Journey in Progress
Discovering music one album at a time
500
Albums Rated
2.43
Avg Rating
9
5-Star Albums
46%
Complete
589 albums remaining
Rating Speed
5
Per Week
705
Days Active
Reviews
499
Written
100%
Review Rate
vs Global
-0.87
Avg Diff
2.43
Avg Rating
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How you rate albums
Rating Timeline
Average rating over time
Ratings by Decade
Which era do you prefer?
Activity by Day
When do you listen?
Taste Profile
2000s
Favorite Decade
Grunge
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Harsh
Rater Style
81
1-Star Albums
Taste Analysis
Genre Preferences
Ratings by genre
Origin Preferences
Ratings by country
Rating Style
You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doggystyle | 5 | 3.37 | +1.63 |
| Guero | 5 | 3.46 | +1.54 |
| Remain In Light | 5 | 3.67 | +1.33 |
| Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not | 5 | 3.73 | +1.27 |
| Peggy Suicide | 4 | 2.77 | +1.23 |
| Faust IV | 4 | 2.78 | +1.22 |
| What's That Noise? | 4 | 2.78 | +1.22 |
| Dookie | 5 | 3.8 | +1.2 |
| Mask | 4 | 2.85 | +1.15 |
| Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret | 4 | 2.87 | +1.13 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kind Of Blue | 1 | 4.06 | -3.06 |
| American IV: The Man Comes Around | 1 | 3.9 | -2.9 |
| Time Out | 1 | 3.84 | -2.84 |
| Talking Book | 1 | 3.72 | -2.72 |
| Born In The U.S.A. | 1 | 3.7 | -2.7 |
| Getz/Gilberto | 1 | 3.65 | -2.65 |
| Wild Is The Wind | 1 | 3.64 | -2.64 |
| A Love Supreme | 1 | 3.63 | -2.63 |
| Young Americans | 1 | 3.62 | -2.62 |
| The Velvet Underground & Nico | 1 | 3.62 | -2.62 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums and high weighted score
| Artist | Albums | Avg | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 4.25 | 3.71 |
Least Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums and low weighted score
| Artist | Albums | Avg | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elvis Presley | 3 | 1.33 | 2.17 |
| The Velvet Underground | 3 | 1.33 | 2.17 |
| Frank Sinatra | 2 | 1 | 2.2 |
| Simon & Garfunkel | 2 | 1 | 2.2 |
| Stan Getz | 2 | 1 | 2.2 |
| Leonard Cohen | 2 | 1 | 2.2 |
| Stevie Wonder | 4 | 1.75 | 2.29 |
| Bruce Springsteen | 3 | 1.67 | 2.33 |
| Johnny Cash | 3 | 1.67 | 2.33 |
| Miles Davis | 3 | 1.67 | 2.33 |
| David Bowie | 5 | 2 | 2.38 |
| Ray Charles | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
| OutKast | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
| The Smiths | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
| Willie Nelson | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
| Echo And The Bunnymen | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
| Curtis Mayfield | 2 | 1.5 | 2.4 |
| Tim Buckley | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| The Fall | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| Public Enemy | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| Brian Eno | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| The Kinks | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| Nick Drake | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| Morrissey | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
5-Star Albums (9)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
The Smashing Pumpkins
2/5
If you think Alanis Morrisette and Thom Yorke are whiny...hold on to your butts. Billy Corgan has one of the most annoying songing voices of all time. I have seen them live and it can get quite tortuous. That being said, the hits on this album are truly hits. His voice does not ruin the songs because they are good enough to hold up. 1979 and Zero top the bill. Other than the hits though...the album has very little more to offer and is too long. Some songs are atrocious like Tales of a Scorched Earth. Band was huge and I see why the album is on the list but not going back to it anytime soon..2.2.
3 likes
Run-D.M.C.
2/5
Although the 80s breakin', scratchin', rappin' scene was cool, I never could get into the music. It's always comes off as hokie with pretty weak rhymes. I get that this is the early stages of the genre and MCs wanted it to be positive and approachable for all. Walk This Way was the 1st to bridge the rock/rap gap and that's why we see the album on the list. Tricky is another pretty good one but the cheeseyness takes over. They even make fsrt sounds while best boxing. Knew that Run-DMC would make the list and not the worst group in my opinion from 80s hip hop...1.9.
1 likes
Simon & Garfunkel
1/5
I'm glad this was short. The duo tries to explore some weirdness here like on the track old people talking...which quite literally is just that. Didn't get it. Seems like the studio threw on Mrs. Robinson, which is the only good song, after the fact to get people to buy it.
1 likes
UB40
2/5
Ya mun...you need to be in a specific setting for this album. Getting baked while baking in the sun. Like the use of horns but songs get repetitive. It's good background music for a nap on a tropical island beach. It irks me that 'signing off' isn't the last track.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (81)
All Ratings
David Bowie
1/5
D (3 out of 10). Bookend album...good song to start and finishes with one of my fave Bowies. The middle is all skips. Way to Saxy. Particularly did not like the "Across the Universe" cover. Must have some artistic reason it makes the list but certainly would not make mine.
Kate Bush
4/5
Need to listen to more KB. The album covers some good range. Really dug the strings and some of the off base songs like "Waking the Witch" and "Jig of Life". Got a Peter Gabriel vibe, particularly on "Under the Ice". Solid 80s record that I will play again and look for a good priced copy when bin rummaging.
Iron Maiden
3/5
Certainly a classic metal album. Would be a fun one for a romping out in the desert offroading, shooting, and boozing.
Various Artists
2/5
Must you listen to Christmas music before you die? Yes. Must you listen to this Christmas album before you die? Ummm...is it the first if it's kind or something? I can name several other Christmas albums that are musts over this and they all don't have munk in the name I swear. It does put you in the spirit though but won't be an annual must for me...2.1stars cause I'm feeling grinchy.
Eminem
4/5
Whether you like M or not, the guy has talent. One of the only emcees that doesn't just rap about money and hoes. Love that he goes off the wall with some rhymes and pushes it past the line. He's a true wordsmith that can even rhyme with orange. This album def influenced me when it came out...I even bleached my hair.
Tim Buckley
2/5
Too minstrel-ly. Very poetic but I could not follow the lyrical story. Title track felt like multiple songs mashed together. Not a repeat play for me.
Frank Sinatra
1/5
I think I fell asleep during this album...and I was driving. Not into this at all but I find it fun to sing everything I'm doing in Sinatra mode now. Perfect for old, broken hearted ladies.
Wilco
3/5
A little slow and melancholic but a nice rainy day album. Echoes of early Beck and Radiohead. I like the added background sound effects to some of the songs.
Talking Heads
5/5
Whoa...mind blown. Totally thrown by his album. I knew I would like it but not as much as I did. Byrne is on another level here. So full of everything...funk, soul, rock, Electronica, tribal, island groove...ah! Starts out with an engine house like a locomotive pounding down the rails and slows down to a groovy ooze (grooze). Good beats, eery Byrne over top, souls sistahs backing it up, and some riffs chopping the madness. Gatdamn! Albums like this tell me we need to give more awkward white boys instruments. Seeing "Stop Making Sense" dance party at the Frida recently has some influence on this review; even so, a must listen for all. (If you enjoyed as much as I did, listen to the deluxe with outakes)
Blur
3/5
Al Green
2/5
I'm team Marvin Gaye. This did not get me groovin like I was expecting. Couple good ones but overall a flop.
Beatles
2/5
Rather unimpressed by this album this time through. Wish they had cut a lot and just made it a single LP that would deserve a ranking on the 1001 list. Making it a double feels like they stuffed in a bunch of filler of the beatles just dicking around in the studio. Still are some of their top songs on here though. Need half star ability on the app upgrade...2.5
Coldplay
2/5
Yawn. Pretty boring album. Like a few songs by the band (couple on this album) but not a huge Coldplay fan.
Fleetwood Mac
2/5
Title song and Sara...maybe a couple others on there but barely. Surprised this makes the list from Fleetwood. If this album made it, I know at least 2 of their others are showing up.
Buena Vista Social Club
2/5
Was into it to start but lost me by midway. One of the singers I did not vibe with at all...showed up on a couple songs. Sounded like he was gonna die any second. Certainly prefer this Spanish style over the polka but not a replay for me.
Faust
4/5
Very interesting album. Some early electronica and great experimentation. Heard of this band before but never gave them a listen. I really liked it. Probably would not play any song individually but as will play the album again. This is what this app is for...introduicing some new music to the listener. Whether we like it or not is of no concern. Beck and Thom Yorke def played this album til the grooves were gone in their developmental years. What happened to the Faust II & III?!
Happy Mondays
2/5
I usually like a heavy English rock group but I could barely understand the lead singer. Instruments were too bogged down and melded together so it felt like just background noise. Not really into the sound although can see the influence this album had.
Little Richard
2/5
I can see why this is on the list. Def an early rock legend. I'll rate this for its place in music history but can't say I was super into it. It's poppin and lil Rick's rasp and his timely 'whoos' are a trademark. Kids in the day went nuts I'm sure.
Stevie Wonder
2/5
No denying Wonder's got a voice but I didn't want to hear it for an hour 45. Could have cut a lot out of the album and it would have been better. Was surprised about the Pastime (Gangsters) Paradise sample. Ended with the worst harmonica song I've ever heard.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
2/5
90s Neil Young makes the list? Nothing jumps out on this album. Again with the too long songs.
Dusty Springfield
1/5
As silky as Dustsy is, just not that into stringy ballads. To much lovin on this album. She must have had an impact during her time cause I can't see making the list for ine hit song.
Traffic
2/5
Not bad. Some good late night camp fire stuff.
Massive Attack
2/5
Sounded like I was in a dark underground club...the kind with red lighting, fancy cocktails, and def jam poetry. Hit me right off the bat but I quickly grew tired of the singing and wanted more good beats. Finished with a pretty good one but overall not leaving an impression. Establishing their own sound but not sure I'm in. I love Angel from Snatch so expected more from this...
Elvis Presley
1/5
An album on the downslope of his career. I don't know Elvis well enough to say how this compares to his early works but I wanted some hound dog sound. This was a little too country sap for me.
Manic Street Preachers
2/5
Pretty standard 90s alternative with some nice orchestral additions. I liked it but it doesn't standout for me in this genre like GooGoo Dolls or Better Than Ezra does. No real impact and doesn't make me want to explore more of their albums.
Missy Elliott
1/5
Too much R&B on this album and not feelin it. Thought there would be more hip hop and stronger songs especially with Timberland producing. Had to strongly disagree with her claims on "I'm Talkin". Never delved deep into Missy but I expected better from this...let down.
Paul Weller
2/5
Not bad, a little too soft rock. I feel like I need to age about 10 more years to like this more.
Stevie Wonder
1/5
Starting to see that I'm really not a Wonder fan. One song gets this on the list? Am I missing something profound about this album? Glad it was shorter than Key of life...
Neil Young
2/5
More like On the Fence. I like half the album. NY has a knack for making folk music approachable for all. Almost like he writes a rock song and just plays it slower with a banjo and it works...Turnstiles. Tough to follow Harvest but in the same niche as that album. A decent one from the old man youngster.
Ray Charles
1/5
I like Ray's voice but the songs sound very repetitive on this album. Background music is simple big band with not a lot of variety. Feels like label just put Ray in a sound box and pumped cookie cutter tunes in for him to belt out.
Def Leppard
2/5
Big slab of cheese. 80s hair bands are just outrageous rock slap stick that even Weird Al can't write a parody. This album sums it up. I like some of it but it's just got too much of that trashed at 2 am in a dive bar sound.
Sepultura
2/5
Demon wretch. Some good ones and some bad ones on here. I imagine their shows had some insane shit going onstage, like human sacrifice. One song made me feel like I was in a dungeon watching toture. They threw in some pauses in the chaos with good instrumentals and ancient shaman ritualism which I liked. Not sure why they jammed out in a canyon for 13 mins at the end.
Bill Evans Trio
1/5
Ok Daddio...I'm truly perplexed. A guy strumming a rubberband, raw spaghetti on cymbals, and Bill hitting his piano with a shoe. What a complete discombobulated mess. Seemed like each guy was off just doing their own thing. I doubt the audience even knew there were multiple takes on some songs. Hard pass
The Rolling Stones
2/5
More of a cover impact than a music one I'd say. Few gems on here but overall not their best. Stones have always been on the bottom of the top classic rock powerhouses for me. Nonetheless, still a powerhouse.
The Magnetic Fields
1/5
Started out like what is this...a guy trying to pump out simple love songs to set the record for most on one album? By the end of the 3rd disc, I still felt the same but the songs got a little better. Writing 69 love songs (# choice intended) is a feat but just cause someone does it, doesn't mean it should make a top album list. Def would be a better listen in a late night drag bar...
Isaac Hayes
2/5
Can only think of Southpark Chef when listening to Hayes. Looooong songs that had soul for sure but a bit too buttery for me. Give me B Dub over Sir Isaac anyday.
1/5
I actually was cracking up throughout this album. I went and listened to some of the originals and I appreciate Zorn condensing them down but it was just too chaotic. Between the squealing dolphins and dying elephants it was a riot. I think my brother-in-law could play sax in this band. 😂😂
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
This is a great one. Every song is listenable and showcases the band members as individuals and the range of the band as a whole. Def a supergroup of its time. Spun it on a rainy Saturday...perfect. Love the faux leather album gatefold too.
Otis Redding
3/5
Otis slays it. Short and sweet, well rounded album with soul, blues, slow jams, and classics. Particularly like the guitar focus (bass and lead) on some songs. No satisfaction left me satisfied. Not sure how you shake like a bowl of soup though...
Roxy Music
2/5
I think I like the Eno albums more. Gets a bit overtheatric on this album. I get the appeal to the style of Roxy, it being off the norm for rock. Dad had one album and I think it was only for Love is a Drug which is a great one. May have to delve further but not looking to add to my personal collection.
Christina Aguilera
2/5
Felt just kinda...well, basic. I appreciate the back to the roots approach but nothing great here. Not that I ever really like Aguilera other than some catchy pop songs. Thought she would have some better singing on this, like really belting it out. Meh...
New Order
2/5
Some standard 80s synth pop. Need to listen to their earlier punk rock stuff to understand the significance of this album shift. Dig the keyboard frogs 🐸.
Adele
2/5
A pretty sad album. Lost love, lost time. Feel a lot of regret from Adele here. She can sing that's for sure. I like the more upbeat songs (only 2) and won'tbe playing it again unless I go through another bad break up.
T. Rex
3/5
T. Rex brings the swagger on this album. I'm down for some early glam rock. Can def hear some Bowie likeness. Been looking to add to my collection but always a high price tag. Belongs in the list indeed.
Love
3/5
A lot of versatility on this. I thought it was good. Side B runs on a bit with a single 19 minute song. I get some Jim Morrison/Roger Daltrey vibes from Lee.
Venom
1/5
I prefer metal with better guitar riffs. This being early death metal, I can understand the lack of depth in the instrumentals. Sounded a little over dramatic and too much bloody hands in hell. Not my bag.
Goldie
2/5
I love electronica and got into it in early high school with Chemical Bros and Crystal Method. Bought a lot of mix cds too and my least favorite of the genre was always the break beat. Too spastic and so repetitive. Others like house or trance have the same beat for almost every song but meld better with the whole delivery. Break beat sounds too out of place. Just never been my fav.
Van Halen
4/5
Van Halen is the best of the Arena Rock. This album kicks ass and being their debut...def deserves the list. Eddie's guitar style is one of a kind. Lee matches perfectly with his swagger and pitch shifting. Bunch of hits here and some fun thrown in. More please
The Rolling Stones
2/5
Another meh album from the Stones. 2 songs...the rest took a folkie/saloon style I do not jive with at my current age. Cetainly not a must have album but I picked up a beat up copy for a cheap price just for the 2 hits.
Solomon Burke
2/5
Not bad but too many love songs. Wish Burke put some soul into another topic at least once on this album. The songs are simple and easy to listen to but not stimulating enough.
OutKast
1/5
Of the Outkast pair, I usually prefer Andre for his artistic abilities and skills but not the case with this album. Disc 1, Big Boi stuck to his norm and it was fine. Disc 2 was god awful. Other than a few songs, I was left shaking my head. Andre let his exploration get the better of him. Way too self indulgent and ultimately just bad. Disc taking rating way down.
Billy Joel
4/5
Was not a fan of Joel for a while but after hearing this album all the way through, I came around. I now prefer Joel over Elton. I like that Joel is not always on the piano here and almost all the songs can stand the tests of time.
Ray Price
2/5
Sounds like Prestley went country and stopped shaking his hips. Little luau feel on some songs with slide guitar. I did not expect Ray to have that crooner voice based on the intro. Overall a little to dull.
The Sonics
2/5
Not sure why an intro album with mostly covers (that aren't even that great) makes the list. I like the originals on here by the band. Maybe should have introduced them when they had a few more songs for a full album? Lead singer has a scream that may have set them apart at the time but not enough to cement them on a must listen list.
The Byrds
2/5
Some good ones but mostly a bunch of yawners. Again an album with mostly covers doesn't feel worthy of the list. The psychedelic sound of the guitar was different but I found myself drifting off and not paying attention to the music. Maybe it was the drugs I didn't take but should have.
Elliott Smith
3/5
The art of the joyful melancholic. At first I was not into this album but as it went on, the style stood out as something I hadn't heard before. Smith is able to make a sad song sound also happy. Simple and smart writing. Pretty good stuff.
Herbie Hancock
2/5
Some funky muzak. I wouldn't mind grooving to this in an elevator or dentist office. Some songs could have been broken up into multiple instead of one long one. All in all a worthy listen but I won't be hunting the bins for it.
Milton Nascimento
1/5
Maybe good for some background at a Brazilian restaurant but not a commute. I was trying to think if the songs were in english would I like it more and after completion...No. It's nice but too sleepy.
Joni Mitchell
1/5
Was looking forward to this one since it gets so much praise. After listening, I don't see the reason it is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. It's kinda soothing and you get the emotion from Joni but feels blah. She's just talk-singing for 30+ mins and I eventually found it rather annoying. Nothing special or groundbreaking in my opinion here.
Van Halen
3/5
Van Halen gets a little hokie on this album but still stocked with some classics (I'll wait is my personal fave by the band). Even though I'm not on board with their approach of less guitar and more keyboard, the songs are fun. Def some skips in between the hits. Not a bad final send off for the complete original band.
Simon & Garfunkel
1/5
I'm glad this was short. The duo tries to explore some weirdness here like on the track old people talking...which quite literally is just that. Didn't get it. Seems like the studio threw on Mrs. Robinson, which is the only good song, after the fact to get people to buy it.
Prince
3/5
Funky Prince-bot likes a long song. Not bad but runs on with the same electro beats. Title track is the highlight.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
2/5
Head on out to the barn yard and don't forget your spitoon for this one. I like the instrumentals but they do run on and sound the same in most songs. I found some of the namter between musicians amusing. Another unnecessarily loooong album. I beginning to think the creator of this list is choosing them to try and get as much of the artists materiel in one album.
Fatboy Slim
2/5
Ah yes, the 90s electronica revolution. I remember hearing "out of my head" on a cd mix I bought and said I need to listen to this guy more. Later found out that the who "can't explain" rif is what got me. I did delve into slim along with the Chem Brothers, prodigy, and crystal method. Slim lagged in my opinion. This album is good but just didn't have as much of an impact on me and still doesn't. If this made the list for 90s epectronica, there are much better to come.
Black Sabbath
4/5
I got this album a while back from a monthly club. I never really gave Sabbath a chance prior and was really impressed by this album. Got the hits and also some trippy chill mode. Not a big fan of Ozzy but the songs are strong enough to still make me want to rock out. Iommi is a beast...guitar riffs for days.
Pixies
3/5
I have always heard people/critics say the Pixies are a hugely influential band and I can see how they contributed to the indy rock scene on this album. It has some good range and also sticks to their style. Not an epic, must own album but it has its place and I enjoyed.
Fats Domino
2/5
Chillin with the Fat Man. Some catchy tunes. A little dated obviously but holds up if you want something to dance around the kitchen to. I prefer Fats over some of the other albums on the list from the era...2.45.
Van Morrison
2/5
Van the man's a poet no doubt. Peaceful, serene album that makes you want to lie in a field surrounded by nature. Most songs were a little too slow, rambley, and drawn out though.
Baaba Maal
3/5
Only 1001 will bring this to me and I thank the list. Been starving for some worldly music that I never would have come across otherwise. I was hypnotized by the music on my drive home. Baabal fits in nicely with the rhythmic lull of Mansour's strumming. I do think that Mansour carries this album but I can't really say without giving other Maal works a listen yet. I enjoyed side A more than B but good one overall.
The Louvin Brothers
1/5
The bros got some nice harmony for sure but I just don't like country, no matter what state it's from. Definitely some tragedy on this like the beating and drowning of a gal...wasn't expecting that. No wonder they got some preachy songs too...I'll pass.
Jeff Buckley
2/5
Had no idea what to expect from this. Never heard of Buckly. Got a good voice but can't say much else about it. Just an overall snoozer album. Maybe not best for a top down sunny drive home from work.
The Band
1/5
I thought I would like this album but couldn't weight for it to end. Far to sobby and slowed down folkie for my liking. When it was over, I felt a weight had been lifted. One song on here and the rest just weigh it down.
Kate Bush
2/5
I was excited to see another KB album seeing how much I enjoyed HOL. This go around though...not so much. This album was out there. Songs had me picturing KB lying in fields of silk to dancing around bubbling cauldrons. Very theatrical. In fact, sounded like it was a broadway play score. I did not like this as much as I had hoped but if it were to be made into a broadway play, I would go. I would love to see the interpretation (specifically the finale with the lead kicking a possessed donkey out of here house).
Fishbone
3/5
Very versatile...gives you a good smattering. Got a little too horny bonin in the boneyard there. I'm giving it pretty high ratings for pure entertainment. This band would crush at a Balloon and Wine fest.
Animal Collective
3/5
Enter a whimsical, psychedelic journey through a multi-level dream sequence. Trippy and calming. Couldn't understand all the lyrics but I enjoyed this on a morning drive to work. Geologist builds musical layers like sedimentary deposition. I can rock.put to more of this.
Beastie Boys
3/5
Pretty fun album. Always felt most of the Beastie Boys material sounds like a parody of hip-hop so not my fave. Highlight here is the Dust Bros mixing/production. Mike D is kind of annoying and I think I would like this better without the BBoys. Major influence on 2 Skinnee J's
Arcade Fire
3/5
I was conflicted throughout this album. I went back and forth on it but by the end, I was in. A few songs I remember and had some radio play but it's an epic that needs to be heard as a whole. I could relate to it. Didnt know how well it did crutically going in. Good selection for the list.
Harry Nilsson
3/5
I like this guy. Never heard of him but knew a few songs. He has got some good stuff here. Well rounded. I was into it but could have done without the last song. Love the album title and cover lookin like a true McPoyle.
Incubus
4/5
I didn't start liking Incubus until a few years after this album came out when I got full exposure in college. Although my fave song by them is not on this album, it's still stacked. Drive is highlight with Pardon Me right behind. Always loved I Miss You even as a slow one. Def place on the list for its influence on 90s kids and alternative rock but also enjoyable by any generation.
The Smiths
1/5
Ah yes...now I understand why every antiestablishment-vegan-hipster loves The Smiths. I was pretty bored with this. It did show a little life on a few songs but Morriseys vocals are too somber. Not a lot from the band players either really. I do savor the flavour but not from this album.
Kendrick Lamar
2/5
I listened to this album a few years ago to see all the KL hype. I didn't really like it then and still not so much this go around. I give credit to the lyrics and the story telling but I just can't vibe with the style. KL sounds like a froggy alien and he runs on with his flow too much. A few songs are goos and i give it a little bump on the rating for stepping out of the norm.
Michael Jackson
3/5
Side A, all day. Side B, lost me (to dozin off). Last song perked me up and I wanted more. Still, for a solo album straying from his motown roots and wanting to make something different (yes I read the wiki)...MJ nails it. Quincy era begins and we got some strong ones to come from the collab.
Justin Timberlake
3/5
A solo album from a kid breaking away from the boy band. Side A&B are strong. Side C is weak and very skippable. Side D tries to make an effort to get back in it but comes up short. Multiple hits but can't stand the cheesy, slow songs. Buy this album and throw away the 2nd disc.
The Divine Comedy
3/5
This one came out of left field. It was like complex casino lounge music and I was digging it. Also got a Thomas Dolby/Cake feel as it bordered parody but didn't get as silly as Weird Al. It was divine at times...it was comedic at times I will be checking more out from them.
UB40
2/5
Ya mun...you need to be in a specific setting for this album. Getting baked while baking in the sun. Like the use of horns but songs get repetitive. It's good background music for a nap on a tropical island beach. It irks me that 'signing off' isn't the last track.
The War On Drugs
2/5
The war on drugs is a losing battle but this album gets a win. I definitely felt lost in a dream, especially during the end sequences on much of the songs. I get influences of Neil Young and Dylan. It's a slow burn and wouldn't necessarily play any songs individually again but a good project album for the band.
Jethro Tull
3/5
One instrument I would not think to put in a rock song is a flute but Anderson makes it work. Some major hits on here with some other decent ones. Tull gives a minstrelly song a solid rock and roll backbone by adding in heavy guitars and drums. What is an aqualung though?
2/5
I heard of this band when a fellow stereo brewey patron brought in their 'Mess' album. I missed the live playing but looked it up and thought it was descent. Liars takes annoying sounds on their own and makes them somewhat tolerable in song. A lot of noise and experimentation that just doesn't completely land with me on this album. Kinda like a bad, weirder version of radiohead.
Grant Lee Buffalo
2/5
A pretty good 90s album. I imagine if Michael Hutchence didn't die, INXS would have put out something liken this as they mellowed. Band sounds like they could have been featured on VH1 crossroads. Not leaving a major mark but holds it's own.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
1/5
Jesus the Jesus...WTF? This hurt to listen to...quite literally. Had to turn it down and almost off. Were they recording while the studio construction was being completed? Yell the guy cutting tile to take a break. I can't even give this a good rating for being experimental/unique and maybe 1st to use guitar feedback. A little is ok...they way overdo it. Yeah lets add that ripping through a bag of rusty nails with a band saw sound instead of good lead guitar. Forget about a good riff...bring in the angle grinder and go to town on this barnacle covered boat hull. Songs wouldn't be half bad if they weren't attacking a chalkboard with a Sawzall. I felt relief when the radio static from hell would cease but it was short lived. The squeeling train wheels I hear by my apartment every 10 mins are now not so bad. Mary chain, you brought the pain.
Prince
2/5
Disc 2 way outplays disc 1. U got the look is best song and sounds like it's a Ruby Rap hit. The cross started out slow but finished strong and with a sound way unexpected from prince. He was huffing some helium for a few songs that I wasn't into. Didn't know he had an alter ego.
Ray Charles
2/5
Read the review I gave for his Modern Sounds album. More big band and Ray. He's good but is he really a genius? I'm not sold...
The Fall
2/5
Side 1 sounds like the neighbor kids practicing in their garage. Side 2 is better and has glimpses of more complexity. Last song is best song. I can picture the scene in the early 70s/early 80s - a bunch of pissed of kids with ripped clothes, patches, and piercings drinking shitty warm beer, smashing up a basement. I'd have joined in the fun.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Let's go! Get the Led out. This album shows the range and talent of this monster band. With how much great music they have, this album doesn't stand at the top but it is strong none the less. Starts you right out on an epic viking journey to Valhalla and then sends you through a more mellow, instrumenatlly rich, song romp. Plant sounds great. Love the album cover as well...husker du style.
Radiohead
5/5
Back in high school when this came out all the stoners were going nuts, especially over the secret hidden booklet in the cd case. It wasnt until college (when I started smoking copious amounts of ganga) that I realized how f-ing good this band is. Thom Yorke rivals David Byrne with his eerieness. The music is layered with electronica, acoustics, robots, and space. I just love it. Of my collection, this is one of the top spun. I have spent many a late night with a nice bourbon sipper, relaxing in the dark, letting OKC melt my brain. Must listen, must for the list and there are more to come from RH.
Supergrass
4/5
Alright...yeah...I'm in. Some great early brit indy rock with a bit of a punk slant. Lead singer it gritty/grunge and is backed up by some really tight, polished instrumentals. You can hear the skill they have but they also give you a "we like to screw around in the garage too, mate" feel as well. Thought the album cover was the Gorillaz when I fist saw it so maybe Albarn was influenced a bit by these guys.
Elton John
3/5
It has some hits. It has some filler. Could be a single album if a few got shaved in length or cut out. Still not too long a double disc at 1.25 hours. Benny and the Jets always hits. I like use of guitar on some of the songs song it does not seem like the piano is the lead. Probably the best full album by Elton.
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
2/5
Makes sense old Skip had just gotten out of a mental institute and recorded this. It is very convoluted but I give credit to Skip for being the solo performer on this album. Some of the lyrics are clever and some songs took on more life in stereo. Skip may have been drug/booze fueled on this album. Sure sounded like he took some Furry Heroine and recorded the last shorties.
5/5
Fantastic album all around that deserves all the praise, list rankings, influence, and respect. Beatles continue down the darker path since their departure from bubblegum pop on this album. They step into their alter-ego band and let the creativity flow. It must have sent the world in a Wonka frenzy when it dropped. People must have flown to the record stores and snatched this album up. It may not actually hold a golden ticket but it is a gold standard album. Still intriguing and will captivate audiences forever I think...
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
3/5
A time and a place for this one. Makes you want to curl up in a ball. Depressing, down but peaceful and quite good. Certainly evokes some real emotion. The utter defeat BPB expresses almost brings the listener to tears. Get sad, get out of your comfort zone, get exposed...that's music for ya...2.8.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Oldie but a goodie. I like most of it. CA Dreamin' is top with a few other well knowns that hit the mark. Good harmonies and having female/male vocals works nicely here. Doesn't stand out as epic but works for a nice drive though sunny CA.
The Who
5/5
This album holds a high ranking. Many good songs with probably their 2 top hits as bookends. Good run time and iconic cover. The one shortcoming is "Going Mobile". It's cheesy and doesn't fit with the rest of the tracks. Works for any occasion...4.5.
Bert Jansch
2/5
Soft, simple album but Jansch shows his skill with some complex acoustic guitar playing. Thought there may be 2 guitars overlayed with editing but not sure. Angie was best song and I know I've heard it (or portions) of it before...I swear Led zep may have used it. I'd didn't love the album but I didn't hate it either.
Buffalo Springfield
2/5
Shortie that didn't leave any impact. Quite forgettable. Has some range but overall too slow and a bit lame. 1st song is best song with the rest of the album trailing off to a "broken" finisher. Middle of the road and don't see it worthy of list. I will give NY credit for being in so many bands and staying relevant throughout the decades...2
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
I'm partly in on this. I like a good dark-punky girl (I think I'm dating one) band and Siouxsie has all the makings for it. It's a little dull though. I wanted some more fire from it. She just wasn't pissed off enough or something. Still peaks my interest on the bands direction...2.4
Jack White
3/5
I prefer Jack's work with White Stripes and Raconteurs but he is still very talented as a solo artist. The album plays around with folkie blues and rock styles which come together like some sophisticated saloon. I think he would have done great back in the day banging out his tunes in a dusty cowboy bar. Final song returns to the heavy guitar riffs and is the best on the album...2.7
Fatboy Slim
2/5
Well Fatboy...you've come a little way from 1st album. Starts off pretty good but I lost interest by side 2. I'm not into party electronica and prefer a darker, headphone listen from the genre. Def has hits that were all over MTV and the radio in the 90s and had an impact on popularizing electronica so I see why it's on this list....2.4
Queen
4/5
Whoo yeah...that was a fun one! Never actually listened to a Queen album before and always thought the hits are all you need to pay mind to. Wrong...this was great. A phantasm of a rock opera that kept me engaged. Slow songs were short and sweet. Guitar riffs, harmonies, pianos, Freddie belting it, and some weirdness thrown in. Opened the door to more Queen album listens for me...3.7
Sisters Of Mercy
4/5
I get the feeling it's pretty dark and bleak over there in Mother Russia. This is a cool album. The fact that it is fully composed by one english guy and his drum machine makes it even cooler. The fact that his drum machine is named "Doktor Avalanche" makes it even cooler. Most songs are somber but not in a boring way. "The Corrosion" is more upbeat and gave me a Bowie vibe. Some songs are a bit long but I didn't get tired of them. The band's website is also bonkers. I'm pretty much in all around...3.6
Arrested Development
4/5
Good one here. Beats work better than a lot of the lyrics and delivery but it still carries. Started great, bit of lull in middle, finished strong. Last 3 are best songs. Never heard of the group and wish I had before. Fun one to listen to...3.55.
David Bowie
2/5
Another meh one from Bowie. I only liked Jean Genie...the rest are all pretty skippable. Cover is iconic with Bowie looking like a weirdo. I guess you had to be there to get why it's on the list...1.75.
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
Great debut album. All songs are good. Particulary like Dark of the Matinee. Reminds me of much I love going to the Frida for a day showing of some obscure flick. Take Me Out got overplayed when the album dropped but it's still a good one. Is the album a must hear before you die? Probably not but I recommend it for to an indie fan...3.7.
Public Enemy
2/5
I understand why this makes the list. Very influential on the hip-hop scene. Chuck D speaks of revolution and social turmoil while Flava Flav keeps the hype going. Problem is, It just sounds corny and Terminator-X beats aren't that engaging...a bit annoying in fact. Although poignant lyrically, Chucks rhymes a bit weak and Flav jumps around like a crack addict. I respect it's place (and Public Enemy) in music history but I just don't really like 80's hip-hop. So a Naaaaahh Boooyyyiiee from me...1.7.
Marvin Gaye
2/5
Marvin was a bit horned up making this album. Certainly set a tone for introducing sex in songs more which did not slow down after this album's release. Title track is best, then it just runs on with the same wooing of a woman. I do like the last song as it hits home with those who have moved on fromntough relationships...2.45.
The Adverts
4/5
I like 70s punk I guess. This album hits all the way through. Simple songs but very clever and on point. For a debut from some young brit punkers, I'm impressed. Fave songs are New Church and Gary Gilmores Eyes. Surprised this wasnt played by Uncle Rick at a party. Will be listening to again and looking to pick up the vinyl...3.8.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Oh baby! I dare someone to say this doesn't belong on many music lists. What an album. Grabs you right at the start and doesnt let go. I think the best is coming off Stairway
and flipping to side b to get an uppercut from Misty Mt Hop. When the album is over, you are left a bit dumbfounded when you realize just how many greats are on it. I know it is hailed as Zeps best (I may argue) and it is worthy of that pedestal amongst their insane catalog of musical genius. Will hold up forever and may even keep getting better...4.9.
Talking Heads
4/5
The weirdness and unique sound of the Talking Heads shows here and I like it. Great bass play and incorporation of keyboards. Not as strong as some other albums by the band but stilp a good time. Take Me to the River is the only recognizable song for me and stands out. In for more Talking Heads, keep em comin..3.6
The National
2/5
The tone here is lowdown and somber but it's not a hallow wallow. There is substance and it's pretty good. The songs run into the next without much change so it feels like one long epic. Berninger is pining throughout the while album. His monotone voice drones on, he becomes a brain eating zombie, and eventually spirals into complete madness talking to birds. Failed relationships really got to the guy. The band is still on tour and I can't imagine the show being anything but depressing. Do they hand out a ix of tissues and a lighter at the ticket check? Not a bad album but got to be in a mood...2.4.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
Not bad Nick, it bad. Heard of him before and for some reason I always thought he was a pop artist (maybe Nick Carter mix-up?). This album was not pop and I'm glad. Some good story telling. Brother, My Cup Is Empty was best song and I could feel his pain. Not sure the genre here...folk-rock? Down for more from them whatever it is...2.85.
Tito Puente
1/5
Didn't feel the mania or much like dancing. Same song on repeat for 95% of the album. Maybe this makes the list for being an early Spanish group making it to mainstream? Not for me...one time listen...adios amigos. 1.2
The Cure
3/5
Slow burn. The album has some good ones plus mellow groove and beat on the lesser knowns. It lulled at moments but i was overall satisfied. The cover is a bit creepy but makes sense knowing Smith was back on the hallucinogenics. Grab a glass of wine (maybe a few caps) and chill by some glowing embers in that outdoor fire pit and melt away...3.3.
The Smashing Pumpkins
2/5
If you think Alanis Morrisette and Thom Yorke are whiny...hold on to your butts. Billy Corgan has one of the most annoying songing voices of all time. I have seen them live and it can get quite tortuous. That being said, the hits on this album are truly hits. His voice does not ruin the songs because they are good enough to hold up. 1979 and Zero top the bill. Other than the hits though...the album has very little more to offer and is too long. Some songs are atrocious like Tales of a Scorched Earth. Band was huge and I see why the album is on the list but not going back to it anytime soon..2.2.
James Taylor
2/5
Pretty sappy and much too sweet baby. A few knowns that are ok but it's mostly milktoast blues and watered down r&b. Was he doing something on this album that deserves the list? Very missable IMO but not the worst thus far...1.7.
Goldfrapp
3/5
Where did this come from? Never heard of the Frapp. I was entranced by this siren as she lulled me into musical hypnosis. Although a rather slow album it held my attention with full musical arrangements and soothing tone. A little bit of a Metric or Melodies Echochamber vibe. I liked it and will delve into more of their work...2.85.
4/5
Muse kicks ass and this album is a good one. It features multiple known hits that always get you going when they come on. Bellamy sings like he is about to go into battle and the guitars shred like machine guns. One of the best live shows I've ever seen. There is some filler on this album but it is still a solid listen...3.6
Jurassic 5
4/5
This is some good shit. Listened to this group in college and was not really that into it but this go around it slaps. It's got some throw back 90s hip hop appeal and some darker refined tracks. I prefer the DJ Nu-Mark production over Cut Chemist but both can produce a funky beat. Sum of Us and Remember His Name are tops. I'm not feeling Chali 2na as much as the other emcees though but I still give this album a decent rating...3.55.
Bruce Springsteen
1/5
I just don't like The Boss. I don't understand why so many hold this album and Springsteen in such high regard. I was bored with this whole album. It must appeal the common joe schmo patriot or something. I have an agency inspector that worships Bruce. During audits he talks about him the whole time and I cowardly endorse. I feel like I need a shower after but pass with flying colors. Own this album only because it was free...1.2
Sabu
2/5
I can get down with a conga/bongo beat for a while and this album was just enough at 40 mins. Felt like I was in a drum circle at playa de venice or casa de Estrella. Simple and repetitive so not a high mark on the rating. Not the worst so far either...1.8.
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
3/5
Not hearing much blues from Spence but certainly a musical explosion. Some Beck influence, some good beats and mixing, some noise, some weirdness, and some fucking shit up. Can't say I liked it all that much but I kinda want to hear it again. Def need to watch the music video for Wail directed by Weird Al?!...2.55
Kelela
1/5
Hot black chick with a decent voice sings over boring, mediocre production. I would have no problem dying and never had heard this album. Can't really say much about it. Not recommending it to anyone unless you want to take a nap. Like her name though...1.0.
The Clash
3/5
The Clash made punk approachable to the masses and this album deserves the list. I like Strummer's brit drawl and delivery. Songs are not very complex but are cleaned up enough so they don't sound too amateur garage. Weird that they released a US version of the album 2 years later with different track listing. Think we might see some more of these guys...2.6.
The White Stripes
3/5
Half great, half ok. Many hits are featured along with some skippers. Jack White has a knack for creating a song with a simple beat and a killer riff. A lot of power from this duo; however, leaving the listener with the final cornball, dud of a song drops the rating...3.3.
Tricky
3/5
With Massive Attack's Blue Lines already on the list...is this one really a must? I did like it better but sounds very much the same. Some more slow trip-hop beats with a woman on vocals. A bit more sinister though with guns cocking and Tricky sounding all grimey like. Def some good background chill music for a hookah lounge or opium den...2.5.
Bauhaus
4/5
What a wild album. What drugs were these guys taking? I really like some of the instrumentals and experimentation. Some cool space sounds with the synths. Whacked out lyrics and creepiness make this album standout. In Fear of Fear is top track. Rating this on the original 1981 release with just the 1st 10 tracks...3.6.
Violent Femmes
2/5
Never really liked the Femmes. Sounds like these guys didn't practice much or that's just the style? Everyone knows the 1st 2 tracks
which are the really only decent ones. Maybe one more with a xylophone that's not too bad. I don't know the impact the Femnes had on music but must have been something to make the list...1.8.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Surprisingly, this is my first full sit down listen of this album and I have been missing out. The entire album is great and winds through a lot of different styles. I really liked the psychedelic rock sounds of the title track. Jimi's singing often gets overlooked due to his guitar skills but he has brings swagger that works well. Def agree with Jimi's decision to have the album cover changed on the US release as that one has become iconic...3.75.
The Doors
3/5
Side A...yes, Side B...meh. Are all the Doors albums gonna make the list cause this is not their strongest? Roadhouse blues and Peace Frog top the track list. Really only like Maggie McGill on Side B...2.7.
Astor Piazzolla
2/5
Interesting arrangement of instruments. Accordian teams up with a vibraphone and it's quite nice. Something I would expect to hear at Nan & Gramps. I can't say this will come up in my Playlist again till I maybe hit 70 but the list provides...2.4.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
Listened to the original score by Mussorgsky and I will say that ELP did make a more fun version; however, I'm not overly impressed by the band. Old Castle had the most groove and uniquness. Some early prog rock that prob got some music nerds going at the time. Wouldn't be terrible at an art show opening...2.45.
Killing Joke
3/5
I accidentally listened to the 2003 album of the same name and was not to into that one. This was much better. Really liked some of guitar/drum work. Lead singer gets a little too dark/goth and there is some useless noise that could be cut from a few tracks. Still though, I think it is not too bad for post-punk 80s debut from a bamd i have never heard of...2.7.
Steely Dan
4/5
What a debut album from these guys. So well done and skillful with the construction. Right out of the gate you get the complex master work "Do it Again" (listen the the Christian Hand breakdown) and then the softer, underrated "Dirty Work". Another underrated one is "Only a Fool." Side B is much weaker but does have another classic "Reelin in the Years." This one holds as their top album...3.9.
Paul Simon
3/5
Digging Simon post divorce from both his wife and bandmate. Have not been impressed by the duo and I am much more into this exploration. Although heartbroken, this album sounds pretty upbeat. Collabs with artists from a variety of genres and it works well. Why does Paul want to be called Al though? 3.2
Genesis
4/5
This is a very good (broadway) album. I am blown away. Only have listened to Genesis hits so had no idea what I was in for. After listening, I can see why this band is so highly regarded. The album takes you on a journey and it gets weird...but I'm into that. Gabriel flexes his poetic talents. Collins/Hackett/Rutherford show off their musical skills. Having an Eno guest appearance takes it to another level. I want to hear more 70s Genesis...3.7.
P.S. can we get a Genesis, Townsend, Kate Bush collab on a broadway musical!?
Van Morrison
3/5
So glad Van abandoned the styles of Astral Works and made this beauty. Much more upbeat and diverse. Title track is of course great (shout out to openmidz) but I say "Caravan" is my top track. "Into the Mystic" is also a lesser known great one. Woth 6 of 10 tracks hitting the mark...3.3.
Randy Newman
1/5
Newman coming right the gates with a basher on some rednecks. He must have got a free pass to use the N-word based on the song theme. Album is pretty weak other than the "Naked Man" tormenting an old lady...beware! Stick to the Disney soundtracks...1.2.
Jimmy Smith
1/5
So bored by this album. Jimmys improv style on the organ makes this one drawn out jazz jam sesh. How do they play these songs live the same each time? Just sounds like slapping a keyboard and honking a sax for 45 mins. Where's John Zorn when you need him? 1.0
Radiohead
3/5
*Review for Blues Breakers*
Now this is some pretty good white boy blues...JT should have taken notes for his Sweet Baby album. I prefer the instrumental tracks with solid guitar work from some heavy hitters. Clapton gonna show up a lot in the list I hink...may challenge even NY.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
3/5
I'm a little surprised to see this one make the list with all the other incredible albums by this group. This is not my fave and I don't think it stands out. I dont agree with the wiki. I don't think this album moves too far away from their style...like Pablo Honey (deserves list), they have softer acoutic tracks and It is not until OKC that they start experiment more with electronics and establish themselves as a unique band. High and Dry is top track on Bends by far plus (surprised Yorke hates it) a few other good ones. Still a good one from the band...2.8.
The Police
2/5
The police have a distinct sound that sets them apart. White reggae is a thing they created and it works most of the time. The 2 hits on this album shine but the rest falls short. Some tracks completely flop like the failed wierd al song On Any Other Day. Good bass throughout the album though. Probably their weakest album in my opinion and not sure why it makes the list. I would think their debut will if this does...2.4.
Butthole Surfers
3/5
Listened to this twice to get a better feel for it and i have come to the conclusion that the Butthole Surfers are def a sack of weirdos creating pure randomness. This is album is a sloppy, slappy, twisted heap of sound scrap. I'm in for the pure anarchy but would not play a single track on its own. O-Men had me cracking up. Also so prankster to start the 1st track off with a minute of silence to fuck with the listener. How many people messed with their stereos? Bet the Surfers laughed their asses off making this album. Shows they are truley a bunch of clowns (album cover?). Give them an ounce of credit for I'm sure they influenced Beck with their style/word play. HAY...I've heard worse noise from the list...2.75.
Nirvana
4/5
Saw this album pop on the list and was not at all surprised. Iconic and definitive 90s. I remember living on Charlotte Street and when Cobain was found dead it shocked the neighborhood and the world. Side A is untouchable. Side B lags a bit in comparison but just because Side A is so goddamn good. These guys were (some still) are a powerhouse band. To get a parady album cover and song from Weird Al says it all. The Beatles of grunge and more to come on the list for sure...4.3.
The Who
2/5
Not the best by The Who for sure but for its place in music history it deserves the list. Can't say I enjoyed the theatrical release of this album either but will need to watch again. Pinball Wizard will always hold as a top hit for the band and is the only real strong track here. Couple others like I'm Free and the final track help bring the rating up a bit...2.1.
Sex Pistols
3/5
This short lived band made a huge impact on the punk scene and the only album they out out with is the boiled down essence of British rebellion/chaos...even the recording of it. The band name and the band member names are also a tribute to the genre. Most songs do sound similar but they all have guts and grit. Anyone against the stuffy UK establishnent would have loved this when it came out. Records stores that refused to sell it for its offensive tone is pure bollocks and they can go suck a sex pistol...2.7.
Green Day
5/5
This album is a key one for me that I have been able to relate to throughout many stages of life. Welcome to Paradise when i moved off campus in New Brunswick holds a particular spot. The guitar bridge to final bars is phenomenal. The album was exactly what a 90s kid wanted. Short, simple tracks with sweet riffs and angsty lyrics that are great to sing along to. It got heavy amount of play in the Stevens' basement when it dropped. I have owned it on cassette, cd, vinyl, and will buy the digital brain implant when it is relaeased. Top tenner on my list of all timers...4.55.
Megadeth
3/5
Some good guitar/drum work on this album but it's too over the top with the dark/death theatrics. Some songs sounded like 2 separate songs put together when they would switch tempo halfway through. I prefer Metallica which has a similar sound...2.5.
Run-D.M.C.
2/5
Although the 80s breakin', scratchin', rappin' scene was cool, I never could get into the music. It's always comes off as hokie with pretty weak rhymes. I get that this is the early stages of the genre and MCs wanted it to be positive and approachable for all. Walk This Way was the 1st to bridge the rock/rap gap and that's why we see the album on the list. Tricky is another pretty good one but the cheeseyness takes over. They even make fsrt sounds while best boxing. Knew that Run-DMC would make the list and not the worst group in my opinion from 80s hip hop...1.9.
ZZ Top
3/5
ZZ Top before the beards is ok. La Grange being their best song and highlight here. They do have a working man sound that appeals to the blue collar boys. Simple bluesy rock that runs right down the middle...not bad, not great. They get better as the beard grow...2.5.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Couldn't tell if I was listening to a rock album or a soundtrack to a movie about the kid on the cover. Really abstract and dreamlike. Not sure what we got going on here really. Experimental? More than some of the other goth rock we've heard? Shadow of a Doubt was other tracks have solid instrumentals but I don't think the album stands out. It's pretty good but I need a Sonic Youth fan to explain why it makes the list...2.5.
Spiritualized
3/5
Another "soundtrack" album with epically long ensembles. I did feel like I was floating in space at times. "I think I'm In Love" has some great lyrics and the ego battle back and forth works well. Quite bold to have a "finale" in the middle of a song for 5 mins but I did want it to stop. Overly drawn out but the complexity and effort is apparent. Play this on the ISS...2.55.
Stan Getz
1/5
What a snoozer. The entire band/sound engineer team must have been half passed out in hammocks or bean bag chairs while recording this album. I recognized "Girl from Ipanema" which is alright. Not going back to bossa nova samba jazz anytime soon unless I'm having trouble sleeping...Buenos Noches Senior Getz...0.8.
The Velvet Underground
1/5
Maybe this album has major influence for being a slap in the face to to the scene but like Andy Warhol art for me...you can keep it buried. Original hipster music that is just sprawled out like a lazy stoner but cool cause it's not trying to be music. It's just thing now man. Does this band get better with Lou Reed...I hope? With a finisher like "European Son"...1.3.
Guns N' Roses
2/5
Three bangers and a bunch of hair band screeching with guitars a Slash-ing. Not being a fan of GnR, not as bad as I expected. Still don't get the huge following but decent debut. I will give AXL Rose some clever points for the BJ scramble...on par with Mr. Mojo Risen...2.2.
2Pac
2/5
2Pac is no doubt one of the best hip hop artists of the 90s but I'm East Coast 4 life. I'll give this album the credit it deserves for the the artistic expression and poetic nature. It's not your typical hard hitting gangster rap (which I do prefer). I like 2Pac's party hits way more and this album has none. "Old School" was best track. The album makes the list cause who doesn't have a soft spot for a thug who loves his mama? Give me the CA lovin Pac over the sentimental one any day...2.1.
Blur
3/5
Since I messed up and missed reviewing the previous title Blur album...I'm doing both here. Revisited Blur album right after Parklife so a different take than my original listen.
Parkview:
Solid album from Albarn and the team. Good alternative brit rock with some punk and multiple instruments thrown in to spice it up. I liked that they put some random instrumental shorties in that gave the album a carnival feel. I'm not blown away but this can play in most situations...2.7.
Blur:
Another good brit alternative album with again some punky tracks thrown in. A little darker and more electronic exploration from Albarn. Song 2 (best Blur) was a massive hit and rightfully so. Still gets you amped to this day when it comes on. I also really like "Death at Party”. Some tracks are stronger than any on Parklife but also more skippable ones. Gets a slight edge for Song 2...2.75.
Barry Adamson
3/5
Not sure why all these "soundtrack" albums are making the list. Moss Side Story is not bad and Barry can bring the suspense. I could visualize some of the scenes based on the track titles and I'd like to read the story that accompanied the album to get a better feel. Last track is best by far. I would rearrange the layout though as it doesn't seem chronological...2.6.
The Strokes
4/5
Like Franz Ferdinands debut...another stellar indie rocker. It's hard not to like them with their simple, catchy tunes. Julian Casablancas is not to be brushed aside as cookie cutter. I want to think he is just a spoiled rich kid whose Daddy paid his way to stardom all the while knee deep in Elite Model Management poon. But no...with other projects like The Voidz...dude is a stud. And Albert Hammond Jr is also top notch. I never gave them much thought when The Strokes came out but the more I listen to them, the more I'm in. Great debut...3.7.
MGMT
3/5
Not bad for a pair from CT. Never been into their music but the album is decent. They do have their own style with some good electrobeats mixes. It just doesn't strike a chord with me overall. I like the non-radio tracks like "Weekend Wars" better than the hits that just got too played out. I want to see a where are they now of the kid from the "Kids" music video...2.65.
Roni Size
2/5
Another loooong drum and bass electronica album. I'm just not into this style...so repetitive."Watching Windows" broke the monotony and is best track. I did like it a little more than the Goldie album though. Maybe throw this on when you feel like spazzing out...1.8.
The Prodigy
4/5
Now we are getting to the good 90s electronica. The Prodigy is one of the techno powerhouses of the decade that got much radio play, MTV music videos, and sold out live shows. Although not their best album, "Fat of the Land" put them on the map. 3 of their hits are featured with solid supporting tracks. It lulls a bit in the middle but the fire is started back up at the end. I like their use of guitar and hip-hop influences. They built off their trip-hop fore fathers like Massive Attack but spiced it up. Crabs give me the creeps but the music is snappy...3.6.
John Lennon
2/5
Damn it Yoko...you broke up one of the greatest bands of all time and this is what happens. You get a lack luster solo Lennon album. It's not terrible but I was bored. I picture Lennon laying these tracks down while swigging a bottle of whiskey and kicking his dog. He's disgruntled. I accidentally listened to the ultimate mix on Spotify that had "Give Peace a Chance", "Cold Turkey", and " Instant Karma" as the last 3 tracks and I thought...here we go finally some good stuff. Come to find out those songs aren't even on the original album. I expected more I guess. Lennon can do better than this flopper. I DO believe in the Beatles...2.1.
Amy Winehouse
3/5
I like the throwback 60s style incorporation with current R&B. Amy's got an authenticity in her voice, you can feel her trials and tribulations on this album. I would have liked to have seen her try a Bond intro. Very short lived talent, too bad she hit the bottle so hard...2.55.
Marvin Gaye
2/5
How did the album get ranked #1 on some greatest album of time lists? If it was greatest soul...maybe, I guess. I didn't realize the Vietnam vet narrative so I went back and relistened. It is slightly better but still too much slow, gospelly rambling. "Save the Children" annoys me. "God is Love" annoys me. "Right On" brings a little chill mood and good message but too long. "Mercy Mercy" is the only song that stands out for me (maybe cause of the CH breakdown). Really thought I would like this more but not so much...2.0.
Terence Trent D'Arby
3/5
So Terence Trent D'Arby died in the early 2000s and was reborn Sananda Maitreya. Could tell by the album this guy is a bit "meta world peace." Vaguely recognized a few tracks even with "Wishing Well" and "Sign Your Name" bests. Rename "As Yet Untitled" to "Skip Me" and you have a decent album...2.8.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
When Led Zeppelin hit the music scene it must have set the world ablaze like the Hindenburg. The band was a combination of guys who had mastered their craft but also where just having a blast. This album shows their bluesy hard rock direction and also includes a softer guitar track by Page. Versatility and skill abound. No other band was hitting it as hard as this at the time and once arrived, they were not going anywhere for a while...4.2.
Brian Eno
1/5
If this was playing at the airport while I was waiting for my flight...I would have passed out. The man is known to be experimental and developed this genre but it was so slow and boring I was almost begging for some Bill Evans Trio or John Zorn. More like Ambien x10:Music for Insomniacs...zzzzzz...0.2.
The Kinks
2/5
Not really getting why such lofty praise for this one. Seems a bit juvenile and unpolished. The Kinks are a simple band I know but this felt oversimplified...like they were just laying down whatever nostalgic thing came to mind about their town. The band was influential for sure so I'm prepared for other albums to make the list. This one did not do well upon release so maybe need to listen to it more...2.0.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
2/5
Not familiar with 95% of this album. Not bad but it sounded much the same throughout. You get the struggles of the starving poor and run-ins with the law that I'm sure Bob experienced firsthand. I mostly will stick with the hits but I'm sure this album deserves the list. I'll check out the One Love movie too...2.35.
Michael Kiwanuka
3/5
Good sound from Mr. K. There are a very select few religious artists I can get behind because the music is just good and the message doesn't get too bogged down in prayer. Great example here. Good mix with nice arrangements. The album started very strong but did slow down and fade off by the end. List did provide something I never would have found and I enjoyed...3.15.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
Nick Cave does his thing and I'm kinda into it but also not so much. I can't decide completely where I stand. This album was a little softer than Henry's Dream but similar with the storytelling style. Disc 1 better than 2 with title tracks topping the bill. If I came across a Bad Seeds album under 5 bucks...I'd pick it up. This one comes in slightly lower than Henry at 2.75.
Pink Floyd
4/5
One of the top Pink Floyd albums (post Syd). Little long on the shiny diamonds but a stellar album start to finish. I have always loved "Welcome to the Machine" with its slow mechanical burn. "Have a Cigar" is a fun one with more jabs at the music industry. Title track is the topper...flawless, emotional, and everyone knows every word. Cover art is cool enough to have up on my display shelf...probably some more symbolism of industry deals and lies. Glad to finally see some Floyd on the list...4.25.
Johnny Cash
2/5
I'm not one for old cowboy music but some simple story telling and banter make this an entertaining show, especially if you are stuck and prison and don't got much to do. Cash brings the attitude and probably pissed off the warden a bit. Interesting idea to do a prison tour...guess Cash had a soft spot having served time himself. Glad this was a shortie...1.7.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Always loved CCRs sound but never owned any albums or really delved in. Great bluesy, folkie, rock with some grunginess. Always sounds authentic. This album has my favorite song "Born on the Bayou" and one other good one "Proud Mary". A few other decent ones and a couple too long. Not a bad showing for a bunch from the swamp...2.9.
Suede
2/5
A slow burner. Not half bad but most of the album is too drawn out and boring. I hear the Bowie and Smiths influence for sure. Had to read up on the album title meaning and it's fitting for a singer who saw this as a growth project. May check out another song or 2 by the band but won't be purposely playing this album again...1.65.
Gorillaz
4/5
With his musical ingenuity, Albarn created a phenomenon even better than Blur. Gorillaz was perfect for the online world and this debut album went viral (deservedly so). Albarn set out to expand his electronica talents, added some hip-hop and even got a little multi-cultural, cementing this release in music history. Not a bad song on the album with the lesser known "Latin Simone" and "M1A1" my top tracks. Albarn/Gorillaz have not slowed down since their debut, still pumping out solid work. What's up with you my brother?...must be from another planet to keep up producing such good tunes...3.7.
Brian Eno
3/5
What do you get when team up two musical genius weirdos? A collaboration of kings that produces a genius weirdo album. Started off worried with the 1st two tracks but it picked up and by the end I felt like I had been on a wild adventure through an electro-jungle. I expected more singing from Byrne, maybe he was doing all the ghosty triballing? Some classic old school electronica that paved the way. I'll take some more Drian Beno from the list please...3.4.
Pixies
3/5
Another good one from Pixies and little better than "Bossanova". I am starting to see why they influenced modern Indy rock. They have a grungy sound and explore with their instruments without getting to complex on production..final track "Gouge Away" was my fave with a few other popular ones. I'm thinking they get at least one more on the list...3.0.
Beatles
2/5
I understand that this is an early Beatles album but why on the list? We gonna get all their albums? I think their debut deserves the list but this was mediocre and had too many covers. "All My Lovin'" is the only original track that stood out. When people tell me they aren't a Beatles fan it's because of the early albums like this one. Someone from the era tell me why this is a must listen...1.78.
Eminem
4/5
When "My Name Is" came out I thought Eminem was a doing a parody on rap. It was pretty good but I couldn't take it seriously. Once I heard more songs like "Guilty Conscience" and "Rock Bottom" I started to recognize the skill and knew we had a one-of-a-kind MC here. I bought the MM LP 1st and later went back and got SS. Amazing he cranked out the duo in just over a year. This album has a lot of great ones that didn't get as much play on the radio. "Still Don't Give a Fuck" being my fave that sums up the album and his EMinence perfectly...3.95.
Aerosmith
2/5
Like all Aerosmith albums this one is another 2fer. Came out swinging with first 2 tracks and then it was meh from them on out. I can see how this album had some influence because they do venture into hair band, grunge, and hard rock. I think the band has done a great job at staying relevant throughout the decades but you really can fit all their good songs on 1 greatest hits album (prob why openmindz owned it). Aerosmith Rocks (sometimes)...2.15.
Grateful Dead
2/5
I can see myself in the 60s, at a Dead concert sprawled out on a blanket smoking weed and drinking beer. If I'm not in that exact scene though, I'm not that into it. The band doesn't really make separate songs...they just jam. It's impossible to have the same concert repeated by these guys cause the songs are sooooo long and improved. Probably why Dead Heads would travel with them and get a different show every time. When they start playing "Feedback", that's your cue to leave. Knew they would get an album on the list for shear fan following...1.75.
Radiohead
4/5
Radiohead continues with their unique sound on Kid A, slowing it down a bit more but still hitting you with emotion.Very somber and relaxing. Not as strong as OK Computer for sure. "Idioteque" tops the tracks but I also love "National Anthem" and "Morning Bell". Yorke spend some time in Boston? Hey Thom..."where'd ya pahk the cah?". 3.65.
Elvis Presley
1/5
You can tell on this album that young Elvis is still honing his sound. There are some moments where Buddy Love slips away and Julius Kelp starts to wear through. It's some dated work but for it to be the 1st rock album to ever chart...deserves the list. The album cover has been copied several times by others for it's importance in music history. Certainly an icon and would have liked to see the impact Presley had on everyone and everything 1st hand...1.35.
Def Leppard
2/5
Some more bad hair band. Mutt Lang German count in on "Rock of Ages" gets this album on the list but little else. Not enough air guitar. This is a genre I can't ever say is good but I can make fun of it and (fake) rock out to it. How a bunch of dudes dressed as women playing half ass music can get popular is beyond. Guess all you need is a bit of shred, long hair, screech, and sexual innuendos for days."You got me coming.................under fire"...1.6.
Sleater-Kinney
1/5
First all girl band album to make the list? Probably the only reason why too. I did not dig this. The lead's voice was super annoying and the instrumentals were amateur at best. Very skippable album from a music standpoint but maybe had an impact on young, female, aspiring rockers. Glad it was a quick one...let's press on...1.3.
Elastica
3/5
Did not know this band but certainly recognized "Connection". A great song that I always thought was The Pretenders or 10,000 Maniacs. A one hit wonder band? Not if you ever listened to this whole album. I thought the rest was good too. Lead sounded like Chrissie Hynde with a little more punk vibe. I like that the band went in multiple directions which kept it fresh. Good guitar work and song timing. They got a little abstract on "2:1" but it worked. All in all a hidden gem that I never would have found without the list...3.4.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
A bit long...could have trimmed it down to 1 disc and would have been better. The album does have some iconic songs like "Kashmir" and Houses of the Holy." The boys cover some ground with multiple music genres and lay down some jammers but this album (and the band's work to follow) starts their fade out. I will not be disappointed if the list has all their albums as the complete Zep catalog is a must listen before you die...4.0.
The Pogues
3/5
Saw the album cover and title and thought oh no...this is gonna be a rough one. Totally not! This was kick ass. I did not expect an Irish drinking album. The genre is known to be repetitive but I think The Pogues covered some ground here and explored. Lead singer looks like the biggest goober but on the mic he has bollocks. "Bottle of Smoke" being my favourite track but while album was good. There is a classic Xmas song that will get play annually and I think I even heard some Bond Theme? For pure surprise and fun...3.45.
Pearl Jam
4/5
Good god '91 was amazing year for music (Nevermind a month later!). This album is another iconic one of the decade and ranks of one of the greatest of all time. Side A is stronger than Side B but there really is not a bad song throughout. Practically a greatest hits album. "Jeremy" topping for major impact it had and it being the most put together, story teller with Vedder at his pinnacle performance. The band certainly made the right move in having him audition. His voice is so strong it outdoes the background and acts as its own instrument. No need for shredding guitar solos...Eddie slays. The album even has intro/outro "secret" tracks that perfectly box it up into an epic, musical timescape. This one will be on lists forever...they do know Ten has 11 tracks though right?...4.3.
Soft Cell
4/5
This album is wild and def has a creep factor but the duo is so kinky-weird it works. I liked this a lot more than expected. These guys must have sleazed around many a disco dolly club, porno peep-show, and the sex cabaret scene to get in the mood to write this. They dove dick 1st into the underbelly of the party culture and spoke to the love/hate relationship they had with it. "Sex Dwarf" was a treat in itself and although cringeworthy, I will have to play it again. Never knew "Tainted Love" was a cover and actually drops its rank a bit. The album deserves the list for its sheer perversity (although not nearly as bad as some today). I even bet the 1st pressing of the LP was on some lubed up vinyl suit they wore during a weekend freak off...3.6.
Beyoncé
1/5
Nah...I don't get it. All for women empowering themselves but Beyonce ain't the first to take the sexual power back. Can't say I liked a single song on the album. Half of it is her just fucking Jay-Z. The rest of the subject matter isn't that inventive either. Poor you being pretty and talented...boring. And please stick to singing cause her rapping is weak as hell. Why this album is ranked on any list is Beyondce me...0.7.
Norah Jones
1/5
I could not engage with this album at all. Too soft and boring. This may play well at a coffee shop or Barnes & Nobles. Not a must listen in my opinion. Standard bland 1 star...
Nina Simone
1/5
I have heard the name many times and finally got a listen. Nina has a voice that is hard to tell if it's feminine or masculine. I did not particularly like this album but I guess for its simplicity it sits somewhere in music history? The fact that it is a compilation of previously unreleased songs means it could have remained an unreleased album and I would be fine with that. Makes me think Simone must have other albums on the list just cause I know she's known in the biz. His album though...1.2.
Destiny's Child
1/5
This must be on the list purely for the popularity at the time and the release of "Charlie's Angels" theatrical reboot. Only the 1st 3 tracks are decent and recognizable from radio play. The rest is lame R&B (Regrettable&Boring) complete with stereotypical slow song featuring star sprinkles and preachy prayer finisher. Everything about the group is overrated including the solo projects by members. Can't wait to get out of this list slump...1.3.
The Style Council
1/5
What is this? Why is this? Weller trying out every genre from bad lounge to jazz to actually rapping? It's mediocre at best...like he read music for idiots and followed the formulas. Am I missing something here? I did like the last track "Council Meetin" for the beat but I think he even copied that from "Were an American Band?" Even the band name is lame and trying to sound too cool. This is an album Patrick Bateman would eagerly explain every nuance to each song before burying an axe in your skull (thankfully). Still better than Beyonce. Drop mic...I'm out...1.45.
Peter Gabriel
2/5
Pete likes to get weird and write some abstract shit but I'm just not that into this phase in his career. It's kinda boring. The political stance he takes may be why this album gets on the list? "Game without Frontiers" is a decent track but little else grabbed me. I'm looking forward to his later work that should make the list...1.65.
Miles Davis
2/5
For a jazz album I guess it's pretty cool. Better than the slow stuff. Some good back up drums and piano. Miles is an icon that I never listened too...jazz not being my fave and way before my time. I can't really appreciate it for these reasons so I would not be able to argue his place on history. Better than some of the newer stink bomb albums recently on the list...2.13.
B.B. King
2/5
This live performance album proves why BB is the King of blues. Solid guitar work. Heart and soul in the vocals. The back up band is a little too jazzy here and there though. Always will see BB as the old fat guy with a guitar in his lap so it is hard to picture him in the 60s with so many screaming ladies in the crowd. I'm not a huge blues fan but it seems to be a genre people go to as they age. I'm getting up there so I may have some of his albums in my collection one day. For now this album gets a 2.15 but check back in 20 years.
The Monks
4/5
Now we are getting into some deep list stuff. Never heard of The Monks before but wish I had. This album is great fun with playful songs that don't get too cheesy. The band is on the strange side, especially the lead Burger. They sound like a mix of a bunch of bands from the 60s like Kinks, Byrds, Hollies, Doors. I'm into their sound...good use of organ and sprinkling of other instruments. I'm a monk, you're a monk, were all monks...3.55.
Ghostface Killah
3/5
Of the Wu-Tang crew, Ghost face is my least fave. That being said, he's still good and shows you the power of the Wu (expect a lister). When GK is amped up his flow sounds too strained, like he's on the brink of throwing a tantrum. I prefer when he slows it down so you can hear the skill. A lot of the album is typical gang-banging but there are also some tracks with deeper meaning, fun skits, great production, and collabs. My fave is the "Bad Mouth Kid" to "Whip You With a Strap" combo. All I all the Killahs killin' it...3.35.
Gillian Welch
2/5
This is a good, slow and soft album. Not my cup of whiskey usually but for a drive in to work it fit well. It's like the country-folk version of Joni Mitchell Blue but wahaaay better. I know of Rawlings who collabed on this but never heard of Welch prior. I would put this on again by a nice late night bon fire or try and catch at a local pub. Surprised me with a 2.3 star rating.
2/5
An overrated band and album; however, still very listenable. Has the hits, which are good, with "Wonderwall" easily taking the top bill. Oasis made the leap to stardom with this album and set themselves up as the slacker Brit-rock Bros of the 90s which def appealed to the generation. I never was overly impressed and still not. Noel kept up the d-bag persona and just brought the team down over the years. Maybe deserves the list and certainly better than many others that have made it...2.45.
Willie Nelson
2/5
Everyone has heard of Willie and I had yet to hear a song of his. Took 18 albums for him to get on the map and this one landed right in the heart of Texas. It's got some old country cowboy tunes that would work in any saloon. A lot of shorties (thankfully). It's better than some others from the genre on the for sure but this is from the 70s. I bet his earlier albums get pretty honky. I don't think I will ever be that into country music. Just not my can a beans...1.6.
Sepultura
2/5
Not sure how this demon squad got 2 albums on the list. More of the same from Sepultura...heavy death metal with some good guitar/drum work and semi-incoherent lyrics. Not as good as Roots but earlier in their development. I need a metal-buff to give me the significance of this band in music history. I'm not really getting it although still not as bad as Beyonce...2.
Pere Ubu
3/5
Well, this was an album out of left field. A bit noisy, a bit strange, a bit out of tune but wow, what a trip. I did not know what to expect from this but based on the band name and the Spotify pic...I thought I was getting some boring foreign instrumentals. Right off the bat I was surprised and annoyed by the ear piercing feed back but the album got wild and out there and I was all for it. Lead singer sounds like another artist I can't put my finger on (Gary Glitter?). Got some sax appearance that sounded like it was either John Zorn or John Estrella. Didn't think a band could influence the Butthole Surfers but Pere Ubu must have. This prob makes Mom's top (bottom) album from the list-list. For me it's getting a 3.47 and I will be exploring more from these guys.
Bebel Gilberto
1/5
Pretty boring album. I can't point out any reason this is a must listen before you die. I don't think I will even remember this one when I complete the full list. Maybe the producer dying from trying to save the album from a studio fire gets you something but should have let it burn...0.8.
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
This album is certainly Fleetwood at their peak. A great follow up to the title album. Throw a bunch of drugs and relationship issues in the mix and you get some good music. Could drop the 2 slow tracks "Songbird" and "Oh Daddy" to make it even stronger. Knew it would make the list and deservedly so...3.6.
Alanis Morissette
4/5
What a great album that gets better with each listen. Huge when it dropped and although the older crowd didn't except it as much, complaining she was too whiney, it stuck with us 90s kids. You have to listen to the softer tracks like "Perfect" and "Mary Jane" to realise she does have a good voice. Stacked with the hits that may be a bit poppy and super catchy but the production and message is undeniably good. This album will age like a fine wine along with the listener as you experience more of life and can relate to it better. Blown away she was only 21 when she wrote it...4.15.
Funkadelic
2/5
We all know George is a funky dude and this album brings some old school to the turn-table. The tunes are pretty good for background but I can't stay I grooved that much. The guitar jams are not that engaging. Final track was best but long. The album cover shows is best thing about the album and shows up as an icon of the era consistently. Overall not a bad listen but I look forward to some later George with the Parliament to make the list...2.
Johnny Cash
2/5
Although I am not a fan of his music...Johnny Cash has swagger no doubt. This album makes the list purely for the fact it was his 1st prison concert and I get it...no one was doing that. Why have some of his follow up prison concert albums made the list though? This one has some staple Cash tracks and banter. "Dirty Old Egg-Sucking Dog" was a bit weird. Not sure he really kicked his drug habit though. Sounded like he was battling the Cocaine Blues drip and needed a glass of water and with about 5 mins to go, he flubbed the timing. Ranking it slightly better than San Quinten for being the 1st of his prison tour...1.75.
Dirty Projectors
2/5
This album is so hipster it hurts. Some of it is nice sounding but the off tempo structure of most songs plus the lead's vocals are annoying. "Useful Chamber" and the violins on the closing track are good but the band just tries too hard to be unique. A little shout out to Temecula was a surprise. Must listen before you die album? Orca please...2.1.
Willie Nelson
1/5
An album chock full over pop covers sung by a stoner country guy is not what I would expect on the list. How this became such a chart topping, award winning, quadruple platinum album is insane. Too many old fogies buying this snooze fest? No more Willie please...1.1.
Electric Light Orchestra
3/5
ELO is such a great band and although I'm against it as a collector, you can get by with just their greatest hits album. Def a few on here and some lesser known good ones like "Standing in the Rain" and "Birmingham Blues" but also a bunch of filler. "Jungle" did come out of the blue and I liked it. Felt like a journey through the star system at times and you can feel the electric light coming from the orchestra. Gotta give Jeff Lynne credit for coming up with such a complex rock band. I'm in for more from ELO if the list provides...2.85.
Sade
4/5
Great debut album. Sade is so smooth and the band operates with like a well-oiled sophista-jazz machine. Would like to know which other 6 songs they cut for this album cause the ones that made it are all good. Nothing beats this if you want a nice romantic evening with your sig-O. You start out with this and then throw on a little Marvin "Let's Get it on" and you know where it leads...3.55
Skepta
2/5
Not sure what we got going here.There was potential for something better but long ending skits on some tracks and weak production brought the whole thing down. Skepta is not terrible but he must have collabed with so many other shitty rappers on this album to make himself seem better, especially with Pharrell Williams, cause "Numbers" was the worst. I like "Corn on the Curb" and "That's Not Me" a bit. Some ok grimey limey rap...1.85.
Duke Ellington
1/5
Can't say I enjoyed the album that much but 'Ol Dookie and his band play pretty well together and have a blast doing it. You can hear it on "Diminuendo in Blues" or is that the crowd? Really didn't like that at the end of songs the horn players were trying to hit the highest note and make their instruments sound like a shrieking fan-girl. Tell her to shut the f up please. And why are do many songs have Blues in the title...isn't this jazz? Had to be there live for this one I guess...1.25.
Stevie Wonder
2/5
A little more funk from the wonder boy here playing around with the synth. "Higher Ground" I knew and was too track. Was Stevie on the can while singing the 2nd half of "Life in the City?" I liked this album better than the others by Wonder on the list but please, no more...2.1.
Keith Jarrett
1/5
Part I - pretty good with a lot of key tickling. Jarrett def enjoyed playing this section...maybe a little too much at times.
Part II A&B - much more mellow. I was not into this lull in the performance.
Part II C - a finisher blend that picked it up again for a brief moment and then faded out.
Man has talent on the piano and it made for a peaceful commute to work. Traffic wasn't as aggravating...1.3.
Billie Holiday
1/5
Good god I'm done with the 50s. No more please. It's such a slow and boring era for music. Was everyone just too boozed up on breakfast, at work, and after work martini hour to pay attention? Was there a different song on this album? Swear it was on groundhog day loop. I did not care for Holiday's voice waggle at all. Done...out...please make it stop before I fall asleep at the wheel or my desk...0.7.
John Martyn
3/5
Solid Air is a Solid Album. Martyn got me with his smooth folky tunes. Folk is not certainly not my go to but this album added some funk and blues to the style that I appreciated. "Over the Hill" is top and has been added to my playlist. I liked this enough to check the alternate versions and those are even good (some better). I think it's nice the title track was dedicated to a friend of his that passed but it was actually my least favourite. If I'm in the mood for some chill music... I'd throw this album back on...2.85.
Ute Lemper
1/5
Punishing album. Thought it would be good based on the credits but it was way too up its own butt. Too many cooks in the kitchen I guess. First track is bizarre and makes sense that Nick Cave helped write it. Hated the ones featuring Hannon. The whole thing is like bad theater. Kate Bush does it better...0.75.
Sigur Rós
1/5
A nice enough album that I'm glad I heard, I guess, but I'm good with just this once through from the band. No need to revisit or delve further. Sounded a bit like a very slowed down Icelandic Enya/Radiohead. It moved with the speed of a glacier. Could be a better, shorter album if they cut half the dead space. Cover got a cool baby alien angel though...1.2.
Beck
5/5
Was a little surprised to see this album make the list considering the other massive works by Beck but I'm not the least bit mad about it. Guero is another showcase of the range and talent Beck has with music. He brings in so many genres (folk, electronics, classical, hip-hop) and mixes them flawlessly. No one does it better (only artist that comes close is prob Damon Albarn). A few hits on here and some lesser known great like "Missing" and "Scarecrow." Not a bad track on the whole thing. The more I listen to the is album, the higher it ranks. More Beck to come and all I can say is "Hell Yes"...4.55.
David Bowie
2/5
Never heard of this album. Not sure it's a must listen but it wasn't too bad. I hadn't ventured out of the early Bowie years so it was nice to see he didn't be stray very far from his roots. A little over produced as I am more a fan his simpler, grungier work. "I'd Rather be High" was top track with a few other supporters. Makes the list I think more for being so secret and released after the health scare...2.1.
Beck
2/5
I'm not a big fan of the (sea) change for Beck on this album...but only because it is so far removed from his norm which I love so much. The album is good for what its going for though...a broken hearted, ballad heavy epic. "Already Dead" was best track but I just wasn't sad enough at the time while listening. I do love that this Loser (baby) from the 90s can produce a raw, emotional album and blow critics away...Beck is just a music genius. Another album I would hope to never have to play again cause I'm up the junction. Better live at the Hollywood Bowl with full orchestra...solid 2.
Nas
4/5
Nasty Nas k-ills it with this debut album. This is hip-hop boiled down to its essence but with added complexity. The beats are raw and the lyrical content is smart. Nas' flow twists through rhyming schemes that come together flawlessly. This album cracked the code and the balance is almost unrivaled. Nas is one of the top wordsmith masters of all-time and on this album It Ain't Hard to Tell...3.75.
Beatles
4/5
Abbey Road is deserving of the list for its song content and iconic cover. Ranks on the lower end for my top Beatles albums but still a good one. Some of the corny songs like Maxwell and Octopus I could do without. I do however like the little run through at the end with the shorties. Cut "Her Majesty" and make the last song " The End." More better ones to come from the fab five...3.5.
David Bowie
2/5
I listened to this album when it came out and was not super impressed but it's late Bowie and tough to hold up against the classics. It's not terrible, with a few ok tracks and a few bad tracks. The opener is not good...Dracula Bowie pining over a hooker does not bode well. Too track was "Girl Loves Me" with Bowie channeling his inner Gabriel and a pretty follower "Dollar Days." Another one making the list based purely on the timing and secretive recording. You can def sense the experience of his inevitable demise...2.0.
James Brown
2/5
Another live one from the list. I don't think these should count since they are really compilations of hits. Maybe there should be a list of 1001 live shows you should have been at. As for JB, does get down a bit here but hadn't really busted it out yet. The Apollo is a famous joint but I bet better shows have passed through. Really confused as to why this album made Christgau's top albums of the 70s when the concert/album release was in the 62/63. Screaming girls, alright back up band, and a few owws from the GF of soul put this one at 1.63.
Adam & The Ants
2/5
This is a flyover album for me. Not a lot of reaction other than...yeah it's a bit weird and not the worst. Songs are a pretty weak and juvenile. Like something I would sing into a Talkboy just messing around as kids. "Don't be Square " top track, "Jolly Roger" bottom. A little Bowie influence on the lead singer I'd say. Should have come up with an alter ego band like Ziggy called Eve and the Uncles...1.9.
Wild Beasts
3/5
I enjoyed this more than I should I think have. Really liked the back up band music...little math rock sound. Vocals got a little over dramatic at times. Never heard of this band and didn't realize it was as recent an album until I checked Global summary. Will throw on again and liked it all enough for a solid 3 star.
Arctic Monkeys
5/5
I was working my 1st job out of college and living off campus at Rutgers with a bunch of hooligans like myself when I discovered the Arctic Monkeys and what a perfect band for that moment. I spent half my time in the office trolling the pirate download sites for new and intriguing music and when I stumbled upon the fan released AM content I was instantly hooked. I immediately spread the word with my housemates and we became diehards. Many an epic night blasting the monks and several tracks became our theme songs that we could very much relate to. This debut album is so technically sound but also has grit. Alex def has a chip on his shoulder for USA but he's not wrong with "Certain Romance" or "Fake Tales" (both bangers). This is one of, if not, my top Indy rock albums of all time...4.5.
Iggy Pop
3/5
Have heard Iggy is a major rock legend and but never really gave a listen. Always thought he was just some strung out, shirtless weirdo but this album is quite good and I can see why it has influenced many Indy rock bands today. A lot of the tracks would fit right in amongst other alt-rock radio station hits from the past few decades. Holds up very well. Bowie and Ziggy certainly built their stage presence and styles together. The album cover is deceptive for what you get here as Iggy is far from a good boy...3.35.
The Stooges
3/5
What a bunch of stooges just having some fun. 75% of this album is good...the other 25 is a raucous racket. I can understand the influence Iggy and his stooges had on future punk rock. Great guitar and drums from the Asheton Bros and Ig is a weird force on the stage. I know bands like to push the boundaries of what is considered music but cut the last song.and you got a better album...2.8.
Echo And The Bunnymen
2/5
Good to finally put an album and song (The Killing Moon) to a band that frequently pops up in movies, trivia, other band's songs, pop culture, the kitchen table, you name it. I have heard of these guys for decades and never took a listen but always wondered why they are so referenced. This album was pretty good with orchestral additions to standard 80s new age. Again I didn't like the title track so much which is a theme for the list for me. All in all a good one one but not s great one...2.45.
Heaven 17
3/5
I can't say a lot about this album and not sure it's a must listen but I did like it. A bit of a Gary Newman sound from this Krafty crew. Nothing ground breaking but "I'm Your Money" is a good one. Another one is expect Uncle Rick to have in his collection. Intrigued enough to check out their second album...2.9.
R.E.M.
3/5
Very nice, slightly softer side of R.E.M. on this album. 2 hits and the rest good support. Not a bad track here and just solid all around. Love to see that JPJ provided string arrangements which unsurprisingly enhanced the project. Stipe got a knack for producing a unique sound that has carried through the decades as his own and continues to age nicely...3.4.
The Cure
1/5
I have liked their other entries on the list and think they deserved a spot but this album is a total skipper from the Cure for me. Slow and lacked substance. The album cover sums it up and as I looked out my office window on this foggy day I felt bored and melancholic. Maybe that was goal for the album as he band is the epitome of goth boy depression. Not a must listen, more of a must have caffeine after listening...0.9.
The Coral
2/5
Somewhat good but somewhat annoying at times. The Coral is a weird combo of folkie cowboy sound with rockabilly and alternative. It's interesting but not that engaging. I like the lead but don't agree with the Skelley-Morrison comparison even remotely. Can't see how this made the list but wasn't a waste of time...1.9.
Tim Buckley
3/5
Is this the same Buckley from "Goodbye and Hello?!" Timmy boy moved to L.A. and finally got laid (by some big, black women apparently) and man did his music improve. He brought the funk and energy but what a little horn dog. I grooved to this and even liked the slower "Hong Kong Bar" track. Got a little too kinky with the toe lickin and monkey rubbin but I give this album a 2.65 for the solid "Nightcawckin."
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
Cover sums this album up...kinda boring, Actually. I think Softcell did the 80s electro synth way better and this sounded like a watered down version. Sounded like 2 guys in their parents basement with a Casio. The PS boys will make the list for the debut I'm sure and I hope it's better then this...1.64.
Foo Fighters
3/5
In the wake of Cobain's death, Nirvana and the world were reeling. I did not know the full back story for this debut from the Foo but the fact that Grohl recorded this solo soon after is quite an achievement for a drummer. He is a multi talented musician and although this is not his strongest work I commend this effort. Take it for what it is and for a quick recording project, passed around amongst friends on cassette, gives is more meaning and def kicked off DG as his own force to be reckoned with. "Big Me" top track. Despite recent media negativity for some poor relationship choices, Dave is a good dude and I give this album gets a 2.8.
George Harrison
2/5
A lot of content here from the quiet Beatle. Not all of it was needed and like a lot of the lengthy albums on the list...could have been trimmed. Harrison is quite good on guitar though and has always been the deeper one of the fab five which is noticeable in many of the tracks. I recognized a few but preferred the lesser known jams at the end. Certainly came "Out of the Blue" so "Thanks for the Pepperoni" George but I'm more of a plain slicer guy...2.3.
Kraftwerk
3/5
Not surprised to see this Dusseldorf duo pop up on the list. Great electrobeat album for the time and they paved the way for future electronic music. Title track is actually one of the tops and maybe got more famous after the Planet Rock sample. While the songs may get a little repetitive, they are unique and make for a perfect work out soundtrack, reps for days and keeping the pace. Some Krafty Werk from the krauty krew...3.1.
The Young Rascals
2/5
A very digestible 34 min album. Nothing great but nothing to complain about either. Although this album doesn't feature the top track "Good Loving" by these young rascals, it does have a few good tunes, "Groovin" being the next big hit. Not much praise or slam from me here...2.0.
Buzzcocks
3/5
Some pretty good gutter punk to start the first half of the album off. By "Fiction Romance" the cocks tighten it up and the 2nd half is better, more refined punk. Punk can sometimes be too repetitive and amateur sounding but this was a good snapshot of the early days in the genre and I was in for the whole thing. Less political and ill-tempered compared to other punk acts like the Sex Pistols...a good debut...2.7.
Arcade Fire
2/5
Makes sense this was recorded in a church. I'm glad it wasn't too gospelly. Never was huge into Arcade Fire even though they were huge in 2000s. Are they worthy of the list? Maybe but I'm not sure this album is. I suspect their debut will make it and I think that will be too many from the band. Neon Bible is not bad but only song that stood out was "No Cars Go" which I had heard before. Best track on the album although I didn't really like the harmony choice with 2 leads. One time listen for me...2.15.
Bob Dylan
2/5
Sounds like Dylan was freewheelin as a hobo down the tracks on this album. The simple folkie tunes combo with harmonica and lyrics of struggles made me think of a rogue tramp hopping railcars and eating baked beans from a can. A lot of the same formula that made it tough to distinguish songs. Dylan can write and he gets better with age. This was a little weak and silly at times...1.8.
DJ Shadow
3/5
DJ shadow was/is a pioneer in cut work no doubt and I do enjoy a good sample track. This was a smooth, chill "instrumentals" album that does well as background. It was a little too slow and I do prefer some other cut chemists in the game more (i.e. RJD2, Coldcut, Lemon Jelly, The Avalanches...) but DJ Shadow has earned his place. "Organ Doner" got heavy play from a buddy of mine in college during many a Sunday smoke sesh. I give props to artists that can produce a full album built purely from samples even it doesn't seem original...it takes skill. Most of the time, these DJs do better when they collab with MC talent and I think this is the case for DJS but a solid 2.52 stars for endtroducing me to the project.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
Ok EBTG, you caught me off guard. Pretty good album but Thorn really makes it work. Without a lead woman on vocals, this would just be a mediocre techno album. Top track "Flipside" and was good enough to make my reoccurring playlist. I enjoyed this more than Massive Attack's and Tricky's album showings of similar genre...bit more upbeat. 2.6 stars.
Meat Puppets
3/5
This album covers a smattering (of music) and the album cover's a smattering (of paint). I liked the instrumental tracks most and some of the grunge. Could do without the ho downs and noise punk ones. I am most familiar with the Meat Puppets through Nirvana unplugged covers (which are better) and of course "Backwater." I can see the influence as well as a unique band for the early 80s. This got me craving meat pockets and for that 2.95 stars (mom I need the recipe).
Crosby, Stills & Nash
2/5
We got a bookend album here. 1st track is top and the whole middle was decent song writing I guess but lost me in the boredom and slow song drudgery. The final track is a stripped down version of what we are used to but still pretty good and really the only other that stands out. Get way better when they add Neil...1.8.
Aretha Franklin
2/5
The Lady (of) Soul Aretha was a force of her day and I can hear her through so many other R&B female artists of the last decades. This album is right around her peak. All good songs even though none are ever a go to for me. I can appreciate the list spot and do think you gotta hear AF before you die...2.25.
Stereolab
2/5
Ok...I was into this to start. Chill melodic sounds from what could be a group of musicians working in a music laboratory. By the end it was a little tiresome. Reminds me of a softer Melodies Eco-chamber which I really do like and were certainly heavily influenced by Stereolab. Certainly don't need an expanded edition so based on just the original release, pretty good. May have to check out the Japanese film. Album (original release) comes in at 2.4.
Fiona Apple
3/5
Fiona is no sour Apple. I liked this album more than expected. Only song I remember is the hit "Shadowboxer" but most of the tracks are good ones. Pop this on with a nice dinner and bottle of wine. Pure golden, delicious...3.0.
Taylor Swift
1/5
Pretty weak Tay Tay....pretty weak. I did not expect such a soft album. I thought I was at least gonna get some of the poppy bullshit that made her so big and actually would have preferred it. Not impressed but I will give her an ounce of credit for at least having a somewhat pretty voice (ehhh). I'm struggling to understand how T Swizzle became such a phenom with work like this. Doesn't set her apart, not groundbreaking in any way, not a must listen...but better than Beyonce...0.73.
Rush
4/5
Rush gets better every time I listen to them but I have yet to venture deeper into their material. This album is really good but doesn't cross the great threshold for me...yet. "Tom Sawyer" has always been my fave Rush song and opens the album up with right away with power. Drum and bass work are so good throughout the whole album but there is something about Geddy and the voice that I can't completely commit to. Really like the instrumental "YYZ" track (prob cause no Lee). Deserves a place on the list and I wouldn't mind if I have to hear another one by the band...3.55.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
2/5
Neil Young makes another appearance on the list for an album that's good for its content but not his best. Plus it's part "live" with tracks from other albums so I have a hard time with these as must listeners. I still liked it it but lower rankings for these concert albums. Young hasn't burn out as he is still touring and putting out new material...he may fade a way though...2.0.
Funkadelic
3/5
This funktastic Main Invasion Force can get down no doubt. For most of this album, I pledged full "Grooveallegiance" to the Funkadelic flag. The Throbbasonic Funkgeetarists shred cheese all over those Rotofunkie Percussionatin' Thumpasaurian bready basslines. Pepper in a little Keybo' Dans. Salt it up with a sprinkle of the Synthezoidees. Smother it all with some Blamgusta Vocaloids gravy and top it off with a sprig of that Banjo'd Muthaplucker. Spark up a fatty before you dig in. Some songs a bit too long but I'd hit this again. Pass dat shit! 3.48
Dagmar Krause
1/5
Another odd one from the list. Sounds like a German stage play from post WWI and the rise of Hitler. Not something I would ever intentionally seek out so I thank the list for providing me the obscurity. I will not be playing this again or delving further into other works however...0.78.
Hugh Masekela
1/5
Not really that enjoyable. Bunch of squeaking and honking. "Blues for Huey" sounded like the drummer was wrapping up the song the whole time. Prob heard this over at nan and gramps at some point. I could skip the jazz era and not feel like I missed out on anything...9.75.
Pulp
2/5
Nope...I want to like this more but it is doing nothing for me. Seemed to lack something and I felt disengaged. It's got no punch and tries to hard to be cool. Lead singer is a bit of creeper and oozes all over the album like a slimy skeeve. Not much from the band either. Must be some cult following for this band and I bet the fans are mostly douchy hipsters with sweaty beards...1.62.
Louis Prima
3/5
Yeah...get it King Louie! Now this is some 50s sound I can get behind. What a blast of an album. Nice to hear something not so serious from the decade. Prima is having a wild time and just letting loose. Goof ballin, spit ballin...maybe even free ballin. The lip let's loose...3.05.
Muddy Waters
2/5
I'd like to again state that I don't think recordings of live shows should be on the list. If I see a greatest hits album show up I'm contacting the writer. Anyways...some good ol upbeat? blues from Muddy. I prefer it to the slow, sad, boozin' in a rocking chair on the porch blues but I'm not yet aged enough to truly appreciate it. Muddy Waters is a great bluesy name and sure is known in the genre. Not bad but I need to simmer...1.9.
Wire
3/5
I'm a sucker for a shorty album packed full of grimey punk tunes. Not the greatest of work but I like what Wire has going on here. Some great quick hitters and solid full tracks which proves the band is more than just sloppy riffs and incoherent lyrics. Top filler track was "Three Girl Rhumba." Top true track was "Strange." The album resonates and can tell the influence it's had over the decades on other bands...3.1.
Laibach
2/5
How about some anti-fascist, battle rally, Hall of the mountain king music for your morning commute? Everyone get out of my waaaay yaaaa! The last 20 mins was kinda cool but repetitive. I like the mixing on the soldier march song "Herz-Felde." The band has a thing about reinterpreting rock music with some Queen titles making this album (I did not notice. Also don't listen to their "Let it Be" cover album...woof). Def influence on some more later bands of the genre like Rammstein, maybe even Muse a bit. An interesting band but too military. Give them a boost for being Slovenian...2.2.
Nick Drake
2/5
Slow softy that isn't terrible but a bit boring. Drake's voice is wispy and makes you feel sleepy. I did not care for the tracks that introduced sax...made it sound like some cheap, slow jazz. Trying to figure out the album title and why is HJ2 before HJ1 in track order...hate that. Overall the album has some good writing and backup music (i.e., strings, acoustics, flute) but it's a skipper for me unless I'm drifting off to dreamland...1.63.
Joy Division
3/5
Dank, dark, and pulsating. Some good guitar work and sound effects. Top tracks like "Disorder" and "Shadowplay" carry the album. I listened to it once before years ago after watching seasons of Ink Master. The only shirt judge Dave Navarro owns apparently is one with the cover art on a T. Had to look it up and this time around it left a similar impression...pretty good but not that memorable. The cover of the album is obviously more famous than the music. The pulsar image is cool as well as the band name. Album content however is not as radiating...3.05.
Jane Weaver
3/5
This album snuck up on me and I gave it a relisten. Good combination of electro-astro psychedelia and an airy whimsical lady lyricist. Jane weaves through the kosmos taking the listener on a voyage through space time. Lift off from the start with "H>A>K." Drift through the galaxies and nebulae to meet the maker, "The Architect." You finally arrive at the final destination, the Pillars of Life where we all began as star dust and will inevitably return (on our way to dust). I know I keep bringing up Melodies Echo Chamber but again I get a strong comparison here. I listened to some other J dub work and just as good. This album will get more play from me...3.45.
The Fall
2/5
Did I step into a dive bar with a drunk guy singing karaoke? Then head to a homeless techno rave party under some bridge? This was at times an incoherent, drug induced rant from a deranged brit. And then momentarily it came together with some cohesion but quickly deteriorated back to madness. It worked on a few songs with tops "It's a Curse" and "League of Bald-Headed Men" (where do is sign up?). Did Daft Punk Play at Mark E. Smith's House...cause I got a James Murphy vibe. Quite a strange album and dude. And what the F is "Light / Fireworks". 1.85
Bad Company
4/5
Bad Company is a worthy debut. Not a bad song on it...top being title track. Just pure classic rock. So weird to hear Paul Rodgers in interviews with a heavy British accent and sing with a smooth American voice though. They might get another album on the list and I won't be mad about it. 3.65 stars for this one.
The Specials
2/5
Nothing special but def some foundational ska. Never huge into the genre but this debut has some good things going. Fun, diving bar sound that would be a good live show. "Dawning of a New Era", "Little Bitch" and "Too Much Too Young" were best tracks. Influence the likes of Sublime so give em credit...2.45.
Marty Robbins
2/5
Some jaunty cowboy tunes from a bygone era. Marty my boy can spin a good yarn about the gunslingin' west. Little surprised it was written and released in 1959. I was quite caught up in the ol' saddle tramp's story telling, despite the repetitive themes and it being country music. "El Paso" and "Big Iron" were best tracks. Much more enjoyable then I expected...2.39.
Kanye West
2/5
Yeezy got chipmunk soul? I don't think so but this album was massive when it hit and has some good tracks like "All Falls Down" and "Through the Wire." Some better lyrical play and content then I originally thought. Should have finished college though so he could learn to write better skits... so dumb. Ye has been a polarizing character through the decades and def an arrogant bastard that's over compensating for something (lying about his P.h.D.). I will say I like some of his tunes but never dug the lazy rap style much. Not the worst thing to come out of Chi-town...1.87.
Suicide
1/5
Ok this started out interesting. Opening track had potential and was some new sound. Continued on with some more enginuitiy and liked the creative stereo usage in "Johnny" but after that, took a nose dive straight into the depths of hell. Lead creeper sliming all over some chick and annoying static maracas throughout most tracks. WTF "Frankie Teardrop"...you trying to scare piss outta me?! 0.8 stars for being inventive and maybe paving some kind of road for future electronic acts?
The Beta Band
3/5
Hot Shots Part Deux the movie is great...Hot Shots II the album is decent. Some good electro-space jams again from the list. I like the music but C-Swings a bit too low and melodramatic tone. Cut the last track "Eclipse", too weird with all the pizza and moon landing conspiracies. Would like to here HS I...where'd it go? Liked this enough to maybe check out some other albums by the band but it's not blowing me away...3.08.
Public Enemy
2/5
This is a step up on production and mixing compared to their previous album. Lyrically it's slightly better as well and Flav not as annoying. Culturally, it had more of an impact but still too dated hip-hop. I'll give it a spot on the list though and don't immediately dismiss it...1.95.
OutKast
2/5
This album sure puts the stank on ya. Other than the three hit singles...it stanks. I bought this album when it was released because "B.O.B", "Ms. Jackson", and "So Fresh, So Clean" are just that...the bomb and fresh. I mean check the back of your zipper! Figured there had to be other goods on it but they should be apologizing to Ms. Jackson for taking a dump. The rest of the album is trash. I think pulling in local rappers from the ATL area is great...if they were actually good! What a let down here from the duo and I can't agree with the critics on praising their exploration and pushing hip-hop out of the norms. Lucky the hits are strong enough to give this album 1.9 stanky stars.
Fairport Convention
2/5
Some decent British (Irish?) folk music. I much preferred the more upbeat tunes with "Matty Groves" and the "Medley" taking top spots. I'm more into these otherwise "not my bag, baby" albums if theres some good storytelling and we get that here. Lead has a nice voice and and some solid string (guitar and violin) work. I wouldn't mind catching the band playing at a fest or brewery...2.3.
Machito
2/5
Some slick Cuban sounds from the Machito bros. Very similar throughout but upbeat. Horns didn't annoy me like they often do in big band. This is some shake dat ass while you clean your house music. Dos estrellas.
The Stooges
3/5
Listened to both the Bowie and Iggy Mixes of this album and I'm split between the 2 on which I favor.
1. Bowie
2. Bowie
3. Iggy
4. Bowie
5. Iggy
6. Bowie
7. Bowie
8. Bowie
Iggy exerts his raw power but he's more deranged, less fun compared to the previous album. I don't like it as much. It's wild and steps out of the box so I can see the significance in history. I'm glad to getting exposure to Iggy and his Stooges from the list. I have not been disappointed by their presence but this one comes in at a 2.5.
The Offspring
4/5
When you think iconic albums of the 90s, this one pops up for sure. The Offspring were essential in bringing more palatable punk music to the masses. Some great tracks on this album and really not a bad one. The cover art is great too and very recognizable. I hope we get a good 90s run from the list going. Been looking to own this album on vinyl for a while now...3.63.
Rush
2/5
I'll give Rush credit for ignoring the critics/management and doubling down on their progressive rock path but this one was no where near as good as Moving Pictures. Side A was kinda cool but I wasn't vibing as much with the instrumentals compared to MP. I found "The Temples of the Syrinx" a bit lame. Side B was a bit better but "A Passage to Bangkok" cheesed it up with the Siamese chimes. "Lessons" lead the pack. I'm not really on board with this album as a must listen before death. Still not terrible...2.112 stars.
The Kinks
2/5
Hate to say this to all the Kinks fans, but this album sounds like knock off Beatles. It's like the Davies bros did some dumpster diving on Abbey Road and grabbed all cheesy filler that didn't make the cut. Only tracks I liked were "Harry Rag" and "Situation Vacant." Skip any track with "Sun" in the title. Trying to have an openmindz here but can't endorse the must listen. Despite the shortcomings of the album, I will drink to the tragic deaths of many a rodeo clown tonight...1.77 stars.
Curtis Mayfield
1/5
Not really down with the slow soul from Mayfield. Can't see why this made the list. Curtis got a descent falsetto and the back up band ain't bad but I'm bored. "Jesus" wasn't drinkin' the wine? Why he go changin' water into it so much then? Pretty sure if this album made it, we will see at least one more from the soul man and I'm hoping it's better. As for America Today...0.95
Underworld
3/5
I know Underworld only from their best known hit "Born Slippy" featured in Trainspotting and some appearances on electronica mixes I would pick up on cd. Going into this, I was apprehensive because I do not like Slippy. Started out not great but by "Sappys Curry", I was digging the spice. Album stayed pretty rhythmic for a commute from then on. Some tracks too drawn out but I really like the guitar introduction. Lyrics are wild, some deep weird shit..need to really pay attention.These guys earned a place in the genre and without the list I would have skipped over them. I'll be checking more out...3.09.
Beatles
4/5
Great precursor to the ultimate Sgt. Peppers. With a little help from Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, The Beatles continued to venture out, away for the bubblegum popcorn rock from their beginnings. I really like Harrison at this stage. The more I listen to his tracks, the better and deeper they get. Weird, great cover art to boot...4.05.
King Crimson
2/5
Quite an epic here. Some good instrumentals and experimentation but too much tinkering. Loooong songs that lose the listener. Title track was best. I recognize the album cover and never knew what it was. Not something I will be revisiting. 1.6 stars.
Slade
2/5
Some original hair band music with a little more heart than what was produced in the 80s. Still not doing much for me like most of this genre. We all know their big hit but it isn't on this album so I'm hoping they don't make the list again for it. A take or leave it album with not much of a lasting effect. I'm sure they Slayed? it in their time but for me this gets 1.7...Goodbuy mates.
Talk Talk
3/5
Half of the album, I say keep talking...but the other half, shut up. Def into the more upbeat tracks, top being "Life's What You Make It." The slow ones are a bit of a drag and pine on too long with the low-point being "Chameleon Day." I get the idea of having both on an album though. Some good band play and beats but something irks me about Hollis' voice. All in all the album has some good structure and depth but I can't fully engage in the conversation. Pretty good though...2.55.
Judas Priest
2/5
Some grungy metal. Not that great but credited as one of the foundations of the genre. I never really liked the hit "Breaking the Law" as much as so many do. It's fine but I think people like it more for the message. Over all I can't say the album was that enjoyable but I didn't suffer either. 1.65 stars.
Prince
4/5
Prince sews together an epic here and puts his full range of creativity on display. Many hits with "Doves Cry" top track but the lesser played ones like "Computer Blue" are where you really get into the depths of his digital talents. Hard to see Prince as a baddass on a bike with the cover but the man/woman/alien? sure has left a mark on the music world. Need to watch the film again...3.58.
The Velvet Underground
2/5
Better than the debut album. Song structure and design much improved. Didn't sound like some strung out, artsy farts just hanging around Warhol's basement. "What Goes On" was top track. "Murder Mystery" ventured into the unknown and was half cool, half annoying. Poetic and rambling. I guess this band was influential for just doing their own thing and vibing with the hippie nation but I'm not sold on the legend...1.88 stars.
Bobby Womack
1/5
Womack...you SOB. This was not at all poetic or at all good. Cheesy love ballads complete with sparkly harps and sax. A shimmer of hope with the funky tune "Stand Up", every other track was lame muzack barely worthy of a dentist's waiting room. Bobby has a voice but I'm sorry, you can't be a true poet if you reference KFC...0.85 stars.
Public Enemy
2/5
Each album by Public Enemy provided by the list has gotten better consecutively (and by date). This 3rd list installment presents the further refinement of the group, better production/mixing and lyrical content although with the same topics of political injustice, social unrest, crooked cops, and drug problems the black community faces. Flava still pretty lame but slightly more tolerable. I hope we are done with PE but I'm afraid we will be getting their debut. The enemy strikes back on this album with 2 stars.
The Doors
3/5
Side A can battle with any other band's debut album for the title of best ever. Side B, however...slumps. Always been partial to "Alabama Song" (best rendition) and "Soul Kitchen" is climbing on my top Doors song. These guys must have straight kicked the door down and blew people's minds when this album dropped. Thank you for putting "The End" as the last song. This is a hard one to rate with SideA/B so different...3.45 stars.
N.W.A.
3/5
I much prefer this attitude in rap over the corny shit but this album does get a little tiring. It hits you hard but then oversaturates with the gangster, fuck you attitude. Introduction to bitches, hoes, drugs, and bangin with this album. Easy E is a less annoying Flav. Dre and MC Red, better Chuck Ds. Significant change in the genre for the better in my opinion but a good balance (which we get in the 90s) is the sweet spot. List deserver at 2.6 stars.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
Exodus has much more recognizable songs and really put Bob on the map. Side B is slowed down a bit but better than side A. Def improvement from the earlier album we got "Natty Dread." I have a Marley remix album which features some hip-hop renditions of "Guiltiness" and "Turn Your Lights Down Low" which are great...even preferable to the originals. This album is a deserved lister and gets a 3.43.
Serge Gainsbourg
1/5
French creeper seducing a child...WTF? I was going to look up the lyrics translation but pulled back after reading the subject matter. I get that music knows no bounds but when artists start dabbling in pedophilia and don't immediately condemn it, red flag. Gainesbourg looks like he would find himself in this very situation and it bothers me that he has beautiful women all over him on his album covers. This Chief Didier rat drools all over Melody and if he wasn't a famous "artiste" he would be a probably be an aqualung hanging around middle schools eyeing little girls with bad intent. Drop the lyrical content (particularly the cringeworthy kid giggles? on "En Melody") and you have some good background...can I get the instrumental version? I can't believe I have found something from the list that is steering me to Beyoncé but for the string and drum play...0.75 etoiles de merde.
The Police
3/5
Take the 4 hits and throw the rest of the album away...particularly "Mother." Would have been great if they had slid "Sychronicity II" onto side B and then flex sealed side A so it could never be played. Maybe Police are only half good, for that this gets 2.5 stars.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
I did feel like I was on a old boat, heading down a dark and swampy river with the oarsman wearily singing these ballads. Did not like the direction Nick took on this alum compared to his other list spots. Surprised this even made it. I have liked some other slow, somber albums that have appeared but this one didn't land with me...1.1.
The Allman Brothers Band
2/5
This all-man (1 brotha) band is a great bluesy jammer. Songs certainly run long but throw this on any time for background and you won't hate it. Again, it's a live one so I have some list qualms but it is one of the better thus far. The band members all must have blisters the size of boulders on their fingers. 2.1 stars.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
Pretty kick ass debut from the Yx3. Came out hard and fast and steadily maintained the mood (until the last 2 tracks which could be dropped with no complaint from me). Not really any bad songs throughout but was a bit of disjointed noise at times. Top track "Y Control" with "Rich" & "Maps" close behind. I did also get a kick out of the hick themed "Cold Light" (complete with southern drawl and incest). I was introduced to this band at a Weenie-Roast fest over a decade ago and was impressed. Have since been a fan of Karen O. If you are a Yx3 purest, this would be your album but I think they get better. "Fever to Tell" gets 3.38 stars.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Always felt Jane's Addiction was one of the most overrated bands and after listening to "Nothing Shocking," I am not shocked that I still stand by that claim. It's a decent debut, title track stands out with a couple others making ripples like "Idiots Rule" and "Pigs in Zen." The rest is mediocre in my opinion and I think the only reason these guys made a splash in the late 80s is cause they featured a steel drum in an alternative song. Farrelly got an annoying voice no doubt but Navarro can pluck and the drummer is tight on the kit but the real shiner is the bassist. Props for debuts that are worthy enough for the list compared to an artist's 29th album or a live one so it ain't for nothing when I give this album a 2.57.
Burning Spear
2/5
More Reggae from the list...I like this genre but it is all the same. Give me Marely or some newer stuff with some hip-hop or electronica influence over the old classics. A lot of political/social injustice during this era (and prior) for Jamaicans and that is the main subject matter on "Marcus Garvey." Rodney teams up with some Wailers and let's his voice be heard. The back-up music is good, standard reggae so it's not that I can't vibe but I wasn't gripped either. This is not your go to album while blending up some frozen cocktail by the beach. I guess it has its place later in the evening when you are winding down on that same very beach and it's fire-talk time. For the ride in to work though...1.65.
Ash
2/5
Pretty standard 90s indy-pop...not sure why a spot on the list. Maybe cause they are Irish? Started out on fire but quickly lost it's flame and by the end was reduced to ashes. Songs droned on and I got bored. Mediocre with no real lasting impression. This one will be forgotten....1.65.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Another decent showing from the Bayou Boys. "Green River" has some classics and is sticks to there unique folkie rock sound. Like the summary, I can't say much more about it...it's their 3rd album and it's a good one...2.95. Thinking we may get too many from CCR on the list though.
Ramones
2/5
A simple, quick hit for a debut. All songs sound very similar so it gets tiring but since it's only a 30 minute album, it's not insufferable. Only recognized "Blitzkrieg Bop." Catch them at a NYC dive bar in the 70s and I bet it was fun. Pretty sure that's a circular saw at the start of "Chain Saw" though...1.63.
My Bloody Valentine
1/5
My bloody hell...this was not what I had hoped. Long drawn out noise with the singer either in a wind tunnel or too far from the microphone. A glimmer of hope on the instrumental "nothing is" but quickly back to bad with what could be worst song, "wonder 2." How much worse was 1st version to not make it? Critics are up their own ass to praise this as a top album of the year. This put me in a coma...m b v = must be vegetable or must bring valium to enjoy...0.87 stars.
Robbie Williams
1/5
I had never heard of Robbie Williams prior to this past 2024 Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve and it makes since that he would star in a over-produced, over-commercialized pile of shite (lame Iknow but you gotta throw it on). "Life Thru a Lens" is just bland pop-rock that checks all the boxes a label requires...cookie cutter back-up band, typical lyrical content, God songs, country influenced bs song, even a fuck-you haters hidden track. "Clean" was top track but did they have to throw in a wobbly record and space sounds? Yes they did because that's a box checker. List creator's need to explain this one to me...1.45 stars.
Primal Scream
3/5
Vanishing Point is noisy at times but it's got a Beckish, Jesus-Jonsey, Gorillaz vibe and I dig it. A few duds with "Stars" and "Out of the Void" but overall a pretty good record. Top track "Trainspotting." I checked out some other work by Primal Scream and although their earlier work is poppy alt-rock (decent), they turn it up with this album and get that space-age electro-rock sound...I'm in to delve deeper. I was down for most of the VP ride and have added the movie which inspired the album to my watchlist. 3.05 stars.
The Who
3/5
The original UK release ends with "The Ox"; therefore, my rating is based on this and not the Spotify version with 12 extra songs including "Can't Explain" which I can't explain why it was not included cause it's one of their bests. Some tracks on this debut are unrecognizable as the Who. Wasn't even sure if it was Daltrey singing on some of the bluesy, soul songs. A few covers of James Brown could be cut. "My Generation" is top track and still rocks today. The stutter is def a cool aspect. Not a bad debut from the brit boys but they certainly improve from here...2.58.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Bobby D puts out a more sentimental album with "Blood on the Tracks" compared to his earlier freewheelin' days. "Tangled Up In Blue" is arguably his best track and starts this one off. The rest may not have made the hit list or best of albums but they are all pretty listenable. With the ocean of work Dylan has I have just dipped a toe in. I'll let the list provide me a sampling of his work and if there a few more like this one, I'll be good...2.65.
Korn
2/5
This fits right in with the 90s NIN, Linkin Park, Marylin Manson scene. I did not get into any of this genre at the time but have come around on LP and NIN...still not Manson and Korn. The album started out alright but quickly deteriorated. John Davis must have been bullied a lot. Was into the gothic, vampire sound of the music but not his weird ad lib possessed sounds. Worst track which should be removed is "All in the Family." I get that it is knock on rap beef but good god it's fucking terrible (and homoerotic). Sounds like the whole thing was produced by the Zoolander Evil DJ. Not following the leader here...2.05.
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
Not a bad soul album but I don't think this stands up on its own without the film which I'm interested in seeing. "Pusherman" top track..the rest is meh. I guess the title track is iconic and album makes the list for its popularity at the time...1.65.
The Cars
4/5
What a debut album...almost every song is a greatest hits. A slight dip in the kick ass with "I'm in Touch With Your World" and "Don't Cha Stop" but still not bad. The Cars figured out how to make a great rock song. Just when you think it's perfect they throw something else in that elevates it even further. "Moving in Stereo" could be my fave Cars song...it's so good. Perfect driving back from an awesome trip in Sedona...4.25.
Talking Heads
3/5
Talking Heads certainly stand out with their own style. This debut is good but they are still developing their craft. "Psycho Killer" by far the best song on 77 with the rest decent support. They improve over the next few albums. 3.25 stars.
Pretenders
3/5
Felt like this debut is a bit lacking. It's good but not great. Side A is mostly post-punk songs with "Stop Sobbing" by far best track. Side B picks up production and is def better. You know the songs that stand out and Pretenders certainly do shine on them. I was in and out of this one but the hits do hit...2.85.
Snoop Dogg
5/5
In the formative years of a young kid's prepubescence, there are a few albums that stand out and rock their perception of the world. Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle" was earthshattering for me and I love it to this day. Steven Censulo lent me this tape in 5th grade and I hid it like a bad report card from openmindz. They found it though and sat me down for a nice listen together. They cracked up the whole time and tried to explain to an 11 year old that the world is not this way.
Dr. Dre's production is unmatched with the W-Ballz station play, west coast beats, and fun skits. The tracks range from typical partying and hoes on "Ain't No Fun" (best) and "Gin and Juice" to the more serious gang shootings with "Murder Was the Case." Even the cover of Slick Rick's "Lodi Dodi" is better than the original. Snoop's swag and lyrical cleverness peak here and no other rapper has been able to capture the same tone.
"Doggystyle" holds the listener engaged from start to finish. Certainly one of my top album's of all time. Belongs on the 1001 list, belongs in the hall of fame, belongs in anyone's album collection...4.6 stars biatch!
Slint
2/5
I can see how Slint is regarded as an influencer of the indie/math-rock genre. This album takes you on an eerie journey through Spiderland. Most of it is slow, long, and drab but I did like "Nosferatu Man" and "Good Morning, Captain." Similar to some Nick Cave works. Not that bad or that good...1.68.
Ananda Shankar
2/5
Pretty cool fusion album. The sitar brings the trippiness to any song and I always like when it is featured. Sounds even better when paired with the Moog synthesizer. I enjoyed the two covers most and was hoping for a Zep one with "Sagar" but unfortunately got a dragged out traditional Indian song instead. Overall a nice 40 mins...2.28.
Patti Smith
1/5
This was a pile of horse shit. I did not like any aspect of this album. Patti Smith rambles about nonsense and the band throws together some weak back up. Makes sense it was produced by a guy from Velvet Underground. Another long song album with some garbage covers thrown in. File this one under hard pass...0.79.
Jefferson Airplane
3/5
Good psych rock album from a bunch of trippy hippies. Grace Slick is the highlight with her witch-like eeriness so good move adding her to the band. "White Rabbit" is top track but other hits support the project. Lay back on your surrealistic pillow with some headphones and feed your head with these tunes...3.25.
Screaming Trees
2/5
Pretty nonchalant grunge album. Fits in with the 90s scene but def not a standout like other acts but were certainly influenced by them (i.e., Nirvana, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam). Overall sounded pretty generic other than the finisher "Gospel Plow" which was top track. Not a complete flyover album but if it were in my vinyl collection, I would "Dust" it off every once in a while for a spin. The band name is a bit lame too...2.08.
The Yardbirds
3/5
The good ol' Yardie boys (birds). A great band from the 60s-70s that laid down some solid foundation for future rock bands. Always loved the greatest hits album openmindz had but never listened to the studio albums. Roger is a good one with the US version title track taking the top spot. Plenty of great guitar work and support tracks as well. I like them better with the Zep members but the band has consisted of some guitar heroes throughout its lifespan (still touring today but with what members?!)...3.4.
The Vines
3/5
I like this grittier indy-rock, grunge. I knew a few songs from this band but never paid much attention to the Vines. They kind of blended in with all other similar acts of the early 2000s. "Highly Evolved" is pretty kick ass debut though and I wish I had paid more attention. I shall dig deeper into their catalogue...3.42.
Lou Reed
2/5
Apart from the classic "Walk on the Wild Side," this is a mixed bag album of some decent supporter tracks and some complete floppers. What is "Andy's Chest"? No mention of a chest and was just a random babbler track with lame content. Nose toes, bare bears, and bats a swoopin? Bad. Couple other slapped together ones to fill an album. Must have felt so moronic to record some of these in a studio with professional equipment. This album makes the list cause Bowie likes it and the hookers in drag. Expected a bit more from Lou but he's a weirdo so you get this...1.7.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
The YYYs refine their sound and get a little more poppy on "It's Blitz" compared to previous releases. In my review of their debut I said I think they get better with time but I have to say I liked "Fever to Tell" more than this one. The hits "Zero" and "Heads Will Roll" def put the band more in the public eye. Middle of the album lulled and takes it down but picks back up at the end with my top track "Dragon Queen." I'll give this one a 2.83.
Julian Cope
4/5
Very interesting album. It has a wide range and a plethora of instruments sprinkled throughout. I think I even heard some John Zorn on sax! A lot of styles and different artist vibes (Nick Cave, David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Jim Morrison, Beck, Gorillaz...I can go on and on). Long album but I was in for all of it. It never really lost me; each track brought freshness. Not sure Deluxe Edition was intended but the album cover shows it as such and I'm not mad. Disc 2 is also great with groovy mixes and collabs. Julian took several hallucinogens (maybe a few too many at the end there) and put out a really cool album. "Peggy Suicide" and JC are unknowns from left field for me and a gift from the list. I'm diving deeper into the psychedelic journey from here. Also a good album for this month with Peggy Day coming up...solid 4.0.
Bruce Springsteen
2/5
Classic rock acts that want to stay relevant eventually have to get with the times and popify their work. It is tough to do and few bands have successfully made the transition. It worked for U2 (not a fan). John Mellencamp pulled it off with "Dance Naked" but really hit the sweet spot with "Mr. Happy Go Lucky" and "Human Wheels." The Boss attempts it here and almost pulls it off. He had the right timing with 9/11 so it was obviously a hit with his following and the subject matter. However, "The Rising" is overproduced and weak. Bruce goes country and preachy and tries to cross those music genre boundaries to sound fresh. The first half of the album is a bag of skippers. It hits its peak with "Let's be Friend" and has some other good ones on the 2nd half with "The Fuse" and "You're Missing." The title track is listenable but my finger hovers over the skip button as it borders on the Mason Dixon line. "Paradise" is for sure a rip off of S&G's "Sound of Silence." I bet this album works with classic rock and Springsteen fans (even openmindz) for its updated rock feel. For me though, a valid attempt but tries too hard and ends up pretty meh...2.07 stars.
The Cramps
1/5
Heard of The Cramps around the punk scene but never gave them a listen. After hearing the debut, don't need to revisit them again. This was not good in my opinion and even though they may have started the psychobilly scene for stepping out of the box, they have a pretty annoying sound. "Garbage Man" was the only track with some appeal. Glad this one was a shorty cause I wouldn't have been able to take much more. They need to find a new instructor...1.33.
Derek & The Dominos
2/5
This one runs long and is too bluesy for me. Apart from the title track, not much else from it is memorable. Not surprised the album flopped when released and not sure why its gained acclaim over the years. Maybe the Clapton legacy and for being a sole release from the D&D this has climbed many list rankings. Makes 1001 list probably just for "Layla" though...1.64 stars.
The Smiths
2/5
I am really just not a big fan of The Smiths apparently. Like the other entry on the 1001 list, "Meat Is Murder," this one was just as boring but a smidge better. Some alright strings and guitar work but Morrissey is an acquired taste. Kermit singing with the chipmunks on top track "Bigmouth Strikes Again." I hope we don't get more Smiths from the list but I'm worried...1.55 stars for Queenie.
Queen
4/5
This is a sleeper Queen album that doesn't have a hit and I have not heard any song from. Even so, it's pretty damn good still. Side I is a bit slowed down and more hard rock than what I'm used to from the group. Side II is more of the theatrics that Queen is known for. "Loser in the End" is my top track with such a Zep sound I almost thought is was them. I am getting more into Queen the more I listen. QII is another fun one with Freddie and May bringing their distinct sounds and continuing to show their unique abilities...3.63.
The KLF
3/5
The KLF has one of the weirdest band journeys and I have been meaning to read the book by John Higgs (now moving up on my list). They start out as a normal band, become a parody of themselves and grow too popular so they erase themselves from music history and burn their fortune (literally). "The White Room" is decent but has some of that 90s techno cheese. It got better as it went on but when it was over I was wasn't fully satiated. Need the follow up dark version they planned "The Black Room." Intrigued me enough to probably give what you can find of their catalogue a listen (before they erase it again). This one makes the list for the bizarre backstory more than the music itself...2.5.
Peter Gabriel
2/5
Gabriel solo has some great albums but his early ones, like this one, are a one hitters. "Solsbury Hill" is by faaaaar the best song with the rest barely listenable. They get too stagey and even go as far as featuring Kermit singing saloon on "Excuse Me." It was not torture but "Car" was like driving a n old beater...a little bit of a rough ride. I think we will get more from Pete on the list with maybe another early one hit dudder and for sure a great one from the late 80s. PG1 gets 1.76 stars.
U2
3/5
I have not listened to this album in its entirety (or much pre/post "Joshua Tree") prior and "War" is a good one from U2. Couple known great hits with not really a bad track throughout. Not surprised an 80s Irish band would take a political stance on the situation with the IRA and the "Long War" at the time. There will be more from these guys which belong on the list but I hope it doesn't dip into anything post early 90s. 3.15 for Bono and not Mr. MacPhisto.
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
The Wu-Tang Clan is a force to be reckoned with their raw and hard hitting approach. Like NWA's debut album, "36 Chambers" shocked the hip-hop world with even more grit. Incorporating the dialogue and sampling the cinematic music from kung-fu films was GZA-genius. Each individual rapper has their own style that keeps the clan well rounded. It is no surprise many of them had very successful solo careers as well. Ol' Dirty Bastard, RZA, and Method Man being the standouts. Def knew this would make the list, deservedly. Bring da mutha fuckin' Ruckus! 3.73 stars.
Tim Buckley
1/5
Another Buckley? And why this one? 1001 list got a thing for this guy I think. "Happy Sad" is a pretty accurate album title and the look on Tim's face says it all. He slows it down too much here but it does soothe. I'm not saying this is bad music but I just don't see why this peaceful, dreamer album is a must listen. I prefer the other 2 featured works by TB and I would play this more than some of the Jazz stuff to go to sleep to or something...gets a 1.27 star rating.
Tortoise
3/5
Went in cold with no idea what to expect with this one and I was quite happy with what I got. A nice blend of Radiohead, The Foals, and Umphrey's McGee with some weirdness, math-rock jamming, and soaring instrumentals. I particularly liked the xylophone usage. It did slow to a Tortoise crawl at times but it works well when in chill mode, working at my desk, easy drive to work, lounging, nodding off for the night, etc. I let the Spotify run after the album ended and everything that popped up in this vein I enjoyed. This is the type of stuff I see myself playing a lot more of in my old age instead of slow jazz. Thanks list...3.15 stars for MiNyL WiND.
The Mothers Of Invention
2/5
I had always heard Frank Zappa was an insane individual and this record is proof. Complete chaotic mess of an album. It's like the Beatles - White Album on crack which makes sense with the album cover being a play on Sgt. Pepper. What a weird and wild ride though. It's absolutely mental but I wasn't bored with it. Mom's fave song title got to be "Hot Poop" but prob disappointed it was just Zappa whispering some paranoia about the sound engineers and not a bathroom scene with...never mind. I watched the movie "200 Motels" written and directed by Zappa and it's a good follower to this record. Both are pure lunacy and what too much touring can do to a band. Need more acid and spaghetti. And yes, pants too tight on several songs cause sounds like leads ball's are being crushed. Don't know if I will ever listen to this again but probably for the trip...1.5 stars.
Fugees
3/5
The Fugees put out a pretty good one with this album. A little reggae mixed in with hip-hop and r&b that bumps along quite chill-fully. I'm a fan of the trio but without Ms. Hill, they would be just mediocre. LH is by far the best lyricist and with her skills as a rapper and singer... she's a double hitter that carries the squad. Didn't like the guest emcee appearances and the skits were lame but record as a whole is solid and was a hit. "The Score" scores a 3.33.
Stan Getz
1/5
Another background album for a cantina or dentist office. Mr. Getz gets another one on the list purely for being credited with starting a bossa nova movement in the US. For the time, I'm sure this was exciting and exotic compared with the standard big band jazz. Don't need any more jazz but I'm afraid we ain't done...0.95 stars.
The Velvet Underground
1/5
Nope...fucking terrible. Nothing velvety about this album. More like The Piss Soaked, Sand Covered, Shredded Leather Underground. File this one with the other obnoxious noise albums from The Jesus and Mary Chain and Suicide. Somehow White Light/White Heat was actually harder to get through then those for me though. Band was too busy getting their ding-dongs sucked to write good tunes. Even the softer track "The Gift" is a pretentious load of shite. The only solace is that the band was not happy with the final release and it was not well received by the public or critics. On the list because it influenced punk and was about trannies? Fuck off...0.58 stars.
Deep Purple
2/5
Deep Purple is known for 1 song and we all know it so I welcomed something else by them. In Rock is not the best but it does have some good guitar shredfest...particularly on the top track "Child in Time." It's grungy hard-ish rock and for the time I can see the appeal; however, I was a little unimpressed overall with the album. I listened to the original version (as intended) and went back for the remastered and it was better. Cleaned up...the guitar work does shine but I'm rating this on the original so 2.28 stars.
The Who
2/5
We got a live one here. The Who does sound pretty good on this album and I like that it was a kinda impromptu show at a university. Would have been pretty awesome to catch. Always like "Magic Bus" and the extended mixed live version is top track. Only six songs on the original album so for this shorty show, I give Leeds 1.75 stars.
Nirvana
3/5
I guess if we are to have live albums on the list, this one is a must. Nirvana's (semi) Unplugged shows they are more than just a grunge band. Acoustic versions of the hits work and even the covers are better than originals. Cobain brings raw emotion and the band carries it well. Timing of the release shortly after his death for sure vaulted this up the charts but it deserves praise. Certainly one of the better from the live list...2.9.
Television
3/5
Television (the band) is an unknown for me. Their debut comes out of nowhere and is quite good. Solid early indy rock. I particularly like the technical guitar work which really shines on the title track. Lead singer Verlaine has some Jagger Swagger. Band looks like a bunch of strung out bean poles on the album cover but these boys can play...3.4
Marilyn Manson
1/5
Here's one to scare the parents. There are maybe a few listenable tracks like "Mister Superstar" and "1996" but the rest is tough to manage. The project idea and subject matter ain't bad but way too much wailing. Can hear some Trent Reznor production which brings the music up a bit but nothing close to his NIN work. I was never into Marilyn Manson and still very much am not after this listen. The guy is just too out there. With the rumors of removing ribs, androgenous body sculpting and the creepy eye ball shit...I'm out. How'd he ever score Dita Von Teese? I'll give credit for taking on the Christian right and not backing down and I get that Ohio blows but good God man...take pill (or less of them). 0.88 anti-stars.
Suede
2/5
Suede, much like the fabric, is soft and matted but when you rub it one way it shows the texture. Definite Smiths sound but more upbeat and layered. I'm betting more attention was given to the album due to the cover art...2 dudes, 2 chicks, dude/chick? (I checked on it and it's 2 chicks). Interesting to find out that one of the founding members started her own band Elastica and dated Damon Albarn. Not a bad record but not much of a triumph either...2.28 stars.
Linkin Park
4/5
I was not into Linkin Park when they emerged. Mostly cause the "rapping" was weak and I was not feeling the way Chester did. Not to downplay depression but it was not a surprise to me that he eventually committed suicide. I credit Christian Hand's breakdown of "One Step Closer" (not on original album release) for reintroducing this band to me and opening my ears to their talents. Hybrid Theory is actually a killer debut album. I did always like "In the End," which is the top track and there are really no skippers. The mixing of hip-hop, hard rock, and electronica works well and I have changed my opinion on LP. The band came up with a solid formula and made a definite splash. If you liked this, I highly recommend the remix album Reanimation...better than the original in my opinion. 3.53 stars for this hybrid record.
(P.S. always thought they were from Lincoln Park, New Jersey 😆)
Nick Drake
2/5
Much like the global review...can't say much about "Five Leaves Left." Another sleepy, softy. I don't think Drake deserves the list let alone twice. Did this guy have a huge impact on the music world at the time? Is it because he suffered from severe depression and overdosed at age 26? It's not bad music, but like "Bryter Layter," it's just not for me...1.63 stars.
Black Sabbath
2/5
"Black Sabbath" by Black sabbath on the album Black Sabbath...were they really trying to push the band or what? Not a bad debut for them or the genre though. Definitely upped their game with the second album "Paranoid" but BS is no BS. Early heavy metal with some harder guitar and dark jam sessions. Ozzy's spooky tone works too. Give them credit for kicking off something new...2.28.
Alice In Chains
2/5
I was hoping for more from this album...maybe because "Man in a Box" is so good. Alice in Chains never really got my attention and Dirt felt a little flat. Top tracks are "Rooster" and "Would?" but the rest did not hit me as hard as their hard-rock titan reputation should. To be ranked by Guitar World and other heavy metal top lists is not what I expect. The guitar work is muddled and dirty. I don't feel the shred. Staley doesn't belt it out like he did on the debut. Maybe the heroin was getting to him. Overall, not a bad record but didn't deliver...2.25.
The The
3/5
The, Infected is some decent 80s electro-pop. Some tracks like my fave, "Sweet Bird of Truth," remind me of Thomas Dolby, whom I'm a huge fan. The album has a good mix of styles and I did like the duet stuff with the female lead chiming in. The has some uniqueness but also fits nicely in with other 80s bands like Tears for Fears and Midnight Oil. I'm in for more and will peruse their other works...3.37 stars.
The Fall
2/5
Certainly better than the previous album entry on the list from The Fall. Much more coherent and put together. I can see the influence this band may have had on the punky alt-rock scene and bands like Spoon, LCD Soundsystem, The Faint, Moving Units, etc. probably give them credit. Could have shaved down the songs on TNSG and the record would have been better. Adding in Brix was a plus for the band as she brought some good guitar riffs and lead support. "Paintwork" lands top track spot for me. I didn't struggle through this one but also won't return to it on purpose...1.95 stars.
The Black Keys
3/5
Took a bit for these boys to make the scene but when they finally did, it was smash. I did not fully jump on board at the time but I did like the hits with "Tighten up" best track they got. Danger Mouse is a beast and when he collabs on a project...it's just gonna work. The Black Keys got a good sound that gets better with age. It's the bluesy alt-rock that gets ya. Brothers is a complete album with good range...slows down a bit at the end but as a total package, solid release. 3.45 stars.
Johnny Cash
1/5
This album got al lot of attention from every one when it was released so I understand why it is on the list. I was not caught up in the hype though. This is my actual first listen to American IV, front to back and I am still not there. The first half was better with some ok covers of "Hurt" and "Personal Jesus." Second half is lame. I think I prefer the jailhouse Cash over the studio refined. I hope this man doesn't come around again...1.25.
Carole King
2/5
I recognize a bulk of this album but I'm not sure where I've heard most of the songs. I do know "You've Got a Friend" is a popular JT track but didn't know King sang it first. Also, "Natural Woman" from Aretha Franklin but the rest are just classics I guess and have been featured in movies, commercials, covers, and so on. Not my typical go to but Tapestry is not a bad record to throw on for an easy cruise into work. Carole got a nice delivery and this collection of soft pop-odes didn't tune me out. Doubt I will find this record back on my playlist but not bad...2.2 stars.
The Cardigans
2/5
Not the best thing to come out of Sweden but an ok album. First heard The Cardigans on the Austin Powers soundtrack with the hit "Lovefool." Always thought they were a much older band from like the 60s with their psychedelia sound. Nina Persson has a child-like, playful tone that makes the songs a little more fun. She's totally a Kristen Bell doppel too. F BOTM gets a 2.30.
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
Ok...first off, I'm a huge fan of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and have been caught in many a questionable moment with the top down and it blasting (car and\or girl). She's so Unusual is a perfect album...cause she is and it's great. Having this as her debut after a breakup with a band that flopped is more testament to Cyndi's worth. It's not that this album is epic but it is just...well, fun. Weird Al and INOJ got some classic tracks with great ones in tribute. I agree with the list hat this is a must...3.65 stars baby "Yeah Yeah."
Steely Dan
3/5
Steely Dan brings the 1920s flapper swag with Pretzel Logic. Feel like I should be sipping an old fashion at a speakeasy listening to "East t. Louis Toodle-Oo." Other than "Rikki Don't Lose That Number" though, there are not any other real hits but it's still a decent listen. Does this album deserve a spot on the must listen list? Not so sure but the record cover boosts it a bit to a 2.59. I'll take a hot pretzel at 15 cents for sure.
2/5
Too much Kinks here list and probably we ain't done I'm afraid. Arthur is the best of the albums so far but still meh. Again, I get a knock-off Beatles album feel here. I may be wrong but with the Davies bros debuting about a year after the fab 4, it's like they were taking notes or maybe they were all on their own and had same idea. "Victoria" was recognizable and "Shangri-La" takes top track spot. Will have to play it at the openmindz next gathering. Starting to feel like these guys should be The Stinks really. Please just send me their debut and be done...2.05 stars.
Dr. Octagon
3/5
Dr. Octagon is not a recommended by the board of OBGYNs. I do like the astronomical references but the production skills are light years ahead of the lyricist's. Mostly, the juvenile style of Kool Keith does not land with me. Not much rhyming, poor delivery, and lame content. Skits are hit or miss. Now on the sound side, The Automater and DJ QBert kill it on the boards/turntables with a little help from the Kut Masta himself, Mr. Kurt. Revisiting "Blue Flowers" was a good call and the album finishes with KK's strongest work. I would love a remake of this album with a skilled MC like Deca or the late-great Zumbi. Doctagon gets a 2.58 with the production team doing all the heavy lifting.
David Bowie
3/5
The Thin White Duke steps off the train at Union station with an eight ball in pocket, heads to the studio and lays down some pretty decent tracks. Station to Station has eluded me all these years. I was prepared for a one-hitter but the album brings it. Some good unknown tracks are "TVC15" and "Stay" with the funky finish that is the highlight of the record. Title track, although long, is good and moves along through different territories like a traveling train. The slow boys "Word on a Wing" and "Wind Is the Wild" could have been trimmed down. Of course the hit single "Golden Years" stands out but the album as a whole is worthy...2.72 stars.
Pixies
3/5
First listen of the record foe me was top-down on the drive home from work and I did not like it much. A much noisier and more incoherent Pixies. After reading the synops, I had to return for re-listen in a more controlled environment and I'm glad I did. Still a bit of a noise fest but I picked up on the instrumental aspect more. Good guitar and drum work. I got a better sense of the influence this record had on other bands. Could do without Black Francis screeching and much preferred Kim Deal on vocals. "Where is my Mind?" and "Gigantic" best tracks with some other good ones like "River Euphrates" and "Vamos." Def glad I gave Surfer Rosa another chance and with a nice pair on cover bonus...3.1 stars.
Kendrick Lamar
2/5
I just can't get onboard the KL train. I find his acclaimed lyrical "mastery" lacking and a bit dull. His delivery and voice are annoying. This album was better than mAAd City, slicker production with the jazz and funk influence. "King Kunta" and "How Much a Dollar Cost" I did enjoy but the rest of the album dragged. I did not like the repeat return to a psychotic breakdown in a hotel room...Lucy sure did a number on 'em. I think we may get one more from Kenny and fortunately it is his best. For all the pimpin' and scrimpin' on this album...2.47 stars.
Joan Armatrading
1/5
Joan Armatrading is a completely forgettable album but not a completely unbearable one like some others on the list. This self titled record is nothing special in my opinion and I am not sure why I am listening to it. Maybe for being an early bluesy woman or something? If I it ever shows up in my collection, I'ma-trading it for something else...1.15 stars.
Janis Joplin
4/5
As a kid, I did not love it when openmindz would throw on some Janis but today I can say I'm in. Used to be her voice that got me and the bluesy tone but now listening with a more mature ear, she got it...that raw emotion and charisma that only true talents have. She said it well with "Get It While You Can" and "freedom just another word for nothing left to lose." I'm sure she lived and died by those words. Shame to lose another great soulful singer so young. I recommend checking the alt. versions and outtakes on the Legacy edition of the album...some pure gold. "Move Over" for Pearl cause she's comin in at 3.65 stars.
Depeche Mode
2/5
Depeche Mode has always eluded my interest. They ain't bad and they have some big hits that are fine but I just don't get the diehard following. Music for the Masses is an easily digestible collection of emo-lectro pop. "Strangelove" is best song but a lot of the others are too slow and faith-based. Not sure why this album makes the list when their are others from the group that most certainly will. Not too impressed with this one...1.78 stars.
P.S. Wish we could get a DePesci Mode album with Joe doing covers. "What, am I your own personal Jesus...here to amuse you?"
The Gun Club
3/5
Interesting debut record from a band I never heard of. I was into the first half with the lead off track's grungy surfer punk sound. Kept it rolling until about the midpoint, then back half kinda lost its appeal. Started to get a little too cowboy punk for me. Not sure exactly what's going on with the cover but get some weird voodoo vibes. Overall, a different one from the list that was a good entry...2.6 stars.
Adele
2/5
Is Adele always in a break-up and sad? At 21 she gets pretty deep and at 25, she is still pining. Can't deny the girl can sing though; I just won't be playing much Adele since her albums are downers. She obviously has skills and has resonated with the masses. Rating this one slightly lower than her last appearance on the list due to her top song being on that one...1.74 stars.
John Coltrane
1/5
Coltrane is a name in the music world that is lauded from the highest peaks. I never have purposely listened to his work nor will I again unless heavily coaxed. I did not sense a master at work on "A Supreme Love." Just a guy fiddling around on the sax. Based on the impact Coltrane had, I imagine he was like a Jimi Hendrix of the Jazz scene. I just wasn't there and can't appreciate it I guess. As much as I wanted John Zorn to speed up this album, at 32 minutes I wasn't dying...1.49 stars.
Maxwell
1/5
Gah...this started out the gates with some sweet groove but quickly deteriorated into a slow jam, border-line muzak snooze fest. Oozed a bit too much with saxy serenades, proposals and love sounds. Max was probably getting laid while he was in the sound booth. Wished he stuck to the funk and kept it chill. I can see a horny, desperate woman hanging on Maxwell's Suite Urban Wang but I'm skippin'...1.15 stars.
Don McLean
1/5
Here's a slice of Americana (Pie). Donny is really only known for the title track but it's a good one. Gotta hear it every 4th of July or you just ain't a patriot. Even if Weird Al made a better parody, it gets this album on the list. The rest of the songs are lackluster in my opinion. McLean is a poet and is a solid lyrical storyteller but I'm dozing off. Won't revisiting this record but will play the hit annually...1.35 stars.
The Beach Boys
3/5
I know Pet Sounds is a heavily championed album and have listened to it a few times before. I was never too impressed and still am not but after reading the synopsis, I can understand for the time it was groundbreaking. The opener sticks to the simple surfer vibe The B-Boys are known for but after that, Brian Wilson explores unknown territories for the group. I give credit for this but I was only half in throughout my listen. "God Only Knows" and "Sloop John B" take top track spots but the later is a cover so. Overall, the record is pretty good and for the trail blazing it did on the production side of musical recordings, it makes the list. Tough one to rate based purely on my overall musical enjoyment but I'm giving it a solid 3 stars.
The Temptations
1/5
Not diggin' "All Directions" much. Lay some more funk down instead of the slow jams. Makes the list for the scared whitey and cheating father tracks I guess. I am not tempted to listen to any more of their albums...0.9 stars.
Miles Davis
1/5
Another Coltrane album so soon? Wait this is a Miles Davis album...or is it a Bill Evans "Trio" album? Either way I'm not impressed. Apparently this was earth shattering and sent the music world reeling. Why? It's just boring jazz. More soft piano and squonkin' on the sax. Davis slows down the trumpet to a weepy crawl that does sound like he's Kind of Blue. You got to be some old guy or a smug sophistocrat to rate this so highly. Or maybe my lizard brain just can't appreciate this genre...0.95 stars.
3/5
Nice one list! PJ Harvey been a bit of a sleeper for me. I have heard of her but never gave her a shot. Stories is solid all the way through. I think the team-up with Yorke on a few tracks here is perfect too. PJ has good mix of alternative, grunge and eeriness that pairs well with the likes of Radiohead. "Good Fortune" lands the top track slot. Her other works are great and I'm actually hoping to get a 2nd appearance, maybe from her debut. Harvey the wonder hamster pulls 3.38 stars for this one.
Peter Frampton
3/5
Alright, alright...if we gotta have live albums on the list, this is a must. Frampton truly Comes Alive on tour. The studio version of "Do You Feel Like We Do" is not even close to the live one. The talk-box is the highlight but don't forget the insane guitar jam at the end. Pete shows off his versatility as well throughout with some short acoustics and slower ballads. Only track I didn't like is the "Jumpin' Jack Flash" cover. I think everyone has a copy of this record in there collection, I mean for a buck it's an easy pick up. Solid live show, would have loved to catch it...2.75 stars.
The Verve
3/5
A Northern Soul is a bit slow, a bit garbled at times. Hard to distinguish individual instruments. High points were when The Verve went Radiohead with title track, "Brainstorm Interlude" and "(Reprise)." "Life's and Ocean" is descent but the rest of the album is not doing it for me. Not a total drag but I'm not moved either...2.57 stars.
The Isley Brothers
2/5
3+3(-3) is alright...3 decent tracks, 3 good ones, and 3 lamers. Some pretty run of the mill funk-soul. I recognized about half the album with some covers(?) sprinkled in. Final 3 tracks are the strongest making for a good wrap up. Not going after any of the Isleys work but the brothers straight pimpin on the cover...1.8 stars.
Thin Lizzy
2/5
Love me some Thin Lizzy but a live one? Live and Dangerous was a fallback release because their producer couldn't produce and this makes the list? Sounds like a pretty kick ass show(s) but still prefer the studio versions. None of the live tracks bring anything extra. Apart from some banter from Lynott there is nothing special here. I'm rating this one harshly not because of the song content but merely for its undeserved list spot...1.72 stars.
Iron Butterfly
3/5
I have heard the title track but not in its entirety. Always thought it was "In the Garden of Eden" and like the alternate lyrics. Iron Butterfly was probably stoned out of their gourds when they came up with that one. Side A is good and even though Side B is one long song, I dig it. Solid album from this SoCal psychedelic set. I am in for more from them and the genre...2.82 stars.
Cream
4/5
Disraeli Gears is a smash. My exposure and mix lists of Cream over the years have been songs from this album but I never knew. "Tales of Brave Ulysses" and "Sunshine of Your Love" are top tracks. Whole record is a cool mix of psychedelia and blues guitar from Clapton. Jack Bruce on bass guitar/lead singer is great with a voice that stands out. Even Ginger (No Contest) Baker wields the sticks with cosmic wizardry. I did also enjoy the fun finish with "Mother's Lament." Diggin the cover art and title based on a funny story regarding bike gear shifters makes it all the better. The trio nails this one with 4.03 stars.
Earth, Wind & Fire
2/5
Earth, Wind, and Fire is like the Wu-Tang clan of Motown...there are like 40 members. This helps with the many instruments and solid musical ensembles they put together. That's the Way of the World is a half good album. Odd songs groove, even ones are skippers. "Happy Feelin" steals the show with a down right funktastic bassline and supporting xylophone. A take it or leave record...2.06 stars.
Nirvana
4/5
In Utero is a bit of a throwback to Nirvana's debut album, Bleach, with Albini's noisy influence on a few songs. Even though I like "Very Ape" and "Milk It", I'm glad the record label stepped in and toned it down to produce the hits such as "Dumb" and "All Apologies" which def carry the record. Nirvana sired 3 great releases and I am hoping all of them make the list. For birthing this one...3.75 stars.
R.E.M.
4/5
Document is less of a R.E.M. sleeper than Automatic but both are good ones. Can't go wrong with the frantic pace of "ITEOTWAWKI(AIFF)" and "The One I Love" is a classic. "Lightin' Hopkins" I had forgotten about but really like. There are a few slower, weaker tracks towards the end on B-side. Stipe can get a little whiney as well but it's not overly annoying. With their 5th album making the list, I expect a few more earlier recordings showing up as well. This one gets 3.65 stars.
Le Tigre
3/5
Le Tigre attacks with claws out on their debut album. Pretty great punky, poppy, Cyndi Laupy tracks with heavy influence from the Go-Go's, Joan Jett, and Sleater-Kinney. The trio's play is simply structured but they add in a layer of mixing that elevates the songs. Lyrics and titles capture the late 90's well. I particularly like "Slideshow at Free University" for showcasing the sampling/mix skills. I don't have an opinion on Cassavetes but I'll check out his movies and more albums from these cats...3.37 stars.
Rufus Wainwright
3/5
Accidentally listened to Want One 1st. Did I Want Two? Maybe. The more I listened, the more I enjoyed it. Sounds a bit like we got a solo Thom Yorke project. Bit too soft and slow at times but very peaceful. Stand out tracks are "The One You Love", "Peach Trees", and "Waiting for a Dream." Rufus has skill and I will explore more, may just throw some on to a nice slumber. Want Part Deux gets 3.1 stars.
Tom Waits
3/5
Sounds like Tom crawled off an old salty ship after a long voyage, slept in an alley in the rain with only a piece of cardboard, smoked a carton of cigs, downed a bottle of rotgut, spiked a vein or 2, and made his way to the nearest dive bar to sing all about it...and I liked it! I was not bored or tired of his short yarns and bluesy pirate music. I really can't say any song stood out, the album just rolled along like a rusty old jalopy. The man has a good amount of work so I will be playing it on shuffle to get more exposure. Rain Dogs gets 3.2 stars from me.
T. Rex
3/5
The King of the Dinos slides another good album out to the masses. This one is a love story to cars with the title track and a few others odes to the auto. The Slider is a little grungier than Electric Warrior with simpler guitar riffs, less bass focus and back-up support. 3 records in 2 years with #'s 2&3 scoring some good points means I got to check out their debut. I'm hopping on the chariot choogle and riding this one to 3.48 stars.
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
2/5
Siembra has the pep of any salsa album but does pack a little extra spice. Colon brings swag and has some weird fun on "Buscando Guayaba"...not sure what's going on but I dig. Kinda just another set of salsa tunes though. Is the cover supposed to mean Big Willie is "planting" his seed and having tons of babies? Siembra is one that may grow on you as you keep listening but this go around I'm giving it 2 stars.
Portishead
3/5
Have heard of Portishead but never heard Portishead before. They produce some spooky, chill shit. Beth Gibbons is soothing and works well with trip-hop electronica. I like "Wandering Star" most of all the songs. If "Glory Box" sounds familiar, I think it's another song with a sample or same beat as Beta Band's "Squares." File this one with the other trip-hop albums that made the list but it's the best one thus far in my opinion...2.56 (wandering) stars.
Tracy Chapman
2/5
Oh Man did this album Chap my ass growing up. Mom almost melted the CD with how much play it got...please stop! After this listen however, I don't despise it as much. "Fast Car" is actually not that bad and the rest of the record is pretty nice. Nice little jungly scene and pipes on "Mountains O' Things." I can't believe this was released in '88. Always thought it was a late 90's album. Ahead of it's time which now boosts my overall rating. I'm not doing a full 180 over here but I'll give Tracy some credit. At the budding age of 14 this would've got a 0.0 from me. At 43, it's getting 2.15 stars. Damn...I am getting old😒
Fela Kuti
2/5
The Fela and his band can sure bring the rhythms of Africa. I got in the zone with this album but it also dragged on with much of the same. Ginger must have had ye ye de smell after those drums solos though c'mon. 2 stars for jungle jammin' live.
Dead Kennedys
1/5
Dead Kennedys is a seminal punk rock band no doubt. I like some music from the genre and listened to this album with the GF who is a huge fan. Fresh Fruit may have been fresh at the time but it was more a pile of rotting vegetables for me. Jello Biafra is a strange dude and I could not get into his vocals. "California Uber Alles" was the only song I cared for. The rest was a fast, noisy mess. The DK, Operation Ivy, and misfits logos are common tattoos for the diehard punk rocker and I guess I can appreciate the foundation laid down by these groups. I'm just not that into it...1.3 stars.
Robert Wyatt
2/5
Robert Wyatt may have hit Rock Bottom falling out a 4 story building drunk and becoming a paraplegic. Even though most of this album was written prior to the injury on a trip to Venice, the recordings were after (partly in a van in a field) and turned out quite strange. Wyatt takes on a mythical warlock persona, spouting incantations and spells. Sounds like some parts are even recorded in reverse. I'm not sure how I feel about the album. It's weird and trippy but I'm not sure it's good. File this one under the odd ones from the list. Exposed to something new and strange at 1.75 stars.
M.I.A.
1/5
Kala sounds like a thrown together mess of weak rap skills over shitty beats made on a cheap mixer. Without "Paper Planes," M.I.A. would be missing in action. Disco "Jimmy" was the only other decent track. The artist got waaaay more attention than deserved when this album dropped. Can't say I really enjoyed this...1.28 stars.
Neil Young
2/5
"After the Gold Rush" is a a little lack-luster. "Southern Man" puts this album on the list. I do like the softy title track too though. Everything else doesn't do much. Really can't say more about the record...2.05 stars.
Simon & Garfunkel
1/5
I think I prefer the herbs over the album. This is a bit limp-wristed. Best song was the Dylan pastiche "A Simple Desultory Phillippic" (whatever that means). I'm just not an S&G guy. Unfortunately we are bound to see more from the duo on the list and I hope they are better records. These 2 herbivores get 1.48 stars for this one.
Drive-By Truckers
2/5
I have heard of this band but their work eludes me. They do have that Southern country rock sound and Southern Rock Opera was ok. For a double album it wasn't super long or unbearable. Not that great either through. Didn't intrigue me enough to look into any other works. Lead singer really needed to catch that Lynyrd Skynyrd show. Ask me if I'm a truck driver...1.7 stars
Sister Sledge
1/5
I always thought this was a heavy metal hair band. Totally different end of the spectrum. I understand how the sisters influenced modern R&B girl groups like Destiny's Child but it's just not for me. The title track will always be ruined for being used in a McDonalds commercial. Hit this album with a sledge hammer and give it a 1.4.
Echo And The Bunnymen
1/5
Crocodiles did not snap as much as I'd hoped. Compared with the previous list entry from the Bunnymen, this album was a yawner. The only song that got my attention was "All That Jazz" (and I don't like jazz). Boring, somber alt-rock. Not a list deserver in my opinion...1.26 stars.
Black Sabbath
3/5
Black Sabbath is a band I should have given way more attention to in the past. They continue to surprise me with their albums. Vol. 4 still brings solid metal rock with good guitar work and dark vibes but also shows a lighter side. Never knew it was a Black Sabbath cover but "Changes" by Charles Bradley is a great tribute. Pretty sure we'll see their 3rd installment on the list as well. RIP Ozzy...3.4 stars.
Kanye West
2/5
Kanye steps it up on this release compared to his debut. The man got beats and the package did sellll, but delivery be weaker than the US Maillll...huuuuh? At least this DB got somewhat real and is "So Appalled" with his ridiculous (dickless, dickless, dickless) lifestyle after the fortune/fame and tells women to "Runaway" cause he is a "Monster" (Top Track). Glad the skits were cut from this record and having Chris Rock cameo was a highlight. Need to be careful of artists with album titles such as this one. They are coming out of the woodworks with twisted, dark secret lives. I expect to see Mr. West on this list again amongst others (Epstein). "Who Will Survive America?" These days, I really don't know but be careful what Yeezy teaches you...2.35 stars.
The Chemical Brothers
4/5
The Chemical Brothers are the electronica band that got me into the genre. Although it was their 2nd album (which I expect to get a spot) that hooked me, their debut is a worthy lister. The Dusty Bros bring simple, solid beats with B-Boy edge. All tracks good. A side pops with a little more energy. Side B mellows out but has my favorite track "Playground for a Wedgeless Firm." Not much to it but it just works. Their CDs were warped from so much play in my discman no doubt. Exit Planet Dust gets high rank from me not just for the tunes but also for their influence on me as a teen...4.3 starts.
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
Great...let's use poor radio reception, power tools, and sheet metal to make music (now I know where Jesus and the Mary Chain got it from). Sounds like they may have actually been trying to collapse some buildings so the band name is fitting. Only some angry Germans would come up with this. Lands a list spot for being original but who the hell would put this record on for fun? Not sure dub step has gotten that much better from these roots but it doesn't hurt my ears as much...0.73 stars for causing Blut in my Schiess.
Brian Eno
2/5
"Another Green World" is another soft, light music ensemble for your background enjoyment. Nothing to turn off and works nicely while you work. Eno getting into the experimental side of things with his snake guitar and uncertain piano is cool considering it's is early stuff for the elctro-ambient genre. Certainly liked it more than sleeping in the airport. 2.0 stars for taking me out for a nice trip in a big ship over the planet.
Eagles
2/5
A three-fer album for the Eagles debut. The tracks that didn't chart are skips. The record is a little weak but the Eagles did make country rock more palatable so give them credit for that. They improve from here. The Eagles Eagles gets 2.3 stars.
Pulp
2/5
What is it with Pulp that I need to hear them before I die...twice? I really am just not into this band and can't stand the lead singer. He sounds like sleazy Bowie or a 2-bit lounge singer. The cover reinforces the grime with what I assume is a naked model, taking Jarvis' Cocker from behind and not particularly enjoying it. Maybe it was different for the late 90s or something. This is Hardcore is better than Pulp's debut album but not by much...1.73 stars.
JAY Z
2/5
Jay-Z the Jigga man is way HOVA rated. Other than a few releases over his career, I've never been a fan despite everyone else swooning. It's not as bad as some current BS but bragging about your money and talent without bringing anything new is boring. Best track is "Renegade" where his potential lyrical skill finally shines...too bad a white boy from Detroit shines brighter. I get why Blueprint makes the list cause it was a huge album (maybe 9\11 helped) but I'm still not that in...1.93 stars.
The Undertones
3/5
The Undertones took a queue from the Ramones and cleaned it up a bit. A lot of the same sound but right off the bat I was in so the whole album was a good, quick rock-punk romp. "Jump Boys" and "True Confessions" stood out as top tracks with the later straying from the standard formula. Not sure why they threw on what sounded like an early, gravelly demo version of "Casbah Rock" at the end but whatever...it was only a minute long. 2.58 stars.
Aretha Franklin
2/5
Other than the well known hit, this album falls flat for me. Aretha got pipes but the songs are too slow. Surprised this was her 10th release. I can "Respect" Franklin's talent but this album was not as strong as Lady Soul...1.58 stars.
LL Cool J
3/5
I always put LL into the 90s hokey hip-hop category along with the likes of The Fresh Prince and The Digital Underground. However, after listening to Mama Said Knock You Out, I give a little more respect to Cool J. This album packs a punch much harder than I expected. Title track is a classic with some good support from others like "Eat Em Up L Chill" and "Illegal Search." I got a kick a out of "Milky Cereal" and had some when I got home. I may need to check some more material out by James T. Smith. 2.82 stars for this record.
Michael Jackson
4/5
Coming off the monster hit album, Thriller, MJ shows why he is the King of pop with this record. Bad is certainly not bad, it's great. Loaded with smash hits and some decent, slower support tracks...not really a bad song. Time to break out "Moonwalker" for a viewing. 4.23 stars for not doggin' me around.
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Good God I need a beer after that one. Heard of Mr. Cohen but had no idea the man was so depressed. Figured I was in for some jaunty folk tunes but got a slow, somber Dylan for 45 mins. Leonard has some poetic lines and certainly gets deep about relationships on the album. Not a lot to his works, they just drivel on and all sound the same. Won't be listening to this again or going deeper...1.05.
Super Furry Animals
3/5
The Super Furry Animals are a collection of kooks and their debut album is a fun, fanciful frolic. Never heard of them but perfectly fits in the British 90s alt-rock era. I was quite entertained by the record. Solid party album with quirkiness. The team throws in some punk and psychedelia to spice it up. Got a Albarny Oasis sound with a dash of The Kinks. All tracks pretty good with "That Man Don't Give a Fuck" and "Something 4 the Weekend" tops. Interested in more from the group. 3.15 stars for Fuzzy Logic.
Morrissey
3/5
I have not liked the entries by The Smith's so I expected a somber serving from Morrissey on Viva Hate but what I got was much more uplifting. With the title of the record championing negativity, one would think you'd be in for a wet blanket of an album but it was actually pretty damn good. Maybe shedding the bandmates opened up Stephen's brighter, happier side. There is still the overhanging melancholy but it doesn't kill the mood. Nice string arrangements and song structure. "Everyday Is Like Sunday" was my top track. I'm giving this one a surprising 3.13 stars.
Sinead O'Connor
2/5
It's a threefer album...4-5-6. Others are too slow and boring. The fact that Sinead makes the list for a cover is a bit lame but she does improve on the original Prince version. Denying the award also made her controversial so more list points I'm sure. I guess I'm glad I heard the record before I died cause I wouldn't have otherwise. Bald O'Connor, more list points but I Do Want What I haven't Got and that's a house and hair...1.66 stars.
Carpenters
1/5
The Carpenters may have made some of these songs popular but didn't write them. Although this is very common in the music industry, if you make this list I think you need some originality. I'm not scoring this duo high marks for covers. I even think most of the originals are better, for sure "Help!" and "Reason to Believe." I don't want to see them make the list again. 0.9 stars.
Frank Sinatra
1/5
Francis was just a slow crooner that was for some reason the rage in the 50s. No way he held up in the 60s though with Sgt. Pepper released the same year as this album. Popular with just with the old smoking, martini generation but not the youngstas. Can't get behind this combo record in any way but I understand the duo was considered powerhouses in their genres. Johnny O liked Sinatra but he was from an "old" fogey family and I think he liked the cool image and not the music per se. Probably getting more albums from the Rat Pack on the list but I'm done with Frankie...0.45 stars.
Megadeth
2/5
Some more killer metal guitar shredding from Megadeth. I can get down with this to an extent. It's high energy but repetitive so loses its appeal after a while. "Peace Sells" is top track with some good support. If drugs were a problem for these mad men must have been tons of cocaine or speed cause I can't see them raging on any depressants. Peace is cheaper than war so I'm buying at 2.48 stars.
XTC
3/5
Only ever heard of "Making Plans for (R)igel" from XTC. This one is an intriguing album. The band was more than just Skylarking on this project as it is well put together. Liked the theme and introduction of nature sounds throughout. Def glad they put the song "Dear God" back on since it is one of the top tracks...what is wrong with management? And why such controversy in the US over the release? Gotta be the uptight religious extremers pissed that the band can't believe in God...what a bunch of whiners. Not sure what we got on the album cover. Maybe some nudists flutists frolicking through the lands? Like the band name to boot. 3.14 stars.
The Libertines
2/5
I feel this album was a little lack luster. Pretty standard brit alt-rock. Why it makes the list, I can't say. Guess it was huge in the UK but I never heard of them. Not bad, not great. Giving it a right done the middle rating...2.5 stars.
Christine and the Queens
1/5
Christine sounds a bit like a French Madonna but certainly not as good. I def did not need this one from the list. This Frenchy pop does not seem worthy; however, it is not the worst. Quickly moving past this one with a 1.45 star rating.
Jorge Ben Jor
2/5
Africa Brasil fits right in with the other jungley works on the list but with a little more rock edge. The album started out great but began to wear on me after a while. I did find the background flute tootin' got a little annoying by the end too. Not a bad record at 2.02 stars.
Scissor Sisters
3/5
What the hell is this? I'm wanting to shove this aside but the Scissor Sisters kinda got me with their debut release. Take Elton, Robbie Williams, Beck, Soft Cell, ABBA, T. Rex, and George Michaels...throw em in a cement mixer and you get this. Their sound is a blend of disco, electronica, funk, glam, and rock. It should be chalked up as bad but somehow it works. Other than the deplorable hit single cover of "Comfortably Numb," the album is a good-weird, engaging mix. Album picks up steam from "Lovers in the Backseat" on. "Tits on the Radio"...need I say more? The fact this won Gay Album of the year is on point. The Sisters are scissoring in at 3.14 stars with this one.
Neil Young
4/5
Yet another Neil album but this one is list worthy and his best. Surprised how much I like this album, even as a younger lad. It is slow and country-esque but it's deep and there is something about the burn of each ballad that gets ya. "Old Man" has been a favorite song of mine forever and I do agree "A Man Needs a (Bang) Maid." Not a bad track on the record. 3.89 stars for the reaping the Harvest.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
1/5
Probably the best jazz record thus far from the list...but still not great. It has the cool vibe and I think I've heard "Take Five" before which carries the album with its sleuthy tone. The Dave Brubeck Quartet is certainly better than The Bill Evans Trio...extra guy helps I guess. Not too mad about taking some Time Out to hear this one but it's still only getting a 1.2 star rating.
Sonic Youth
2/5
Never really gave this band a chance and still probably won't after listening to Goo. Half the album is alright, other half is a bit of a hap-hazard noise fest. I liked the first and last tracks...middle was uninspiring. Not the worst record but skippable. 2.03 stars.
Simple Minds
2/5
Pretty standard synth pop-rock tunes. A more little dream-like and whimsical than some of the other 80s acts from the genre. I was not moved by New Gold Dream and give title track top slot. Not sure about the 82-84 reference...maybe years they hoped to be a chart topping band? I am wondering if we are going to get their Breakfast Club album on the list if this one made it. 2.05 stars for a simple minded record.
2/5
What you have here is a live one with the 2 sides of Dylan. The 1st half solo acoustic set is not the version I prefer. Find that his singing is rather annoying. Songs sound the same and were boring. When the Hawks came out for the 2nd half, the whole concert picked up. The crowd must have been a bunch of old, stuffshirts to criticize the rock set. I much preferred it but I guess if you had a stick up your ass, Dylan was straying from the folk tunes you were so accustomed to. I like the dichotomy of this album but again, it's live so had to be there for true experience. 2.03 stars.
Stephen Stills
2/5
Meh...not really a fan of solo Stills. "Love the One Your With" is the only recognizable track. Album ain't bad but I didn't gain anything from the listen. We may get the CSNY side solo projects on the list and I'd like to compare them against each other (suspect Y will take the cake). Stephen didn't wow me with his and I'm giving the record a lack-luster 2.07 stars.
ABBA
2/5
We have hit the disco era and boy is it lame. Arrival has the smash hit "Dancing Queen" and I will say I somewhat enjoy the song but everything else by ABBA is poker stick material. This album got so cheesy. At times it felt like I was listening to some bad stage play. "Money, Money, Money" and "Tiger" are good examples with the later taking the 2nd best track slot. Come on list...give me something good soon. 1.75 stars for the Swedes.
Coldcut
4/5
Thank you list for list-ening. "What's That Noise?" is a super fun, scatter-brained adventure through cut & paste mayhem. Coldcut was on the forefront of mixing with this debut and they piece together some pretty coherent tunes despite the jumpiness of the genre. Some may find this annoying but I love the chaos. "Stop This Crazy Thing" was so great and lands top track spot. "My Telephone" and "Theme from Reportage" get honorable mentions. This album fits right in the late 80s techno-beat movement. A solid amusement ride of a record...3.71 stars.
Nick Drake
2/5
Alright list, we get it...you are obviously a huge fan of Nick Drake. All 3 of his albums have made it but why? Pink Moon is his best but it's more of the same slow, dreamy song work. I am not happy the guy suffered from depression and died at 26. I am however happy that there is no possible way there will be more albums from him to listen to (if there is a live one I swear). Putting Mr. Drake to rest with a 1.66 star rating.
Jean-Michel Jarre
2/5
The journey begins with an astronaut cruising through an intricately woven nebula. They blast their ship out of the cosmos and hone in on a distant planet in the view port. The ship drifts down through the planet's thick, billowing atmosphere of dense clouds. It touches down on a sparsely vegetated beach along an ever expanding dark ocean. The astronaut tests the air and sees that it is suitable for breathing though with higher levels of methane and CO2. Equipped with a small boat pod, the astronaut ventures out into the ocean, speeding along shoreline with the sound of seagulls echoing around. They end up at a cove with a small private beach. They park the boat and swim to shore but as they approach the sand, something seems off. There is something not right about this cove. They notice dead fish and birds strewn about the shore. Their skin starts to burn and a red rash is forming. They quickly swim back to the boat and leave the cove. Jetting along the shoreline they look for a spot to rest as night is approaching. They ride for hours, beginning to feel very sleepy and just when they are about to doze off...a loud crash is heard. They spring awake and drive towards the crashing noise. They come to a large metal barrier with the rising sea level crashing against it...trying to break in. The astronaut climbs out of the boat and up a rocky outcrop next to the barrier. As they near the top, the sun begins to rise. When they break the peak, the sun is fully out and reveals a landscape covered with oil refineries and heavy industry pumping smog and smoke into the air. Fires burning coal and tires, metal smelters showering sparks and toxic fumes. The astronaut drops to their knees and realizes that they have landed back on Earth many years later. The planet is now in a runaway greenhouse affect. With tears in their eyes, our astronaut pans over to an oiled covered seagull standing on an Exxon-Mobil sign...keowing sadly.
I like this for the early electronica paving. It's slow but well done. Needs more beats though.
2.12 stars for the electro-Frenchy adventure.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
4/5
I'm liking this better than the earlier album The Scream. Siouxsie and her Banshees have honed their talents and pumped out a dark rocker. It has just what you want from a punky-emo-alt-rock album. Cool eerie guitar work, solid beats, and a vocal vixen on the mic. Opening track comes right out the gates swinging. The record picks up steam and peaks with "Monitor." Other than the last track...all good ones. Getting some good JuJu from this one...3.70 stars.
Supergrass
3/5
I like Supergrass and I thank the list for introducing them. This album wasn't as strong as their debut but still a fun one. It was but up and down with a very strong 3 track finish. Boosted my rating as it left me on a high. Few other good ones like "Sun Hits the Sky" and "Richard III." Not quite as strange as the Zappa album but a little tip of the hat I'm sure. I can go for more from these Brits...3.14.
The White Stripes
3/5
As with Elephant, half the album is good and the other is just ok. The hits aren't as strong as the ones from Elephant but the album as a whole is a bit more consistent. Some of the short tracks are mindless drabble from Jack. I put this one right on the same level as their other albums. For a duo, they are good but after getting full record exposure form the list, I think there are some better 2-part acts. 3.12 stars.
fIREHOSE
3/5
There is more to this band then meets the ear. At first they seem a little hap-hazard and simple but if you really give this album a listen, it has depth and talent all around. Feel like these guys influenced Claypool from Primus with the odd-dark bass and ranting on some tracks (like "What Gets Heard"). A quick and easily digestible 31 min album. I'll check out some of their other records and maybe even their founding fathers the Minutemen. Fromohio gets a 2.9 star rating.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
2/5
Not as good as I had hoped but I guess I really didn't have that high of hopes. "Relax" and the title track are decent (later being a bit too long but changed styles enough). Some pretty lame covers added that did not benefit the record. What is going on with "Including the Ballad of 32?" I feel like I may have walked into the wrong room at the Pleasuredome...that door should be locked. Not the most impressive debut album...2.08 stars.
Kings of Leon
4/5
I like the grungy blues rock the band brings to the table with this debut album. Only recognized "Molly's Chamber" which may be top track but I am undecided since the whole thing is really good. Better than I expected even having heard later records from the group which I do like but never loved. We will see at least one more album from these boys. 3.70 stars for this one.
Hüsker Dü
2/5
Husker Du is not bad but I prefer the board game over the band...some great times at Nan & Gramps. Disc 1 is more punk rock than 2 and I like the alt-rock direction the 2nd half took. "Too Much Spice" is my top track with not much else standing out. Overall, the record is a little drab. Not a very impactful album and not sure why the list spot. Maybe the turmoil between the bandmates caused a stir. 2.04 blue stars.
The Beach Boys
2/5
The Beach Boys have always been a little too Barbershoppy and sugar coated. Today! gives you a sugar buzzlike most of their work. They do stray from the surfer vibe on this album and tried to show the world they are versatile. I don't think they hit the mark here and def improve their experimentation on the next release. It's a shorty so it doesn't overstimulate your sweet tooth...1.7 stars.
R.E.M.
3/5
Green is not as green as the previous albums by R.E.M. that have made the list thus far. Aside from the 3 top hits (Orange Crush, Stand, And Pop Song 89), the rest is mediocre. Even though "Get Up" is a charted track, I found it weak. Never realized Stipe is a gorilla-man and under his button up he dons a "Hairshirt." Bit surprised to see Cobain put this record in his top 50. I have heard this album many times but I'm not so sure you must before you die. I like it but I think we are gonna have too much Rem-sleep on here...3.13 stars.
Tom Waits
3/5
Tom Waits for no one. This guy crawled out from the "Underground" and put together some wild albums. He's like some boogey-man, telling greasy, old tales of the wanderer. I bet he hung out with Charles Bukowski a lot. I was hoping for a little Swordfishtrombone play, curious what it would sound like. Not as strong as his follow up album "Rain Dogs" but I do enjoy the weird carney tunes from this barnacle...3.10 stasr.
Dizzee Rascal
2/5
Da Boy In Da Corner needs Ritalin. Dizzee may have brought the grime-rap scene to the British mainstream but it's just not my cup o' tea. The production is too digital and flashy, the flow style too schizophrenic. There should be a warning on the album cover that this may cause epilepsy. Top track by far is "Fix Up, Look Sharp" which is more of a shout out to simple, classic hip-hop. A few others were pretty good like "Round We Go," "Jezebel" and "Do It." I think the editor is listing this and other brit-rap cause they are a hard-core brit-rep. The Rascal is a bit too jumpy on this record and for that pulls a meager 1.9 stars.
AC/DC
3/5
AC/DC is not my fave classic rock band but they do have some kick ass tunes. Highway to Hell is not bad but doesn't have any of my top songs. The title track is ok and the rest follow a standard formula...simple guitar riff, screechy lead, and hook in harmony. I didn't know the lead singer was ever a different guy than Brian Johnson. The Angus family is stacked with music legends with members of The Easybeats and Flash & the Pan. Having AC/DC in their legacy is not a bad at all. I expect a few more records from this electric band. I liked this album enough to give it 2.65 stars.
The 13th Floor Elevators
2/5
This band epitomizes the genre with the name, trippy tunes, use of LSD while recording, cover art...it's the 60s psychedelic scene captured in time on an album. I started out really into the Sounds but after a while that damn electric jug, although very original and out there, just got annoying and pulled me away from the songs. Roky should have used it sparingly but he oversaturated the record with it. Still, I think the album deserves a list spot. Clever work on "Fire Engine" with the eerie sirens and "Kingdom of Heaven" is truly an acid trip track. If I ever try the drug...this album is getting play. 2.25 stars.
LCD Soundsystem
4/5
LCD Soundsystem is a great electronica alt-rock band. It is very difficult to combine lyrics with elctro-beats and make it sound good but this band nailed it. Sound of Silver is a fun trip through beats and the talented mind of James Murphy. Good marks for this work but they have even better albums which I hope some make the list. If you aren't in on this go read all the pamphlets and watch the tapes cause these guys kick ass...4.05 stars.
The Verve
3/5
This is The Verve we know and like. "Bitter Sweet Symphony" was a smash hit on MTV and deservedly so even though they may have stolen the violin from The Stones "The Last Time." Urban Hymns is a little long but I liked it all except for "Sonnet." The band continues to explore an eerie, mystical sound. They are like a blend of Oasis and Radiohead. I even liked the hidden track with the creepy baby. 2.85 for the record.
Motörhead
2/5
Only ever heard the title track of this album from the band. The rest of the album is not bad. Some early thrash metal with good guitar and drums. Hearing some double bass pedal in there. Sounds like these guys formed in a scuzzy biker bar. Lead has a certain road worn voice, like he's seen some shit. And with that name, Lemmy Kilmister, had to become a hard rock forefather. Ace of Spades was a better album than I expected and I give it 2.1 stars.
TV On The Radio
3/5
Tough to watch TV on the Radio but the band sounds pretty good. Interesting alt-rock pop. The B-Side of Dear Science is better than A with "DLR" taking top track spot. Continued through the bonus tracks and shouldn't have. Spotify has the "Non-Musical Silence" track (if it even is one) which is so hipster that I almost gave up on the band. "Dear Science, please start solving problems and curing diseases or shut the fuck up" is pretty great from Dave so I'll give this one 3.11 stars.
Manu Chao
3/5
The multilingual Manu Chao puts together an appetizing album. I dig the sound bytes and simple laptop produced beats. "Bongo Bong" and "Welcome to Tijuana" were my faves. Had a good time with this listen. Give me mas Manu. Mucho gusto...3.1 etoiles.
The Damned
3/5
Well I'll be Damned...this is a decent early punk album. The band throws in a little more too, not just the typical fast paced thrashing and yelling. They get weird with "These Hands" and hit a high note with "Anti-Pope." Certainly rather listen to this record than be nibbled to death by an okapi...2.7 stars.
Röyksopp
3/5
Royksopp put together a very palatable, smooth electronica album. I don't think we have anything particularly special here but listening to these chill melodies in the wee hours of the A.M. was nice. Made the drive to work a relaxing one. Smoke Mushroom gets 2.55 stars for this debut.
Morrissey
1/5
You Are the Quarry should be thrown in a quarry and buried. This album is Morrissey on a soap box about a bunch of typical subjects like politics, American greed, corporate BS, fame, religion, social acceptance, blah blah blah. I really was annoyed. It has minimal lyrical rhyme and just sounds like stage rants. This record is a complete flop. Even the back-up music was pretty lame. 0.93 stars you fat pig...take a hamburger and shove it.
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Talk about a brutal send off album. Leonard sure got darker and not surprised he died shortly after the release. Kinda feel bad for the guy cause this wasn't a "had a great life, see ya" record like Bowie's finale. Dude was down and sounds like he "Left the Table" with a pair of 2's. A life of touring and scoring literally broke his back. I am not into Cohen's talk song style but I guess it's unique and poetic. Doubt I ever play this again, hopefully not cause any occasion that calls for this is dire. 1.10 fading stars.
2/5
A nice "orchustic" work but gets a bit too dramatic at times. "Greenman" was great (shout out to Charlie Day) with it's Squeezy, far east sound. Did not like "Your Dictionary" but the rest of the album is decent. I'll take earlier XTC over this "beautiful woman"(?). If Part 2 doesn't make the list, I will still check it out. Volume 1 gets 2.22 stars.
Laura Nyro
2/5
Laura can carry a good tune but it got a little tiresome after a while. I can see her sitting outside a cafe in Haight Ashbury in the 60s with her guitar and a tip jar. She got some talent and would take this over Joni Mitchell any day. I'd sit down for a stone souled picnic with Eli, 1.68 stars.
Dolly Parton
2/5
Dolly is an artist that may have become famous more for her huge tracts of land than her singing talents. This album is mediocre but for country, tolerable. It's not your typical twangy, hick schtick. The title track is alright with the sentimental story. Bettin' she gets at least one more on the list. Stuffing this coat back in the closet with 1.67 stars.
Portishead
2/5
Some more slow, eerie songs from the head of the Portis. Not as strong as their debut, a little too soft. There was doo-wop on this album? I missed that track I guess. Top one that stood out was "The Rip" with the rest decent but didn't leave a lasting impression. I like this band but the records require a certain mood for play. 2.2 stars for their Third one.
Elvis Presley
2/5
Deferring any special treatment in Special Services and serving as a regular soldier served the King well. Probably the smartest move by the Colonel to put him in a good light and earn respect from his fellow Americans who may have thought negatively about him. If only the old hound dog hadn't courted a 14 year old while in Germany. Elvis is Back! with this record. His return from the army and to old school rock 'n roll is what I expected here. I am not that into the music era but Presley can carry a tune and cause a swoon. 1.7 stars.
Stevie Wonder
2/5
Another Stevie and I Wonder why so many on the list. I just don't have the ear for his work. I don't see the draw. This album was more of the same from the the wonder boy with cheesy motown sound. It got better at the end with the creepy track "They Won't Let Me Go" and the 2 finishers. Not buying it...1.69 stars.
The Incredible String Band
2/5
A band of gypsies with a kazoo and a sitar. This is an odd one for the list. Not super into psycho-folk music I guess. Just a pack of Pikeys around the fire, singing tunes of yore about mythical beasts, kings and fantasy. Pretty good on the strings but not that Incredible. "A Very Cellular Song" was probably the most complex, structured song. I could give these Romanis a minute at a ren faire but for everyday listen, too much minstrel...1.69 stars.
Ella Fitzgerald
1/5
Ooof...that was a chore. Took me 6 drives to work to get thru this one. Ella got a nice, classic singing voice. Sounds like she could come out of any early Disney movie. I honestly thought she was a white woman though. She doesn't have the pipes like some of her black counterparts. Maybe it's just the genre, she could probably belt out some soul. Thinking this was selected from her works purely for the shear mass. 6 in one is overkill but you are getting a lot. 1.12 stars for Fitz.
Lorde
3/5
A bit surprised when I saw this Lorde album pop up on the list, expect(ed) her debut. I will say side A is bit of a slow drag, which I kinda expected based on the album Title. But side B turns it up a notch. The pace picks up and the songs are more engaging. After the full listen, I'm one foot in, 1 out on this record. Looking back on it, starts low and gradually builds to end on a high with the top track...like Lorde slowly emerged from the depression of the breakup and was ready to get back out there, even if those perfect places are hard to find. Not really going back on any single track but as a whole, this is a good album for anyone going through a split. Not disappointed here and will give the lady more credit than I have...2.65 stars.
Bruce Springsteen
2/5
Other than the title track and "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out," just some more meh from the Jersey Jungleland. Bruce looks and sounds like he is part of the Rumble Fish or Outsiders gang and this album would be a decent soundtrack for either film. The two best Boss songs making the album track list pull it up from a potentially dismal rating to 2.21 stars.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Bobby D pulls together a good one with Blonde on Blonde. Good balance of folk-rock-blues that doesn't wear you down. Classic opener and the rest good, clever writing. Picked up a solid back up band as well. I like to think this trilogy is where Dylan hits his peak in developing his own style. Probably will get the other two releases on the list but if not, I will give them a listen. Many interpretations of the album title...maybe Bob was just into light haired lesbians. 3.08 stars for not recording just another leopard-skin pill-box hat.
Morrissey
2/5
Your Arsenal had potential, too bad Morrissey had to ruin it. Started out pretty in with the heavy guitar on the first few songs but it unraveled quickly. Good finish though with top track "Tomorrow." Too much Morrissey on the list. This one lands between Quarry and Viva Hate at 2.08 stars. Not really the one for me, Fatty...
Can
3/5
Lock a gang of krauts in a castle with a set of instruments, a sound mixer, and a pile of hallucinogenic drugs for a month and you get a wild album. Can is for sure out there with where they go on this record. By "Peking O" they have completely lost their minds and then reign it in with some coffee and tea to nurse the hangover. Sometimes the weird goes on too long but this was much more listenable and interesting than the other genre bending noise albums on the list like Kollaps, Psychocandy, and In It for the Money. I do agree they have influenced future acts like for sure Radiohead and I thank them for that. Taking in the whole album I overall liked it. Pretty cool album for the early 70s...2.8 stars.
Steve Earle
2/5
Was this album groundbreaking for country at the time? Not sure what qualifies it for the list. Cookie cutter country but not completely intolerable. "Someday " and "Fearless Heart" stood out, the rest I didn't notice. Don't think I'll remember this one when looking back...1.68 stars.
Happy Mondays
2/5
Pills 'n' Thrills is a cheeky album and certainly has that cheesy 90s sound. "Step On" is top track with not much else really doing much. Was surprised to see the electronica legend Paul Oakenfold on the arrangements. Worked alright on a Monday morning drive into work. Did I need this before I died...no but it wasn't bad...2.23 stars.
X-Ray Spex
2/5
Sounds like some teenage girls doing karaoke in their rooms. Adding the sax in gave the tunes a little more depth but I wasn't really into it. This is some early girl punk so I guess that gets them on the list. Not terrible, just mediocre and pretty skippable in my opinion. I won't be exploring any more from the Spex or revisiting this one. 2.04 stars.
Radiohead
3/5
Like The Bends, this is another not super strong album by Radiohead in my opinion but still a good one. The band takes a heavier political angle on the record and the title rings true. It has a few top hits ("There, There," "2+2=5," "Sit Down") with ok support tracks. The finish is pretty good with typical eerie Yorke over beats. I still like the album but they are on a bit of a decline at this point...2.85 stars.
Frank Zappa
2/5
Frank Zaps you with a rock-jazz jam sesh on this album. It has some pretty guitar work supported by the sax. Recordings such as this make me wonder how much was really put into it thought wise. Did Zappa and his band take a bunch of drugs and just play around in the studio? How would you even recreate this with such long songs that don't really go anywhere? Overall, I can get down with Hot Rats but it's also not a must replay. I do like the creepy cover with a Beetlejuice lady climbing out of a basin. 1.95 hot ratstar(s).
Paul Simon
2/5
Too much Paul on the list, this one in particular. Hearts and Bones didn't capture my heart or rattle my bones. Not sure which side of his brain Simon was using to write this album. He overthought much of the songs but (a) was better than (b). With tracks like "Cars Are Cars," maybe should have got a lobotomy after. I think he even tried using a sheep as an instrument in there. Maybe it would have been better if there wasn't a fall out between the band mates. Does this get on the list for the shoutout to the great Johnny Ace?1.72 stars.
P.S. no more P.S. please list.
Femi Kuti
3/5
Femi follows his father's path with the upbeat afro-jazz music and I think he improves upon it. This album is a rhythmic adventure straight out of a Blank Panther movie. Thought they may have even been yelling "Wakanda" in the opening track. Songs ran a bit long but they kept me groovin'. The Kutis got a knack for producing some fun jungle jams...2.56 stars for the afrofunkster youngster.
Miles Davis
2/5
Not bad compared to the other Miles albums. I much prefer this "electrified" approach. Some mellow jazzy guitar and drum supported Davis on lead trumpet fairly well. I can see this making the list for the outrage it caused the purists. Sort of like Dylan introducing electric guitar in folk or Lil Nas X rap singing country. I am still not fully in with the works from this Prince of Darkness and much prefer the one who works on the Sabbath. Like the effort here though on branching out and away for the boring, standard jazz so 2.15 stars.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
The Chili Peppers were Red Hot in the 90s and this record was their peak production. You can hate on them all you want but this ode to California is a classic amongst a few others they have put out. Didn't know Navarro had been part of the band and dropped out prior to this album. Getting Frusciante cleaned up and back as lead guitarist was not a bad move (credit to Flea). Flea is an all-time bassist that made the instrument the lead in many songs. Kiedis can get annoying with his skat rap but the tracks that featured this style quickly slowed them done with nice interludes just as your finger was hovering over the skip button. Side A certainly stronger than B but overall, Californication is a perfect album to close out the 90s. Although I prefer the edible over the band most times, solid work by the RHCP and more to come from the list I wager...3.73 stars.
John Grant
2/5
What do we have here? A weird alien comedy album from a Queen? Every song just blended into the next with Grant rambling on about extraterrestrial love affairs. I don't like it when the lyrics don't rhyme either. Title track and "God Hates Faggots" stood out amongst the rest of the drivel. Midlake should have left JG in musical hiatus because there is something rotting in Denmark...1.67 stars.
Koffi Olomide
1/5
It may be that this album popped up too close to Femi Kuti for me to enjoy another exotic, jungly beat production. A little more Caribbean feel to it and I didn't like it nearly as much. Koffi and the other featured artists fell flat. Felt bored with this and wanted to hit skip...1.18 stars.
Cornershop
3/5
Cornershop is not a band I have had much exposure to other than the hit single "Brimful of Asha" on an electronica mix cd I had in my teens. It was a remix version of the track but I did like it and should have delved further into the band considering this album was pretty good. I prefer the songs without the singing however since they get into some fun cutting and mixing. Would like to try some of that Indian Tobacky (my friend) cause it may be a little stronger than what we got stateside. The only track I want cut is the cover of "Norwegian Wood." I get what they are trying to do here but please knock it off. 3.13 stars for expanding on what Harrison and Shankar did by bringing the sitar influence in more music genres.
The Flaming Lips
3/5
The Flaming Lips are weird band that has been releasing music since the 80s (didn't know they been around that long)! With over 30 albums, I should have had more exposure but really only know their top hit "Do You Realize??" and the Christmas song that gets annual play (classic). I did catch them live at Coachella one year and they had about 50 Santas on stage in the middle of Spring...like I said, weird band. Yoshimi started great but kinda slowed down and lost a bit after the first few songs. Not bad overall though. I will dig in to some more of The Burning Smackers at some point. 2.6 for battling those pink robots.
Jamiroquai
2/5
This is some funkier, whiter Stevie Wonder and I like it better than his entries on the list thus far. Some smooth Jazz/Motown sound but a bit too much of the same and some too long song on this album. I was "Didgen Out" to the didgeridoo though and wanted more. Jay Kay is from London and not Australia? Credit for bringing the 70s sound to the 90s and creating an "acid jazz" genre but I'm not totally didgen it...2.2 stars.
Jimi Hendrix
3/5
I did not care for this album as much my earlier Hendrix Experience provided by the list. I didn't like the more bluesy approach on some of it. Apart from the hit songs, most of this one dragged on. I liked the Rainy Day, Dream tracks (it was raining outside at the time) but that Merman song killed the mood. I'm putting this record at a mid 2.5 stars for Jimi's guitar work and known tracks.
Girls Against Boys
3/5
GAB sounds a bit like harder Nirvana or Bush. I like the thrashy, industrial sound they have but I wish I could understand the singer more. Songs tend to blur together with consistent formula used throughout. Top track is "Learned It" with "Go Be Delighted," "Come Down" and "Bullet Proof Cupid" good supporters. Venus Luxure may not be No. 1 on my list Baby but it's a decent dark rock album. I will look into more by the band. 2.8 stars for getting In Like Flynn on the 1001 list.
Devendra Banhart
2/5
Slow burn of an album that may be good for a late night fireside talk. Banhart has a unique voice and singing style that I can't say I really like or hate. "Fall" is the only track I was into. Overall, just a little too artsy for me. There are other folk albums on the list but this record was a bit different. 1.85 stars for something newish.
Bon Jovi
1/5
Bah...New Jersey produces some very popular bands but not great ones. Bon Jovi is an annoyance for me. Wimpy hair rock that every drunk chick freaks out over. I understand that this belongs on the list though...it's was a monstrous(ity) hit album that features 3 tracks that have been beaten to death by every rock station, dive bar, and sporting event. The supporting tracks have gone unlistened by the world and for good reason...they suck. "Wild in the Streets" sounded like it may be a nod to the Boss. 1.2 stars for this sexual inuendo.