorite track also features in the sopranos.
Elliott Smith
5/5
another talented artist who left this world too soon; this album is incredibly solid, especially if you're looking for some indie rock that DOESN'T bore you.
i was instantly hooked by some of the intricate and creative song structures; the more i listened to it the more i ended up loving it. clearly this is a guy who's really studied some of the greats from mid-century's past. it only makes it that more upsetting once you learn that smith passed in his mid 30s. it's beautifully haunting.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
dark and gothic rock, with content that's very morbid, bleak, and artistically suspenseful. songs almost feel spooky at times; these songs would probably be great at a fancy halloween party.
i like the tracks with guest singers better than the ones where nick cave sings himself. it's not to say i dislike gothic material, unfortunately this guy's vulgar and slightly creepy vibes aren't completely for me. i feel like there's probably some good in here for most people, and i enjoy the more fantastical stories.
Billy Joel
5/5
yet another big name in this list, billy joel's songs break through traditional pop norms in arguably one of the greatest albums of the decade.
with strong expression and ambition, these pop songs are some of the best to be ever put out on radiowaves. i think it's quite possibly so defining that if we sent more records to space, like the voyager... this should be a PIVOTAL example of modern pop music in the 20th century.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
5/5
soft folk rock, brilliantly written and played. i feel like i've often repeating myself at this rate but there's just something about this period of rock music that is incredibly unheard in the mainstream nowadays. collaborating with neil young only makes it shine more.
songs of love, peace, and personal reflection are featured throughout here. the meaningful lyrics paired with one-of-a-kind harmonies... it's just fantastic.
The Avalanches
5/5
now this is an interesting one! haven't heard of the group or album before listening.
this album is largely composed of sample flips, taking a lot of forgotten records and breathing new and interesting life to them. i like the very even balance of more energetic disco songs and ambient beats. it's a really hidden gem for electronic dance music.
Kate Bush
5/5
another entry by the fantastic kate bush, this one smooth, dreamy, and... yes, absolutely sensual. this album is majorly centered around the euphoric and ethereal emotions revolving human intimacy.
folksy and cathedralesque, this album, like others in kate's discography is unique and all her own. it's softer compared to her more famous tracks and albums.
Depeche Mode
5/5
depeche mode, one of the biggest names when it comes to new wave music as a whole comes here and blows me away with their dramatic synthesized symphonies.
their sound programming skills were like no other back then, and it remains the same today, with otherworldly, divine sounds that knocked the amateurs out with their corny fm patches. it's absolutely, beautifully mortifying listening to some of these tracks.
Neil Young
5/5
yet another album from neil young. i've yet to have this man let me down with his music.
his sound continues to stay consistent after all this time, with a voice and with a musical skill nobody can match. this blues album. this album certainly came out at a moody time in his life, so what better way to express it with a blues rock collection? i just can't ever be mad at neil. truly, truly timeless music.
Devendra Banhart
4/5
folk music at its inner roots. with mostly guitar and voice, the raw sincerity and unedited takes alone make this album a spectacle.
breezy and sounding like it comes from the deepest appalachian forests, this album is interesting in vocals, lyrics, and instruments. it's not for everyone, but for the most part it's a nice listen.
Queen
5/5
theatrical, enchanting, sometimes a bit camp. such is typical for queen. it's impressive to see how much they've put out and how consistent the quality has been. yes, this is the album with the famous "bohemian rhapsody", which their manager despised... the first song in the album is a nasty, yet elegant read on him.
one minute, songs are carefree and energetic, the next minute songs are dramatic and emotional... besides the iconic tracks, this album is the british rock equivalent of 24-karat gold. bravo, bravo i say.
Amy Winehouse
5/5
amy's second and final album released. such talent, taken from us much too soon. her debut album is amazing, but this second one blows that one out of the water.
desperate, pleading, emotional and honest, this soul album tugs at the heartstrings all the way through. an album for your bad days, amy really channels that "fed up with the entire world" energy, singing, no... almost venting about her frustrations. despite the material and context, the album has a consistent and sophisticated sound inspired from artists past. to the people who ridiculed her, i hope there's a special place for you in hell.
Jane's Addiction
4/5
jane's addiction comes through with their debut album, and they're starting off with a bang. with a decent amount of soft and hard rock tracks, this album, while a bit shocking at times, is a worthy debut.
the lyrical content goes pretty deep and some of these songs have kick-ass riffs and fills. there's some jazzband influence as well which i honestly enjoyed. the mixing could be a bit better, and not every song is a winner, but for a debut and especially considering what's to come after all this... it's pretty good for what it is!
Animal Collective
4/5
interesting listen today. surreal, dreamy and postmodern psy-rock music.
with digital synthesizers and mesmerizing, atmospheric arps, the best way i can describe this album in terms of sound is an arcade in a cyberpunk future. we're talking neo tokyo 2019. it's a really specific kind of sound, and for those who are willing to sit down and immerse themselves in the noisy soundscapes, there's a real hidden gem here.
Lou Reed
5/5
this album is fun. i love this sorta... theatrical kind of sound in rock music during this time.
i can see why a lot of people who like bowie also like this album, the eccentric songwriting and artistic ambition is off the charts. i definitely like the sound of this album more compared to the likes of bowie. originally it didn't do too much for me, but eventually i ended up loving it.
U2
4/5
now we're venturing in u2's later discography, and i think that while it does have a generally nice sound, a LOT of companies literally worshipped the ground u2 walked on. this is music for commercials.
hazy, dreamy, and mildly psychedelic, this album tries hard to capture my interest but it sometimes misses the mark. i imagine stock footage of people walking on air and busy timelapse times square shots. this is music for a windows xp ad. it's not a bad album, but u2's probable unintentional contribution to this sort of tired pop rock can only make me rank it so much. there's some winners in this album though. some songs are poetic and profound.
Manu Chao
4/5
this album is very urbane and worldly; makes sense because this guy traveled all across the world to make this album. many songs features are in a few different languages.
while it's not fully for me, i do appreciate the very tropical and sleazy sound the album has. the kind of music that makes you feel like you have a margarita in one hand and a cigar in the other. chao's voice especially is really unique compared to other artists like him.
The Strokes
5/5
this album is amazing. when i think of real and raw indie music from the 2000s i immediately think of these guys.
these guys aren't trying to blow your socks away with a brand new sound or nothing. ryan schieber is truthful when he says they're just a rock band, and despite their more ordinary sound, taking the time to listen to each track will make you feel bittersweet emotions and will make you just want to forget everything that's around you and get lost in the music. this is pure y2k sound that isn't hyperelectronic drum and bass. this is pure "sitting on the couch, channel flipping between MTV and VH1, and looking at the sunset".
Fatboy Slim
5/5
the biggest and phattest beats from the undisputed king of big beat. plenty of tracks, both ones you've heard on the radio at least a thousand times and more underground beats that are worth a deep dive into.
quentin cook has truly mastered the big beatmaking process, every single flip from who knows what vinyl is done in a way so effectively, every loud thump of the drums and every repeating vocal chop is infectious. it's electronic genres like these that dominated the culture and style of the 1990s, and to this day it has a fresh sound unlike any other. fatboy slim is fucking in heaven.
Lenny Kravitz
5/5
lenny kravitz's music is typical stoner music. it's great as is but it's even better when you're high. of course i don't wanna resort to stereotypes, as this guy's psychedelic tracks are a step above a lot of other artists.
lush, smooth, and mildly smarmy, this album is FULL of the slow and soulful sound that one expects of the genre, but kravitz does it in a way that really speaks to... well... the soul. the mind, the body... it's music that impacts you, especially the more you listen to it. it's clever and very funky soul.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
another entry from creedence clearwater revival, and if you thought the last one was a worthy enough blues album as it is, this one is arguably even MORE so, with a bit of classic rock and roll in the mix as well. true oldhead rock.
it definitely has that signature sound, with the familiar progressions and grooves one expects with the genre, but i can't get too upset at it when it's done in a pleasant way. can't rate it too high because not every song is a winner.
Talking Heads
4/5
pioneers of the new wave sound, this rock album that came out at the tail end of the 70s is a perfect example of a new era of music bursting from the seams.
mysterious and cryptic at times, while this album isn't perfect it stands out by itself and it represents such a specific sound transition, both with the band and with rock music as a whole.
Prince
5/5
mesmerizing, colorful and vivacious, this is the abbey road of the 80s, a truly historical and pivotal sound when it comes to pop and rock music.
prince is often erotic with his lyrics, but it's a tasteful and artistic sort of erotic. this album is comparable to a centuries-old marble statue, often nude, but symbolizing human grace, expression and elegance. i opened up the vinyl record and several doves burst from the inside.
The Byrds
4/5
i love earnest early psy-rock albums like this; i feel like a whole lot of albums from around that time i've been a little critical to and this one is a lot more pleasant to hear.
i swear it seemed like every rock band seemed to do drugs and create psychedelic albums, with reverse sitars, strings, vox and all. some of the more avantgarde soundscapes lose me, but the other tracks are phenomenal. seriously there's some really good tracks, and then there's a few that'll make you go "...huh? ...oh... okay".
The Rolling Stones
5/5
i feel like i've been a little hard on the ol' rolling stones, because i know they're certainly not the worst band in the world! oh no, far from it. they've certainly put out some good, and this album is probably one of their best.
i can't exactly put my finger on it, but really these songs just hold my interest a little more compared to the rest. i wonder if it's just the genre i've been disliking this whole time or just the songs i've heard previously. anyways, these swaggering and sultry rock tracks are great. i love albums that are ruthless, but meaningful.
4/5
early 80s punk music. these were the original punk rock hooligans that played what they wanna played and gave a big fat middle finger to anyone who didn't approve.
the irritated vocals mixed with the harsh, sometimes blunt lyrics make for a pretty solid listen, especially if this genre is for you. i hear some rockabilly influence in here as well...
Ali Farka Touré
4/5
african blues is a genre i haven't heard too much of, and this sample is pretty promising. this album is the last of ali farka toure's; he unfortunately passed away a few months after this album released, which makes for a slightly somber atmosphere.
it's a very quiet album; it's refreshing to hear a blues album that doesn't feel like it resorts to standard blues conventions. if anything, this is a beautiful little swan song from a songwriter who knew he only had so much time left. it's not the kind of music i listen normally nor am i obsessed with, but it's very notable and worth the listen for the most part in my opinion.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
5/5
now this, this album right here is beautifully constructed jazz music. the first ten seconds, i'm already hooked. this is a jazz album that isn't just significant (looking at you, take five), it's probably one of the finest examples of jazz music ever composed in human history.
from the slides of the grand piano to the uneven drum rhythms and maybe a few gentle sax accompaniments here and there, this is simultaneously an album that makes you relax and makes you think... think about how david managed to get inspired all across the globe, making these songs. it's a classy jazz album and i can't recommend it more.
Beatles
5/5
i. LOVE. this beatles album. shying away from their traditional pop rock tracks and leaning into their more abstract (and most definitely drug filled) discography, this album is full of gold.
sometimes jovial and silly, sometimes artistic and melancholy, this album is a pivotal shift and quality boost from the band itself. truly a notable and historical album with tracks that most everyone will like.
Pentangle
3/5
kitschy folk music, mixture of both original songs and traditional songs. it's a very earthy album, with a bit of middle eastern and renaissance influence.
the vocals are an acquired taste. it's definitely not the strangest voices i've heard, but something about the vaguely operatic qualities and almost sarcastic, emotionless tones makes tracks feel a little.. odd. there's no denying how elegant and dreamy how a lot of these tracks are, and i can appreciate the merit.
Abdullah Ibrahim
4/5
another jazz album, this one really at the roots of traditional instrumental jazz. it's very relaxing to listen to.
compared to all the other jazz albums i've heard in the past, this one isn't too avantgarde or experimental, it's just straight up cool and simple jazz musak. if jazz isn't someone's favorite genre and they're looking for something a little less chaotic, i would probably have them listen to this album.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
yet another rolling stones album. i wonder if my tracker is dedicated to convince me that these guys are a lot better than i've been making them out to be.
this album came immediately after the last one i reviewed. and this one is pretty good as well! similar thoughts i have, it's very pioneering blues and classic rock and i have a lot more respect for mick jagger.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
honestly? this is the best album from these guys i've heard so far. i don't know why the others didn't do it as well compared to this one, but... here we are.
this album is soulful, this album is passionate, especially with john fogerty's pounding vocals. some of these songs will save your soul, i think. there's just an aura i can't describe with this album...
Paul McCartney
5/5
paul's debut solo album after departing from working with the beatles. words simply can't describe just how musically gifted paul is, and immediately from the first few minutes, you'll have a great time listening.
i don't know, every single track is so... creative. nobody could ever dare to write music as emotionally rich and complex as paul's, and i hold this album in a very, VERY high regard.
Roxy Music
5/5
i feel like half the time i repeat myself so much when it comes to these classic rock albums but really what more needs to be said? i love classic rock, i love british classic rock. i love glam rock.
there's just something about these tracks, so rebellious and so refined... there's just a certain finesse and groove to a large majority of these songs i get entranced with. very good stuff.
R.E.M.
5/5
another earlier r.e.m. pick. i swear, this jangle rock sound is something completely absent from a lot of modern rock circles. i think this album is one of their best.
there's more than a few hits in here, and the tracks that are lesser known are great as well. i love rock music where i can just thrash my head and my body... it's so fun to indulge. i love it. i love it all. these guys deserve to be up there with the likes of pearl jam and alice in chains when it comes to iconic alt rock.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
this album is a lot quieter and sadder than i thought it would be. while it's very somber throughout, this album is still worth the listen, especially if your mood is a little sour.
while i'm not typically into pure acoustic rock on this level, this album is pleasant-sounding and feels very relatable to the human soul. it's very different compared to what he usually puts out, but if the time is right... this album will hit you like a high-speed train.
Taylor Swift
3/5
out of all albums? i mean... sure, why not, i guess. i'm not skipping any in this collection, and if i have to listen to taylor swift, i guess i have to listen to taylor swift.
if there's one thing i can say about this album after more than a decade of it being out, i never noticed the synthpop influences. however, even with synths and mixing techniques inspired from the 1980s, it can't save her songwriting. it's definitely not the worst album that she has ever put out, but literally half of these songs are top 40 hits that give me vietnam flashbacks. hey guys, ever had a boyfriend? ever had relationship troubles?
Deep Purple
5/5
this is one of the first albums i personally think of when i think of TRUE early metal music. big hair, big beats, and the biggest guitar strums.
the energy is just... BIG. that's the word i'm using to describe this album. this album is ambitious and it's so LARGE in terms of sound, impact, and historical value. rock on baby, rock on i say. get yourself a damn motorcycle and speed across the highway.
X-Ray Spex
4/5
i'm always a sucker for early new wave, this album does have that awesome sound that i've heard from all sorts of rock albums from around this time.
the high point of this album to me is the energy. the wailing vocals and the mostly fast tracks leave you with a sense of urgency as you listen. this high point eventually becomes a bit of a weakness later on, a lot of the tracks, while nice sound a bit samey.
Slipknot
5/5
many people might call slipknot listeners psychotic, but i highly suggest to those people... stop being pussies. yeah, it's hardcore, it's aggressive, but is it bad? hell no.
slipknot bursts through your speakers with their self titled debut album. between all the scratchy screams is catchy melodies and fast guitars that'll make you bang your head like a looney. it's not like these guys are being morbid just for the sake of it, there's significant and eloquent writing at play.
fuck this world! seriously! fuck it all. i feel that. i genuinely have master the art of not giving a fuck.
Astor Piazzolla
4/5
pleasantly surprised with this one. who knew the vibraphone could work so well in tango music?
it's a quaint and rather quiet album, ideally suited for elevator or hotel lobby music. i almost feel like this is music that would be present in a new "the sims" entry. it's not winning any awards, sometimes it's a little odd, but it's a generally good jazz album.
Thin Lizzy
5/5
another live rock album on this list, this one another example of true classic hard rock. it's a little longer than the other albums, but i can't complain, especially when it sounds this nice.
i love rock albums and i especially love live rock albums. it takes a certain amount of skill to perform that good live on stage, and these guys absolutely nailed to the wall. these riffs are killer!!
Steely Dan
5/5
hell yeah more steely dan!! peak oldhead music. this album is a peak example of what i'd call "music therapy", music that just makes you feel all relaxed and removes all the tension in your body...
i imagine myself making champagne in a hut in the summer time. sit down, take a load off, enjoy the vibes. you'll enjoy every track and that's a guarantee.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
true lyrical poetry. there was a reason why i was introduced to these guys in high school english.
this album is based upon life, death, and existing... no doubt about it, this album would've probably broken me last year. it's a masterpiece, heavy but brilliantly written. not only are the lyrics great, but the whole mixdown as well... both men are quite possibly some of the greatest contributors in the singer-songwriter folk sphere. i'm in awe.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
more led zeppelin! and another contender for a legendary rock album that must be preserved for generations to come.
from the moment the record starts till the millisecond it ends, this album is consistently good. sir robert plant is a wailer, and he's going to make sure his voice leaves a permanent mark in your brain. there's so much gold in these 40-something minutes... do these guys have a bad album?
Mekons
2/5
another alternative country album, and i'll be honest... i'm not really feeling this one too much.
believe me when i say it has some interesting things going for it, blending typical country songwriting with drum machines and 1980s alternative mixing techniques, but this album just isn't for me. it's a strange collage of voices and sound... it's got neat foundations i suppose, but it practically put me to sleep.
Randy Newman
4/5
randy newman is a bit of an enigmatic songwriter, his humble songs and his unique voice can make first-time listeners curious as to what he brings to the table.
this album, while not his best i feel is generally solid for the most part. straightforward feelings about the world, mild critiques and satirical, nostalgic views on american culture, with the occasional religious nod as well. both his lyrics and his songwriting techniques seem to take great influence from gospel.
Paul Simon
5/5
released after splitting up with garfunkel, this album is relatable, peppy and introspective. i was definitely expecting something good here.
i like the songwriters that write honestly, telling stories that they've most certainly witnessed and dealt with in real life. this personable material paired with the sometimes quiet, sometimes playful mix of tracks... a very solid listen i'd say. it's got a... "jugband" sound at times.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
the first of led zeppelin's self titled rock anthologies, after listening to the others it's nice to finally listen to the first one.
what more needs to be said that's already been said about the others i've reviewed? there's a reason why these guys are talked about more than a half century later; their music was unlike any other when it was released, and it still holds itself as unique and groundbreaking today.
The Kinks
5/5
when it comes to british rock, i feel like these guys are just as historically notable as the beatles. very creative and catchy songs, especially in a time where many bands were kinda... stinkers.
a true psychedelic inspired album that's simply wild and unafraid and not like... echoey warbly yodeling, lewis caroll-esque absurdism, backwards guitars and sitars. finally a real example of how psy-rock should be composed!! i've been looking forward to this day for a long time. some people may think this genre is an acquired taste but i think a lot of people will enjoy this one.
3/5
more u2, oh boy. once again, this album is pretty much a textbook definition of how u2 normally sounds nowadays, with delayed arpeggiated guitars, dry warbling vocals and whatnot.
it's one of their best, even with their usual pretentious rock music that the average person or group tends to get obsessed with. i don't know, i want to like this album fully but it has a sound i can't stand. this is a rock album your boss would like.
ZZ Top
4/5
a really funky and jaunty blues album. compared to other blues albums, this one is a lot more energetic which makes it stand out a bit.
i feel like if steely dan write blues music, it would probably sound like this. some tracks are better than others, but this album is a nice little gem in between all the more well-known albums... a side dish for an appetizer, to put it into perspective.
Public Enemy
5/5
another album from public enemy, and it's another great listen. i don't listen to political albums too often, but compared to other artists, these guys are a lot better, than... let's say, rage against the machine. unlike ratm, these guys don't scream and holler and the songwriting feels much more elegant.
the lyrics impact greatly, and there's some awesome sampling techniques throughout as well. i wish i could give this album a 4.5 though, because the repeating-repeating-repeating vocal chops get annoy-annoy-annoy-annoying sometimes.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
5/5
the cover on this album doesn't lie, this album BOOMS through your speakers like a nuclear bomb. this is a really solid big band album.
it's a pure embodiment of what makes 50's brass bands great. the harmonies and the near-perfect collaboration between all the members make this album great both when it came out and listening more than 70 years later. i feel like this is music for a swanky casino.
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
more 60s psy-rock. compared to other stand outs, this one has more of a generic sound compared to the others i've listened to. i don't know why it doesn't speak out to me too much.
it has the ambient guitars, cheesy organs, light drums and artsy lyrics, but... it's textbook 60s alternative rock, from structure to instrumentation. is the album good? yeah. but i just don't know why... i don't feel much when listening to it. it's not really... "electric".
Supergrass
5/5
this album was a very good listen. i love me some british vintage-inspired rock music.
it's very much rock pop made for dancing and headbanging to, but seriously, i can't understate how much of a midcentury influence there is in here. in an alternate timeline, this music was probably played live in british concert halls and public places during the 60s and everyone was having a blast. what a sound!
Common
5/5
reflections, sex, faith, community and black pride. this album is confident, conscious and full of deep thoughts. it's always nice listening to hip hop writers who occasionally throw listeners with real antidotes to ponder for weeks.
if that wasn't enough to convince you, this entire album is produced by kanye west. say what you will about his insane views and personality, but you'd be lying if you said he couldn't make a beat.
Silver Jews
3/5
smarmy and simple indie rock music. the vocals especially remind me of something johnny cash would put out in his final years. he almost sounds bored.
not sure if i'm feeling this one too much, it's a very quiet sound and it doesn't do too much to keep me interested for long. some of the lyrics are interesting, but it's just... blah. sorry.
Dusty Springfield
5/5
very smooth vintage soul music. it's a bit of an acquired taste for a lot of people, but i thought it was a very pleasant listen all the way through.
from her breathy, mildly raspy and emotional voice to her soft pop instrumentation, fans of aretha franklin and the carpenters will appreciate this collection of tracks. again, it's a niche, but for those who understand, understand. it's love music, but it doesn't feel too sappy or risque. it's very... choral-like and pure. white people sure can make good soul when they want to!
The Mamas & The Papas
4/5
this is a pretty good example of bubblegum pop music from around this time, with mostly peppy lyrics and toe-tapping sounds. there's a bit of emotional stuff in here too.
while i wouldn't say that this album is one of my favorites in terms of sound, it's pretty significant. i think probably one of the greatest aspects of the album, as well as the band itself is how they harmonize with each other, calling and responding in a satisfying way.
B.B. King
4/5
another old live album, this one a blues album. this album is a lot more energetic than i thought it would be. it's certainly blues music, but compared to the other quiet and dreary sounds, king's performance adds a powerful soul inspiration to the genre.
once again, i can't overstate how much i enjoy live albums, especially those that immerse you as if you were in the audience the day it was performed.
The Black Keys
4/5
another solid rock album, i think this is a modern, almost indie take on punk blues. it's really gritty and grimy.
i feel like if you like the arctic monkeys, you might get a kick out of these guys. probably the best part of the album is the lyrics. the album has a nice sound that's consistent throughout, but i feel like a lot of the tracks end up sounding the same at times. still though, a real hidden gem i've never heard before in my life.
Blondie
5/5
blondie's third album, as well as their other early entries in the late 70s and early 80s are a spectacle. with plenty of generational hits and forgotten tracks as well, this is a really solid punk rock album.
miss debbie harry alone has a tough and unbothered energy all her own, and even with tense recording sessions, the band and her voice go hand in hand. this album is significant in the fact that it played an absurd part in shaping the rebellious, counterculture new wave sound that would blossom like a rose in the 1980s.
Machito
5/5
animated and absurdly fun to listen to, this album will make any person strut and shimmy like they were carmen miranda.
as is standard with big band jazz albums around this time, it has a strong emphasis on clever and complex pop beats and insane brass hits. compared to others I've listened to, this one has a much stronger latin flare; the rolling congas will make even a senile 90-year-old shake their bum like mad.
Cypress Hill
5/5
real hood shit right here. the kind of hip hop music where you have a blunt in your mouth and your pimped out car won't stop bouncing to the radio.
i'm not surprised that wikipedia lists these guys as pioneers of west coast hip hop, because these beats are SO good to listen to, making usage of distorted vox and bumping breaks. pro-kush, and plenty of stories about what it was like growing up in LA.
Herbie Hancock
5/5
herbie is yet another big influence in my music taste, i love most every thing he's put out in his lifetime, and this iconic album is no exception. it's probably one of his best, if not the best.
very stylish and very funky, this album is essential to the world of jazz fusion, blending standard jazz rides and lines with VERY crazy keyboard solos and maybe the occasional african influence or two. there's probably studies about music that stimulates the brain in a positive way... this is certainly an example of that. only 4 large tracks on this one.
Madonna
5/5
oh, madonna. you definitely had a chokehold on the pop industry back then. this album is a lot more personal, and has heavy christian undertones.
it's a really nice album. i would be surprised if some people think otherwise. this is madonna in her prime, not really now. the subject material is rather surprising at times, and i wonder how madonna could've felt writing all of it down and singing it. oh yeah, prince is here too!
Gang Of Four
4/5
oh awesome, more punk music from almost half a century ago!! the sound is heavy and so are the british accents.
those of you who enjoy listening to classic british rock might get a kick out of this one, with typical tracks expressing indifference, capitalism and political issues. the lyrical material, while clever sometimes often feels stereotypically punk, so there's only so much i can say about that. I'm loving the rhythm though, especially the guitars.
David Bowie
4/5
after a good period of hearing stuff that bowie put out throughout the 70s, it's a nice change of pace listening to something he made from the 21st century.
even with a much more modern production, he has the same sound even after all this time, rock music with a very otherworldly energy to it all. i just don't know why i can't fully get into a lot of his tracks. maybe i just haven't sat down and really immersed myself in what he writes, or maybe it's just a matter of taste. probably has one of the best instrumental sets of all the ones i've listened to. it's a real underdog in bowie's discography.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
another album from nick. compared to the last one, this album has a much stronger gospel sound, a deep, preaching-like way of singing with choirs chiming in often. lyrics are sometimes artistic and absurd.
romantic and emotional, this one i wanna say i like more than the last one too... still not an artist i would listen to every day, but i can appreciate it for what it is... some gutwretching tracks here and there.
Deep Purple
5/5
deep purple coming back at me again with a live set of their greatest hits, performed at two venues in japan.
they hit as hard, if not harder when it's live on stage. seriously, who else in the classic metal world performed at this energy and consistency at this time? it's unmatched. imagine being there half a century ago, listening to "smoke on the water". it's utter insanity.
Fela Kuti
5/5
energetic afronigerian jazz music. the original lp only has two big tracks, only leaving around 25 minutes in length. it's probably the shortest album i've listened to so far.
despite its length i thought it was pretty nice. kuti was unafraid to speak his mind about the nigerian military, his mainstay track "zombie" literally refers to soldiers as such, mindlessly doing whatever they're told. of course a song like this sparked outrage, with many of kuti's friends and family being attacked. he may have had to pay a price for his critiques, but he wasn't going to let his message fall on deaf ears. it's catchy music that could radicalize.
R.E.M.
4/5
another album from R.E.M. on this collection. this album has more of their typical softer sound, but opts to add in some quirky, almost folksy sounding techniques this time around.
many songs are emotional and resonate with a lot of listeners. initially i wasn't feeling it too much, but the more i listened the more i liked it. there's a few tracks here that are just downright beautiful to listen to.
AC/DC
5/5
nothing wrong with some good old-fashioned ac/dc. play their music in just about any public area and it won't be long before a couple of middle-aged men start laughing and singing along.
the first album to feature brian johnson after bon scott passed, this album was intended to be both a tribute to his life and a way to SHATTER the charts with the loudest metal music out there. if you're a rock fan or not, you probably recognize at least half of these tracks. hell's bells are ringing, brother.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
another album by springsteen, peppy-sounding arena pop songs about patriotism, military forces and american values, mainly critiquing this so-called land of the free. unsurprisingly the average american hears just the synthy pop music.
it's a brilliant album, especially if you want pop music that contains gold between the typical 80s anthem pop sound. some of the tracks are pretty clever in how they're written.
The Mothers Of Invention
4/5
you know when an album features zappa you know it's going to be one hell of a ride. experimental is a good word for this one, even for the time. it's music from another dimension.
while sometimes an acquired taste, there's no denying how creative this album is; a crazy funhouse where every door is something completely different from the last. and talk about those... what are those, kazoos?
Stevie Wonder
5/5
i've yet to listen to a stevie wonder album and not be impressed. we've got even more of that pure melodic funk soul goodness.
let's see, if i were to use a word or two to describe this album i would use... smashing. holy shit does this guy know how to lay a groove down. every single song i hear from him, it's half mindlessly dancing and half listening hard and wondering how the hell he did it.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
neil young doing grunge music? news to me, never in my years would i have imagined him doing that. i dunno, maybe he just saw the rising trends in rock during that time and figured he could probably do that.
while it's a grunge album in terms of how it sounds, how it's composed is still how neil normally writes, faithful and humble country/folk rock. it's an interesting mix of sound, and while the album is great, unfortunately for me the blend isn't a perfect match. neil young is a talented talented man but grunge isn't really his genre. as usual though, overall it's still nice.
The Specials
4/5
nothing like some classic ska music to cheer someone up.
from what i hear these guys helped ska gain popularity a bit, with their band grooves and their carefree crazy energy... it's no wonder a lot of their songs make anyone want to get up from their seats. a lot of the tracks have a massive reggae influence as well.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
the debut album of the late and very great jimi hendrix; a strong and mind-blowing example of creative and psychedelic guitar music.
if there's one man that seriously put us ahead of the game when it came to rock music, it would no doubt be hendrix. there's most psychedelia from this time with your weird sitars and folksy, medieval influence, then there's just REALLY REALLY true psy-rock. that's what this album is.
Beth Orton
4/5
this is an interesting listen this time around! sometimes you just suddenly get exposed to some nice singer-songwriter material, and i wanna say this album pleasantly surprised me with how it sounds.
it's a very curious blend of sound, an even blend of vocal jazz, lounge pop, folk... it's very quiet and soothes the mind. if you like the soft sounds of joni mitchell, you might get a kick out of this.
Michael Jackson
5/5
come on. you would be lying through your teeth if you dissed this album in any way shape or form. would i call this the perfect album? if it isn't, it's certainly close. hit after hit after hit, and even michael's "filler songs" are of an unmatched quality as well.
truth be told it was very hard for me to personally pick a favorite out of this album. this album i've listened to ever since i was in single-digits, and i feel like as time goes on, the more i listen to it the more i MARVEL at how fantastic michael's writing (as well as quincy jone's production) is. his music transcends time. people have, can, and will study his music for centuries in the same way that the likes of bach and mozart have. he's just THAT good.
Rod Stewart
5/5
i thought this was a fun listen. it's rock music at its core, but it has some really strong blues and country influence. something about those pianos and his scratchy voice itches my brain in all the right ways.
it's a mixture of original tracks and covers, with the latter mostly covering the whole record. it's a pretty good example of an album of mostly covers, the songs stand by themselves and are spun in a way stewart only can.
Bob Dylan
5/5
it's funny, listening to bob dylan, the first album i've heard from him was kind of a dud, the second was alright... i really like this third one.
i'm not the biggest fan of his voice, but the more i listen to it the more i start to tolerate it. regardless of how he shout-sings, his lyrics are fantastic and so are the instrumentals... yet again, another 60s rock album that truly shook up the genre for the better. it's abstract, it's strange, it's exciting to listen to. i love early rock and roll albums that are a little crazy-go-nuts.
Rocket From The Crypt
4/5
headbangin' pop-punk rock. many songs have an energetic roadside big band sound, i wouldn't call it ska but the brass that comes in here and there is similar to what you'd hear in that genre.
it's not winning awards but i was movin' along the whole time. i could listen to this on the radio and keep it playing all the way through. these guys are showoffs in their act, and i'm guessing that if these guys performed live they would get the crowd jumping in seconds.
Sigur Rós
4/5
a very dreamy sounding icelandic album, the kind of album that makes you feel like you're floating on air.
those of you that want to turn your mind off and be soothed to sleep, you'll absolutely love this album. it's a very pretty listen; many tracks feel more than just songs, rather the foundations of sound from the universe all coming together. some tracks are a little strange, but you'll soon learn to like a lot of what you hear.
Shack
4/5
alright cool, nothing wrong with some british rock music. compared to some of the other britpop albums i've listen to, this one is a lot more softer and graceful in sound.
blending soft rock sounds with chamber influences, this album is pretty chill. at times it makes me think of early music from R.E.M.. a true deep cut in this collection, and honestly i thought it was generally great. it's a bit controversial lately on the list, a lot of reviewers don't seem to like it but i think it's fine on its own.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
the duo's last album together, a beautiful swan song to close out the era of both gentlemen collaborating together. like other albums by these guys, this one too is amazing.
departing from their usual style, the two decide to create a folk fusion of sorts, incorporating all sorts of aspects from different genres and global influence. first-time listeners will be surprised to hear how positive it is... these guys wanted to go out with a bang. lots of songs about friendship and human relation.
Venom
3/5
a black metal album, that's aptly named... black metal. as expected, this album is chock-full of edgy speedy headbanging metal music that your grandmother would probably call "devil-worshipping songs".
devil and hellish imagery plagues throughout the album, pretty much everything you would expect. demons and monsters and fire and pentagrams and the grim reaper and getting into vile degenerate shit... don't expect anything TOO interesting in terms of lyrics. mixing and guitars are pretty nice, but they're quite echoey. i've heard these guys are pioneers with the genre, but at a lot of times these tracks almost feel like parodies of the genre.
The Allman Brothers Band
4/5
classic blues rock, performed live. standard foundations, and all the band members seem to have a great time riffing on each other and performing their own solos.
plenty of the typical blues swing, as well as some quiet sadder tracks too. it's a pretty worthy addition to the blues rock repertoire... i found myself liking the slower and abstract tracks a whole lot more.
Public Image Ltd.
4/5
early and eclectic building blocks and foundations of new wave punk music. experimental and dissonant, this album is a manifesto of sorts, abstract and incensed poems about self and society's worst.
it's a slightly messy and shocking sound that many listeners might find absurd and a little demented, but i understand the concept that's being presented here. it's a good example of musical therapy, the album is fine by itself, but if you're REALLY going through it, you've got yourself a diamond in the rough. a true underdog of artistic rock music.
Jamiroquai
5/5
jamiroquai has had quite the resurgence these past few years, and for very good reason. his incredibly funky and thought-provoking tracks resonate with a lot of listeners nowadays.
jamiroquai's debut album gets us introduced right away to the kind of music he would release in the years following, expressing concern for the future of humanity in the only way he knows how, uber-postmodern disco, jazz and dance music. it's a good album to listen to, whenever you're dancing in a nightclub or sitting down in a chair and thinking about what he's singing.
The Undertones
5/5
i like the vibe this album brings to the table, tongue-in-cheek and angsty punk songs make me very entertained. songs of girls, songs of simple desires and pleasures... it's my first time hearing these guys and it's a very promising sample of what they're going for.
out of all the punk music i've heard, especially those recorded in the late 70s, this one takes the cake when it comes to being ahead of its time; really sounds like the kind of music that would come out a decade later. i love an earnest, no-nonsense and very animated punk rock album. makes me wanna just thrash my body around my room and do whatever moves my instincts make me do.
The Young Gods
4/5
from the deepest pits comes a dramatic and almost alien rock album, unlike anything i've heard before. mostly in french, this album is mechanical and almost villainous.
pairing orchestral samples and drum machines with deep guitars and gravely, sinister voices, this album is an acquired taste. at first i was put off by the sound, but the more i listened the more i liked it. if you like nine inch nails, but you're a classy victorian lady, you'll enjoy this one a lot.
The Temptations
4/5
late 60s groovy dance music. perfect for late-night clubbing and romantic get-togethers. with a new producer, the band departed from classic soul to something more colorful and crazy. songs of love and social awareness.
the album is very nice to listen to, but i feel like some songs sound samey. even as the self-proclaimed funk addict, sometimes these songs just feel too similar or go for much longer than i'd like. there's plenty of gold in here though, especially with those wah-wah guitar solos and bongo drums.
Tom Tom Club
5/5
quite possibly the ultimate early 80s party album from the minds of talking heads. creative and wacky funk rock music.
with its lighthearted tone, call-and-response kitschy vocals and some seriously trippy instrumentals, tom tom club stands by themselves in the sea of other rock bands... it’s like the album equivalent of the artsy kid at the party who ends up DJing and somehow everyone loves it.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
as of today, "rumours" by fleetwood mac is currently the highest rated album on the 1001 albums tracker website, and for good reason. aesthetically rich and near-perfect in production, this is an essential soft rock album.
every song is a hit. peppy, expressive and radiant and with a mixture of both acoustic and electronic elements, this album is a perfect window to the relationships and thoughts surrounding the band, and many songs express emotions between members. stevie nicks has the voice of a goddess.
a-ha
4/5
the debut album of norwegian band a-ha, who is best known for their smash hit take on me, which is the first track of the album. take on me is a staple of 80s pop, but what about the rest?
while not every track hits for me, there's a good amount of merit in here. it's a very elegant and whimsical-sounding synthy sophisti-pop album, a lot of the music sounding echoey and romantic. the sort of yearning and heartfelt kind of 80s music that a lot of people would love. many people are quick to assume these guys are one-hit wonders.
The Blue Nile
4/5
hazy ambient pop music, an underrated gem in the synthpop world. many tracks feel like you're alone in the middle of the night, wondering where the fog will take you.
blending subtle orchestral sounds with minimalist pop music production, this album is beautifully... mysterious. it's the kind of album that makes you lost in thought... try not to bump into any nearby buildings while you circle in the street.
David Crosby
5/5
i feel like such a pretentious hack for enjoying pretty much all of the psychedelic selections featured in this massive list, but it's really just as simple as appreciating creative music that pushes the boundaries of typical foundations.
this album takes you on a journey of sound, its echoing and chilled out energy is reminiscent of the sunset reflecting off the sea in the album art. this album transcends time.
The National
4/5
another almost blurry sounding indie rock album from the early 2010s. there's a certain sound that mainstream indie has, especially albums that released around this time.
this album excels at audible texture. the ambient guitars, constant hi-hat rhythms and chords that are sometimes strings or pads creates an artistic and melancholic aesthetic. at times it sounds like an early european new wave group. another indie album that while doesn't win over me completely, i can appreciate the craft. this album would probably hit a lot harder if i was sad today, but i'm not. oh well.
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
psychedelic and dreamy symphonic pop rock music. the aesthetic given to listeners in the first few minutes along is sublime. if you like rock with a classy sound, you'll get a kick out of this album.
it's a very gothic sounding album, fans of the cure will find familiar energy with its elegant and victorian instrumentals and wailing, echoing vocals.
Joy Division
5/5
quite possibly one of the earliest examples of "gothic" alternative punk music. it's always really interesting listening to album from a historical lens, you can just feel the turning point in sound as the record plays.
this album is satisfying, at times a little unsettling to listen to. it makes sense, their final album being a swan song before the band's corpse gets buried into the ground. the lead singer of the group, ian curtis took his own life shortly before the album released. there's a longing emotional energy to all of the tracks. it has a sound unlike any other, it's definitely not for everyone.
David Gray
5/5
a unique sounding album that blends electronic with acoustic. this music is the kind of stuff ed sheeran wishes he could write, apologies to sheeran.
production value is super clean. i absolutely love the meaningful, and yet minimalist energy that consistently plays throughout. at first i didn't get into it too much, but as the album continued eventually i was immersed with the sound. it's emotional in all the right ways.
The Stone Roses
5/5
jangle pop seems to be a big representative in this collection, and this is probably one of the best i've heard of the genre. very pretty pop rock tunes, i'd say.
this to me is a great representation of what the genre stands for, post-punk and rock music that takes heavy inspiration from the "jangly" melodies of rock tracks from the 1960s. what if the beatles or the beach boys were groups from the 80s? this is a pretty good answer to that question. i love those harmonies on the vocals.
Doves
5/5
doves' debut album, this album starts and immediately i am transported to another planet. it's a peculiar phenomena, but i find myself hypnotized by almost that lull you into a dreamy space... you're alone in the cosmos, but it's a good feeling, being by yourself and floating for hours.
echoes of tracks about heartbreak, ambition, and a deep exploration of sound itself. it's the kind of album that makes your mind explode. how can humanity create such sounds, i'll never know.
Arcade Fire
4/5
yet another indie sample here. interesting blend of indie rock, gospel and maybe some classic rock and roll? it's one of those indie albums that feel depressing and hopeful at the same time.
religious themes, existentialism and fear are common topics in this album. it's something else when you feel relaxed, then all of a sudden the haunting sounds of the church's organ and wails from the choir fill your eardrums. i don't know why i can't get into a lot of indie fully, but it has a very nicely crafted sound. i love albums that perfectly express cloudy conflicting thoughts like these. one of the tracks has horrifyingly aged well.
Pere Ubu
3/5
a pretty zany punk rock album, with prominent early usage of synthesizers in addition to the standard guitars and drums. the energy this album has is very different from all the others i've listened to.
vocal performances and lyrical nonsense are unlike anything i'm used to. it's a very crazy sound. the album has a demented vibe that makes it sound like it came from a twisted, colorful haunted house. as the album goes on, it gets more and more experimental. it's a VERY peculiar album on this list.
Terence Trent D'Arby
4/5
funky pop music. this album has that distinct (and maybe corny to a lot of people) clean, echoey dancey vibe that's heard in a plethora of 80s releases; definitely a hidden gem especially if you're into the almost stereotypically 1980s sort of sound.
plenty of love songs, plenty of songs about identity, spiritual imagery and influence... while i can't imagine i'll be worshipping this album, it absolutely stands out by itself in the world of contemporary 80s albums. i am obsessed with maitreya's singing voice, talk about the RASP. i love that. he at times reminds me of a postmodern james brown.
Talking Heads
5/5
the debut of everyone's favorite quirky new wave rock group, talking heads. their manic and mildly offbeat energy is present even in their debut.
i really admire the sound, even almost half a century after it has a timeless energy that resonates with a lot of listeners including myself. talking heads' music represents the state of humanity at its honest point. where am i? who am i? why is all this happening? I DON'T KNOW THE ANSWER TO THESE QUESTIONS!! music that constantly shifts and is indecisive in real time.
The Pharcyde
5/5
i've heard my share of jazz hip hop albums, but this one is probably the truest definition of that. pumping beatflips paired with piano riffs and big band influences.
this album is goofy and creative with how it's written, all the members of the quartet relay off each other like an improv comedy routine. in an era of hip hop where a lot of hardcore albums filled the airwaves and record shops, this album steers itself in the opposite direction, and i love it. imagine a tribe called quest, but a lot less... "hipster".
Elvis Costello
5/5
kicking off is the debut album of elvis costello; if you're the kind of guy who loves classic rock, you'll LOVE this album. this to me is a brilliant example of mixing old and (at the time) new, catchy and original alternative rock music with vintage influence. i wonder if costello was a big fan of presley...
his music also reminds me of weezer's, like if it was one guy in the 70s instead of a 90s band. he's delightfully strange and almost nerdy, unconventional when compared to the classic rock heartthrobs, but with music so full of emotion. it's an awesome listen.
The Smiths
5/5
another pick from the smiths. similar sound as the last album i've heard about a year ago. the smiths' music is a good example of "if it isn't broke, don't fix it". mysterious and depressing, this album's main theme is not just the same feelings of isolation and loneliness, but also a bit of critiquing about royalist ideals.
this album has a lot more jaunt and class compared to others i've heard. morrisey isn't afraid to switch up the instrumental tone from slow and soft to groovy in mere minutes. it's delightfully strange, emotional, and... well... unapologetically the smiths. nobody else had a sound like them at the time and even today, people could only really imitate what was put out by them.
The Streets
3/5
a british rap concept album, a story about a guy who mysteriously loses a thousand quid; the album detailing his story, struggle, and relationship.
british rap music is an acquired taste for me. the concept is something else, but i can't get into this sound at all. the production of the beats, as well as the verses and raps... it all feels a little sloppy. there's potential here, but the entire album is kinda messy.
Nico
4/5
really interesting sound from this album, almost classical inspired folk rock with ambient strings, mildly operatic singing. it's very relaxing, for the most part. it's a sort of peculiar artistic energy that someone like andy warhol would have.
i do like the songs themselves, but man it takes a bit to get used to nico's singing voice, she really likes to enunciate every word and has a very... deep sound with how lyrics are sung. despite this hurdle these songs are pretty beautiful. this album isn't perfect. it's awkward, slow, flawed... but that's why it's so compelling to listen to i think.
John Cale
5/5
always love me some true art pop music from the 1970s. something about all the mixing and nostalgic energy (even as someone who was definitely not alive during the 70s) makes me grin from ear to ear.
dreamy production value and abstract, yet pretty meaningful lyrics... while the orchestral pop sound is familiar to those who frequently listen to 70s music, this album feels a little more off-kilter. it's short, sharp, and has no filler.
Dinosaur Jr.
4/5
honestly i'm really fuckin with this album a little bit. this is a CRUSTY alternative rock album, shattering and crispy instruments but with awesomely written songs overall. it doesn't care if you think it's pretty.
this is another album on the list that while fuzzy and sloppy in sound, it's a refreshing standout compared to all the other albums. kurt cobain was a fan, and i can hear why. the only thing i'm not used to yet is the vocals, which are often mumbly and hard to understand. pure. audio. sludgefest.
John Lennon
5/5
oh, john... the controversial figure that you are, i would be lying if i said that you didn't have any form of musical talent. compared to his last album, which i reviewed last year, this one is a lot fuller in sound.
this album is personal, peace-advocating and moody, equal bits of hope and bitterness, including more dissing against his time working with fellow beatle paul mccartney. one can't help but admire how honest john feels when he sings, and with a wide, dreamy soundscape to match... it's a historical album.
Radiohead
5/5
more radiohead, and another excellent listen. this is probably shaping up to be my favorite album by them so far, if there's one thing i love it's psychotic and colorful experimentation.
this album is about life, and how baffling it all is. hiding under the covers, under the blanket lies you, manic and frazzled as psychedelic lights and balloons surround you. this album is coruscating and the more you listen the more you get lost in its musical vines.
Adele
4/5
again with these 2010s throwbacks. where were you when this album released a decade ago? adele certainly pulled out whatever she could for this memoir of sorts, reflecting on her life at the age of 25.
dramatic and almost grieving, this album, from its overplayed hits as well as the forgotten songs in-between paint a clear picture of adele's emotions. someone is aching about time gone by, and at the same time someone is hoping to gain wisdom as one grows older. sound isn't fully my thing, but it's a very pretty album.
The White Stripes
5/5
more samples from the white stripes. like their previous album i listened to, this one is SUPER similar in sound; fans of the last one will certainly like this one.
aggressive and frantic indie rock; music perfect for a moshpit. despite the compressed and arguably lo-fi sound, these two have a LOT to bring to the table. a pivotal and popular rock album of the 2000s, really!
Hugh Masekela
5/5
a very chill and funky fusion jazz album, blending soul, afrobeat, and traditional south african foundations. the album has a lot of improv throughout its 40-something minute runtime.
i don't know about you, but i really love me some "head empty" jazz albums. don't need to think about much when those grooves are letting you unwind and loosen up. many tracks keep you interested with unique drum fills, engaging sections and a uber-carefree vibe i'm obsessed with.
Bob Dylan
5/5
more bob dylan. i wouldn't be surprised if his entire discography is on this list, i swear... this album is effusive and full of emotion; the album was made shortly after dylan's wife left him.
it's a folksy breakup album, written in a way only bob dylan can. i really like the sultry and romantic tracks in the album. even as i'm still not used to his voice... his songs are VERY nice to listen to this time around. mans is pouring his heart and soul into these songs.
Christine and the Queens
5/5
dance pop album that perfectly blends the old with the new, a heavy 80s dancehall sound is done right and doesn't sound cliché at all. seriously, if someone put this on an 8 track cassette and said it was some forgotten pop diva, i would believe them.
i listened to the english release, i assume the french version is on an near-identical level of how good it sounds. the very dreamy and positive harmonies, complex themes and near-perfect contemporary pop energy makes this album enjoyable every second of the way. this album is sexy, stylish, and holds so much merit.
Daft Punk
5/5
DAFT PUNK BABYYYYYYY. the debut album of one of the biggest names in electronic music, daft punk puts a futuristic, post-modern spin on european dance music.
the music sounds like it comes from a rave inside an endless warehouse populated by robots. gritty buzzy synths, stabbing sampled plunderphonics and thumping beats make for an excellent electronic album. compared to discovery, this one has a more straightforward industrial and techno sound. homework for you. listen to this all the way through and write a short paragraph on why it's great.
Dinosaur Jr.
4/5
we got some real hardcore alt rock here today from dinosaur jr again. it's very noisy and emotionally jagged throughout; even with the fuzz however there's a lot of beauty in between it.
it has a very similar sound to the last one i've listened to. more of that sludgy awesomeness, really. if it ain't broke, you can't really fix it, right? it's a captivating little mess, and that's why i always at least appreciate listening to these guys all the way through, emotive poetry poking through the grime.
Tricky
4/5
murky, experimental and atmospheric trip hop rock. according to wikipedia, the likes of david bowie was a fan of tricky, and i can see why; it's experimental music that's treated like an art form.
it has very earthy sounds, like the beats are directly coming from the soil in the ground. i can't help but admire a lot of the sometimes abstract techniques at play here, this album is unlike anything i've heard before. some tracks are a bit odd, but for the most part i had great pleasure listening to each track. a fever dream of an album.
Sonic Youth
4/5
said by plenty of fans as sonic youth's magnum opus, this album has that noisy, buzzy experimental grunge rock sound that the band is known for. sonic youth is absolutely the group you listen to if you were a teen or young adult in the 80s, you hated life and your parents, and you spent your free time critiquing society, smoking cigs and occasionally having revelations. imagine channel-surfing a schizophrenic's brain.
this album is anxious, blunt and reflective of counter-culture at the time. disillusionment with politics and traditional definitions of what's popular, and the eternal, chaotic mind of youth. they don't care if you like or hate their music. they're just going to puke out whatever they feel, regardless if you like it or not.
Sleater-Kinney
3/5
holy damn, this album is LOUD. the first thing that stands out to me besides the bangin' tunes is the voices of these two, incredibly loud and powerful.
this is a women's punk album, many tracks are about feminist rage and energy, plus many ideas about one's self and passionate emotions. this album is PASSIONATE and you can literally hear it on each track, it's insane. i couldn't name many female punk rock group that really pours sweat and tears to construct wired and intense music like this. the warbly, wailing singing style definitely isn't for everyone, and a big underlying problem that this album has is how similar tracks sound from one another... you've heard one track, you've kinda heard them all.
Hawkwind
5/5
hold on to your underwear folks, try not to get lost in the void of space as this record plays through. a vast, dramatic and somewhat frightening rock album, almost two hours in length, and chock full of weird otherworldly imagery.
seriously, i don't know what it is from around this time... maybe it was the drugs, maybe it was the way that the guitars were tuned? i'm not just rating most every space prog rock album i see high because i'm biased. all of them are good. i just straight up like albums that challenge the listener.
Taylor Swift
2/5
a surprise release by swift at the tail end of 2020. while she claims it's a departure from her usual sound, this is literally typical taylor swift music, just instead of electric guitars and drum machines it's acoustic guitars and minimal percussion.
i can't relate to taylor's music. it's cookie-cutter noise fodder for simple girls and gays who don't have a personality. yeah, life. men. people? life and men. and marriage and breakups. revenge. time. i miss you. ever been in a relationship? we fought. you're bad but i miss you. i'm gonna do my own thing. this album does not make me feel anything. it's produced decently enough but it's a nothing album.
N.E.R.D
5/5
wasn't expecting something like this today! is it pop, rock, funk? i don't know for sure, but when you take the likes of chad hugo, shae hayley, and freakin' PHARRELL WILLIAMS?! you might just have an overlooked masterpiece. compared to their last album, they're playing the instruments themselves instead of producing beats electronically.
this album has a heavy nostalgic energy to it; if you were the awkward kid just trying to get through the likes of high school, you might relate to the album's themes of social alienation, peer pressure and the earnest dreams of youth. definitely the sort of album you don't wanna miss out on.
Circle Jerks
4/5
an album that is said to be a landmark in early punk music, with a whopping runtime of... 15 minutes. yep, seriously. i thought the spotify version was bugged, but no, this album isn't even half an hour long, most tracks only about 30 seconds to a minute in length.
are the songs good? yeah, i'd say so. it's just crazy how this album was written. they didn't want to waste ANY time here. they wanna get out all their rage fast, with some ridiculousness in between. hope you like headbanging at speeds faster than normal. blink and you'll miss it.
Billy Bragg
4/5
i don't mind some alternative country! billy bragg and wilco collaborated together to make music based on the lyrics of late american folk singer woody guthrie. many tracks are about political commentary and personal reflections.
the album is breezy, and nostalgic. the kind of music that a man would play sitting on his front porch with a guitar in hand and a dog by his side. the album doesn't try to mimic guthrie's music, having a much softer and more modern take on the lyrical content. it's a pleasant listen. it's like the band is casually flipping through guthrie's diary.
T. Rex
5/5
another album by t. rex, and i'll be honest, i really like this one better than the last one i heard. fuzzy, boogie-groovin' rock songs that have such ridiculous levels of sleaze, it makes me smile.
it sounds like a demented, yet happy hootenanny. sex, glitter, escapism... it's a good example of glam rock at its peak, and with an album like this, it's no secret that other musicians got a big kick out of it. bowie, oasis, prince... all have got major influences from these guys.
Rufus Wainwright
5/5
the first of a two part, theatrical pop album. compared to other baroque pop albums I've listened to, this one takes the cake for being the most maximalist and otherworldly. you've most definitely heard his cover of "hallelujah", but he has so much more in store.
with layered vocals, orchestral arrangements and a vibe that doesn't know when to be sad or carefree, this album is a spectacle in this list. this album demands your attention, and you literally won't expect how the next song will sound. it's not too often you find something this emotionally... layered. that's the word i'm gonna use to describe this.
Muddy Waters
4/5
high quality recording of a blues concert recorded at the newport jazz festival in newport, new island. waters has a voice and songwriting style that's pretty distinct from other popular blues and jazz musicians.
the crowd is very excited, the performance is very smooth, and muddy waters plays off the entire act with elegance, singing strongly and clearly, talking to the audience in a straightforward manner and telling them what the next song is. while the blues sound isn't still my forte, it's a significant album that makes it worth the listen for me.
Orbital
5/5
truly mesmerizing electronic music; i've listened to a few of orbitals material and i'm very familiar with their abstract and almost alien way of producing dance tracks... this album is certainly no exception. you electronic musicheads out there will fixate hard on this "brown album".
hip, post-modern and minimalist infectious beatsies persist throughout the album's runtime. it's the sort of oddly fascinating electronic music that at first makes you a little confused, but it soon worms right into your brain, entrancing you with its music. if aphex twin is the weirdo outsider in the family, orbital is the older introverted brother that exhibits grace and class in his musical poetry.
Kanye West
5/5
kanye west, even with his seemingly infinite number of controversies is no stranger to creating genre-defying and original hip hop music. compared to his last album, he's switched from orchestrated aesthetics to polarizing industrial sounds.
album consists of critiques of consumerist culture, fashion trends, racial identity and his own sins. it's artistic and has a lot of messages to the masses, but it's buried under his messy little egotistical brain. kanye was always a bit strange, but this was absolutely the time in his career where he was spiraling. it's an awesome, intense album. he's very skilled but he needs to genuinely find god. or a therapist. or both. if john lennon was still alive the two would be... friends. of some sort.
Bill Callahan
4/5
really soft, almost dreamy country music. it's very slow, steady, and beautifully haunting. a new face of country i've never experienced til now.
this album is elegant, sometimes leans into folk or maybe even baroque pop. strange, puzzling, introspective. it's the perfect album for listening to on those late dreary nights. this album sounds like a long exhale.
Slade
5/5
rowdy and raucous early glam, or maybe punk rock? if you're a metal oldhead, holy damn this album will be right up your alley. absolutely the kind of music to bang your head and stick your tongue out like a fool.
it's a real ruckus of an album, sounds like a group of stupid drunk dudes gathered and made a punk album in their garage. you can smell the sweat from the vinyl record. lots of the tracks are intentionally misspelled. i found it very enjoyable!
Iron Maiden
5/5
this app is feeding me with more bodacious metal music by the minute! great googly moogly.
if you thought the last album i listened to was energetic, this one is even more so, speeding your way across the highway as the wailing voices of the skeleton guitar gods echo within the raging storm. iron maiden is consistently good, even with a new vocal direction. this album is influential in terms of metal music, with wicked solos, theatric songwriting, and with a title so typically expected from a metal group it makes biblethumpers angry.
Dire Straits
5/5
clean, slick and cinematic, dire straits' fifth album had high ambitions from the start, not only featuring a digital sheen throughout, but releasing as a cd-first album.
it's an audiophile's wet dream. listeners will really love the amount of depth when it comes to the songwriting and production. it's definitely 1980s in terms of sound, but it's not overtly cheesy or tired. it's a must have for people testing out their stereos in their house or car.
Janelle Monáe
5/5
a very creative and gaudy soul/r&b album inspired from classic dance pop music and lavish afrofuturism. a brilliant symphony of sound, blending old with new.
narrative-driven and substantial, this album would literally be the perfect score for a modern version of metropolis, a sound fitting for a cyber-capitalist-dystopia with golden art deco buildings that reach the stars. this album entrances you, it makes you both dance and daydream as it plays through, janelle's voice smooth like artisan butter.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
we've got some more sludgy and crunchy noise rock here. it's a certain vibe for sure, cloudy punk rock music that sounds like it was recorded and performed in a bathroom.
take the likes of the beach boys, and imagine if they took meth. or acid. or both. this whole record almost sounds like if tv static tried to write a few songs. it's definitely got a solid foundation, and i wouldn't be inspired if it took the notice of bands like sonic youth, my bloody valentine or nirvana. some of the screeching noise sounds like nails on a chalkboard and gives me a migraine.
Jane Weaver
5/5
probably one of the more obscure albums on this collection. this album doesn't even have a wikipedia article about it. i've never heard a sound quite like this before.
mind-bending and cosmic, this album evenly blends pop, electronic, new wave rock, and something else entirely. if you enjoy the likes of beck and gorillaz, you'll initially be put off by its slightly strange sound, but you'll end up loving it so much by the second or third track. this album was made for me. even if you don't end up liking it, at least i do! it's groovy.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
oh, these guys again? okay. a plus side to this album is that it's not under layers of static, which is pretty refreshing.
despite the clearer sound, it's pretty identical to the last one i've heard. mumbly drawled vocals, very fuzzy and with that typical echoey "alt" 80s sound... at this point i have to wonder why there's so many of this dreamy, weird groaning alt new wave "jangle" slop on this list. it's not a genre for me at all. sorry.
Simple Minds
4/5
finally, a good palette cleanser after all the weird noisy new wave i heard before. polished, moderately reverberated, and having the typical class that artsy 80s pop should have, this one was a generally good listen.
new gold dream has a sound that makes you feel like you're in a morbidly long dress and dancing in the moonlight in a church. airy and atmospheric, under the right conditions, this album makes you feel like you're floating on air. it's said that billy idol and brian eno were fans of these guys, and i can hear the influence.
The Beach Boys
5/5
the beach boys are certainly no strangers in my listening endeavors even before this list; i've already familiarized myself a bit with their album "pet sounds" (realistically who hasn't by now) and i was already looking forward to listening to this one. and holy hell, is it something else. probably a good time to review it after the recent unfortunate passing of brian wilson.
the sheer aura that these white men exude is absolutely mind-blowing. even the most serious music theorists will be on their knees in shock as they listen to these harmonies. it's one thing having good songs with good instrumentation, but these guys sing at such a level that is absolutely unmatched. haunting songs of collapse, innocence and culture... it feels like standing in the ruins of a once-great cathedral, hearing echoes of a choir that’s long gone. it’s probably the most emotionally and artistically ambitious thing they ever released.
on another unrelated note, can we talk about that album art? good lord.
Jacques Brel
3/5
classic and light french pop music from the 60s.. well, i say it's light but it's quite the opposite in terms of mood. is this the french equivalent to frank sinatra? it's giving a similar energy, at least.
this is a very theatrical album, brel really performs in such a electric and dramatic way, singing each lyric with passion when he's on stage. life and death, violence, and a unabashed flair that this guy only can do. it's.... something alright. i can't get used to this sound at all. the uber-european sound paired with the dramatic lyric material and way he sings... it doesn't click with me at all. at times it sounds like stereotypical french music, one song having a few "hon-hon-hons" here and there.
The Sugarcubes
4/5
crazy, mysterious and surreal icelandic new wave rock... dance music. this album is notably for introducing bjork to the world; she was the lead vocalist for this band before doing a solo career.
it's pretty decent 80s new wave. to the surprise of nobody, bjork's breathy and ethereal singing style compliments this album very well all the way through. not every song is a winner, but the songs that are good, they're great. words can't understate how talented she is, give me more of her singing and less of the spoken word narration from eythor arnalds.
Sebadoh
4/5
indie rock that really blows your socks and speakers off. it's probably one of the more emotional ones in this collection too, with passionate tracks that make it perfect for puke-inducing breakups.
there's a great concept at play here, but within all the cool fuzzy tracks that almost take inspiration from 60s rock ballads are a few tracks that sound REALLY dissonant. maybe it would hit harder if i was going through... all that? i dunno. the sound sometimes throws me off. props to them for experimentation!
Thelonious Monk
4/5
really smooth and upbeat jazz music. i didn't know what hard bop was until tonight... it's a subgenre of bebop jazz that takes influence from rhythm and blues that's noted for its faster pacing and animated solos.
i like jazz! i really really do. this album is great. however, this album, like many other albums doesn't stick out to me. it's very nice to listen to, i like the sort of swingin' jazz sound that sounds like everyone's bouncing along to the hits of the tom-toms, and the long tracks really showcase just how creative these solos can go. but alas... it's missing the spark that makes me obsessed. it's a shame, because again. i found this album pleasant to listen to. one song is vocal and there's a few piano focus tracks... really there's just a few other jazz albums that blend into this one i think.
Portishead
4/5
very mysterious trip hop music. it's like the music that echoes from a murky jazz club, hiding between all the other buildings with a neon light that's struggling to stay on. it's depressing, but it's a beautiful depressing, all wrapped in velvet.
i like the atmosphere it sets for the listener. there's a few tracks here and there that really capture my interest, especially with some of the vocals paired with some really faint and eerie beats. there's a bit that lingers on here and there, but i mean... i think this one was pretty cool. if you're looking for something sensible and lo-fi, this one is a good pick.
Grateful Dead
5/5
really relaxin' and rustic folk rock music. the kind of simple and humble rock music that's perfect for listening with your dad, grandpa or uncle when you're on the longest summer road trip.
a lot of tracks just need a lead and bass guitar to get yourself moving. it's a little window of sorts to the simple american life, sitting in your rocking chair with a guitar or banjo in hand, your dog snuggling next to you as you look at the blinding orange sunset. it's an album about time, and how sad and beautiful it is, every last second.
5/5
maybeeeeeeeeeee you're gonna be the one that saves meeeeeeeeeee and after aaaaaaaallllll you're my wonderwallllllllllll...
now that i got your attention, we've got some sleazy british rock pop that definitely feels like the next successor when it comes to classic british rock bands. besides the smash hit "wonderwall", the entire soundtrack is just full of juicy and british swagger. overplayed songs be damned, this record is fantastic. these guys pour their hearts out with their music and i think many indie rock musicians could learn a thing or two from these guys.
David Bowie
4/5
the final studio album released by david bowie, a quirky and honestly heartbreaking swan song from one of the most known composers in the art pop sphere. bowie wasn't holding anything back, this album is by far his oddest, and after knowing it came out only two days before he passed... it's almost poetic. he was going to pass on stage, the walls crumbling and birds circling his eventually lifeless body.
compared to other albums where life and death is talked about straight, bowie almost treats it like he's ascending to the next realm. he sings exactly how he wants to, and the musicians that join him do their own thing as well. it's a haunting, yet strangely cosmic and beautiful mess. at first it throws you off, and depending on who listens to it they might be thrown off the whole time, but above all else, there's a concept. i can almost see his ghost, standing in my room, bursting with one last song before he disappears.
George Michael
5/5
released at the start of the '90s, this album by george michael is a massive departure from his usual sound he had before, swapping his clean and synthy pop with natural and acoustic instrumentation and personal, emotional lyrical content.
george michael has definitely seen a few angels in his lifetime, and his voice is equivalent to a fallen one. it's mindblowingly perfect. taking inspirations from soul, gospel, and singer-songwriter vibes, the album is full of commentary and serves as a true window of how he felt at that time, growing sick of the fame. he entered a hiatus after the release of this album.
Pantera
4/5
high energy heavy metal music. there's plenty of albums that i've personally reviewed that make you want to headbang and this one is probably the most INSANE example of that. it's torture to not move your head up and down.
compared to other anti-authority and political metal bands, this one is just straight up aggressive to the core. less "fuck the world we're in", more "fuck you dude i wanna deck you in the face". it gets fast but it's never messy, it's all planned out neatly from start to finish.
The Byrds
3/5
real vintage country music. very pleasant sounding and positive all the way through, lots of thoughts about life, god, and heartbreak... it's said to be one of the first true examples of country rock music.
again, as good as these songs could sound, i'm just not a country guy 90% of the time. it's just not the genre for me, the way it's sung, the way it's played... i can't go more into detail, but... yeah, i'm sure lots of people would enjoy this album a lot more than me.
The Cardigans
5/5
this album was a nice little surprise! really peppy and kitschy. for those of you shibuya-kei rock heads like me, this album is practically equivalent to releases from japan, full of meaningful sonnets surroundings lounge pop bops.
it's almost... cute sounding. i can't stress this enough, it's one of the closest equivalents to a genre i listen to often, and i almost fainted as soon as the first few tracks played. i am hooked. you're thinking about heavy stuff, but you're thinking about heavy stuff sitting on a picnic blanket, eating PB&J. really really good food.
Alice Cooper
4/5
those of you young teenage rebels out there will probably get a real kick out of this album. school's out is an album that sounds like the last bell of the year is ringing while the school burns to the ground behind you.
crazy hard rock that could be almost classified as glam, alice cooper has a loud and messy way of songwriting. it's arguably the perfect soundtrack for shit-faced moments in life, sliding down the avenue on a skateboard, spraying graffiti on the wall and mooning the police officers chasing you. it's not winning any awards for me, but i do like the energy it showcases.
Neil Young
5/5
yet another entry in neil young's repertoire. this one goes for a bit of a trampy, soulful blues vibe. if there's one thing i admire neil for, it's always a different picture whenever i hear one of his albums in this collection; i always wonder what i'll hear next.
these songs are VERY nice but a tiny part of me is not sure if young's warbly voice fits the kind of music he's trying to do here. it's better than the one time he tried to make grunge rock though. regardless of genre, his music is engaging, relatable and channels at the emotions if you'd let it. it's a very cool album... it takes a bit for it to hit but when it does, you'll love it.
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
5/5
this album was a real audio spectacle. spence's first and only album ever released was made shortly after his time in a psych ward, after attempting to attack his bandmates with an axe.
it's a true definition of a solo album. every single instrument he played himself; this is a one-man band, directly recording his dreams and nightmares onto analog tape. it's not just quirky prog rock, it's a direct window to the soul of a man with complex feelings about the actions he's done. it's a beautiful, haunting mental breakdown.
Bad Company
5/5
the debut album of bad company, and these guys are immediately opening your door and flooding your ears with sick guitar riffs and absurd amounts of testosterone.
absurdly perfect production value, especially when compared to all the other hard rock bands i've heard from around this time. a perfect balance of hard hitting anthems and slow, smarmy jams. it's a great buffet of sound. are they experimental? heavens no, this is straight up rock. but is it great? abso-fuckin-lutely.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
i've never hated a single jimi hendrix album. this man was a guitarist sent from the heavens above. the ideal vibe is smoking a bong in my room, and turning on my 60s hendrix live record that's bleeding with crackling and fuzzy pops.
progressive and infectious guitar-centered rock compositions with a timeless and almost surreal energy to it. like if you were in a guitar center and a vortex sucked you into "the rock dimension", you're hopelessly lost and yet you really really REALLY don't want to leave.
Radiohead
5/5
oh, radiohead... people may really idolize their roots and their more traditional grunge sound, but the sort of weird post-rock music that challenges the conventions of the genre.
if you can't handle these guys from the start, you might want to protect your virgin ears from this music. apathetic and cold, a lot of other albums by these guys feel like sparkling comets while this radiohead album sounds like a big black hole.
The Flying Burrito Brothers
4/5
we got some late 60s country jams today; this one is mostly positive and uplifting. i'm getting some very strong soul and gospel influence, especially the latter when i hear the compositions and lyrics.
audible fables of people, places, and views on life, along with plenty of callbacks to the ol' man upstairs, as well as the little bastard downstairs. it's another really traditional, and humble country album, even blend of american roots and deep european mountain vibes. like other albums i've listened to, sometimes less is more. i feel like this record is a pretty good example of that. even as someone who really doesn't like country... i just can't hate this album.
i think i found the winner for the greatest band name ever.
Talk Talk
5/5
yet another representative of the amazing artsy 80s pop sphere, a perfect example of a album that immerses you in its pure synthy landscape.
this album by talk talk feels very... human. these verses paired with the sweeping strings and snappy drum machines makes for an album that transcends time. many listeners, young and old will resonate with the common themes of passage, intimacy, nature, and life itself. it almost takes a classical influence in structure, at times feeling like pseudo-program music that vivaldi could've written if he was a 20th century new wave star. seriously, it's that immersive. a must listen.
Elis Regina
5/5
okay, this one confused me initially. the website said that this album released in 1978, but after searching on google, turns out that this is actually a posthumous compilation album, the songs taken from two different album releases.
now onto the music. super pretty progressive pop music that whisks you away. brazilian music always seems to delight me with how positive and complex the grooves are, the singers happily bouncing between every note and chord. it's a very entertaining and lighthearted jazzy pop album that blends hints of samba, bossa nova and choro.
Kings of Leon
4/5
we've got some really spunky and loose rock music this time around... what's the type of dancing that punk rockers and ska fans do where they stretch and flail their arms and kick out their legs? i don't know what it's called but this album makes me feel like doing that.
this rock album feels like it could've been released in the 70s based on just how rough around the edges it is. it's still produced like a pop rock album, so those of you who might like the white stripes and lynyrd skynyrd or you're the type of indie rock fella who watched indie pop up vids on vh1 might get a kick out of this. it gets pretty bananas sometimes.
Steely Dan
5/5
i always get excited whenever steely dan is today's listen. at this point i'm convinced they're the shining examples in the world of classic yacht rock. this album is just more of that slow, sweet goodness i've already familiarized myself with.
a mix of jazz, a mix of rock, a mix of blues... everyone gather and rejoice at this band and their virtuosic tunes. steely dan has a certain harmonic chemistry that not a lot of other rock bands share, and this album is just.... mwah mwah mwah mwah it's just so good. it makes you feel good.
Brian Eno
5/5
another entry from brian eno. it's music that's, you guessed it, made specifically in mind for airports to play. a quiet ambient album, the goal was to make pleasant sounding music that didn't interrupt any announcements.
brian wanted to make the music not overtly cheerful, the kind of perky cliché muzak at the time made him want to kill himself. despite the very faint sounds, it's super relaxing to listen to. the synthy soundscapes make it perfect if you're needing some time to unwind. i also feel like this music would be appropriate for system menu music for, like... a video game console. it's minimalist music done right. props to eno.
The Verve
4/5
wide and classy indie pop rock, has a heavy emphasis on an orchestral, dreamy energy and longing, emotional vocals. the first track, "bitter sweet symphony" was quite the smash hit all the way back in '97.
even if you've only heard that song, you've pretty much gotten a taste of what the entire album sounds like. it's all really slow, moody and dramatic. these guys really like their string samples, and while it's a pretty nice sound, with little variation between tracks sometimes makes me a little disinterested. songs are very psychedelic and ethereal, but i feel like a few songs kinda draggggggg. if you're a fan of oasis you might like this album.
Van Morrison
4/5
we've got some real straight blue-eyed soul rock on this album, audio taken from a few different tours he had around that time. this guy's singing like his life is depending on it.
this live album is pretty nice i suppose! it's always a treat to hear live performances that sound solid from beginning to end... but i wouldn't say it's too special. it feels like the kind of sometimes hammy performance you'd see at the mgm grand in las vegas.
Talking Heads
5/5
we got some more of that quirky and eccentric new wave rock music from talking heads. our ol' pal brian eno is back, helping with production. compared to their last album, this album has a stronger emphasis on that somewhat alien type of dance rock music we'd see from the likes of devo and oingo boingo.
this second album is much more refined than their first. these guys are stereophonic mad scientists with sound, it's all over the place but it's written by very intelligent people. those basslines walk around the block like nobody's business, those beats NEVER stumble. a beautiful tornado of early new wave goodness.
Talking Heads
5/5
oh, more talking heads right after the last one i listened to? i mean, fine by me! i'm always down to get served a platter of craziness. did eno hack my app and is forcing me to listen to his experiments? if he is, hi brian, i love youuu!!
arguably this is their most iconic album released. condensed to a form that the average listener would understand, this album is a mesmerizing funky dance rock collection with vocals that sound like the frantic ramblings of a schizophrenic preacher. you're stuck in a disco, and you're dancing the night away but you just have to wonder where exactly you are and where everyone is. this is talking heads at their core, and i'm in love.
Cee Lo Green
5/5
cee-lo green is coming at you with this genre-hopping hip hop collection. this album came out just before he was a household name, and even before he had the talent and creativity that would shake up the rap game.
cee-lo green fuses hip hop with gospel, soul, and slam poetry. he has a very infectious way of rapping, sometimes nice and slow, sometimes rapidfire. when he talks about himself and his life, he's just so EXPRESSIVE with it. it blows my mind, and with top producers on a lot of these tracks, it makes for a worthy listen in my opinion.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
5/5
a dramatic rock adaption of "pictures at an exhibition", a piano suite by modest mussorgsky that depicts an exhibition of illustrations and architectural works. those of you classical heads will already be VERY interested in this album, and i'm happy to report that this adaptation of mussorgsky's work is incredibly solid.
the piece is already fantastic by itself, and emerson, lake and palmer translate the centuries old composition into a booming rock symphony. if you're a purist when it comes to classical, you'll either find this amazing or insulting to the original piece, but really... for me, this is a near-perfect translation of a classical piece made for a more modern time. try pulling up the matching pictures with each track!
John Grant
4/5
passionate. dreamy. strangely feels like something that would come out half a century ago? the kind of music that makes you feel a little sick too. i've never heard of this guy till now, and this debut album is promising.
this album is mostly composed of life experiences paired with blunt and dark humor. it's a little vulgar, it's a little kitschy, it's all over the place. it's the kind of album for people that feel like life is indescribable and it sucks, but... eh. you shrug. whatcha gonna do about it?
Lucinda Williams
3/5
soft, kinda soothing country music from the deep south. this album tries its hardest to transport you right to the rural areas of america, on a dingy little road trip.
this album is fine. the lyrics are nice and the instrumentals are fine... i guess this is just an album that i have nothing to say about, and i didn't really feel any emotions listening to. these are songs alright, but they aren't really amazing. i guess it won a grammy.
Tears For Fears
5/5
tears for fears is the greatest 80s band. ever. this album helped solidify their space in the pop space in the mid 1980s.
spacious, immersive and existential, this entire album demonstrates the sheer power these two have in terms of music. between the many... not even new wave bands, just bands in the 80s who used and abused synthesizers, other artists create cliché corny and tinny soundscapes, these guys create a gargantuan, regal castle of sound. the album symbolizes bursting from your shell, reflection on trauma and soaring across the world, even if you're not sure how your story ends. an essential album, for sure.
Sufjan Stevens
5/5
a lengthy folksy concept album that's dedicated to the state it's named after, lots of callbacks, references and cultural lyrics from beginning to end.
it's a very humble album, definitely the sort of music fitting for a small town instead of a big urban city. there's an even blend of gospel, country, and mid-century singer-songwriter energy this gives. when the album first started i wasn't feeling it too much, but the more i listened to it the more i ended up liking it. apparently a musical was made after this album released.
Pere Ubu
2/5
we've got more pere ubu now, this time i'm listening to their debut album. already getting a similar energy to the last one i've listened to, weird shrill synths, detuned instruments and funny sounding voices.
i really can't get into these guys. i'm sorry, but between all the noise and wailing and shrill sounds... it's like nails on a chalkboard. a song or two i actually had to skip because i genuinely felt a little nauseous.
The Dictators
4/5
this album is said to be one of the first examples of punk rock. i can definitely hear it! according to wikipedia it wasn't exactly a bestseller, but it really helped create that foundation that a lot of other punk bands would write and record in the future.
it's not perfect and there's a track or two that hasn't aged too well, but i'm digging the energy here. rowdy, a lil vulgar and messy, it's like the kind of music that a teenage 50s rock and roll band would make once they actually start taking mind-altering substances and not puffing on their upteenth cigarette.
Black Sabbath
5/5
a fitting entry in this list after the recent passing of the legendary ozzy osbourne. this album is the debut of black sabbath.
the prince of darkness welcomes listeners to his graveyard, virgin ears beware. taking some inspiration from blues music, black sabbath immediately puts you in a grimy, ghoulish atmosphere with heavy riffs and WAILING vocals. ozzy was like no other, and after his passing, i can only appreciate his work more. let's get REAL satanic up in here.
The Divine Comedy
5/5
genuinely surprised by this one. another album on this list that can be simply described as "all killer, no filler". orchestral, almost big band pop music inspired from classic mood and ballrom music from almost a century ago.
songs of longing and intense emotion, this album is chock full of pretty and progressive orchestral motifs and accompaniments. despite the short runtime, there's a lot of power in the instrumentals that make the songs hit a lot harder.
Klaxons
4/5
a messy, yet fierce colorful collage of sound... a real punchy, poppy alternative rock album that feels like a collaboration with a garage indie rock group and a few martians from saturn. seriously, with a name like "the klaxons"?
if you like both the arctic monkeys and oingo boingo, you'll like what's being presented to you through your stereo. many songs hook you in pretty fast, it has great energy and great production value as well. it's ambitious, but the sound ain't for everyone.
Incubus
5/5
i love nu metal, this album is a perfect example of this genre done right. recorded in only about two months, this album helped incubus's reputation and fame when it comes to their music.
life mottos and mantras are paired with INSANELY good riffs and breaks, it's a perfect fusion of standard heavy metal and funk music. a fitting album blending new with old, right at the end of the 20th century, i'd say.
The Cult
3/5
next up is honestly a pretty straightforward 1980s metal rock album. I can only describe it as metal at its true foundations, distorted guitars and bass, hard hitting drums and loud vocals. what else would you need realistically?
in the past these guys started off leaning towards more new wave and alternative endeavors; this entry switches it off for something more simple. the songs are objectively good but it doesn't really stick out to me. that's the only thing preventing me from rating it high, really. it's incredibly earnest, but unremarkable. i've heard at least a few bands that sound exactly like these guys.
Butthole Surfers
3/5
hoo-wee, this album sure is something. distorted, tape-bending techniques, slimy and disturbing mixing and all sorts of sounds tickling your eardrums makes for an album that doesn't sound like any other rock album you've heard before.
it sounds like audio coming from deep within satan's bowels. it's groundbreaking and it's such a departure from other rock bands, but there's only so much i can realistically enjoy when a big majority of the album is pure, demonic-sounding noise. as much as i'd want to rank this album higher, i just don't think i'm the right demographic for this kind of music.
Prefab Sprout
5/5
i really enjoy pop albums, especially vintage pop albums with a BEYOND clean sound and aesthetic. this album is as smoooooth as a fresh slab of butter.
this album sounds like a rainy day. echoey instruments, clever sampling (is that a fairlight i hear?) and absolutely GORGEOUS mastering, courtesy of thomas dolby. mostly lovey dovey lyrics and subject material, the good and the bad. it's super relaxing. i could probably play this in a store and all the people inside would get nice and cozy.
Run-D.M.C.
5/5
really aggressive and punchy rap... rock... pop music from the golden age of hip hop. sample flips, LOUD drum machines and funky guitar riffs creates a sound that gets a lot of people movin' and groovin'.
this album is the perfect party hip hop album. people will be tapping their toes to the beats and hollerin' bars at the top of their lungs to these songs. with a distinct sound unlike any others at the time, and collaborating with big rock names, this album is a must listen and i would say is critically and culturally significant. grab your boombox and kicks.
Scott Walker
4/5
talk about a big sound! i wouldn't be surprised if this guy was frank sinatra's long lost cousin. don't get thrown off though, because some of what he sings would probably make sinatra weep... his hit single on the first track was banned by the bbc for its obscenity.
regardless of the arguably tame controversy, this album is a pretty great listen. at least to me, i enjoyed it for the most part! it's traditional 20th century pop music, but it subverts your expectations by the material and energy it displays to the listener. this album smells like sweat, perfume and cigars. walker sings like a prince from a disney film. it's an acquired taste, but most of what this album offers i give my seal of approval.
Nanci Griffith
4/5
enjoyable and straightforward country music... it has a very nostalgic energy to it, like when i hear it i think fondly about the past. nanci griffith has a very sweet singing voice; i hear hints of ol' dolly parton as she sings. it's never too loud or theatric.
many bits of the album are story-driven; i sometimes imagine nanci sitting in a rocking chair, reading a big dusty book as a little band is behind her. even as someone who's not as much of a country guy, i can at least give the album a lot of credit for actually being something tolerable, and easy on the ears.
Massive Attack
4/5
a very quirky, very mysterious trip hop album, mixing hints of ambient, lounge and dub music. i always like listening to albums that have a sound i really haven't heard before...
many people, especially today seem to appreciate the aesthetic the album presents, all blurry and brooding... this album would absolutely hit the hardest if you listened to it late at night. some of the beats and vocals are a little strange... but i can, as the hip folks say, dig it. someone said in one of the song's comments that these guys should score for the next silent hill game. very interesting entry.
AC/DC
5/5
one of ac/dc's most iconic albums and the last album with bon scott performing vocals. it's labeled as blues rock in some circles but i really feel like i would classify this as classic metal music.
these men take you on a one-way train right straight to the eternal pits of hell, where the flames burn for miles, demons play around and smokin' hot babes keep you company. it's full of energy, and you can physically feel the forces from deep within the earth's core making you bang your head. it's slammin' rock music that makes you feel alive. and it feels really damn good to be alive. woooooooooo!!!
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
funky, punky music with a really interesting sound to it, is that ska influence i hear? maybe it's just the excessive amount of brass that's consistent throughout the album's runtime. this is dexys midnight runner's debut album.
the music is straight up in your face, like the band all huddled close together just to give you a good show. there's just so much... brass, and yet i think for the most part it works really well, really emphasizes the dramatic lyrics. a bit of commentary and a lot of pride, power and punch. it's niche, but i think it's cool.
Koffi Olomide
4/5
some positive and soft sounding african dance music this day, light percussion and acoustic chords accompany uplifting and rhythmic vocals sung in french.
this album is nice. i like the folk dance subgenres from different countries, and i feel like especially with music from african roots, there's a natural and positive energy to how many songs are composed, the sort of casually happy progressions where whenever you're 9 or 90, you can't resist the urge to dance with the music. it's not something i'd listen to normally, but it stands pretty well.
Goldie
5/5
jungle? drum and bass?! i'm about to gobble up this album like it's a damn all-you-can-eat buffet. this album is educational material, kiddies... a pivotal and historical album for the genre i would say.
this album is a raw blueprint for the breakin' junglist and electronic sounds, wide spacious pads and chord stabs, repeating vocal chops and soulful quips, uber-fancy drum beats ... even after 30 or so years, this album sounds very futuristic... and oddly sexy. this little cd here is the textbook definition of 1990s uk club culture. buss di stylish sound straight inna yuh eardrum, mek di music tek control! budda deng deng, di deng deng deng di deng deng!! give me more, give me more.
Blue Cheer
3/5
it's always interesting hearing the really early attempts at heavy, rebellious rock music from the late 60s. i probably have said this before but it's a pivotal point in history when it came to how rock music evolved, and definitely for the better.
this album is really scratchy. you've probably heard plenty of blues albums, but this one feels a lot more AGGRESSIVE than most. lots of tracks are very messy in terms of production. these guys aren't going to hold your hand, they're going to overdose you on LSD and make you vent out your frustrations... a reviewer states that it's more about feeling than form. while imperfect, it stands out pretty well and serves as a massive inspiration for artists to come, like zeppelin and ozzy. i feel like a lot of people would rate this lower. oh well.
Morrissey
5/5
morrissey is coming back to this list, swapping his usual moody new wave sound for something tougher, bolder... he's got a new image, new band members and a brand new sound to boot.
it's very interesting listening to this album. you could tell this album compared to the other stuff from the smiths, morrissey speaks his mind from start to finish. ambiguous, ironic, and full of wit, i was... really not surprised by how good the album was objectively, but the new sound complimenting his voice strongly.
Napalm Death
2/5
holy hell, what a listen. this is what heavy metal music sounded like to me when i was like... 8 years old. downright evil sounding guitar riffs, drums going absolutely nuts and smashing cymbals at untrackable bpms, and growling, hooting vocals that are mostly unintelligible.
this album is... i'm sorry, it's just goofy to me. it sounds like a parody of the genre. it sounds like something that uncle jobel would make as a bit, but no, this album was made genuinely. a lot of the tracks are only a minute or so long and it's all just... wow. i'm giving it a two-star rating if only because this album makes me laugh when i listen to it. BAMBAMBAMBAMBAMBAMBAMCRASHCRASHCRASH. JJIJUGGABUGGADUBBADOHHRRAAAAAAAAAAUUUUGHMMRRRUGHHHHUH. RAAAAAAAAAAUUHHHUHUBALLLLFFF!!
HUBUUH!! HRRJJ JJJHUT!!
Soundgarden
5/5
oh i really like this one. for those of you fans of grunge music, this album will be right up your alley. overwhelming and amazing rock music that isn't afraid to get a little strange and complex.
chris cornell is an AMAZING vocalist. he's up there with kurt cobain in terms of how iconic his presence on the album is. and best believe me i'm not about to dismiss the synergy the other band members have. it's grimy and... well, grungy, but it's mighty sophisticated too. one of the greatest in the genre.
5/5
ｌｉｍｐ ｂｉｚｋｉｔ ｉｓ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｈｏｕｓｅ． ｂｒｉｎｇ ｉｔ ｏｎ．
fred durst is coming back again, this third release from limp bizkit having pretty much the same energy as past albums i've heard from em. some people say this album feels either rushed or too similar to their past work, but really, this is their style. you can't change what they're known for.
durst sings and raps about his life, how people treat him like shit and even considering suicide. even with the cadence sounding a little absurd and obnoxious at times, this nu metal album is full of meaning and emotion. if you think limp bizkit is cringe and "trying too hard" in 2025, i suggest cleaning out YOUR chocolate starfish.
5/5
hell yes, it's.... yes! you know a prog album is going to be amazing when the album only has three long tracks spanning an almost 40 minute run. yes swings into this list with a small yet HEFTY set complex symphonic rock compositions.
this album is simply jawdropping. the main track is literally structured like a classical piece with multiple movements. it's progressive, but despite how bonkers it gets, it's very accessible. it's BEYOND pretty, puts you at the top of a mountain, the wind blowing in your face. it's prog rock from the gods.
Skepta
4/5
oh damn, now we have some grime rap straight from the north of london. belligerent bars mouthing off on all sorts of things while fat electronic beats accompany... pretty standard for this genre i think. we're taken straight to the streets the moment one presses play.
it's got a sound all its own even with the typical uk grime vibes, many beats are haunting and inspired from underground uk electronic music and maybe a bit of chiptune too? skepta is rough and tough, spitting bar after bar, about image, his community and the place he calls home... this album presents as a manifesto for this guy. it's very... british. album is pretty solid, but i can only get into this genre so much. i've heard some REALLY irritating uk rap music and this thankfully isn't the case. drinking game! every time he says "fam" take a shot.
Tracy Chapman
4/5
soft folk music. it's produced in a way where it can pass off as country or acoustic pop. lots of people have fond memories of this album, especially when it comes to their parents, and i can relate. chapman's humble and determined tracks work for a lot of listeners.
she's got a really good voice and some of the standouts in the album are amazing. i like the attitude she presents to the listener, about moving forward and not getting left behind. some of the other tracks blend in, and there's a few songs that use some pretty corny synthesizers, but for the most part you're getting something relatively solid here. you'll like most of what you hear, even if those filler tracks are a bit of an acquired taste.
Aphex Twin
5/5
i already knew i was going to rate this five-stars as soon as i saw the title. i love this album so much. this album is the iconic debut of aphex twin, with that cool, experimental techno music that he's known for.
this music is ahead of its time. not just 90s, but ESPECIALLY 80s too. a lot of it was just richard james just dicking around, playing with drum machines and synths... it works extremely well. compared to a lot of other tracks that aphex twin is known for, this album is a lot more dreamy and relaxing. it stands by itself, not just serving as a solid foundation for techno music, but it's still so jaw-dropping to listen to today. seriously, some of these sounds are so insane, you'll scratch your head wondering how it was all made.
Aerosmith
5/5
aerosmith's third album is really fun. the title and album art immediately sets the mood here, a toy chest bursting with colorful and crazy trinkets and toys, plastic action-figure versions of steven tyler and the crew crawling out and giving the kiddies a good show.
this album helped solidify the group's status as great rock musicians. a nice healthy blend of rock and blues to cleanse the mind and soul, tyler's voice characteristically scratchy, perry's riffs near-perfect... really what's not to like? i had an awesome time listening to this, and i'm sure you will too.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
5/5
more red hot chili peppers! just like the last one this one is equally funky and fresh. a little zany too in a few different ways... it's so loose and colorful compared to their other ventures.
maybe your blood sugar WILL get a little high after hearing how sickly sweet these tracks can be at points. your butthole will twitch a bit when you hear those meaty bass slaps. i also really like how each track blends into each other seamlessly. this album is sexy, it's playful, and it's really interesting from beginning to end. i REALLY enjoyed this one.
Tom Waits
4/5
tom waits is always an interesting person to listen to, music wise. this album is probably the most bonkers i've ever heard from him. compared to his usual raspy-voiced blues music, this album is pure... avant-garde. we've got odd percussion, marimbas... seems like he just had a massive chest of instruments and he just pulled out whatever worked in the moment.
this album sounds like a back alleyway. one that smells like a bootyhole. this could be the perfect music for either a halloween costume party or a smoke session that lasts till 3 in the morning. if you're the poetic, drunkard type and you really wanna test your ears, give this one a try. an acquired taste for a lot of people, including myself, but it's still pretty solid and complex. there's some stuff that really tugs at the emotions. this album isn't supposed to sound pretty.
Kings of Leon
4/5
originally i didn't seem to recognize this album but some of the songs i ended up listening to suddenly unlocked memories from the past. soft, alternative, or maybe indie rock pop music.
kings of leon is the kind of band that u2 tries to be, i feel. it's very simple in structure and instrumentation, but it's meaningful in a lot of different ways. u2 sounds like a cliché but these guys actually sound really nice... nothing spectacular, and some songs really blend in, but it's pretty great i think.
Haircut 100
4/5
more new wave groups, forgotten in the vast palette of innovating pop and rock music from the 80s. this one is groovy and funky, has almost a tropical, south-american influence. nice and simple.
i feel like if you're the kind of guy that likes listening to japanese fusion jazz music you'd absolutely get a kick out of this album. it has the same sort of instrumentation and positive energy throughout. could be a fun album to listen to if you're on vacation... it's chill. i dig it!
Kings of Leon
3/5
more kings of leon? aight, that's fair, i suppose. similar sound compared to the last one, but it's a lot louder and crazier when it wants to be, some of the tracks are, i mean.
this one is fine. i think it's just getting to the point when the app spams you with similar artists/albums, and it's an artist that has VERY similar sounding songs. it's more of the same compareed to the last album. i like variety when i listen to music, so i was a little less interested in this one. oh well, sucks to suck. not really suck, just... eh.
5/5
this album has a sound i haven't heard before, really! at least between all the other attempts i've heard when it comes to orchestral pop music... it's a very... sort of kitschy, dreamy kind of orchestral pop album with acoustic elements. at times it could sound like an album from the 60s or 70s.
this album is romantic, poetic... it isn't afraid to venture out in audio techniques that i certainly wouldn't think of. it's very ambitious, and while initially i was a little thrown off, i ended up really enjoying what i heard! it's very pretty, don't be afraid to dip your toes in.
Stan Getz
4/5
bossa nova music always seems to lift my spirits whenever i'm feeling low. this one is very low-key and quiet, and has a strong focus on playful saxophone solos.
the album is consistent and relaxing. it's said this album helped bossa nova gain more popularity here in the united states. i feel like this album would be perfect for playing at an upscale clothing store or used as hold music for a customer support telephone line. this album does what it's set out to do and not much else.
Dion
4/5
soft, echoey 70s pop rock music. fair number of tracks are covers. it's said that this album didn't really get much attention when it was first released, but critics started to love it once the 90s rolled along. also produced by phil spector, so it has quite the distinct classic produced sound.
this guy's voice tugs at the heartstrings of listeners, especially older generations. the right place to play this album would be a slow dance at a honeymoon, anniversary, or vacation getaway with your lover. some stuff is very choral at times, other times it's simply beautiful... almost sad, nostalgic beauty. it's an interesting spectacle of a listen, a few diamonds in the occasional rough when it comes to classic pop. he's a very talented musician, and even in his 80s he's recording music today that sounds practically the same.
Death In Vegas
5/5
this entry on the list is kinda hard to describe. feels like at least 5 to 10 genres are all fused together to create this oddly beautiful smorgasbord of sound.
this album is very... weird and mysterious. it sounds like a message that aliens would send to our home planet with a beat added. it's absolutely not for everyone, but for the most part i found it really cool. if you like electronic music, specifically the kind of murky gritty electronic stuff that nine inch nails has done you'll like listening to this. also i recognize one of the tracks from gran turismo!
The Young Rascals
5/5
while initially i didn't have my hopes up because of the time period in which this album released and the... very interesting album art, i was pleasantly surprised with what i heard! first time i'm ever hearing of these guys and if this is my first window, i'm pretty amazed by what i hear. very soulful, animated pop music from the 60s.
besides the usual staples that music around this time had, from big bands, midcentury mixing and panning and yes, even the few weird backwards samples... there's a real gem here. these men sing their little hearts out, and most every track is just so full of emotion, wit... you WILL be groovin' by the end of this 30-something minute LP's runtime. good stuff!
John Lee Hooker
4/5
often seen as one of the final swan songs for mr. hooker, this album, which has a wide array of special guests is earnest when it comes to blues music... apparently so much that it's earned a grammy.
definitely a positive listen for me, after hearing blues albums with the same energy and progressions, this one stands out for its creativity. it's a really nice window when it comes to blues... TRUE blues, from someone who's lived enough to experience it. i see this album as an elder sharing his stories with the young folk, with the intent of keeping these fables circulating for generations.
Johnny Cash
5/5
another live johnny cash album, this one performed at the san quentin state prison, now turned rehabilitation center. this wouldn't be the first time he'd performed in a prison, but i would say this performance is much more iconic than the last.
man, johnny, you're a ruthless one. he seems to relate to a lot of the inmates, the crowd cheering and whooping whenever he gets vulgar and brings up certain topics or critiques, especially about the prison itself. i wish i didn't have to dig a bit to find an uncensored version of the album, johnny occasionally swears like a sailor and all modern streaming copies have the poor guy bleeped out. i think this album was awesome. i love johnny cash, even if people like my mother think otherwise.
OutKast
5/5
oh, outcast, you're probably one of the most stylish hip hop groups from the 2000s. there's at least several songs in here that are top 20 chart toppers, so already i know i'm in for a treat.
absurdly good rap songs that have beats so good you'd wonder how these producers would fare making electronic dance or techno music. andré 3000 adding more musical and sung elements to his rhymes adds to the engagement... and with a few special guests to boot, there's really no misses in this entire cd. i'm VERY impressed, i can actually see myself listening to this album again and again and again on the same day.
John Coltrane
5/5
another arguably iconic and quite experimental jazz album. a suite, split into four parts... the album was recorded in only a day after coltrane experienced a spiritual awakening of sorts.
modal jazz is a kind of jazz that, surprise surprise is based off of modes and scales, changing and hopping from one set to the next, and you can feel that even if you're not musically inclined. it's definitely all over the place when it comes to where the chords go, but that doesn't make it bad... in fact, quite the opposite. it's transcending jazz, this mere quartet pretty much whisking you away to the clouds. historically significant and an album that people do like in this day and age... i like it.
Miriam Makeba
5/5
the debut album of south african singer, actress and activist miriam makeba. her music introduced the western world to african culture, with even nelson mandela expressing great praise for her after her death.
it's a perfect window to the music of africa, lyrical songs, love songs, wedding songs, lullabies, and other stories in xhosa, zulu, swahili and even some english. makeba's voice is warm, engaging and straightforward... she really wanted to put a name for herself in the music world, and this album absolutely showcases her talent. it says a lot about music, even with the language barrier it's so human. it's so raw, human... and it's so pleasant to listen to.
Slayer
4/5
slayer coming in today with a real quickie. it's not even thirty minutes in length! hope you like headbanging at extreme speeds...
this album came out at the perfect time, especially with all the wary, anxious individuals and the satanic panic that was quite rampant throughout the 80s. the subject material is typically dark, songs about death and religion and blood and all that jazz. feel free to sacrifice maidens and lamb as you blast this album. it's so fast sometimes i can't keep up!
thanks for the fish uncle jobel.
4/5
got some 60s rock here, from the kinks of course! it's always interesting to see these guys pop up in my radar again. really creative concept this time around, based on a story from a television drama script.
like other albums by these guys, this one is pretty jaunty and... rockin', i suppose you could describe it. listeners can immerse themselves pretty easily into the shoes of arthur, his goals and his journey across the land. some songs are awesome, some are a bit of an acquired taste. for the most part though, i like what i hear.
Guns N' Roses
5/5
the debut studio album of guns n' roses. it's horrifically, unimaginably 80s. the moment you press play, your hair will gain much more volume than usual.
it's pumping anthem rock that has both positive layers and anger. there's a good reason this went to the top charts, dominating the rock ranks. it's no surprise these guys in their prime had a real chokehold on metal fans from all across the spectrum. it's hard rock music that isn't afraid to get a little ugly from time to time.
Meat Loaf
5/5
another debut album after the last one i listened to, this one by meat loaf. this album is quite a doozy, the same kind of energetic theatrical pop music that the likes of elton john and queen.
i feel like meat loaf has been parodied and joked when it comes to how dramatic he can be with his music, and while a lot of those jabs are kinda right, i think it really drags us away from the fact that he IS a talented singer and songwriter. the music is consistently good, you don't really see too many albums especially today where every track has a consistent sound and it doesn't get old throughout the runtime.
Adam & The Ants
4/5
this album has a really interesting vibe goin for it, imagine new wave rock mixed with a large tribal sound to it. half the time you'll wonder if this is a hootenanny or a sacrifice to the gods.
what if elvis presley did some drugs and wore a headdress and loincloth when he performed? this album is probably the answer to that question. it's bonkers, it's all over the place. you don't know if you wanna mosh, march, or zaouli. very cool, just wish more tracks gave me that feeling to move.
Cheap Trick
5/5
a hard rock album; this one is said to have kick-started cheap trick's popularity in the united states, it's their best-selling album. and holy cow, does it pack a lot.
recorded at a tokyo arena, the album is FULL of raw old-school hard rock music paired with the eager and excited SQUEALS from the audience, especially young women fawning over the men performing. i can just feel the energy, and i love every minute of it. it must've been something, especially for the japanese citizens watching this live.. apparently they were as big as the beatles. i wonder what they thought of the band once their music got over there... it's imperfect, it's full of character, and it's a true capsule of how a live rock band performance should go. pretty amazing, if you ask me.
The Prodigy
5/5
fuck yes, another prodigy pick. this one compared to the last one is pure, pumping RAVE. it's so big and bassy it's almost scary. a good scary, mind you.
techno tracks so aggressive you might feel like the music will shoot out of the speakers and beat you senseless. is it happy hardcore? is it metal? what even is this? it's such a sound so typical of the group, and yet it's also a sound that's uniquely by them and them alone. nobody else can do it like them. that's why this album is legendary to me.
Gram Parsons
4/5
the second and final album of country musician gram parsons, who unfortunately died due to overdosing on morphine. many tracks are sung together with emmylou harris, another profilic country artist whose music i've reviewed in the past.
it's soft and... honestly straightforward classic country rock, but even so, it has heart. unsurprisingly some of the lyrics seem to allude to the tragedy that happened only a few months after it was recorded. it's a nice blend of traditional country and modern (at the time) rock i think.
New Order
4/5
new order is an interesting case, definitely another member of those "new wavey weird experimental groups" of the decade that got a lot of popularity; i've heard quite a lot from them in the past.
this album here is a really quirky... dance album for the most part. sometimes it's groovin' rock, other times it's synthy songs with drum machines. very atmospheric overall... i feel like this album would sound best at a local nightclub. it's pretty good! i think this another case of "this album is generally great but i can't really think of a lot of things to say about it". dancey poppy rocky stuff. i'm not surprised it went to number one in the UK.
Kraftwerk
5/5
more proto-electronic pop music from kraftwerk. compared to their past endeavors, this once has a lot more songs made for dancing, fusing their literal robot suit with toe-tapping beats.
kraftwerk is simple, almost primitive compared to the kinds of electronic sounds we'd hear later on. it does feel and sound like music that fancy schmancy german robots would compose. many tracks, if not directly themed about robotics are about urban life and satirical views on society... as much as it can be expressed anyways. really, it's historical. and very futuristic, especially for the time.
The Flaming Lips
3/5
hmm, this one is very interesting. can't say i've heard a sound quite like this on in an album, very surreal. a definite modernist take on psychedelic pop music, unlike stuff i've heard before.
it's... very hard to describe this album. it's full of stories and isn't afraid to dive into moody themes... but man, what an odd sound... it's not bad, but it's so peculiar, a mixture of acoustic and electric... whoever's singing sounds a bit like neil young. i feel like i might need to listen to this album again to get used to it.
The Who
5/5
this right here is the who's crowning jewel, a big musical work of fiction about the life and times of tommy, an enigmatic, truth-seeking and possibly disabled child, trying to get through the world with traumatic events and people who idolize him.
it's one of the earliest examples of a rock opera, and it's very good at what it does, from the dramatic rock instrumentals to the sometimes abstract or subjective meanings to the tales being told. it's a must listen for anyone who likes rock music and compelling drama.
The Triffids
3/5
80s rock from an australian band i've never heard of. very soft and sometimes dramatic tracks about feeling distant from the world, disassociation and surrealism.
there's a bit going on here, but again this is an album that doesn't spark my interest nor attention too much. it's not to say that the album is terrible, but really it doesn't speak to me compared to the many other albums i've listened to in the past. it needs more. a lot more.
Sabu
4/5
old cuban dance music. the music is very moving and quick, the percussion and vocals doing most of the work to build up each song. this album is less about themes, stories or anything complex, simply a groovy collection of dance songs that encourage you to let your body get entranced by the music.
very no nonsense. the album isn't afraid to get a little feral, especially with those congas. it feels a tad ritualistic at times, with the constant rhythms and the call-and-response chanting from the vocalists. an album that would absolutely hit harder in a tropical getaway on a wooden dancefloor.
Duran Duran
5/5
it really doesn't take a genius to realize this album is one of the most pivotal and arguably iconic dance pop albums of the 1980s. apparently critics were a bit torn when it first came out, but really just listening to this for five minutes already shows you how good it is.
experimenting with all sorts of quirky sounds and with some basslines that are absolutely killer, rio takes you on an unimaginably glossy boat ride where the sun is blinding your eyes, the drinks are tangy and the elegance is extravagant. also props to patrick nagel for the equally amazing cover art... seriously, i cannot tell you how much this album symbolizes when it comes to musical history.
Kanye West
5/5
not a moment of my life where i don't think "oh kanye, what happened, man?" this right here is his debut album. back in the day he had a lot to say and he wasn't AS schizophrenic as he was today.
college dropout is about societal expectations, spiritual struggle and a memoir of sorts when it comes to his experiences. it's unmistakably early kanye, his anti-conventional way of spitting bars and defying norms paired with his practically trademarked vocal sample loop centered beats... it's pretty great. again, i just... aaaaah, kanye. kanye, what happened?
Queen
5/5
yet another incredibly classy and dramatic rock album from queen. have these guys ever made a bad album? i have a feeling that some queen fans might be able to fill me in. but that's besides the point, let's talk about this one.
this album is ambitious and experimental. compared to their later work and more iconic tracks, queen has less of a "pop" sound and more of a progressive, neoclassical rock soundscape. the record's two sides are labeled "side white" and "side black", a set of songs depending on your mood. it whisks listeners away into an introspective fantasy ride of rock... it's totally awesome.
Ash
4/5
continuing the rock trend after the last album i listened to, this one is a lot less elegant and more in your face, stereotypically punk.
this album is pretty solid, especially if you like british pop or rock music. ideal music that you'd listen to as a rebellious teenager, jumping on your bed and wishing mom would stop bothering you. not every song is a winner, sometimes i feel like the overall theming can be a little crazy... but for a genre like this, it's pretty damn good.
The Velvet Underground
4/5
finally, 60s rock that isn't weird yodeling and sitars or the same 2 progressions being played over and over again. i love weird oddities, and this album certainly is one.
this album absolutely broke boundaries when it was released, these guys weren't afraid to talk about despair, sex, and degeneracy. the droning, almost creepy sounding instrumentation only adds to the whiplash that people would absolutely feel when clicking on their record player. in a world where a lot of that stuff was kept behind curtains, these guys were probably the only guys making music about it. it's very significant in that sense, but the sound sometimes gives me a headache.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
definitely not a stranger to peter gabriel's work. his songs are so meaningful and mesmerizing to listen to... this album is one of his best-sellers and for good reason.
it's sometimes spiritual, sometimes funky, sometimes quiet... it's all over the place, but it works. when it starts you might think "ohhhh is this going to be another corny synthy 80s pop record?" but it's so much more than that... i like albums where i can sit and think about how i could make music as meaningful and as... worldly as gabriel's.
Joy Division
4/5
it's my first time listening to this album... i definitely know how iconic it is, and it's not just the fact that i see the album cover on graphic tees and hoodies all the time.
it's super spacey, and doesn't go crazy with how each song presents itself. just a humble little band, performing in the void... it sounds empty. alien. objectively, this album is good. it's great, and i can certainly see how this paved the way for the kinds of alternative rock music that the 80s would give us... i think this is just another case of a sound i'm either not used to or don't care for as much. oh well.
Deee-Lite
5/5
after all this time, we have reached quite possibly my favorite album in this collection. maybe all time, but who knows for sure. take a groovy gander at the sampledelic relics of deee... lovely? deee... vine? ooh la la la la la... no, it's deee-lite ~
for first time listeners, deee-lite's debut is kitschy, quirky... an even blended coffee of midcentury psychedelic nonsense with pumping, infectious house beats. world clique is an album that encourages letting loose, having fun, and advocating for peace and unity among men, women, and everyone in between. dj dimitry and sir towa tei lay down mesmerizing foundation after foundation, while listeners gets serenaded by the smooth, seductive and sexy lyrical poetry of lady miss kieran kirby. it's stylish, bouncy, and while initially strange to the virgin ear, will soon have you joining in, shaking your money maker and longing for a good beat. groove is in the heart is absolutely a bop, but there's so much more in this little cd besides that smash hit.
for those of you like-minded folks who crave more of the same sounds, PLEASE consider listening to the group's other two albums (which is at times, even better than their debut).
Janis Joplin
5/5
miss janis joplin's second and final album. those of you classic rock heads will already be interested just by hearing her name, and i'm very happy to report that this album was worth every second of my time.
holy hell can this woman sing. she sings loud, she sings proud and she sings so powerful it could cause an earthquake. her stage presence alone makes this album stand out to me. a very talented woman that unfortunately had a life that ended too soon. an unintentional swan song of one of the greatest singers of the 1970s i feel like.
fIREHOSE
5/5
more selections from less popular groups. this late '80s rock band seems to be liked by mainly generation x former punks. i think a one youtube commenter said that these guys at times sound like the police if they were a little more punky.
it's a fun listen, a nice fusion of rock tropes throughout. according to sources, seems to be the most accessible out of all their albums. if it were me, i would say this album sounds like a group of country/folk kids started to make their own rock band, if not trying to make a name for themselves, then embracing their roots. it's super cool.
Madonna
3/5
more madonna? okay. for whatever reason, she's suddenly a cowgirl. don't judge the album cover, because this is a electronic dance pop album.
i'm... not sure what to think of this album. remember when i reviewed "ray of light" and i almost treated it like madonna's swan song at times? this is exactly why i treated it like such. this album is... kinda baffling to me. futuristic country music...? i don't know... sometimes it's an electronic disco party. sometimes it's a forgettable song that would be on a dance dance revolution songlist. sometimes it's a slow jam with autotune. it's a very strange palette of sound, and honestly i don't know if i feel a lot of it. there's a small portion of the album that i would call underrated, but for the most part i just sat there going... "....huh?"
The B-52's
5/5
the debut album of (most) everyone's favorite kitschy rock group, the b-52's. one can only imagine what people thought of these guys when they debuted in music stores across the nation.
i can tell this album is their first, mixing can sound a little mysterious and murky and singers, especially the gals in the group sound a little young when compared to their more famous hits. it's the kind of music that floods you with youthful rebellious energy, the kind of music where you party with your friends after school and maybe get into some trouble along the way. it's an album for those of you who believe you crash landed on earth after a swinging party on mars. hopefully nobody will notice your martian heritage...
Bebel Gilberto
4/5
today we've got some really relaxing and airy modern bossa music. a bit lo-fi, honestly a refreshing modernist take on the genre. it's not surprising this lady is doing some bossa, considering joao gilberto is her dad.
there's not really TOO much to say here but it's a pleasant listen. nice and soft, engaging music that can do a pretty good job of cheering you up or relaxing you after a rough day... nothing stuck out but another case of a generally good listen with not much to whine about.
John Prine
5/5
quiet country music from a fella who's quite the storyteller of sorts. older generations look at this guy with fondness, treating him like he's up there with the likes of bob dylan. and after listening to plenty of dylan's work, i might prefer prine over him.
for a debut album, this one has a LOT going for it, even for me, a person who more often than not dislikes country music. reflection on one's self, longing and satirical pieces about the world, human relation and patriotism. a very very good listen, even when i initially was uninterested. while not much in instrumentation, sometimes all you really need are lyrics to set a mood. and john does that excellently.
Elvis Costello
4/5
another album by costello. i listened to this one while i exercised today. despite the mostly peppy and positive sounding instrumentals, this is clearly an album about a midlife crisis.
initially when you turn it on, you'll probably think it's all happy but legit as soon as you listen to the lyrics, that positive power turns into nervous power. the whole album is a boulevard of broken dreams, mostly about periods in his life where he regretted or periods where things have gone better. i thought it was a pretty good listen for the most part.
got some old-school rock music that's really fun and carefree... it says a lot about an album already when you turn it on and you're already greeted with pretty distinct vocal and instrumental performances.
this album is full of sleaze, smoothness and pleasure-seeking swagger. this is a positive example of a "dated" album, as in an album that has arguably some of the best parts of the decade that it came from. you'll be grinning from ear to ear as soon as this record turns on.
Throwing Muses
4/5
i've listened to plenty of alternative rock, punk rock music in this collection, so i was a bit concerned that this was going to be more of the weird, echoey nothing-sounding jangle rock that this platform occasionally subjects me to. thankfully this doesn't seem to be the case.
this music is delightful strange, effortlessly bouncing from one realm to the next. the album is a window to a young woman's unfiltered frustrations. many tracks hit with a lot of nostalgic older listeners, and as a newcomer i absolutely feel that energy as well. very engaging and very impactful. while it lacks in some variation, the idea is mostly if not completely solidified. damn these ladies can wail.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
leonard cohen's final swan song, recorded and released only a short time before he passed away. this album serves as a reflection of his own life... he had been experiencing some health conditions for a while before this album was written.
many songs here are almost spoke-sung in this really low, gravelly voice... a window of a man almost laughing at god, and the absurdity of mortality. this album is very quiet... and honestly, it's pretty sad. fitting, especially when you're literally face-to-face with the grim reaper. it tugs at you a bit. the album is good but i'm not sure if i wanna listen to it again.
Kelela
4/5
chilled out and quiet modern R&B music. the production value is very hip and artistic, blending modern beats with lo-fi sweeps and synthesizers that wouldn't be out of place in a ambient trance album.
i was pleasantly surprised by this entry, when it's artists you've never heard of before, it could be a bit impressive or it could be one of those albums that's pure audio sludge. this is most definitely the former category. again, it's very lo-fi, many synths feel almost primitive and imperfect, plus with the impressionistic way of singing and mixing... it's super duper spacey, almost hollow. it feels like music that would blend in easy in public spaces, like if you were playing it from a speaker on the ceiling. despite these small opinions i have, this album is a real hidden gem i think. if you're the kind of guy that likes your r&b music, but also indie pop/electronica stuff. it has that specific sound, done in a way that's actually remarkable.
Billie Holiday
5/5
elegant jazz music from yet another skilled singer who died way too soon. it's an unfortunate trend with some of these people... this is the final album that was recorded and released during holiday's lifetime.
this album is VERY pretty sounding. i always feel relaxed and nostalgic for an era i've never experienced when listening to the kinds of soft jazz by holiday, fitzgerald... etta james comes to mind too. she's got a really unique voice, and she knows how to control it too. i close my eyes and imagine myself in a cozy cabin or restaurant, a blizzard outside and i'm just comfy and safe, sipping on a drink.
Dagmar Krause
4/5
very artistic and very, unapologetically... german art music. even as it's sung in english. the music was originally written by hanns eisler, who wrote the east germany national anthem.
it's like a musical from a hellish, otherworldly planet, flames and castles surround the actors wearing versailles masquerade party ensembles... thankfully it's not pure audio nonsense or sludge, it's still very listenable but it IS avant-garde in the truest sense of the word. VERY perplexing and enthralling listen to me, maybe you'll be thrown off at least a dozen times but you won't be able to turn it off. it's too weird for music streaming services, i guess.
Brian Eno
5/5
another eno album! i am not surprised so much of eno is on this list, he's really quite the innovator when it comes to composing. nothing too... mainly... ambient this time, this time opting for mesmerizing pop music. or as eno calls it, "ocean music".
it's not just "haha i love experimentation i love progressive/alternate music", this guy knows EXACTLY how to make engaging and imaginative music to the point where it's healing. he's also a pro at mixing. i'm horrible at it, so listening to pros like eno makes me want to just take notes... a very textured and layered record. it gets my approval.
Mercury Rev
3/5
spacey chamber rock music that sounds dreary and rough. this band was already feeling the heat due to their last album not selling as well, so they all went to a secluded area in new york to write some meaningful and experimental material.
this album is very... murky. this is chamber pop that leans heavily in its neo-classical influence. a lot of tracks, while swampy and mysterious, the strings and woodwinds add a certain... unique flavor overall to the music. it's... something alright. it sounds like a haunted gramaphone playing a ballroom song. not sure what i can say about it. i hope that these guys ended up feeling better after this album came out.
Kacey Musgraves
2/5
country album from a young woman who recently got engaged. floaty and pleasant, according to wikipedia this has influences from disco, yacht rock, electronica? i don't know, that's what it says but i can't hear it at all.
i'm sorry, it's not for me. straight up. i don't like country a lot of the time. this music is uninteresting to me, there's nothing special when it comes to vocal or instrumental variety, a lot of the songs are about love... it's just nothing. i'm not hooked. i don't know how this album is significant.
Randy Newman
5/5
another album by randy newman, more of his trademark voice and trademark songwriting style. this album in particular is about the south of the united states. the good, the bad, and ESPECIALLY the ugly. listeners beware, because some of this stuff is gonna make your jaw drop.
despite the blunt and... seriously, i can't stress this enough. it gets ugly. despite all that, randy still shines when he writes. sometimes newman sings as himself, sometimes it's other characters. it's so beautiful when it comes to how the instruments are laid out, but the lyrics add this... contradictory, almost opposite energy. it's a true satire. unafraid to expose listeners to how it was, and during the time... how it is. it's a beautiful, beautiful mess.
Tortoise
3/5
this album is a bit hard to describe. it's jazz... math... rock? i think? it's so loose in terms of genre and all the tracks, you'd have to find your own meaning if you turned it on yourself.
very minimal, very ambient... it's seriously difficult to describe this album, but it's definitely the kind of weird, quiet krautrock that an alternative or indie group would try to make when they're bored. i'm trying to get a good feel for the sound, but more often than not, i lose interest. there's something here, but i'm still trying to figure out what it is.
Dolly Parton
4/5
pleasant sounding country music from three of the arguably best women in the genre. despite their first album actually working together, you'd assume they've been writing songs for at least a decade.
the album touches a bit on love, loss, and true country tradition. holy cow, can these ladies harmonize. their voices already are so soothing to listen to, and when they sing together, it's a match made in heaven. i can only rate it so high, because even as good as this album sounds, after all this time i'm still not a country guy. but between all the other country albums, this one is considerably better than the others. god bless you dolly.
Suicide
2/5
every heard an early synth metal album before? i've never heard one either until this day. suicide's debut album is noisy, different, and... between all other critiques, it's innovative.
absurdly crunchy guitars are paired with drum machines that blend into static noise and the occasional synthesizer adding some extra flavor to it. the album itself, while inspired from older rock and roll greats, feels like a dark parody. it's a bit disorienting and bleak to listen to... while i was initially fascinated by the synth and drum machine usage, the album is a bit of a sludgefest. it gave me a bit of a migraine more than anything else... but at least i can see what they're trying to do here.... kinda. i don't know.
The Everly Brothers
3/5
another early pop group from way back when, mostly lovey-dovey songs from two brothers. the two blend bits and bobs from rock music and country music.
the music is fine, but bland and inoffensive. again, there's only so much i can reasonably say about music that came out around this time... a lot of it just blends in with each other, and this album is no exception to that. it's very formulaic and modest when it comes to what it offers, and really... you turn it on and you're not surprised. this is the kind of music the average person just listened to back then. and i just have to wonder why... there wasn't anything better out there? at least it's tolerable to me.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
5/5
probably the most well known record from captain beefheart and his pals. i want to say that this is the abbey road of avant garde recorded music. it's produced by frank zappa, so you already know how weird it's going to get right off the bad.
i guess there's a bit of rock, blues, jazz, some hints of genres throughout the record, but this album is really a test of how willing you are to subject yourself to strange, outsider music. the band rehearsed in a house for almost a year. what you're hearing isn't just weird, messy and surreal songs. all this stuff is planned out. you won't get it the first listen. or second. or twentieth. hell, many listeners won't probably get it for as long as they live. i still don't fully get it! but this album is iconic in its own right. nonsense. nonsense. everything is nonsense. hubba bubba dooble plooble baba yaya boom bang brap! it's the best worst album up there, up with the shaggs.
a glorified, complex and fascinating shitpost from the late 60s. fast and bulbous! a tin teardrop, bulbous also tapered!
Billy Bragg
4/5
really warm, reverbed rock music... definitely more punk and less of the folk in my opinion. the sound is a bit humble and kitschy at times, it's kinda giving an abc family special that aired in the 70s.
some songs about love and happiness, some about the political state of the world. arrangements are simple and minimal, but it's enough to convey a message. it's pretty good if you like indie, alt, or punk rock. it has a wide enough range in sound where i feel like it'll appeal to a lot of listeners.
The Roots
5/5
rap music that has a central theme about the idea of self. for those of you who don't know, phrenology refers to the study of someone's head to indicate someone's personality and perceived intelligence.
with fat and stylish hip hop beatflips... this album is nice little soundscape of spoken word and creative instrumentation. the whole album is produced a little messy and a little crazy, with some tracks sounding like they'd come from an entirely different album, but it's the perfect amount where it makes it accessible for a lot of audiences. a window to the mind, this album is...
Oasis
5/5
another oasis album on the list. this right here is their debut. compared to their last album i listen to, this is more straightforward rock compared to their airy orchestral endeavors.
i strangely like this album better than what i listened to before. it's a very spacious, super hazy... it feels like you're listening to the beatles or the beach boys at half speed. it's super cool, and i understand what people say now when they hold these guys in high regard.
Fugazi
3/5
another debut album. haven't heard of these guys before. this album is all about destruction. it's consistently loud and extreme, with song topics and lyrics fitting towards the urgent energy presented. try not to turn it up too loud! unless you like that sort of thing...
like many other punk and hardcore albums, this album is full of socio-political references. for instance, the track "repeater" is about the infinite cycle of violence that happens again and again and again. it's got a great concept, but the main problem is despite the impactful messages... the tracks blend. they blend super easily. while engaging, it didn't leave too much of an impact on me.
Culture Club
5/5
culture club's second album, and i think it might be their best. a wonderful fusion between pop, rock, soul, reggae, blues and more... it's like a big box full of crayons, each color a different album and story.
this is an album that's just as colorful, flamboyant and playful as boy george himself. some of the music wants to make you get up and dance while others are ballads sung right from the heart. plenty of hits that would be essential staples on 1980s mixtapes, and the extra tracks are just as good. this is fusion... not necessarily the genre, but literally a fusion of all sorts of different sounds from all over the globe.
New Order
4/5
another album from new order. it's more of that spacey, synthy dance pop music that i've heard before... not sure if it's any different from the last one. from what i've read, this is their first album where they've really dived into that synth dance pop sound.
it's strange to me, new order to me is one of the greatest examples of alternative synth pop groups, and yet when i listen to a lot of albums by them, i don't fully get into it. maybe it's too spacey, maybe the production is a little messy. it's not to say this album or other albums by the group is terrible, i think there's just an extra bit of polish that's needed on a lot of these songs in my opinion. the songs are pretty great though.
The Vines
4/5
more alternative rock music today. this debut album comes out with... yeah, definitely a bang, but also a wail and a screech. i wanna say it's like.... psychedelic grunge.
ideally this is a good example of the kind of alternative, yet accessible and mainstream rock music that blasted through your older brother's stereo in his room while he chugged some soda and played some halo. it's very moody and almost... adolescent in sound. many listeners, me included can easily hear the musical inspirations that these guys have, and to me it hinders the album a little bit. the songs are great, but sometimes the way that they perform it makes me thing... is this their sound, or is this the kind of sound they crafted just to get popular? regardless of what's right, the album has a cool, swaggering rock sound.
Sepultura
4/5
metal music from brazil of all places. best believe you're gonna hear quite a bit of brazilian influence in these tracks, even when a lot of the tracks are sung in english.
screaming and growling... really standard metal vocal techniques are paired with REALLY cool distorted guitars and quite possibly some of the best drumming and rhythm sections i have ever heard in a rock album. it's an interesting cultural exchange, both countries equally praise these guys for their work. this is another album i would classify as a true hidden gem.
Deerhunter
5/5
a very... mysterious and enthralling indie pop album. it's like tapping into the mind of a mentally declining rock and roll musician who peaked in the 50s or 60s. the main theme of this album is memory, thinking back on the past, the good, bad, and ugly... really just tapping and digging deep into one's mental archive.
the main idea presented initially made me a little skeptical, but the more i listened, the more i ended up loving it. i love concept albums, and when i feel, when i hear that concept gracing my ears, i get immersed. the sound is bittersweet and melancholic, but it's not the kind that actively wants to make you depressed when you listen. it's the kind of album where you sit down and think... remember the days? the days grow fuzzier every year, and sometimes you wonder how much you remember actually happened... it's funny how the human brain works.
Manic Street Preachers
4/5
a blunt, powerful and emotional alternative rock album. the guy who wrote the lyrics and performed ended up mysteriously disappearing soon after this album came out. definitely not an album that's gonna hold your hand.
meaty guitar riffs, punchy drums, and a lot of samples from movies, broadcasts and such that only add to the specific theming of each song. the "street preacher" name is right, they certainly have a preaching energy when they sing. while it lacks a bit in variation, this album overall i think is solid.
The xx
3/5
debut album, more indie pop this time, straightforward and very simple, almost plain in production value. clearly the kind of band that feels like the foundations are all one needs, nothing too crazy or complex.
unfortunately, this minimalistic indie music only gets me so interested. singers sounding a little bored, very... i don't want to say primitive production, but it's usually just a drum machine, a voice, and a synth. or guitar. it's a very narrow, very... ambitious album. ever seen the snl sketches where it's supposed to be a high school talent show? that's the aesthetic i get. while it would definitely hit for people in lo-fi and indie spheres, it didn't do a whole lot for me when i listened.
Jane's Addiction
5/5
jane's addiction... i've heard some of their songs on the radio time and time again and the little bits and bobs i've heard i liked... i'm happy to report that i enjoyed this entire album all the way through. rock music that snarls its way out of your stereo when you press play.
if you like your rock music spacey, crazy, funky, and hardcore, you'll get a real kick out of this collection of tunes. it's very rebellious, it's very cool, it's very spiritual at times... i would say it's an essential piece of work when it comes to the alternative rock sphere, bringing a new groovy, at times psychedelic sound to the masses. the forces of sound channel, almost awaken a primal energy to the listener. dios mio... i'm not sure what the band is summoning but whatever comes out of the floor, i'm sure it'll be cool.
Donald Fagen
4/5
those of you who like easy-listening pop and yacht rock might like this album. donald fagen is one half of the iconic soft rock duo steely dan, and this music absolutely has that sleazy, smarmy aesthetic going for it right away.
even when working solo, fagen's distinctive songwriting, vocal harmony work and funky-fresh sound remains clear as ever. compared to most steely dan albums, this album has a more contemporary and, well... pop sound to it. this sound i feel like hinders the album a little bit; the clean and modern 80s production work paired with some of the vocal techniques can at times make this album sound a little... cheesy. even i know my limits when it comes to 80s pop sounds... but is this album bad? heavens no. it's a gem, and above all else, it's full of character.
Brian Wilson
4/5
an album by the legendary brian wilson, featuring music that was originally intended for a sequel of sorts to pet sounds that got cancelled while it was developing. he struggled a bit when trying to get it all recorded, thinking the initial album idea was a failure on his part.
i wish i could give him a big hug, because while he has his own thoughts on it, like other beach boys related works, this one is musically in depth and compelling to listen to... not only is it a fair reflection of brian's inner turmoils, but with the immersive and nostalgic energy of american culture... he almost channels his inner dvorak when he sets scenes. a gigantic collage of american rock, while a bit surreal and experimental, it isn't that terrible compared to how brian thinks it sounds.
Otis Redding
5/5
a classic soul album from otis redding, a man who poured blood sweat and tears when he sung. his unfortunately short career is full of gems like this one here.
this album, while it lacks a bit of polish compared to other pop music at the time, is full of... well... soul! some performers sing, some belt, but otis is on another level, singing some original tracks as well as popular songs from the era. this man clearly respects the craft and performs at such a degree nobody else can. despite only being in his 20s when the album was recorded, you'd assume he'd been singing this music for at least a few decades. what a voice.
Nirvana
5/5
it's popular, it's arguably overplayed as hell, it's probably the first album you hear in your head as soon as you hear the phrase "grunge rock". nirvana's second album is no doubt their most popular. blending sludgy grunge with pop rock hooks makes for a iconic, accessible and marketable album.
it really doesn't take a lot to know why this album is so significant. it's the perfect blend of emotional alternative rock with conventions that are suited towards radio play. is this the perfect rock album? i really really don't know but it's absurdly close. people are gonna be talking about this album for centuries like we do with classical.
Django Django
4/5
the best way i can describe this album is a modernist take on prog rock... or pop. i'm just gonna call it progressive. being a bit of a music oldhead, it's really cool hearing some less mainstream stuff from more recent times, especially if it's not, like... weird overly pretentious noise.
this album makes you feel like you're stuck in the sahara desert. this album sounds like a group of travelling hippies, setting up shelter and praising the sun. it's the kind of spacey weird sound that you can get lost in easy. at times it can sound like surf rock. it's an interesting listen if you want something different in your musical palette.
Sly & The Family Stone
4/5
more of that oh-so-sweet jazzy funk music that the '70s was known for, released in a period around the time of the civil rights and black power movements. many songs loosely discuss these events from the perspective of the band... it's a bit of a common theme with sly, and i'm really not surprised at this rate.
this is the kind of kitschy funk music that wouldn't be out of place in a 1970s blaxploitation film. many of the songs are generally full of funky foundations and toe-tapping beats... i would rate it higher if songs didn't get repetitive quickly, and if there were more lyrical content and less screeching. nevertheless though, this album is great, especially if you're looking for something grimy and mysterious...
The Stooges
3/5
more of the weird and somewhat charming early attempts at punk rock music this time around. a strange blend of rock, jazz... all sorts of influence. it's a decently engaging little record that's full of these guys just throwing things at a wall and seeing what sticks.
this album is a lot. it's all over the place. again i can see why many people say it's a good early example of punk, but god damn is this album a bit messy. especially the last track which is just one big abstract freestyle. a little bit of an oddball in the collection, but maybe some classic rock/punk fanatics may enjoy it more.
The Youngbloods
4/5
classic, kinda jazzy rock music from the tail end of the 1960s. i wouldn't say it's that psychedelic compared to others i've heard, but some of the vocal layering is creative enough where i guess it can count?
between all the other odd folksy psychedelic stuff, this stuff is very chill. it's got that playful jaunt and swing that can get a lot of people engaged throughout its runtime. while it didn't bring an extreme amount of stuff to the table (one of the band members left before this album got recorded), it's still a very groovin' sound overall. i feel like i would play this album if i was a teacher, the music for my 1st grade students while they romp around and do activities. it's the kind of low-key rock music that is good for the brain.
Eagles
5/5
this album certainly needs no introduction. whenever you're a fan of the oldies or you're just dabbling here and there, you'll instantly recognize the title and the first track that plays.
this album is about the american dream, while pleasant, unsurprisingly the subject matter gets a little dark and satirical. it has such a strong theme, and every track just clicks together like a big puzzle, crafted seamlessly. the laid-back sound makes it perfect for vacations and road trips. if you like country, you'll like the album. if you like rock, you'll like it. if you like pop, you'll like it. if i was stuck on a deserted island, and i could only have one album from the 70s on it... i might have to go with this one.
System Of A Down
5/5
the debut of famed heavy metal group system of a down, and already they come swinging with craziest, punchiest rock music you'll ever hear as soon as you press play. it's all over the place, bouncing off the walls, and yet it still has a solid structure to it.
like many other metal album, system of a down top isn't afraid to get topical and political with their lyrics... the material hits even stronger with the cool, sometimes wacky instrumentals and especially serj tankian's vocals, which are so unbelievably bonkers, you wonder if he recorded it all wearing a straightjacket. these guys are undisputed kings of nu metal, and yet they break that mold when it comes to what's typically expected of the genre. it's a must hear i think!
Derek & The Dominos
5/5
groovy 70s blues rock music. this is the only album released by derek & the dominos, formed by famed rock singer and guitarist eric clapton. mans was going through a bit when he was recording all this material, and even hearing a small sample allows one to hear that passion and emotion.
it's blues, but it's probably the most fiery, most energetic blues music you'll ever hear. i absolutely agree with a lot of people that say that some of the stuff in here is clapton's best... i'm VERY impressed by the chemistry of the band, especially when guitars clash with one another. it's a very impressive collection of songs, and i'm surprised i haven't listened to any of them until now.
The Monkees
5/5
the third album by historically famous pop band, the monkees. this album is the first time where the men settled on having full control with their work, after some creative differences with their producer.
compared to other bands of the era, mainly the beatles, i haven't heard a whole lot of the monkees i'll admit. happy to report that this album was worth my time. i have to wonder why the guy in charge didn't approve fully of what they wanted to do... this music is peppy and interesting; i felt like if i heard this on the radio it would make my day a little better. when you're used to the cliché and tiring 60s sunny pop music, this album is a strong palette cleanser for me. these guys had a lot of fun recording all this i bet.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
5/5
i always celebrate when my app gives me yet another eclectic 80s pop album. say what you will, but this decade had a true renaissance of sheer innovation and creative expression that few, if any time periods have matched.
this album is very fun, very bold, and very... homosexual when it wants to be. whenever you're throwing a party, out on the town or with your lover, this album hits a lot of needs for a lot of people. in a world of rather campy dance-pop, this album really energizes you in a way where you too... makes you want to pay a visit to the pleasuredome. it's an album that basically says "fuck you, i'm gonna live my life no matter what society or the government says". the world is burning. let's dance.
Bee Gees
3/5
we've got another entry from the bee gees, swapping their usual soft poppy music for a peculiar, chamberesque... concept album. about a ship. it's very different compared to their usual stuff.
it's a very... elaborate piece of work, with dreamy, foggy soundscapes and multi-layered vocals from the group. i'm not sure if i'm feeling this one too much if i'm being honest. there's plenty of storytelling held and lots of experimentation in this, but a large percentage is just lost on me. it wanders a lot, and while the sound is rather pretty for at least several minutes, when it's an hour? it makes me a little dizzy.
Le Tigre
4/5
very punky, dancey rock music by gals, mainly for gals. listening to it, i'm getting heavy 1960s go-go dancing vibes here.
this is an album for all you feminine rebels out there, edgy and tinny in sound and full of commentary relevant to what many young women back then thought about. i REALLY like the drum machine usage in this album. gives it a lot of character. a hidden gem in the punk rock repertoire, especially if you're wanting something that's both engaging and conscious.
Run-D.M.C.
4/5
debut album of run-d.m.c., and it's a pretty important and early example of fusing rap with rock. in-your-face rhymes, guitar chugs to keep the rhythm and FAT drum machines make this an album perfect for blasting in your car.
there's no doubt that these guys have lots of chemistry even from the get-go. and some of these tracks will literally make you bounce with every THUMP of the bass. this album is a little... dated. the earlier grandmaster flash levels of hip hop (which older generations call TRUE hip hop and not the vulgar evil stuff) to me, while engaging is a little corny. you can rag on how different and how r-rated 90s hip hop was, but i'll take cool beatflips and conscious, emotional vocals rather than some dude playing with a yamaha dx7 and a drum machine and going "hip hop! it's the hippest of hop! we hippity hop, we hoppity hip, we dance and we pop and we shoot some hoops! hippity hippity hop hop! ah ha ha, ah ha ha!" stop spamming the clap button.
don't get the wrong idea though, this album is good.
OutKast
5/5
got some more outkast today, this time it's a double album, run time totaling at about 2 hours worth of music. speakerboxx is some fresh modern hip hop music, while the love below is a nice, blended fusion of jazz and soul. i have to review both of them briefly.
both albums showcased the musical styles of both members of the group. big boi's half is groovy and socially conscious hip hop, and andré 3000's take on art pop is just as colorful and whimsical as his fashion style. there's something for anybody in this album, and despite being intimidated by the entire length... i enjoyed it a whole lot.
Garbage
5/5
debut album of garbage, a band i haven't heard of, but definitely well known in alternative music circles for pretty good reasons... their first album is a crazy cool collage of sound. a complete curveball.
this album actually surprised me with how much i liked it. i love rock music that's stylish, spacey and a little filthy... i'm downright obsessed with how it sounds. maybe a bit of pop, maybe some rock... i'm also getting some mad trip-hop vibes as well when i listen to this. it pulls from all sorts of influences and creates this mad and hypnotizing collection of tracks, and after finishing it, i want to listen to it again.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
more marvin gaye. mans was going through a divorce when he was recording all this material.
like other works in his discography, this album is also very smooth and funky. even when he's going through it all, he still knows how to channel that emotional energy into his work. it would probably hit harder for me if i was going through some relationship troubles of my own... it's an underrated entry in gaye's album history.
Solomon Burke
3/5
smash-hit-filled soul pop music from the 1960s. all of the songs featured are ballads about the ups, downs... trials and tribulations of romance.
if there's one thing i can say about the album, is that burke knows how to sing loud and proud. you can imagine him gripping the mic and sweating as he sings. other than that performance level, the music really nothing special to me i'm afraid. sappy love songs that were pretty typical for this era, nothing really of note this time around.
Pavement
3/5
pavement again; the last time i heard their work was in early 2024. this album here is their debut.
grungy, sludgy and fuzzy indie rock music. a lot of the time the vocals sound annoyed to me. it's like i'm being whined at and lectured to as they play the hell out of their instruments. it's a sound that i still can't really get into, but at least there's a few tracks among most of the other stuff that kept me at least a little interested. seems like my opinion of these guys hasn't really changed with time, oh well!
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
5/5
more elvis costello. someone in youtube comments said he's the "better elvis" and the more i listen, the more i agree with that statement... this is an earlier album of his, so at times you can feel him trying hard to form his own musical identity.
early new wave music hits really hard when it's done right. the album's central theme is putting on a mask for the outside world, something i and plenty of others can relate to. lots of emotional venting too. it's a very fun album to listen to; i feel like some people might call it a little messy or strange, but even if that's true, i think that gives it a lot of character.
Yes
5/5
this album by yes is probably their most infamous album. a wide amount of tracks, some smash hits, all members of the band getting their own chances to shine and all sorts of moods channeled throughout its runtime. i mean the first track alone already will get people interested, even with its overplayed status.
it really doesn't take a genius to tell you that fragile is an essential listen in the world of progressive rock music. as soon as you press play, you're already gonna feel the energy. it's the kind of music that sounds groovy and carefree, all the guys doing their own fun solos, but the reality is these guys probably meticulously planned every last note out. it's very accessible, but extremely layered and complex. there's a track for every human emotion.