Jan 03 2024
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No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith (Live)
Motörhead
Loved: the chaotic, high energy, face melting riffs and shredding. Powerful rhythm section carries the entire album like a locomotive freight train. Its plain to see why this was the basis for early british heavy metal.
Didn't like: Lemmy's fuckin voice. Generic song structure, solos and lead sections are too short. Needs more flair and less edge.
3
Jan 04 2024
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S&M
Metallica
Liked: considerably more epic than anything ever released before. Added instrumentation and score definitely unlocks a different sense of feeling a purpose by this music. Hammetts solos are actually tasteful. Hetfeild's voice was at its peak.
Disliked: Most songs run over 5 minutes, and dilute in essence what Metallica was a hard and fast metal band. Lärs drums suck again, no surprise there. Trujillo is lost completely in the mixing and mastering. And thats about it bud.
2
Jan 05 2024
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Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
Likes: awesome blend of organic instrumentation and samples. Boutique is a great album title, because the beats, melody and flow are so lush and mellow it feels like a luxury good. Beasties also always had this way of using their voices as instruments with certain sonic value which enhance the instrument. Absolutely iconic album, wont accept less than 4 stars.
Dislikes: Uh maybe, the use of the banjo lick in 5 piece chicken dinner. But even that was pretty cool.
4
Jan 08 2024
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Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots
The Flaming Lips
Likes: The unique use of sounds as instruments and the artists ability to really envoke a feeling through the music. Also like the reoccurring acoustic guitar melody from Yoshimi pt.1. Very high re-listening value. Feels like a modern release even 20+ years later.
Dislikes: Chaotic at times, over stimulating and over complicated phrases damages enjoyment at times. Too short.
4
Jan 09 2024
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Mothership Connection
Parliament
Likes: Timeless blend of funk and soul never gets old. Safe to say also the samples on this album helped shape hip hop culture on the west coast. Bootsy Collins... George Clinton... nuff said. Textures and use of sound as an instrument is always appreciated.
Dislike: Too short.
5
Jan 10 2024
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James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
Okay, hear me out. James Brown is phenomenal, and absolute icon. Visionary performer and entertainer, hell he invented Mick Jagger and got minimal credit. But, 1962 live at the apollo was not his best performance. Frankly, cocaine was a god sent to this man and is art.
Albeit a Motown & RnB purist goldmine for James Brown fans but, I prefer the later coke fueled sex-funk.
4
Jan 11 2024
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American Gothic
David Ackles
Liked: Ripe with Americana and blues roots. This album is sure to impress a genre connoisseur. It plays like a Billy Joel album with more folk influence. By no stretch is this album a monolithic contributor to modern music nor is it a taste maker album. Its just light and easy listening. Great story telling with theatrical motiffs.
Disliked: Relatively boring, minimalist instrumentation, and goofy song premises.
3
Jan 12 2024
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Stankonia
OutKast
I believe in stankonia supremacy. That is all.
5
Jan 16 2024
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Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
A very heavy handed and thought provoking album. Very warm melodically, with plenty of open space for each individual instrument help improve emotional response I presume Cohen was going for. This album is incredible, I often never reach for it but this excercise allowed to me reminisce.
3
Jan 17 2024
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MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
Sometimes good sometimes maybe shit.
3
Jan 18 2024
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Broken English
Marianne Faithfull
Middle of the road late 70's contemporary. Nothing special, but nothing short of decent music. Bonus points for proto 80's new wave sounds at time. As my good buddy nino says "theres some cool guitar solos in here".
2
Jan 19 2024
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Like A Prayer
Madonna
Personifying and originating the idea of a pop star. Madonna is cool, her legacy is iconic. But my mental image is some raggedy ass "cool" aunt not acting her age at the family cookout.
Musically tho, this album is a delicate sweet treat with energy, bubbly teen/young adult themes, and adult naivete. The melody and instrumentation is flawless for the late 80s. And that song "Oh Father" is one hell of a tear jerker.
3
Jan 22 2024
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Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs
Marty Robbins
Energetic and hearfelt renditions of old americana music. Its almost impossible to not appreciate it, even if its not your preferred genre. The instrumentation is soft and poetic, all whilst being captivating. Love this one.
Bonus points for fallout music.
5
Jan 23 2024
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The Cars
The Cars
Fun and easy listening, surely this album and band was the genesis of pop rock. Its so fun, uptempo and up beat. I've been a fan of this for years, but never took part in a full listen. I'm very glad for this exercise.
Disliked that some tracks fall flat in comparison to others.
4
Jan 24 2024
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Synchronicity
The Police
Synchronicity is among the less acclaimed Police albums and that is rightfully so. It derives very far from prior releases that were rock albums. This is a musical fantasia ripe with world influence and genre blending to an elite degree.
I like it, but don't love it.
4
Jan 25 2024
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Treasure
Cocteau Twins
Liked: Very cool instrumentation at time, unique use of sounds and effects to create soundscapes. Very melodious with genre bending at time.
Dislike: Vocals buried in the mix, I cannot distinguish what words are being said and cannot decipher if its in English or another language.
3
Jan 26 2024
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Welcome to the Afterfuture
Mike Ladd
Definitely the most unique spin on the late 90's jazz and hip hop blend. Brilliant blend of instrument and samples combined with electronic instruments. Love the dynamics. Mike Ladd is a total MC with some pretty unique word play and rhyme schemes.
3
Jan 29 2024
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After The Gold Rush
Neil Young
Simply one of the best examples of folk and pop rock blended into a heartfelt, anthemic album. Neil is a personal favorite of mine and I have strong familiar roots to his music. I'll admit he's not of the best folk artists or pop artist and some of his songs fall flat on this albo. But I still consider it an amazing album.
4
Jan 30 2024
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
Wish some of the songs weren't plagiarized because LZ could have been one of the most progressive acts of their time. But nevertheless this album with still be standing like a monolyth for all eternity. So raw, so untamed, so unpolished it can be considered heavy metal of its time. Ripe with blues and boogie and Bob Plant chops and vocal prowess is inconic and nuts.
I've loved this album since I was 11. I will continue to love it until I'm 111.
5
Jan 31 2024
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Fire Of Love
The Gun Club
Really awesome example of where punk transformed into first way. This is the first of this band's discography I've experienced. But I loved this album.
I'd give it 5 stars if I knew the genre more.
4
Feb 01 2024
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Face to Face
The Kinks
Jovial mid 60's album warm melodies with classical flair from the frequent use of harpsichord. Great song writing and use of pop song structure. Most songs don't engage with me as well as they'd like to. But, I genuinely appreciate it still.
Much prefer Lola though.
3
Feb 02 2024
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Africa Brasil
Jorge Ben Jor
Vibrant, bright, energetic and really well developed for its time. Great production as well. Eccentric and diverse musical themes coming from a variety of influences.
I don't have anything bad to say with this albo and I'm gonna re listen to it often!
4
Feb 05 2024
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Aja
Steely Dan
A timeless example of premier jazz fusion. Aja is some of the best and proficient instrumentation and song construction known to man. The longevity of these tracks in the new found "dad rock/yahct rock" lore in memes is proof of how much testamanent will come of these few songs. I been a real big fan for steelyn since a young age and will continue to so.
5
Feb 06 2024
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Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
This album is magnificent, granted my RHCP bias shines bright in favor of it. This album is melodically gorgeous, not a gimmick, and really well put together structurally. However, its compression and volume issue as a result of the "loudness war" of the late 90's has made this album sound beyond fucked up. Even beautiful tunes like Porcelain sounds like udder crap because of this.
5
Feb 07 2024
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A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Coldplay
A beautiful listen, simplistic yet symphonic melodies and engaging lyrics. I maintain my position that first 2 Coldplay album are both incredibly divine pieces of music.
4
Feb 08 2024
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Funeral
Arcade Fire
Wonderful album, plumb full of world influence and indie pop know how. Influential for a reason.
5
Feb 09 2024
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Mama Said Knock You Out
LL Cool J
Dated for 1990, an occasional verse or beat will actually peak my interest but not enough to add it to my liked songs
For the most part these verses sound juvenille, with almost no substance. Beats do fall flat, containing an obscure mix of live instrument and synthesized. Hooks are also insufferable. Glad LL pivotted to acting, because his 1990's releases were bottom tier.
Nevertheless as a 1990's rap fan I gave it my best listen but it is not a keynote album. Mudergram and the title track being the most 90's forward rap songs.
2
Feb 12 2024
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The Chronic
Dr. Dre
Quintessential 90's gfunk album. I loved this as a child and teen. But as an adult, its all very juvenile and dated. However, its worth 4 stars alone because of the influence and affluence it provided to the rap community.
4
Feb 13 2024
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Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Absolute banger of a soul and contemporary funk album. Stevie Wonder really composed some of the greatest and most timeless melodies known to man for all eternity. Production value on this late 1970's masterpiece is incredibly high. Overall, its very unique yet also contemporary. Stevie struck gold!
5
Feb 14 2024
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Live!
Fela Kuti
Great combo of african rythmn and jazz drumming. But I don't think its anything really noteworthy.
3
Feb 15 2024
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S.F. Sorrow
The Pretty Things
Pretty interesting blend of rootsy and psychedelia. After reading the eclectic history of this band, I'm impressed. The music has tonal qualities in variation of notable favorites from the time period and yet this one falls into obscurity. I like it alot. But, its a complicated taste maker album, be forewarned.
3
Feb 16 2024
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World Clique
Deee-Lite
Its like destiny's child meets sugar ray set to the sound of 90's euro house. Kinda of a cool musical experiment with almost no substance. An album best left in 1990 where it broke rules and genres but in 2024 its very niche and dated.
2
Feb 20 2024
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Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
Peak Springsteen. Phenomenal collection of his hits as they were produced in one fail swoop.
3
Feb 23 2024
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At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
Sarah Vaughan is an iconic cabaret/lounge singer that's often forgotten about when the "greats" come to mind. Nevertheless this timeless collection of originals and covers is the basis for any phenomenon vocal performance. Also for 1957 the production on this live album is devine.
4
Feb 26 2024
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Cheap Thrills
Big Brother & The Holding Company
We were deprived of more Janis. Albeit she's blow out her vocal chords by the late 70's at this rate. Lovely live album, lightning in a bottle released before woodstock so you can imagine how epic that show was. 4 stars on principle, better albums came out in 1968 like Beggar's Banquet and Truth.
5
Feb 27 2024
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This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Zany and energetic, one of the first iterations of alternative rock in its pop structured glory. This album will surprise you if you have an open mind. Not a tastemaker or exceptional example of first wave/new wave but, just fun pop rock with awesome melodies.
4
Feb 28 2024
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Highway 61 Revisited
Bob Dylan
Phenomenal album plumb full of Dylan charm. Specifically looking at lyrics and choice of simply melodies to convey complicated feelings. I think the only drawback to this era of bob dylan is the overuse of harmonica. I hate to say it its not even tasteful. It comes on and I have to lower the volume. 🥴
4
Feb 29 2024
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The Nightfly
Donald Fagen
Uninspiring Steely Dan. Lacks the jazz element but retains cool factor and melodic devices used in Steely.
2
Mar 01 2024
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Metallica
Metallica
Objectively the intro hard rock and metal album for many individuals. It was mine for a time too. Many of my peers cited this as their foyer in metal.
For me my tastes have grown but subjectively this album is a good started for those who crave more than just rock and roll. It is a blended hard rock/metal album though. Its not the heaviest thing, but sonically and track wise its a good start.
3
Mar 04 2024
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Green
R.E.M.
Ripe with unique folk influence, and the underlying melodies sounds very traditional. Outstanding example of genre blending, but. Its an album not best suited for my taste, that being said I can appreciate this album and REM much more thanks to this 1001 albo challenge.
3
Mar 05 2024
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Transformer
Lou Reed
Retains the robust rock and roll elements of the Velvet Underground and the subtle charm of Reed's simple yet effective lyricism and vocal melodies. This album is a certified classic for all generations to enjoy.
5
Mar 06 2024
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The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
An 80's brit pop powerhouse of an album. With notably some of the best vocal melodies of its time. Morrissey's lyrics do hold a power of emotion within the bounds of any single track. While the lead section shines you cannot help at oogle at the raw power and prowess of the rythmn section. Any person who appreciates music and has an open mind can find this album pleasant.
4
Mar 07 2024
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Midnight Ride
Paul Revere & The Raiders
Pretty generic uninspiring mid 60's pop music. Excellent use of organ and additional guitars to make more unique sounds and texture. Most choruses do not move me, and the verse lyrics remain hasten with the tempo of the songs. But, in a change of events the final 6 songs actually resonate really well with me. Warm beautiful melodies coupled with the 60's biting rock prowess. Thus I conclude: tons of filler.
2
Mar 08 2024
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My Generation
The Who
Mod era Who is always slept on. Truly fantasic collection of their early workings. Ripe with American blues influence and genius pop flair.
5
Mar 11 2024
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Moving Pictures
Rush
Awesome classic and progressive rock album. Very hard rock influence, with an ode to progressive nature. Love them or hate them rush were at the top of their game in 1981. This remains my favorite non-concept album by Rush. Notable favorite Red Barchetta is always a fabulous song to listen to.
5
Mar 12 2024
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A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
One of Coltrane's most improvised albums, fully composed with an incredible stable yet dynamic back beat. Coltrane was able to take risks and go into some avant movements here.
5
Mar 13 2024
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Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
Mystical, magical, classical, satirical. Progressive at times. Melodromatic at times. Its no surprise genesis and phil collins have reknown recognition and fame. This album is an awesome tastemaker selection or for those looking for exciting and dynamic music. Personally it does not resonate well with me, Its cool but so far much of it is just chaotic, I appreciate it but did not enjoy it much.
3
Mar 14 2024
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Madman Across The Water
Elton John
One of my favorite Elton albums. Bright and earnest collection of songs, with the most famous of couse being track #1. Instrumentation and vocals all meld together so excellently to make a near perfect elton album.
4
Mar 15 2024
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Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
I personally never gave the talking heads a fair shake and this album is reall cool. Think 1977 when this comes out? Holy crap so cutting edge and upbeat all at the same time. This album still sounds fresh almost 50 years later.
4
Mar 18 2024
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Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
Great live album, with a great setlist of super catchy balls 2 the walls rock n roll. Thin Lizzy needs more respect since Kiss basically stole their image with shittier music. But I'll save that for another rant-o-graph.
Hopefully their is footage of this concert around because its a great time capsule for 70s rock energy.
4
Mar 19 2024
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Green River
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Great early iteration or southern and folk rock. John Fogherty is a song writing icon.
4
Mar 20 2024
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The Rise & Fall
Madness
Okay not great. Some appeal but mostly an 80's brit pop albo.
3
Mar 21 2024
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Virgin Suicides
Air
Really awesome OST that spans indie, soul, and psychedelic genres of music. Never saw the film and probably wont but the album is a particularly good and easy listen.
4
Mar 22 2024
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Freak Out!
The Mothers Of Invention
Imagine being on the cutting edge of music production and song writing. Zappa and the Mother's drop a heavy hitter album just 5 days after the bluesbreakers album, ripe with blues influence and hard rock inspiration for the future. Zappa would only ascend to a higher creative plane as time moved on from the release of this album. But, this album captures the iconic original essence of the band. I love this album, a certified taste maker selection.
4
Mar 25 2024
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Music From Big Pink
The Band
My childhood nostalgia biased lies heavily on this album. My father and I both loved the Band dearly and would listen to this album on cassette in an old chevy suburban while I was on my way to summer camp. I didn't know how much it'd mean some 20 years later. But, aside from that sentiment this album has a little bit of culture and americana for everyone. With borrowed elements from many many other genres. Incredibly unique song writing motifs that reference religious literature, fictional literature, current and modern events as well as historical events. There is alot to love about this album. You'll find something that resonates with you for sure.
5
Mar 26 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
Very good album. Almost every song is a hit. Guitarist Mark Knopfler is dynamic and bold in writing a late 70's pop album with so much outside influence. However, even the hits don't resonate with me all that much. Its good music but I don't get what all the fuss is.
3
Mar 27 2024
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Metal Box
Public Image Ltd.
Was told this is a band and an album people really love and one that others really hate. I'm the latter.
1
Mar 28 2024
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Elastica
Elastica
High energy girl (pop) punk, really polished and produced well but manages to capture some rawness and energy. Manages to also borrow from other contemporary 90's genres. Really cool album.
3
Mar 29 2024
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
An absolute icon of the beatles discography and of music in general. Trailblazers in their time, ahead of their time and specifically on this album create a new and refreshed sound far from the "beatlemania" boy band sound they developed early. This remains in my personal top 3 of beatles and will remain for a lifetime.
5
Apr 02 2024
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Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Bob Marley is an undisputed musical icon who reinvigorated America's love for reggae. Bob was a wise and humbled man, perfect for the genre he took a hold of. But, in context of his career Natty Dread isn't close to his best collection of his work.
2
Apr 03 2024
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Born To Be With You
Dion
I never considered how long a career Dion had until I listened to this album. 100% grade A American 1970s contemporary. All the songs seem really well developed and layered to envoke a somber melancholy, but in a pain-is-beautiful way. This one surpised me in its quality and quantity. However, its relatively boring and drab.
2
Apr 04 2024
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Paul Simon
Paul Simon
Awesome and eclectic assembly of Paul Simon's diverse musical skills and inspirations. The wax and wane between hard acoustic blues melodies and whimsical folk tunes is mighty refreshing. This is a good album for those looking to get into Paul. Much more out there for the devout discography heros in terms of his art but those looking for some pop hits that don't diminish the charm of his song writing style, look no further than the self titled.
4
Apr 05 2024
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Brown Sugar
D'Angelo
As a fan of the soulquarian period of R&B and Hip Hop this album really felt right at home for me. You might be able to show me objectively better albums from that era but D-angelo has a special sauce that elevates his work above all others in terms of effort and craft. Brown Sugar is a great album for anyonr in need of a chill soundtrack or baby makin background sound.
4
Apr 08 2024
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Hot Rats
Frank Zappa
Progressive jazz fusion for music connoisseurs. Really fantastic body of work with great melodies and drumming technique combined with quacky song premises. Surely this album isn't for everyone. But its totally worth a listen and I study. Zappa is respected for a reason. I must note, I like the experimental Zappa more than the Mothers of Invention and later rock opera stuff. But its a testament he can do so much.
5
Apr 09 2024
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Hunky Dory
David Bowie
Incredible collection of Bowie's amazing song writing skills culminating in a short contemporary rock album for its time. Legendary song Changes still acts as a beacon song for generations! My personal favorite is Queen Bitch, it was one of the great songs from childhood I heard in a video game.
5
Apr 10 2024
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Water From An Ancient Well
Abdullah Ibrahim
Eclectic mix of jazz influence, hard bop and swing and some southern NOLA jazz. Tame tempered and so tender, which shows more about the musicians involved than the actual album. But I digress, phenomenal album to slow dance to and to study if you're a fan of the non- chaotic improvised jazz. Its pretty mellow but takes a lot of risks in the main melody.
4
Apr 11 2024
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Sweet Baby James
James Taylor
James Taylor is one of the greatest American born song writers. His casual blend of old Americana deep rooted blues and a tinge of Country Western and Swing allows him the dynamic ability to write heartwarming and tender tunes. This album deserves high praise although some might find it boring or bland. Look to Steamroller Blues and Suite for 20g for said dynamcism.
4
Apr 12 2024
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m b v
My Bloody Valentine
Boring at times, exciting at times. The rhythm and percussion department absolutely shine bright on this album and the lead/vocal melodies are rather soothing and romantic. Chaotic blend of grunge & noise with almost falsetto vocals. Wild mix.
2
Apr 15 2024
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Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
I said it before and it costs nothing to reiterate. Gangster rap and G Funk aged like milk. Total lightning in a bottle that worked for close to 20 years but has since curdled. But, revisiting Doggystyle leads to nothing but a bouts of enormous laughter. This album is full of childish metaphors and very simplistic analog beats, hilarious skits and it all just feels like shock and awe with very little substance.
That being said, this culturally relevant and iconic chapter of rap birthed the development of rap that we have seen pretty active since the mid 2000's. Doggystyle was on the early end during the golden era of peace before East and West rap warfare began. Snoop Dogg demonstrated his rap capabilities and got his beginnings with Dr. Dre here too. The backstory and future is almost better than the album. But, respect it regardless.
3
Apr 16 2024
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
Relly rich and lush fully instrumental album, with very interesting and unconventional pop music themes. Its independent, alternative and pop all at once.
The album also plays like a film, there is clearly is a concept going on and I'm not the smartest to pick it out. I love this album and artist, relatively a new find for me.
4
Apr 17 2024
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Cafe Bleu
The Style Council
Jovial and energetic blend of new wave and synthwave. Entertaining and engaging and a tastemaker album for sure.
3
Apr 18 2024
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Beyond Skin
Nitin Sawhney
Very distinct middle eastern influence and style. The sound remains dynamic as it incorporates some other wordly genre elements and styles, with the most prominent and forward being R&B and flamenco rhythm. This album is so unique and cool, very much worth listening to for a global music perspective. Big soulquarian vibe on this album.
3
Apr 19 2024
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Better Living Through Chemistry
Fatboy Slim
Generic 1990's action movie music. Pretty cool, but less than desired from an artist that's a famed dj. I much prefer house music from the time, and this album doesn't do house. But it was fun to learn of other dj albums from the time period.
2
Apr 22 2024
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Kind Of Blue
Miles Davis
Can't think of a better album that captures four feelings of jazz in one album. This album feels like noir at times, up beat and swung, nostalgic, warm and toasty, but stiff and bold.
Miles horn works to paint dynamic landscapes and like the album title tells it makes one feel blue and one feel green at different times. Drums tie and solidify quintessential and historic jazz sound.
5
Apr 23 2024
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Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
High energy angsty "grunge" on a simple mission to absolutely dismantle the poltical system. Love this album for what it stood for during its time. Zach deLa Roche was an incredible political science revolutionary, and Morello filled a hole in the electric guitar experimentation timeline that hasn't been touched since Eddie Van Halen. That being said... boring album.
3
Apr 24 2024
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Shadowland
k.d. lang
I had to look into the lore as to why this is a "must listen" album. I have to say, I'll agree it belongs on the list for k.d. lang absolutely demolishing the idea of what is a country star.
This album is a really rich combination of country western and swing at the beginnings of stadium and pop country in the late 1980's. It sets itself apart from the rest but staying true to the genre while being a bit progressive to incorporate some jazz and rock influences as well.
3
Apr 25 2024
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If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears
The Mamas & The Papas
Contemporary mid 60's album, lush melodies and vocal layers in all shapes, forms and keys. Really quick listen and most of the songs are similar in structure. Dare I call this album generic? The mamas and the papas get tremendous acclaim for their contributions to pop music and while I agree at some times, I mean the beatles we're kicking ass in 1966 too.
2
Apr 26 2024
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Bubble And Scrape
Sebadoh
Kinda like Superchunk meets Pavement. Definitive 90s alt rock. Nothing short of good music but, lets be fair its not *groundbreaking*. Just a fun new listen.
3
Apr 29 2024
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Raw Power
The Stooges
Holy shit what an absolutely beast of an album. Cult success proto punk rock album, genre defining, and musical norm defying. Iggy Pop absolutely smashed the vocal performance on this album and the music is just so groovy and HEAVY. I wanna put on record that I listened to the whole 4 disc legacy edition instead of the standard 1973 release, thats how dedicated I am to the fanfare of this powerhouse.
5
Apr 30 2024
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Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
Warm, robust, and charming collection of some of the best Rolling Stones recordings known to man. Including the greatest song ever written; Gimme Shelter.
Production value is high, and with exceptional teachnicality. Especially the Country Honk recording which literally took place in the street. Instrumentation choice and styling remain high caliber too.
Phenomenal album, anything less than 4 stars is criminal.
5
May 01 2024
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Alien Lanes
Guided By Voices
Grungey, up beat, indie rock with some proto-emo undertones. Nice album to break up the monotony with. Not a tastemakers choice, not an amazing album but definitely interesting and engaging. Think Superchunk.
3
May 02 2024
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Young Americans
David Bowie
Bowie makes great music, this pop disco/funk album from the mid-70s rules and is no exception.
Also, FAAAaaammmeeeee.
5
May 03 2024
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Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Terrific album for sad, somber contemplations of love and loss. Big anthemic themes from Nick Cave with delicate soft instrumentations. When listening bring your kleenex for sure... 😪
3
May 06 2024
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Disraeli Gears
Cream
Clapton in his "God era". Nothing short of great rock and roll music muddled with late 60's hard rock and raw psychedelic energy. Love this albo to bits.
4
May 07 2024
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Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
Aged better than gfunk and gangster rap lets be honest. Run DMC provides a multitude of rythmn and flow that fit relatively juvenile rhyme schemes, but you must be forgiving because it was of the earliest pop hip hop albums.
2
May 08 2024
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Live At The Witch Trials
The Fall
Punk and alternative vibes, teeters on the line of new wave. Of british origin and sounds all together cohesive. Lyrical, and vocal a total miss for me. Not enough grit to be punk, and not enough alternative to be call alternative rock. But, credit due 1979 was early for this type of sound. Counter disco culture album, love that for music in general.
Also the percussive element of this album is all aces. Hell right jazz and progressive drums.
2
May 09 2024
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Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Musically and lyrically iconic, a revolutionary album to come to insane popularity in the thrawls of grunge and g funk. BSSM remains a reminder that within the trendy music good music can be hiding in plain sight. Frusciante, Flea, and the new guy Chad Smith struck the motherload with this album and set the chili peppers up for success (only to be taken away later by the resignation of the same Frusciante).
Now for the bad, sonically this album sounds as clear as a waterlogged earbud from 500 yards away. How on earth was this production green lighted or even let alone praised. Its pre loudness war but so overly compressed the dialetics in Kiedis accent don't even come through. It sounds all slurred and muted. Also, as a certified chili peppers superfan I can tell you not a single person I know considers "The Greeting Song" or "They're Red Hot" as a part of this album. And the deluxe bsides of Little Miss Lover and the Castles Made of Sand cover as true misses by the record company. Still this album charted well and holds up. 4 stars solely based on sonic qualities.
4
May 10 2024
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Scott 4
Scott Walker
Iconic, influential, genre defying, robust, warm, delicate, and any other adjectives you'd use to describe a masterpiece. Insanely good album with complex melodies and amazing songwriting. Think at how this album was made in 1969 with no digital technology. All live, 8 and 16 tracks. Unreal.
5
May 13 2024
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Disintegration
The Cure
Really great deeply introspective album, Robert Smith composes such somber and emotion driven melodies to capture the audience attention. This album serves as a great plunge into the cure's emo/goth sound with such a fitting title.
4
May 14 2024
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In The Court Of The Crimson King
King Crimson
Extremely progressive and fantastical, a landmark album. But, travels far from rock at times. Definitely one of the first and most progressive acts of the genre and of all time. But not for everyone.
3
May 15 2024
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Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
Interesting and engaging departure from what I can usually expect on the 1001 album list. This album is exciting, every twist and turn contains a different section or new sound I wasn't quite ready for. Heavy punk and soul influence, synthesized with some pop elements.
3
May 16 2024
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The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Phenomenonal debut album, culminating sad post rock of the late 80's with something new and fresh. Straight from the heart of England, most songs offer music resolve and give the listener a sense of hope. Complex layering of intricate musical parts combined to create a wall of alternative sound in which the listener can't help at reach for the next track. I particularly think the drums shine on this album all the way through. Hard rock riffs and bitchin solos peppered throughout, all against this dance pop infused rhythm.
5
May 17 2024
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Make Yourself
Incubus
Nu metal with such a coarse punk rock influence. Experimentations in rythmn and soundscapes all combine to make a really unique 1990's staple. Incubus never disappoints.
I can see the arguement that this is a sellout album, and that nu-metal was not good in the first place so what makes progressive nu-metal any better. All i can say to that Incubus takes their work very seriously. Anything that seems off color or unintentional probably came from production opinions.
3
May 21 2024
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Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
Incredibly cohesive Pink Floyd demonstration. I remain a huge Floyd fan, favoring the late 60s and early 70s albums. Pre Dark Side of the moon.
I'd like to call this their magnum opus, but The Wall remains that with mixed fanfare. Thus I refrain and call it the most cohesive work, one song with 12 parts that doesn't even feel broken up by the time it fades in from the second to last track. Anthemic guitar solos, experimental time signatures and the grooves coming from heavy drum and bass cohesion propel this album to the stratosphere.
Last note, the hilarious introspection and satirical inclusion of Have a Cigar on a major record label release shortly after the Wall is my favorite piece of Floyd charisma ever.
4
May 22 2024
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The Healer
John Lee Hooker
Definitely a cash grab from the mid 1980's blues rock and blues revival. This album is a pale comparison of what John Lee Hooker is capable of when it comes to blues music.
That being said its got an all star list of features and the voices of expression on the tracks are definitely there. John Lee's sound acts as a vessel for other influence. And i love that about this album.
3
May 23 2024
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Kollaps
Einstürzende Neubauten
Abrasive and chaotic. Albeit intriguing, kind of like an ode to musics earliest iteration of sound creation by banging sonic plates and drums. No defined meter, or beat not even utilizing western music scales. Very semitonal as well.
Its cool on paper, listening was hard, appreciating it is also difficult. But I wont give it the worst rating.
2
May 24 2024
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It's Blitz!
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Energetic and dance pop driven. Awesome lyrics and song writing motiffs are all in high caliber on this album. "It's Blitz!" definitely broke from earlier Yeah Yeah Yeahs more punk influence to delve into some of its more unique quasi indie dance pop style that would span the 2010s.
Honestly this album is wonderful, its easy listening all whilst being able to hype me up!
3
May 27 2024
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Imagine
John Lennon
A very good collection of music from one of the greatest talents of a millennium. John's song writing, musical composition and vocal performance are absolutely iconic on this album. It took a real long time for me to appreciate this album but I'm glad I did.
4
May 28 2024
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Diamond Life
Sade
Laid back pop jazz. Really deep and introspective themes with light smooth jazz movements throughout the album. Really easy listening, great for cooking or reading or maybe even baby making. But, not worth deep contemplation.
Also, Smooth Operator a timeless banger became a fuckin' tik tok song and it was hard to enjoy. At least there was 8 other tracks to jam out to.
3
May 29 2024
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Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Some of the best CCR writing and classic rock melody.
3
May 30 2024
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The World is a Ghetto
War
Uninspiring and lackluster r&b, funk and soul. War seems to act as parliament funkadelic in some of the movements on this album and its good music but it lacks something in either genre or category its operating in to make it a mainstay for me. Still, good music.
2
May 31 2024
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Highly Evolved
The Vines
Razor sharp, high energy aussie rock revival from the 2000's. I like its simplistic and still hard hitting rythmns with sparkly polished vocal and musical melodies that catapult the album into peak 2000's rock.
Some really iconic riffs and chorus movements on this album.
3
Jun 03 2024
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What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
Marvin's anthemic album detailing the subjective plight of the common man, specially the common black man in America is one of my all time favorites. The man started out as a Motown darling who used to be in line with Smoky Robinson and Aretha Franklin became a soulful and socially concious mastermind of modern music at the time of this release.
The logevity of this album holds truth in circumstance of great music. It will withstand the test of time.
5
Jun 05 2024
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The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
Honestly magnificent. 24 hours wasn't enough to appreciate this album. Time to lock in.
4
Jun 06 2024
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The ArchAndroid
Janelle Monáe
Very light hearted pop album with african rythmn, rap, and r&b genre crossovers. Was a fun listen for sure. Not much for me to fixate on, but it was good.
3
Jun 07 2024
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Great instrumentation and song writing
4
Jun 10 2024
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Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
Great album that transitioned the grunge into post grunt alternative rock sound. Proto foo fighters, so you can hear the bare bones of their sound that would become one of the biggest acts of all time.
4
Jun 11 2024
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Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
I like it less than what's going on
3
Jun 12 2024
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KE*A*H** (Psalm 69)
Ministry
Laid back and mellow industrial metal, oxymoronic but the stuff I'm used to will blow this shit to smithereens. Neverless, so incredibly evil and sadistic sounding, chaotic splices of samples make this album artistic and appealing for more reasons.
The pacing of the drums is awesome, but god I wish this was produced without a gated snare. Its wound too tight with a ton of reverb. This most tracks could benefit from a looser and wider sound more indicative of grunge. Just an observation and opinion.
3
Jun 13 2024
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Siembra
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
Jovial and energetic flamenco and samba inspired album that borrows some elements from funk and african music as well. Really awesome stuff going on in here, plus Willie Colon the legend 👏
4
Jun 14 2024
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Dust
Screaming Trees
Uneventful, generic and boring. I can see some appeal but it left me wanting more. A few songs stand out for progressive instrumentation but still a feign attempt. Some songs even sound like a facsimilie of what else is on the album.
1
Jun 17 2024
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One Nation Under A Groove
Funkadelic
Very good funk album. Very bold and brash yet mild to the ear. Melodically pleasing. I much prefer Maggot Brain but this one was sweet.
3
Jun 18 2024
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Birth Of The Cool
Miles Davis
Laid back, mellowed out, straight up cool fuckin' jazz. Perfect for the golden age of post modern classic jazz. The swing tempos and floaty movements borrow from classical music, calm and composed movements of soloing and bridge sections allow the band to show off a big but it isn't quite a risky move sonically. Miles is notable for dictating jazz with a lot of feeling while keeping it cool to the ear. The Birth of Cool is certfiable gold.
4
Jun 19 2024
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Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Rich guitar and vocal tones with accompanied soft and tender rythmn sections. Lovely album, I've been a fan of this album for years. I do believe despite mixed reviews Neil Young was a better addition to the group in its later years.
4
Jun 20 2024
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Basket of Light
Pentangle
B tier lou reed/velvet underground/nico. Its aight
2
Jun 24 2024
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Deep Purple In Rock
Deep Purple
Hard fast and fun rock music. A but classic in nature but contains shreds of progressive music imbedded deep within. Good fun album.
3
Jun 25 2024
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Out Of The Blue
Electric Light Orchestra
Terrific highs and lows of human emotion in song writing within only one hour runtime of music. Emotional yet bright shiny electric melodies utilized to envoke espescially stronger feelings in the empty space. Chock full of excellent vocals too. Loved listening to this and indulging in a bit of ELO for the day.
4
Jun 26 2024
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Elephant
The White Stripes
Very good stripped back grunge-esque album. Notable vocal performance by Meg White and simple yet emotional song writing from Jack White. The White Stripes would propel a young Jack into rock maintream and earn him a spot in line of a guitar God. Mobilizing blues themes and hard rock energy the white stripes were able to craft a really consisted album that has some great notes of longevity.
3
Jun 27 2024
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Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
Cool blues seeped pop song collection from Otis, is voice remains so unique and crisp 59 years later. Unmatched ranged and pop prowess from a souldgul dude.
Production and instrumentation keep the value of this album high off the bat. Doesn't sound dated or old in the slightest.
3
Jul 01 2024
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If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
Rich irish folk and punk mix. Perfect for eclectic listening and a good energy boost. Stay warry of the Irish accent and unusual instruments, it may shock and stun the listener. I loved it though. Not my favorite Pogues record though.
3
Jul 02 2024
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Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
I'm not necessarily impressed nor upset I indulged. The faux bad boy from back home is kinda stupid though, not gonna lie. Tom Petty is a better song writer in his later days when I bent to the folk singer songwriter image. Let it be known though, he was no bob dylan but he produced better sounding songs then. Aside from is mid and late 70's hits the other music on this album seems to not strike me as good. Just average. Anyway, he's acclaimed for his hits which were pretty great. American Girl being one of them from this album.
3
Jul 03 2024
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Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Pretty good, not great. All over the place with crazy sounds and effects as well as key 90's instrumentation such as dj record scratches.
The bulk of the album I found unenjoyable, but I like its attempt at the revinvention of blues rock. Reminds me of a proto version of the Black Keys that would come later in 2002.
2
Jul 04 2024
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They Were Wrong, So We Drowned
Liars
I liked it, didn't love it. I really enjoy its industrial influence and aspects. NIN, Marilyn Manson, and Orgy all coming through. All subsequently less heavy and way more chaotic.
What I didn't like was the pacing, all a little too slow to put on and listen to for activity. These are the type of tunes to put on a zone out to.
3
Jul 08 2024
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Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Incredible. Anything with Stan Getz is full 5/5.
5
Jul 09 2024
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The Yes Album
Yes
Prog music for fans of the beach boys. Meaning its so far pop that its own inate progressive elements are often lost. But, I say that as a prog snob. In general, this ablum is light hearted easy to groove and dance to, and a great sounding classic album.
3
Jul 10 2024
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The Last Of The True Believers
Nanci Griffith
I greatly see the appeal in Nanci's songwriting and musicianship. Captivating storylines intertwined with such a soulful sweet and comforting voice. Leaning much on country twang and south texas sound structure, it certainly captures a positive light on the emotional plight of young American woman of the time. Added bonus for a pedal steel guitar and banjo usage.
All that good stuff being said, absence of clear procussion is infuriating. All the instruments play in time to a soft pulse lost in the mix. Production is so entirely focused on this lead section fade in and fade out that even instruments get lost in the panning. Vocals are also extremely saturated in treble, nanc can hit lower notes but production squashes the attempts.
3
Jul 11 2024
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Blue
Joni Mitchell
Ugly as a horse but a voice as sweet and soft like spring. Forever forward a closetted Joni fan 🫶
5
Jul 12 2024
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NEU! 75
Neu!
Ambient and cool at times. In general good experimental tunes with great resolutions. All in all not for me. Too experimental for new wave and not enough emotion for first wave. Punky at times which lends to first wave. Not bad but not for me.
2
Jul 15 2024
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Aqualung
Jethro Tull
Wonderful album with lots of story telling and fantastical scene setting. Tull on the flute really adds a softer and more delicate element to the entire album.
4
Jul 18 2024
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The Who Sell Out
The Who
Great album with intense levels of english sarcasm and humor. A bit over my head but musically it strays from typical who music. Good variation from the norm.
3
Jul 19 2024
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Doolittle
Pixies
Premium example of a no skip late 80's punk rock staple. Seeped deep with southern california influence and edge of the east coast and sun soaked guitar. Cryptic art house references and influence, as well as some pop rock nods to enhance accessibility. Songs like Debabser and Wave of Mutilation captivate early for you to be interested in listening to quiet dynamic songs such as Hey. I love Doolittle and the Pixies in general.
5
Jul 22 2024
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Bossanova
Pixies
Great album but my 3rd favorite of the 1987-1990 trifecta of Pixies albums. Still a smash hit album with great quacky references and wonderful pop punkish melodies way before the genre would have a name.
4
Jul 23 2024
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My Aim Is True
Elvis Costello
Wonderful album of alternative rock and new wave. The nerdy king of cool Elvis Costello rocks my favorite guitar of all time (Fender Jazzmaster). Defying the standards of late 70's cool.
Costello brings back a bit of doo wop swing, blues rock and a simple form of new wave/alternative to the masses. I love this album for how easy it is to listen to, sounds fresh after 40 years and isn't outwardly complicated. Full five stars from me.
4
Jul 24 2024
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Oxygène
Jean-Michel Jarre
Synthwave pre 2018? Unreal. Insanely meditative and introspective. Energetic, fun and light. Incredible to imagine they recorded this on analog synths with analog recording gear. I'm a big 90's euro house and french electronic music so this strikes a sweet chord with me. As proto as the genre can get I mean its pretty enticing.
4
Jul 25 2024
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Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
I see alot of hate in the comments here on the 1001 generator. And I don't outwardly disagree with it. Is this the best Rolling Stones album? No. Is this a smash hit sensation of rock n'roll classics that the Stones are known for? Also no.
But in no way is this a bad or bland album. Its uniquely authentic to the sounds in which united the great rock group to begin in the first place. American blues, soul and Americana. It is an absolute gem in consideration with the entirety of the Stones catalogue. So raw, and so rare of a band to strip it all back down to just good easy to listen to and emotional songs. There is not much the hate here, so when I say I don't disagree. I'm open to dialogue, but check your anti- mick jagger bias and listen to this album during a mundane day and consider its authenticity in your preamble of hatred.
I might add consider the context, these songs were written when the Stones had toured the world, played almost every day for years, strung out on drugs and whilst dodging tax issues in England. The low value writing and production lend to its overall authentic sound. Good old fashioned blues, soul, and Americana done by a british band deeply inspired by American music at a time where all they had was eachother and music.
5
Jul 26 2024
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Ogden's Nut Gone Flake
Small Faces
Charming, robust, engaging, eclectic, exciting. What a rare specimen for an album from 1967. Production sounds brand new on this album. Like it came out yesterday.
Negative points for inherent british humor and the weird side bits within the album. Doesn't contribute anything to anyone who isn't up to speed on the bits and culture of the time.
3
Jul 29 2024
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The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
Timeless proto indie album detailing the artists life in the pits of NYC circa 1967. This album is always a treat to listen to anytime and is diversely influential in the production and artistic creation of 60 years worth of music. Love Nico's voice throughout and Lou Reed was one badass mofo.
5
Jul 30 2024
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Tea for the Tillerman
Cat Stevens
Warm and bright folk album with lots of charm. But my issue with Cat Steven's contribution to the genre is its usually largely forgettable.
3
Jul 31 2024
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Celebrity Skin
Hole
Honestly what a banger of an album. Combining 80's and 90's alt rock into a super album. Courtney's voice isn't as bad as I recall and perhaps the music she made wasn't bad either. However, I do think she had something to do with the death of Kurt Cobain. So negative points.
4
Aug 01 2024
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Phrenology
The Roots
Great album that aged with grace. The Roots built up from the soulquarian movement of the late 1980's and 1990's hip hop, r&b, jazz fusion, and funk became a hyper-amalgom of the soulquarians. With no defined strengths or weakness. Just proficiency in all genres and skill associated to music production. 2002 and this album sounds as current as current can be. I'm nostalgic and impressed at the same time.
4
Aug 02 2024
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D.O.A. the Third and Final Report of Throbbing Gristle
Throbbing Gristle
As an avid fan of industrial and electronic music, I tried to embark on a music journey of open mindfulness to it and seemed to have every avenue of it stunted. My desire for rythmn was no satiated, lead segments were underdeveloped probably artistically, the tonality was off putting more often then not and the overall song structures were far too loose and not as refined as I'd like them to be. I don't know the whole attempt at noise punk seem to fall so flat here. I know that there are better examples even if I am not privvy to them.
2
Aug 05 2024
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Get Behind Me Satan
The White Stripes
Robust, charming and eclectic. Fully utilizes the dynamic influences of Jack White with razor sharp precesion. Floats somewhere between old blues album and new era blues rock with subtle nods to Americana and country western and swing.
3
Aug 06 2024
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Revolver
Beatles
5
Aug 07 2024
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Protection
Massive Attack
Tribal and rythmic, deep and chill. Very ambient, I dig it. But almost wanna call this derivative.
2
Aug 13 2024
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Grace
Jeff Buckley
Wonderful album. A cohesive combination of rythmn and blues with 90's pop rock elements. Fundamentally brilliant song writing by a generational talent lost too soon. This album is timeless.
5
Aug 14 2024
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Before And After Science
Brian Eno
Good album. Melodramatic with pop forward melodies. Kinda like the cure meets talking heads.
3
Aug 15 2024
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Rattus Norvegicus
The Stranglers
Pretty cool, punkish- new wavish music. I don't really think there is much that sets this album apart from others in its lane.
It does kinda give a really gross aura to it. Like its from the perspective of a rat scrounging around in an alley. Which added some cool points.
3
Aug 16 2024
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(Pronounced 'Leh-'Nérd 'Skin-'Nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Honestly, such a srupendous album with rich and thick guitar tone from 3 loud and powerful guitars, motown boogie on drums, and a smooth southern heritage soaked drawl. Don't fixate on the politics of the south because the music of Lynard Skynard is not predicated on core beliefs but rather a sense of working man blues and dreggs caught up in the fast lane.
I'll add though that this is basic southern rock, once you breach the genre wall there is so much phenomenal music beyond Skynard.
4
Aug 19 2024
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Channel Orange
Frank Ocean
There is far too much hate here for this album. Some claiming this album marked the DOWNFALL of a generation. How stupid are you to miss the plot of this album?
It actively details the degeneration of society as a whole and a young man stuck in the middle of morality and freedom. Perplexed, as to why one must sacrifice parts of themselves to become a productive member of society. Frank has such an eclectic music taste that contributes the overall betterment of the album. Using structure from the Beatles on songs like Fertilizer and then utlilizing ambience as an instrument to convey uncomfortable silences. It becomes a heartfelt nostalgic seperation from childhood dreams to adult realities and problems that come with it.
5
Aug 20 2024
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Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
Okay calling this music generic or uninspiring would be rather crass. Its music for for thee, perhaps not for me. Dusty seems to have a phenomenal voice and song writing style, but landed somewhere amongst the one hit wonders. I don't think many would be mad I said that. Good music, but relatively mundane.
3
Aug 21 2024
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Tago Mago
Can
Nothing completely wrong with this album. An experimental and avant adventure into early 70's psychadelia. Very good, engaging, and melodic dispite the large selection of uncommon instruments. Percussive elements shine on tracks like Mushroom and Peking O.
3
Aug 22 2024
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Pump
Aerosmith
Definitely post hard rock junk. 80's glam infused cheese from such a legendary American Rock band. Hurts to hear, hurts to watch, hurts to recall this might have once been an anticipated release. But, that being said Jaine's Got a Gun is so fucking sick. 2 stars.
2
Aug 23 2024
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Back to Basics
Christina Aguilera
I didn't hate it, and I really wanted to hate it. But, early 2000's pop royalty diving deep into a classic big band era style album whilst including a new fresh look. Frankly, to say this album is bad is a lie. But, on the other hand to say this album is a must listen before you die, I doubt it big guy. But whatever floats your boat.
3
Aug 26 2024
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Power In Numbers
Jurassic 5
Wonderfully concious and simultaneously light hearted hip hop album. A Day at the Races permanently lives in my head rent free from Tony Hawks Underground 2. My one concerns is the lack of contributions Jurrasic 5 has had to the genre. Always often in the background shrouded in mystery, with like 3 albums in 30 years. One would assume that talent and praise of such a rap super group would have demonstrated more consistent releases. But, fuck do i know.
4
Aug 27 2024
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Guero
Beck
Charming fun little turn of the millenia album. Often overlooked in my usual appreciation of alternative rock. Combines rich and lush vocals in singer songwriter based tracks, deep rythmn and blues influence, and hip hop to come together is this very VERY modern sound for 2005. Beck was always ahead of his time.
4
Aug 28 2024
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This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
Charming, energetic and full of soul. One of the many godfathers of rock n roll music Fats Domino really shines here. Super easy to listen to with very simple melodies and musicianship. Fun for the whole family.
4
Aug 29 2024
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Feast of Wire
Calexico
Thoroughly enjoyed this alternative esque voyage into Southwestern America and Mexican music. So diverse and rich with a lot of exciting parts. Perfect soundscapes at times for a film score as well.
I like the social imagery with the chola skater on the cover coimbedded with classic mariachi instrumentation, and light jazz fusion elements.
Its kinda like I always said, nerdy old white guys know how to make incredible music.
4
Aug 30 2024
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Immigrés
Youssou N'Dour
Really cool African music. I liked it but it didn't fall into a catagorey of must listen. Much prefer afro cuban.
3
Sep 02 2024
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The Joshua Tree
U2
Couldn't, can't, won't.
1
Sep 03 2024
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Surrealistic Pillow
Jefferson Airplane
Reall good psychedelic pop compilation. Often forgotten except by those who know
3
Sep 04 2024
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Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
Outdated and notably antiquated. Great use of samples typical of 1990's hip hop. The social concious aspect of this album is present but almost lost in shock and horror aspect, another common trope of 1990s hip hop. The vocals are very high in the mix and in your face. Which takes away from the emphasis of the lyrics.
But one thing I can say that's a positive is that this album listens like a funkadellic album. And isn't all that bad in the chronology of hip hop. I mean without this we don't get Outkast.
3
Sep 05 2024
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Take Me Apart
Kelela
I gave it all my interest, time and appreciation but came away with only two songs that really spoke to me. I won't call it derivative, or generic like some others may have. It has deep roots in r&b and electronica with moments of psychedelic genre blending. So not generic, there is the bones of great music here. Needs to continue to be built up.
3
Sep 06 2024
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Skylarking
XTC
Enjoyable, digestable, not overwhelmingly 80's or new wave. And also not showboaty, just decently crafted alternative pop tunes.
3
Sep 09 2024
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Talking Book
Stevie Wonder
Absolute timeless rythmn and soul collection by the voice of a generation Stevie Wonder. Anything less than 5 stars is criminal, and I shouldn't have to explain why. I see some comments talk about how sleepy this album is, all I can say is Stevie is practicing massive restraint in just funking out. Thus allowing his music to be more accessible and withstand decades of changing tastes. Not many albums could say that.
5
Sep 10 2024
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Superfly
Curtis Mayfield
Spectacular funk album from the man Mr. Mayfield. This dude embodies cool, calm and collected. He has ghetto swagger combined with high fidelity tastes and standards. All of which is encompassed in the words and music on this here album. I can't even tell you how long I've been a fan of this album. Probably since I was single digits in age, it just always spoke to. He was also ahead of his time in speaking to the masses about the disenfranchised populations of black accross America. Far and wide this album should be hailed. Similar to last weeks Stevie Wonder album, should be understood that Curtis was a funk monster, could out funk anyone in a fight. But, he stays reserved here in crafting soul simple and short melodic backgrounds to his evangelical epitaph.
5
Sep 11 2024
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Hounds Of Love
Kate Bush
Actually a phenomenal album despite Running Up that Hill being played out so much thanks to Stranger Things and Tik Tok following suit. Orchestral, operatic, telepathic, virtuostic, meloncholy, hopeful and even eclectic. Can't do much more to gas this album up. Sounds fresh even 40 years later.
4
Sep 12 2024
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High Violet
The National
Pretty cool, kinda like Bon Iver at times and kinda like Death Cab for Cutie at times. Be prepared to get emotional. Not very engaging and exciting, pretty mundane and dreary sounding albeit the intention. Around this time the "boom stomp clap" genre of indie upbeat folk came about. This album kinda serves as the antithesis to that genre. Monotone uninviting and sad. But, still good music. The National are great at what they do.
3
Sep 13 2024
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Myths Of The Near Future
Klaxons
Really cool album. Glad I listened to it, perhaps I don't have the foresight to see this sharing the same list as the likes of Otis Redding and The Beatles. But, I'm not afraid of new music. Certainly not afraid of a new modern classic.
Real upbeat but kinda psychedelic mash of 2 Door Cinnema Club and Surfer Blood. Perfect late 2000's indie rock.
3
Sep 16 2024
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
Mmm mmhmm thats some good boom stop clap shit. Mmmhmmm right thurr.
Fleet foxes on shuffle is perfect flannel and moccosins music. Realitively uninspiring, but quintessential "pick me, I'm different" music. But at its core is still really warm and diverse in nature. This is a fine example of that aforementioned boom stomp clap music. I like it a lot but can't rank it too high. Its generic, nothing to write home about.
3
Sep 17 2024
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Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Call me old or whatever but Neil Young is the iconic American songwriter and active voice of the nation. Sure as time passed on he developed some concerning views but, hey thats just old people for ya.
That being said, his rock n roll oriented music pales in comparison to his folk and songwriter styles. Neil on Harvest moon absolutely butters my biscuit and makes feel at home in a comfy armchair when I'm listening. But this distorted mess is hard to appreciate. If he went riffing in this regard and had a different vocalist that'd be something else. But as a critical listeners, there is alot of substance behind these songs and its not just a gargled mess. So I'll give it 3 stars. Not at all bad just not my cup of tea.
3
Sep 18 2024
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3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of...
Arrested Development
I guess this album and act was a massive influence on the 90's backpack and pop hip hop community because of how much influence I can hear on these tracks. I can hear De La Soul a bit, some Tribe Called Quest, some Will Smith and Dj Jazzy Jeff, even a bit of Mary J Blige. Like it had to have had a massive impact on the community. And rightfully so, its really diverse and pocesses a great use of samples and thematic songs. Shame I didn't know about it sooner. But, all that good stuff in mind, I found the album lacking some type of personality. Its jovial and inteospective, but bounces off topic and around quite alot.
3
Sep 19 2024
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Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Queen's legacy goes beyond the hits like Bohemian Rhapsody, You're My Best Friend, and We Are the Champions. In their 3rd album relase Sheer Heart Attack you can hear the differentiation of rock n'roll blitz with operatic and fantastical elements.
This remains on top of my list of Queen albums. Unique, raw, unrefined blues based English rock. So fucking good.
4
Sep 20 2024
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Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
This is what I was talking about last week. I never considered Neil a performer, but he's an incredibly talented acoustic songwriter. This album phenomenally blends his songwriting chops and composition skills with that perfect amount of distorted guitar crunch. Love love love this one in context of his anthology of work.
5
Sep 23 2024
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Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
Such a quintessential and masterfully composed album of timeless tunes. Great grooves, instrumentation, and songwriting through and through. I know the meme exsists that this is certifiable dad rock but, it does fuck so hard.
5
Sep 24 2024
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Let's Stay Together
Al Green
Really good music here from the golden age of Motown and soul. Can't give Al Green all the gas because there were giants that leaped before him and some that continued long after him. This is not to say Mr. Green is derivative, but he's alot closer to that on this album than he is unique. So I gotta ding him a few stars for that.
3
Sep 25 2024
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16 Lovers Lane
The Go-Betweens
Kinda like if you put the Smiths and The Cure in a blender and then drained out the clinical depression and suicidal thoughts. Meaning less melodrama, less introspection, more outward proclamation and positivity in the song writing. Engaging and exciting melodies, tinges of genre blending in order to robustify the overall arch. Good album in the grand scheme, not a tastemakers selection. I also don't think you *need* to listen to this before you die. But it was fun to hear some less fuckin' emo 80s new wave.
3
Sep 26 2024
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Fulfillingness' First Finale
Stevie Wonder
Another stupendous soulful, hopeful collection from Stevie. This guy really wrote some of the best songs of all time. Most of the tracks on this album are not that, but definitely a 5 star collection of rythmn and blues for sure.
5
Sep 27 2024
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Boston
Boston
I'll agree with "played out" and I'll agree with classic rock "cheese". But, got damn isn't cheese delicious? Boston's debut is absolute iconic banger adter banger with a timeless sound and guitar tone that has spawned envy and lawsuits for some 40 years. Tom Stolz absolutely rips guitar and vocals on this legendary classic rock album. I'll also admit they blew their wad on this one. The rest of the discography was rushed, but hey one good album is better than one good song.
4
Sep 30 2024
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Lady Soul
Aretha Franklin
What do you get when you combine virtuoustic vocals, positive and hopeful messages with in songwriting, iconic instrumentation, and expansive genre blending? You get Aretha Franklin in Lady Soul, an absolutely dynamite motown rythmn and soul, r&b, and gospel pop album. My momma loved this album, so did my grandma, and I continue 3 generations of musical appreciation for the Lady GOAT!
5
Oct 01 2024
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Hotel California
Eagles
Stupendous album, rich americana and folk influence, with soft clean guitar melodies and wonderful rythmn and low end sections.
I don't know if its the drugs or the member infighting but a lot of this album is forgettable filler. Despite what I said in the previous paragraph. No one ever talks about "New Kid in Town" from this album. The Eagles are a greatest hits band for sure. Tough pill to swallow. But, I still dug the albo.
3
Oct 02 2024
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Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
I wont be too coarse. But I don't see the appeal. Rumors was special sure. But, referencing it in the lineage doesn't add much value to the content or conversation.
This is certified Target Mom junk music. There's something to appreciate somewhere within it. But, its mostly simple instruments and non complicated vocals with pretty simple song structures. Like a 8th grader could write something equal.
2
Oct 03 2024
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Haut de gamme / Koweït, rive gauche
Koffi Olomide
I kinda feel the same about this genre about 80's/90's music. Alot of the production shifts the original charm of the sound in more of an electronic sense but it sounds almost too electronic? It washes out alot of the genre I appreciate. But, from a critical listening perspective the album artist and genre would definitely go on to inspire early 2000's latinx pop. Daddy Yankee comes to mind.
2
Oct 04 2024
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Closer
Joy Division
Generic, repetative and monotone. First wave goth stuff is also very hit or miss with me. This is very much a miss. But, as a crtical listener I understand the ground this band broke and the influence of this album had.
2
Oct 07 2024
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Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
I've been on a brazillian, cuban, spanish, and other hispanic genres kick for the better part of a decade now. It never ceases to warm the entirety of my soul upon every listen. Stan Getz was of the first I discovered based on his mainstream success in America in the 1960's. His influential sound and contributions to bossa nova have infinitly affected the jazz genre since time. So far into the future that a young man in 2014 would reconnect with the sounds of this album like an ameteur explorer would find himself on a journey in search of anchient riches. This album is a masterpiece, it is timeless, and it is influential beyond words.
5
Oct 08 2024
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I Should Coco
Supergrass
Energetic and exciting. Tinges of genre blending and progressive nature for the genre. Nothint innately special or unique about it. But definitely a good album.
3
Oct 09 2024
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Another Green World
Brian Eno
I liked it better than the other Eno album we had on the 1001 list. This one is worth saying "you gotta here this before you die".
3
Oct 10 2024
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The Scream
Siouxsie And The Banshees
So awesome. Never heard of this album and or group however it rings true to me and my inner angst. I hear a multitude of Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, and Sex Pistols in all of the instrumentation and song structure. However its own unique twist on it. Well worth the time to listen to it.
4
Oct 11 2024
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Me Against The World
2Pac
Very good. Not tupacs best but a lovely combination of g funk, hardcore gansta rap and r&b and soul.
4
Oct 14 2024
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White Blood Cells
The White Stripes
The White Stripes at the debut is the peak 2000's indie rock. It would change forms a few times after 2000. But its raw, barebones, simple, distorted, authentic. So good.
5
Oct 15 2024
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
Good, not my favorite smiths from the anthology. Less whiny than other albums despite this overarching veganism theme. I like to enjoy this album with a glass of milk and a sirloin steak.
3
Oct 16 2024
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Spy Vs. Spy: The Music Of Ornette Coleman
John Zorn
Pure chaos. A little too avant for my liking but good stuff overall. Not on spotify which is my preferred platform so added challenge of dodging ads listening to it.
3
Oct 17 2024
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This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Its cool stuff. Post punk, kinda in the same vain as that Rattus Norvegicus album. I like punk more than post punk but there are some unmistakable and brilliant qualities of rythmn section proficiency. Lo Fi production is a part of the genre. Quick stroking your ego calling the singer a drunkard mumbler.
3
Oct 18 2024
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Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
Like pure, ice cold water for my soul today. A marvelous blend of synths, deep rythmns, modern rock influence and pure artistic creativity. Mellow and clear vocals allow all elements of the music to fall into place and build this almost expansive universe of music. There is practically no empty space on this album. Even the down tempo sections groove and move the soul.
I liken this album to mid era pink floyd. Genre blending mastery prior to their anthemic politically conscious music. Just plain good music, with production mastery. And pink was analog, this is digitized.
5
Oct 21 2024
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Beauty And The Beat
The Go-Go's
Lighthearted, entertaining, and engaging new wave. Music for the girlies but also a broader audience of pop rock enjoyers. Not really surprised at simplistic harmonies and melodies, doesn't have to be complicated to be enjoyable.
4
Oct 22 2024
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The Specials
The Specials
Fuck yeah 1st wave british ska. 5 stars always. If you hate Ska, I hate you.
5
Oct 23 2024
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Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
Very alternative, very 90's. Crazy blues rock rythmns and psychedelic riffage and leads. Very enjoyable album. Reminds me of Superchunk, Built to Spill, a bit of Oasis. Fun stuff.
3
Oct 24 2024
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If I Could Only Remember My Name
David Crosby
Awesome music. Right up my Southern Rock niche. Never really gave David Crosby the time of day, I fell into Neil Young at an early age but his co-members of CSN&Y I just didn't engage with.
Lovely Southern night vibes with immense singer songwriter vibes. Lush vocal harmonies and tonalities. Shits operatic and melodramatic at other times.
Is it Dad rock/yacht rock/soft rock? Yeah. Does it rule, also yeah.
3
Oct 25 2024
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The Lexicon Of Love
ABC
Upbeat and energizing music about the complications of love and loss. Not uncommon for 1982, but that SOUND. Shit like this is reserved for only the likes of Phil Collins, Sting and Prince. Loved this one less than those heavy hitters. But what a great example of 80's fusion.
3
Oct 28 2024
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Moondance
Van Morrison
Simply a masterpiece. Sometimes great music leaves not much room for commentary. Van Morrison has made several albums like this.
5
Oct 29 2024
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At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
Ahhh, the souths Grateful Dead. I understand if y'all don't like jam oriented bands. But these songs minus the jam sections are some of the greatest rock forward genre blending songs of all time.
Live at the Fillmore East captures the Brothers knee deep in a USA and World tour in 1971 on the curtails of their sophmore releases Idlewild South. Reaping success from being one of the tightest most talented group of musicans to come from the southern states. Its a peak inside the blistering rythmn and lead sections of live ABB shows. They weren't just a novelty. These dudes can play.
5
Oct 30 2024
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Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes
TV On The Radio
Very indie and melodramatic. A bit theatrical at time, good music. Not 100% in my tastes but there's some things to be excited about here. A dynamic blend of pop and shoegaze, with lush soundscapes and really tight grooves.
3
Oct 31 2024
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Achtung Baby
U2
Pretty good music. Tight, groovy, unique enough to stand out in a selection of 90's music. I usually spew some devout hatred over U2. But I think I'm just anti-bono. Unimaginative songwriter and lyricist with bold politic and social views that corrupt the value of the music. Growing up, he was always in the news for being outspoken against something and that polluted the art for me. But the band is sick.
3
Nov 01 2024
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Homework
Daft Punk
Not the best example of 90's euro house. But, without Homework you don't get the 2015 Daft Punk masterpiece known as Random Access Memories. I enjoyed Homework quite a bit, repetative I get it. But its music for dancing not really listening intently.
3
Nov 04 2024
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Definitely Maybe
Oasis
I was the biggest Oasis hater until one day it all just culminated and clicked. These guys aren't just the Wonderwall guys, they're the true definition of bejeweled and chaotic rockstars just absolutely kicking ass and taking names. I love Oasis now and am eager to catch them live when they come to America.
Now speaking musically, its highly energetic, lush, a bit nostalgia, as if a wall of sound is crashing over you. The drums could use a tinge more, and maybe bass tuned up a bit but it was the 90's. Even Oasis a British band was affected by the loundess and compression woes. Liam Gallagher raspy yet melodic voice match with Noel's pretty dynamic instrument stylings pay homage to the old masters of the craft and bring back no bollocks rock and roll to our ears in the 1990's.
4
Nov 05 2024
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In Rainbows
Radiohead
Often imitated, never recreated. In Rainbows is a perfect blend of melodramatic anguish and cutthroat angst.
I'm not the biggest Radiohead fan even going as far as to disrespect their music openly, however the more repetations I put into this band and this album it keeps me understanding why some many speak highly of them and this album.
4
Nov 06 2024
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Close To The Edge
Yes
Very good prog album. Not nearly my favorite in the sphere, but YES tends to stay in good graces with music enjoyers because it isn't entirely too superficial or superfluous. Its the common-man's prog. And i love that for them.
Lovely mixed meters and tempos as well as unique instrumentations and relative key changes to make everything sound really nice, layered, textured and f u t u r i s t i c.
I'm always surprised when I jump in on a YES album, my allegiance lies with Rush, King Crimson, and newer 21st century prog metal. But, YES was one of the OG's.
4
Nov 07 2024
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Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
If you wanna talk about motown and soul revival. Ms. Winehouse recaptured the worlds attention to the sound with much neccessary updating on the lyrical emphasis of subject matter. No longer is the subject of soul the heartbreak along; it can be disgust, shame, confusion, failure to see personal faults. She was a trailblazer for that, and a powerful woman who happened to only be stunted by addiction.
This album is the phenomenonal produced follow up to the "Frank" debut. Which captured hearts and minds with its soulful tendancies. This album by metamorphosis EXPLODED with homage to old school R&B and Soul with a mix of jazz and cabaret influence.
I absolutely would die without this album. I got so many fond memories and smoking out my 2006 Volkswagen with my buddy before going into work at starbucks.
5
Nov 08 2024
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Born To Run
Bruce Springsteen
Lovely album, one from my childhood repitoire of course. Nothing short of good music, hand crafted with country western and swing undertones with a boogie woogie sound front and center.
It ain't the most stellar music known to man, but its good shit. Quality, passion and appreciation for the common man in a pop rock album.
4
Nov 11 2024
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Ten
Pearl Jam
Probably my favorite if not close second favorite of the grunge era. Vedder's vocals were prominent, and his gargled voice launched the entire subgenre of humor known as "misheard lyrics". But, the passion and energy he puts behind his voice throws its beyond a realm of comprehension.
Musically, robust and great sounding emphatic. Production wise not overly compressed but also not wide open. Guitar tones are crunchy but so clean. And the drums sound HUGE.
5
Nov 12 2024
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All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
Phenomenonal album. I fear too long though. Its a tough listen, but aside from that its arguably a masterpiece.
5
Nov 13 2024
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Home Is Where The Music Is
Hugh Masekela
Stupendous. Carefully walking the line between acid/avant jazz and afrobeat fusion jazz. Its wildly improvisational without comprimising traditional jazz tonalities and instrument voicing. Similarly, the unique hastness of the rythmn section at times allows this album to really stand in its own lane. Additionally, this album borrows from lots of other jazz influences. I can hear McCoy ,Monk, and Guarladi in particular.
4
Nov 14 2024
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Ramones
Ramones
Simple, repetative, energetic and perfectly encapsulates teenage punk energy in a friendly approachable context. I'd argue the beginning of pop punk started with The Ramones. Since other punk acts of the time were so aggressively punk in their ways.
You should listen to this before you die I 100% agree. But, lets be honest its not the greatest album of all time.
3
Nov 15 2024
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The Doors
The Doors
Impeccable debut. Still sounding unique 57 years later. Jim Morrison's voice and perspective of counter culture tendancies fuled by delusion and drugs.
I love the soul and psychedelic aspects of the album. Combination of old blues licks and then modern pop melodies interwoven with a counter culture gospel like structure. Songs like "The End" and "Crystal Ship" are incredible examples of these sermon type songs.
4
Nov 18 2024
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Different Class
Pulp
Bloody brilliant album. Easy to digest, lovely lush soundscapes and pop rock melodies. A true tastemakers selection and the birth of 2000's britpop/britrock. You don't get arctic monkeys with out Pulp.
4
Nov 19 2024
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KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
Fabulous album. Genre blending in its finest form, gravitating around old soul, jazz and funk disciplines with no clear boundaries to prevent freeform activity. It gets psychedelic at times, introspective at others and incredibly contemplative lyrically.
I like this album alot. As far as modern additions to this 1001 list. I support it.
4
Nov 20 2024
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The Last Broadcast
Doves
Up beat and hopeful brit pop. Kinda cool, kinda generic too. The song "there goes the fear" is an iconic early 2000's alternative anthem. I've heard it many a time since its realease and I've always wondered who penned it. Doves, here in the flesh. I seem commentary comparing them to Coldplay, I agree but subject matter of the Coldplay songs are much more tender and sensitive where as these guys, Doves are pretty unique in their own way. That of course beings said its not bad music.
3
Nov 21 2024
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Tidal
Fiona Apple
Lovely and lively. Alternative approach to artsy and soulful music. I always knew of Fiona but never gave her the time except for her 2020 album "Fetch the Bolt Cutters".
I hear so much influential components here; Emily Haines and Amy Winehouse specifically come to mind immediately but the trail blazing Ms. Apple did on her way up was prominent. She started swiftly with "Tidal". I really enjoyed this one.
4
Nov 22 2024
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The Beach Boys Today!
The Beach Boys
Love love love the beach boys. Baroquial and vibrant melodies paired with a phenomenal dancy and light rythmn. Its almost beach jazz. Imagine creating the sound of southern california on analog devices and perfecting the modern pop song. Its incredible. This album encapsulates the pivot from boy band to artist.
5