707
Albums Rated
2.84
Average Rating
65%
Complete
382 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1950s
Favorite Decade
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Favorite Genre
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Top Origin
Critic
Rater Style ?
71
5-Star Albums
89
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Damaged
Black Flag
|
5 | 2.87 | +2.13 |
|
Giant Steps
The Boo Radleys
|
5 | 2.88 | +2.12 |
|
The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
|
5 | 2.93 | +2.07 |
|
Car Wheels On A Gravel Road
Lucinda Williams
|
5 | 2.99 | +2.01 |
|
Heartbreaker
Ryan Adams
|
5 | 3.02 | +1.98 |
|
Teenage Head
Flamin' Groovies
|
5 | 3.03 | +1.97 |
|
Tuesday Night Music Club
Sheryl Crow
|
5 | 3.05 | +1.95 |
|
The Modern Lovers
The Modern Lovers
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
|
The Rising
Bruce Springsteen
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
|
Hypnotised
The Undertones
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
|
1 | 3.61 | -2.61 |
|
Illmatic
Nas
|
1 | 3.6 | -2.6 |
|
Stankonia
OutKast
|
1 | 3.55 | -2.55 |
|
Bryter Layter
Nick Drake
|
1 | 3.51 | -2.51 |
|
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
|
1 | 3.47 | -2.47 |
|
Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
|
1 | 3.47 | -2.47 |
|
Green
R.E.M.
|
1 | 3.47 | -2.47 |
|
Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
|
1 | 3.44 | -2.44 |
|
Amnesiac
Radiohead
|
1 | 3.41 | -2.41 |
|
xx
The xx
|
1 | 3.37 | -2.37 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Bruce Springsteen | 5 | 4.6 |
| The Rolling Stones | 5 | 4.4 |
| Nirvana | 3 | 4.67 |
| Stevie Wonder | 3 | 4.67 |
| Public Enemy | 3 | 4.67 |
| Green Day | 2 | 5 |
| The Stooges | 2 | 5 |
| Aretha Franklin | 2 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 2 | 5 |
| The Undertones | 2 | 5 |
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 4.25 |
| Neil Young | 3 | 4.33 |
| Deep Purple | 3 | 4.33 |
| Creedence Clearwater Revival | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Radiohead | 5 | 1.6 |
| Nick Drake | 2 | 1 |
| Barry Adamson | 2 | 1 |
| Missy Elliott | 2 | 1 |
| Hole | 2 | 1 |
| Leonard Cohen | 2 | 1 |
| The Mothers Of Invention | 2 | 1 |
| Siouxsie And The Banshees | 2 | 1 |
| The Beta Band | 2 | 1 |
| Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds | 5 | 1.8 |
| Tom Waits | 5 | 1.8 |
| PJ Harvey | 3 | 1.67 |
| Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band | 2 | 1.5 |
| Pere Ubu | 2 | 1.5 |
| Spiritualized | 2 | 1.5 |
| Joy Division | 2 | 1.5 |
| Kate Bush | 2 | 1.5 |
| Def Leppard | 2 | 1.5 |
| The xx | 2 | 1.5 |
| Portishead | 2 | 1.5 |
| Sonic Youth | 4 | 2 |
| Brian Eno | 4 | 2 |
| Beastie Boys | 3 | 2 |
| Peter Gabriel | 3 | 2 |
| Dexys Midnight Runners | 3 | 2 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Ryan Adams | 5, 2 |
| ABBA | 2, 5 |
| Wilco | 5, 2 |
| Simon & Garfunkel | 2, 5, 3 |
5-Star Albums (71)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Herbie Hancock
3/5
Herbie can cook. But after awhile, like everything instrumental, it just becomes background.
8 likes
Ryan Adams
5/5
It’s a 5. Get over yourselves Wokesters. No crime was committed. It’s life. It’s complicated. And you’re hypocrites.
8 likes
Hawkwind
2/5
I can understand the 1’s. No question it’s towards the bottom of my list. But 5’s? Seriously? Who are you fucking people? Clearly not sober. Are you in prison? Hospital? If not, then fellas, you’ve got options. I feel sorry for your ladies, if any exist in your life.
I have heard worse. 2 for going live with this misery.
4 likes
Pink Floyd
5/5
5 Stars, and in my opinion, the best Pink Floyd album.
For me, this release arrived at a most impressionable age. I used to put it on, sit on the floor and stare at the burning man, read the lyrics on the liner, and just listen. In later years, with a little grass, i’d spin it and run wild with imagination. Now, many years later, it still stops me cold.
Music is truly an amazing medium. It has seeming endless reasons and uses, and is ever evolving. Many tracks are there to add or enhance your current experience, like dancing or driving or fucking. For most, it’s just to provide background. This album tells a story, using lyrics, but mostly with music and sound. To truly experience, listen at night, alone, by fire or candlelight, preferably as a storm rages outside. Use good headphones…. you’ll want it loud, to catch notes and sounds played so quiet and delicate. If you enjoy recreational drugs, definitely use them here. And just listen. And imagine.
Damn near Spiritual.
God Bless Pink Floyd.
4 likes
1-Star Albums (89)
All Ratings
Prince
4/5
Karen loved it!
Aerosmith
4/5
A Middle School classic! School dance, polyester and bell bottoms…and girls!
4/5
So close to perfect.
Jorge Ben Jor
3/5
First and second listen. Not bad…good.
The Doors
4/5
I was 10 when this came out. They didn’t play the Doors on the radio in my town, and my parents listened to a softer sound. It wasn’t until 1979 before I finally escaped to new music. Read No One Here Gets Out Alive in 1980, and that was that!
Paul McCartney and Wings
3/5
I loved the Beatles, and was shocked when they broke up. I never could get into Paul’s music post-Beatles, though I bought this record and played the hell out of it. Glad he’s still out there playing, but a bit of a yawn for me.
Elis Regina
2/5
Not for me.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
I’ve tried to like Nick Cave for years, but it just doesn’t take. He bores me.
Radiohead
1/5
Ouch. Self indulgent crap. I don’t know why this band is so well regarded. Either whining or noise, or both. Good if you’re having a bad dream or in some fever pitch. This must be a test. Ok, I’ve listened… never again.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
A good band with a unique sound. The album rocks hard, and the music is tight. Such a shame about the vocals. It’s not just that Perry Farrell has a bad singing voice. He peels paint. He breaks glass. He makes dogs howl and baby’s cry.
I wish the band would reissue this album using different vocals. Maybe AI? Then I’d give it a solid 4.
John Lennon
4/5
As I mentioned before, I loved The Beatles. The breakup left my 10 year old brain shattered. I bought this album the year it came out, and still have it today. I really enjoyed listening to it again yesterday… knew most of the words like it was one of my favorites, though it’s been decades since I last played it.
It left me sad and pissed. Sad that Lennon was taken from us, first by Ono, then by that other lunatic, Chapman. Pissed that he could be so easily manipulated by a self-indulgent, narcissistic, talentless skirt. I’ve known woman like this, and I’ve lost friends/family because of them. Fuck them! 4 stars because Ono is in the title.
Femi Kuti
3/5
First time listen. Lively and fun. Like a tourist traveling abroad, stumbling into a popping nightclub, pounding generous portions of local rum punch, and hitting the floor in a happy glow of floppy arms and laughter. (Bad Dancing) Rinse and Repeat.
B.B. King
3/5
Hard not to like live BB King. Ground breaking? Not really. Just old-school guitar blues, wailing about his baby. Not many like him today. Maybe Kingfish. More needed.
Peter Tosh
3/5
Stoner music! No judgement. Always a good listen every so now and then. Perfect on a full day of doing nothin.
Billy Joel
3/5
No question, this was a monster of an album. The cat was everywhere during my college years. My then girlfriend/now wife knew every word to every song on this record, and the next several too. Me, he just didn’t float the boat.
But I figured, this guy must have talent, he’ll keep it going. Nope, instead of continuing to make more hits, he sat on his hands and collected royalty stacks, marrying a new young princess every decade or so. And now here he is, scheduled to barf out the same tired tunes almost 50 years later to sold out, overpriced stadiums. No fucking thanks.
Best thing he ever did was marry Christie Brinkley. Hands down. That earns 3 stars.
Hugh Masekela
3/5
More Jazz. Eh, thanks. Didn’t suck.
The Who
4/5
The original punk rockers. Another album i owned, bought used at my favorite used record store in Pike Place Market in the mid 70’s. I would stare at the cover while listening, wondering what the hell was going on, and why did I liked it so much? I think the liner notes included pictures that were equally disturbing to my prepubescent brain. The Who was one of my favorite bands in the 70’s, and this album definitely played a role in my development.
Sonic Youth
2/5
Post-punk Indie; yuck. With the exception of the Replacements, rock music from the late 80’s pretty much sucked. What’s bad is bad, and you shouldn’t get points for ushering in the Indie era.
Ute Lemper
2/5
There must be a message here. A meaning. A reason. Is it code? Is she a spy?
Nobody puts this on simply for their listening pleasure. I’m going with soundtrack to a play that i can sleep thru. At times, pretty. Most times, weird.
Malcolm McLaren
3/5
It’s alright if you’re into goofy rap. I’m not.
The Verve
4/5
Good album. Not sure I’ll listen to it all that much, but I gave it two spins, and it was cool music to drive to.
The Police
4/5
About half this album is hits! Wasn’t really my thing at the time, but I can appreciate the accomplishment now. Still, mostly I picture Sting in the 80’s movie Dune as some creepy boy-toy assassin. Shivers.
Metallica
4/5
Hall of Fame rock studs, and this is a good one. Adrenaline sufficiently pumped. Full disclosure: while I certainly knew of this band, it wasn’t until my 14 year-old started cranking their music before I truly appreciated the work. I listened to the likes of Judas Priest and Deep Purple in the 70’s, but missed the boat with Metallica. I’m onboard now. There are times when it’s not only appropriate to spin this album, it’s therapeutic. Rock On!
Girls Against Boys
3/5
A couple decent songs. Average.
David Bowie
3/5
Not my favorite of his, but his just too damn cool not to love.
Moby Grape
4/5
Sounds of the times. Love it.
Dr. Dre
4/5
In your face Fuck You! Cringy at times, but definitely a worthy reflection of the sentiment from a community I cannot relate to. Whatever…still a good spin when the mood is right.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
I like Bob Marley, but come on… the music is not that special. Another genre that is more popularity, less substance. 3 for my pacifist stoner friends, who I love.
Elvis Presley
2/5
Elvis is Ok. More than a tad overrated. This album bores me.
Echo And The Bunnymen
2/5
Never really thought much of these guys or their sound. I was solid in the hard punk sound, and felt these guys were not terribly unique to the genre. Pop Punk? Slow Punk? Glam Punk. Wasn’t for me, and I’m stuck there.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
2/5
Not inspired.
Jack White
3/5
Just alright. Talented musically, but the whinny vocals never worked for me.
Soft Machine
2/5
Cat on the Piano! I swear, the start of this album brought back boyhood memories of being woken by our cats walking on the piano keys. They’d sneak into the rec room, then get shut in overnight. Fucking spooky the first few times hearing this in the middle of the night!
Anyway, Apple Music calls this Rock. Hardly. I call it pretentious Noise Jazz. I’m sure plenty of folk get a thrill. Not remotely for me.
Funkadelic
4/5
Fine stuff. Note to self; need to hear more.
Venom
3/5
Pretty good. Sounds similar to other metal bands of the era. No fucking around with slow melodies and self-absorbed messaging made popular by black metal. These guys cook along at a brisk, head-banging pace, throwing snarls and solid guitar rips along the way. Good old rock n roll!
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
Nice listen. Love Sarah Vaughan. Really great to hear her live.
The Roots
3/5
Pretty cool. Not really my thing, but I’m learning.
Bobby Womack
3/5
Nice album. Easy listening. Nothing reinvented, but I’d see him live, if he was still alive.
Rush
3/5
Canadian Prog Rock! Pretty distinctive really, thanks to Lee’s cat-fight howling in the night vocals. Talented for sure, but definitely wasn’t my thing.
American Music Club
1/5
Couldn’t get this album on Spot or Apple, so I listened to their top album as rated by AllMusic.com, 1991’s Everclear.
Ugh. If California is anything like this one, pass. Don’t know why I must hear this album before I die, but I’m perfectly willing to give it a listen after I’m dead.
TLC
2/5
Cheesysleazylame.
The Monks
3/5
All good fun here. Fuzzy garage sound with anti-war vibes and rockin jilted boy sulkness. Coulda been a star, but damn that ego thing again.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
I lived with my mom when I was in Middle School after she broke free from my dad. Turns out she was a total bra-burning, free-love hippy. Good mom, but not so great role model. This album was heavy in the rotation at our little apartment, and I didn’t know much better, so I enjoyed it. Still do I guess, in moderation. Man, those were weird times.
Miles Davis
3/5
Beautiful! Mighty sleepy stuff. Gotta remember this for long flights.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Classical example of a poet who should let someone else sing his work. Alas, ego. 2 stars for being uniquely bad.
Massive Attack
5/5
Bam! My first 5 Stars! Much going on! Great dynamic vocals, big harmonies, nice blend of R&B and electronica. Every song is worth a listen, a few home runs, all unique. Easily in my regular rotation.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
1/5
Just when I thought the author was on to something, this happens. Why? Who finds this drivel appealing? Psychotics? Ax murders? 3rd grade teachers?!
Art is in the ear of the beholder, fine. But there should be no confusion:
Shit belongs elsewhere.
Neil Young
3/5
Nice album. He made so many, and about half I haven’t heard. This was one.
Traffic
3/5
So Joe Cocker stole their song, made it a star. I was not told. Uncool Joe.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
A Monster classic from my youth! As a teen of the 70’s, this is what you blasted from your car Dolby stereo tape deck, or from your 3’ tall Speaker Lab 8’s in your dorm room! You had no chance of getting laid if you didn’t absolutely bow to this band. None.
I’d love to ding this a star due to the plagiarism, their refusal to tour again, and The Lord of the Ring reference… but it’s too damn good! Dare I say it? Masterpiece? Hmmmmm.
David Bowie
3/5
Fine song. Album is a good listen, but the song is the reason we’re here.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
3/5
My wife enjoyed this far more than I. She gave it a second listen, which forced me to consider my options; suffer another round or clean the gutters. I chose the ladder.
2/5
Not fan of PJ’s.
Miles Davis
3/5
Chill.
The Slits
1/5
No. Weird. What, you put tits on the album cover and call this talent? Please. They should’ve kept their day jobs and shirts on.
Morrissey
4/5
Despite my Punk preference, I was a big fan of the Smiths in the 80’s, and played the vinyl off their first two albums. Lost interest after they split, and gave Morrissey no love.
I like this album… a lot. I will put this in the playlist, and dive a little deeper this year. Thanks!
Sex Pistols
5/5
Stone cold Classic! Perhaps the greatest and most impactful Punk album ever. I first heard tracks played on a late night radio show at Colorado College in the winter of ‘80, just as I was getting dragged in. Every song kicks ass, in full fuck-off, with no regrets. I could listen to this anytime, any day, anywhere.
Deep Purple
4/5
Jungle Brothers
3/5
Yes. Like.
Harry Nilsson
3/5
A couple of monster songs in the day. Without You reminds of some lonely times during Middle school. Jump into the cooks! Mixed blessings.
David Holmes
3/5
Funky and bizarre.
Tom Waits
1/5
Nope. Never really enjoyed his “music.” To each, her own. In my opinion, he’s boring.
Radiohead
2/5
No. Still not a Radiohead fan. In life, we just get bad music. It happens. Damn near everyday. Just because the record companies and all forms of media need to make money, and try every angle to sell you crap, it doesn't mean it is good, or that we have to like it. Just say NO! We can do better than average.
Boston
4/5
Big Hits Boston! Reminds of a radio station I liked to listen to in Denver back in the early 80’s… KBCO, out of Boulder. They used to play an entire album late at night, and I’m sure this made that rotation. My first exposures to the big rock sounds more popular in the Midwest. Not really my thing, but an A for effort. Ok…. Maybe B+.
Super Furry Animals
3/5
Dated, at times, odd… but entertaining enough.
The Cars
4/5
The Cars. Really? Boring name for a band. Why not Buildings, or Tree, or Pavement? Oh, wait…
It is a big time album. Hit upon hit in my day. I liked them then, still do today. Love? Close. 4.5
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Very good album. Maybe one of his best. But that E-Street sound just doesn’t float this boat. And the stigma! The Boss? Give me a break.
Alanis Morissette
4/5
I own this one, and like it a lot. It seems people either love or hate this album. My wife hates it, and is no fan of Alanis. What’s funny is that she once took our 15 year old daughter to an Avril Lavigne concert, and Morissette was the opening act. Isn’t it ironic?
Steve Winwood
3/5
Yeah, I remember this album. Heard it plenty in the way back when. It’s kinda boring music, but I’ll try again.
Here goes! Wish me luck!
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Ryan Adams
5/5
It’s a 5. Get over yourselves Wokesters. No crime was committed. It’s life. It’s complicated. And you’re hypocrites.
Bob Dylan
4/5
I recognize that he is an icon, but he’s a bit before my time, so I’m not moved to kiss the ring. This is not his best work, but towards the top. He’s got some great songs, and a couple of good albums, but nothing of special note since the 70’s. Now he’s just an old dude living out the past, selling out arenas for folks living out the past. That’s alright, just not for me.
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
Pretty funky at times. Not my thing, but didn’t mind it. More background sound.
Screaming Trees
2/5
Pioneers of Grunge? Ok, maybe. Kinda goes to show how bad that genre was.
Snooze of an album.
Elton John
3/5
Good. Not my favorite of his, but clearly dropped some serious hits on this one. He’s a stud.
The Byrds
2/5
Overrated. Too much Harmony. Folk Rock should not be encouraged.
New Order
2/5
Nope, catchy, electro-pop tunes, but not unless I’m forced to listen. Change the channel.
Brian Eno
2/5
Gave it a start. Couldn’t finish. Need to be significantly altered to enjoy this.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
3/5
Good background music. Would be bored in 10 minutes if I saw this live. I’m sure it’s great fun for the quartet, and gives talented aged-out high school band members a space. But not something I’d seek out on the radio… maybe the morning after a bender.
Judas Priest
2/5
A couple of hits, but otherwise unpleasant. They have better albums. Saw them live in 79. Head sufficiently banged.
Ray Charles
3/5
Ray can cook along, but this one is more my dad’s speed. There are others in his catalog that I will play before this one makes the rounds.
Nirvana
4/5
A fine punk album. Not Grunge. Mainstream Punk Rock. Love it. Fooled everyone, then pulled the plug.
I remember the live audio feed of Courtney Love talking for hours to the gathering mourners at the Seattle Center Fountain. Strange and sad moment for my childhood playground. I grew up 6 blocks from the Garage House… used to get high at the nearby waterfront park as a teen. Knew all the kids who grew up in my hood, but I left long ago, and had no idea Kurt moved in years later. A strange place for them to be… very much not their people. Now a wealthy white enclave of gated drives and Do Not Enter signs.
The Triffids
2/5
Gave it a couple spins. Nope. Bad.
2/5
The era of diminished returns.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Average soundtrack album. Could’ve picked a better Mayfield disc.
Nas
1/5
Lord No.
Devendra Banhart
2/5
No rejoicing today. Plenty of yawning.
Queens of the Stone Age
3/5
More boring, mildly talented grunge rock.
Fleet Foxes
3/5
Another good album from a mediocre band, making this record boringly above average.
CHIC
3/5
Disco sucks! Rinse, repeat.
Whatever… some monster songs here.
Digital Underground
3/5
Fun album, from a group I’m not familiar with. Gave it two spins worth. Good driving music, but hard to take serious.
Eurythmics
2/5
This album came out the year I started dating my wife. That’s about the only good thing about it.
Rage Against The Machine
4/5
4.5 Stars. So close. Definitely in my regular rotation.
Paul Simon
2/5
Heard it before. No need to listen again.
Scissor Sisters
2/5
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
His best album, some will argue. I won’t.
The Pharcyde
2/5
The only thing bizarre is that it made this list. Average rap with simple loops and grade school lyrics.
David Bowie
4/5
Love this album. Bought it new, and tore it new grooves. Good choice.
John Coltrane
4/5
Yes, it is supreme!
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
5/5
Oh yeah, I’ll go 5 here. Great album, with monsters from tip to tail. I got into this a bit late in the game, but some good friends dialed me in about 15 years after the release, and I’ve never turned back. This album always picks me up, reminds me of good times with those same good friends.
Tom Waits
2/5
Again with Tom Waits? Previous review applies again. No need to wait; Tom can go.
Elliott Smith
4/5
Love a little Elliot Smith. Murder, or suicide? Wish he was still around.
Fela Kuti
4/5
We like this! I’m not sure I found the right “Live” album, but what we got was a winner. We’ll hunt for more!
Brian Eno
2/5
This guy is pretty strange, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. But this album is boring.
The Specials
5/5
Yes! Thank you! Ska Punk era! RIP Terry Hall. 5
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Well, come on now…. Could there be a more influential rock album? Rock song? There’s an argument to be made, but probably a waste of breath. It’s not my all-time, but deserves the accolades of a top ten. So 5, despite the plagiarism.
Marvin Gaye
5/5
Beautiful. Iconic album. Not many could recreate his sound and the passion in his lyrics.certainly fewer try today. Gary Clark Jr. is giving it a worthy try though.
Another good one I have missed. Murdered by an unworthy madman. If I believed in hell, he’d surely be cookin.
Big Black
2/5
Something I would’ve probably listened to in my annoying teen angst phase. Just sounds shitty now.
The Residents
1/5
I listened, sorta. If these guys hadn’t been in disguise, they would’ve disbanded long ago, exposed as the whack musicians that they truly are. But wow, anonymous eyeball masks make this art?
Something my brother would’ve listened to in the late 70’s, and he probably did. He was the first person I knew to have a cd player, payed about $900 bucks for it. And his name was Ralph. And he was fucking weird. Hmmmm. Maybe…
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
Ella can get it going, and some of these songs are timeless. But others are kinda boring in my opinion. I’m glad she made this album, but she’s got more in her collection that will find my speed. She’s one of the best of her era, and in the top 10 female voices of all time.
Genesis
3/5
Never was much of a fan. Pink Floyd wannabes. Still, not a bad album.
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
2/5
Ugh! So boring! Popular in the UK, but US had other (better) sounds on their plate. Now this Brit lives in the US? Dude, the Queen has passed, the King wants you back. Go. Home.
Tears For Fears
2/5
My wife knew all the words to one of these songs, which left me stunned, given how much I controlled the music in the 80’s. Makes me wonder what else she was up to 35+ years ago. Did I make a mistake? Maybe she’s not the right gal for me! Shit!
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Paul Simon
3/5
Not my thing at the time, but an impressive album, coming on the heels of the monster BOTW, and the breakup. Too cute for me, but I get the appeal. My wife thinks he’s got little-man issues.
Isaac Hayes
3/5
Cool dude, but this one is too self indulgent. Stop staring in the mirror… play some music for your fans.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Damn fine album. Perhaps the best Rock n Roll band ever. Not their best work, but 4.8 gets it close. Rounding up a star.
Cyndi Lauper
3/5
Some big cuts from Cyndi. This album came out during my college years, and took the radio world by the tail. Girls Just Wanna is still played with some regularity today. I thought it was a pretty stupid song in the day, but it is a catchy little beat in its simplicity. While I recognize the big hits here, I never listened to the whole album until today, and I was surprised to discover…. Her voice sucks! WTF? By today’s Pop standard, she’d be a YouTube curiosity at best. I’m glad she had her success in the 80’s, when shit music was the standard, and I hope royalties keep rolling in until her last squeak.
The Young Rascals
4/5
Good music, but a bit boring for my taste. Until now, I always thought Groovin was sung by a black R&B group. Surprised to discover it was written and performed by some dorky white dudes from New Jersey.
Caught me again… worth 4 stars.
The White Stripes
2/5
Ah, Jack White. Took the world by storm. I was caught in the downpour myself, but came to my senses pretty quickly and found some cover. Now I look at this album, and the rest of his work, as whiny, self-indulgent, and seriously overrated, a common occurrence during the last gasps of the rock era.
Ramones
5/5
Oh yes! Where it all began, some would say. While their sound was uniquely different then most Punk outfits, the hard-driving simplicity set a tone that helped advance a new era of music. I own this album, and was lucky enough to catch them live in the 80’s. A band that fortunately never smart enough to realize how influential they were to kids of the 80’s and beyond. American legends, and fun as hell!
Morrissey
3/5
Decent album. Previous Morrissey notes apply. Not my favorite of his, but I’ll give others more spins.
Kelela
2/5
Got about halfway thru. Not my thing.
Thin Lizzy
2/5
I’m straddling the fence. Love the hard rock and silly 70’s screaming guitar solos, but I can do without the machismo BS that was so typical of the later 70’s rock bands. Yeah, didn’t really like them then, have even less regard for them now.
Joan Armatrading
2/5
There was the briefest time in my life when I gave Joan’s music a try. Probably thought it’d make me a more sensitive. Couldn’t justify a good reason to stick with her. I just don’t like it.
Cheap Trick
3/5
Just Ok. My wife owned this one. Big fan. Me, not so much. But I am willing to suffer thru an overpriced stadium show with thousands of sweaty, aging Boomers this summer… cuz I love her and she’s worth it. Barely.
The Charlatans
4/5
I like it! And I’ve never heard them before. Sounds a bit like Oasis, but better vocals. I’m definitely adding this album to my pantry. Thank you kindly!
Jurassic 5
4/5
Cool album I’ve not heard before. I like this era of hip hop rap. I didn’t at the time, but I’ve warmed to it in my prime. I’ll go a few more rounds here, and see where it leads.
Cowboy Junkies
2/5
At times, this band will entertain. Trinity Sessions? So painfully slow! I bought it years ago, told it was special. Years later, unable to find anything remotely special about it. Slow. Agonizingly slow.
The Clash
3/5
“England called; they said you’re overrated.”
Punk? Hardly. A couple of silver spoon babies acting tough, exposing societal flaws as if weren’t aware, as if they cared. It’s an age thing, not mine, but already done. Nothing to see here.
The Black Crowes
4/5
I got into these guys fairly late in the game, but this album, and all their music, has a found a place in my regular rotation. Hope to catch them live while they’re still upright and touring… and talking to each other.
Prefab Sprout
2/5
Pretty average, trending down. Hasn’t aged well.
Cream
3/5
Good, but modestly overrated. Clapton was the talent, the rest held on for the ride.
Koffi Olomide
3/5
Peppy. Lyrics were probably inspired.
The Doors
5/5
I gotta go 5 stars here. Not every song is a gem, but damn close, and there’s enough studs to make this a must have for anyone craving 60’s stoner fueled power-pop. Morrison was a bonafide narcissistic loon, but I can’t help but like his style. Born to die young, never a doubt. The End is a pretty amazing wrap to this great disc, and I’m not ashamed to admit to more than one trip around with this beauty.
John Lennon
3/5
Well, it’s quite the song. The rest of the album, self indulgent and boring.
Poor dumbass John. The sad example when a man follows his little brain. Can you imagine what the Beatles would have done, at the height of their careers, had a certain drugged-up twat not invaded their world? Imagine had he not moved with her to New York, but stayed in England, far from the weapons of my world?? Still pisses me off.
You don’t have to imagine her now; she’s on full display. Fat and happy, living off undeserved royalties, calling her shit art, singing like a scared turkey in November.
Yeah, I don’t like her. She broke up the Beatles. She can fuck right off!
Emmylou Harris
3/5
Lots of good songs. I like them more when others have them covered. Credit where credit is due. She’s a damn fine writer.
The Pogues
3/5
Unique. I approve.
Faith No More
3/5
I never gave these guys much of a chance. I’ve heard a song or two from this album, but was never compelled to follow up. Their act isn’t unique. They sound like bands who’ve punched that ticket long before. Kudos for making a living at it.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
2/5
Couldn’t get this one, so I listened to another from around the same period. Ok. A bit slow.
Grateful Dead
4/5
Great album! And I’m not a Dead fan.
Sadly, I will always equate this group to some of my college buddies from the east coast, a handful of silver-spoon frat boys that, to this day, attend dead shows with fervent loyalty. Me, I was a hippy from the Northwest, comfortable with grass and acid, playing Santana and the Ramones in equal time. These friends never touched a joint or a tab before leaving the safety of their upper crust suburban hoods, and remain true to their conservative, exclusive lifestyle, some even Trumpets today. Yet they spun this stuff daily in the 80’s, sang every word, learned the guitar just enough so they could play Friend of the Devil. Now, on occasion, shedding their izods and loafers for jeans and store bought tie dyes to attend endless overpriced arena replicas, confirming to their MyFace friends that they truly relate to this group and their message. Nope.
Weird times, then and now. I still text with these guys regularly, getting the occasional invite to join a “Dead” show. No Thank You. I rarely toot my horn, but I am proud I’m not stuck in the musical time warp that so many of my generation suffer from. I’ll happily wear that conceit.
But yeah, great album!
Herbie Hancock
3/5
Herbie can cook. But after awhile, like everything instrumental, it just becomes background.
The Modern Lovers
5/5
People seem to love or hate this album. I love it! 5 stars. Modern Classic!
But what happened to Jonathan Richman? Worshipped by millions of white yuppy boomers, who flock to his minstrel shows to hang on his every word. But it’s crap! Boil it right down, it’s simplistic, childish drivel, put to a guitar and sung in dorky, ah-shucks monotone. Sell out?
I’ve been to one show in the early 90’s, and was stunned at how boring it was. The shushing hipsters fawning with adoration, me wondering why I wasted good beer money.
Modern Lover is a timeless Thing, a discarded message found washed up on a quiet northeastern beach, covered with barnacles and kelp. Rinse off, listen, love.
David Bowie
3/5
Interesting album. Odd most of the time, but surprisingly pleasant listen. Not my favorite Bowie effort.
The Isley Brothers
3/5
Dwight Yoakam
3/5
Good little ditty. But it’s still basic country, done before, nothing original nor unique about it. Country needs a spark, otherwise its just retreads.
Soul II Soul
4/5
This is fun. I’ve spun it a couple times now, and I like it. My wife was familiar, but I was ignorant. No surprise, my loss.
George Harrison
3/5
Better than most of the solo Beatles project. Still not as good as the sum total. Growing up, he was my least favorite of the four lads, and I wasn’t a fan of his solo work early on. But I’ve warmed some, and besides the obvious monster hit, this album as a whole is pretty good.
Common
3/5
Not bad.
Radiohead
2/5
Ho hum. Zzzzzz
Say what? Faces? Never heard of them. Stay With Me? Sure, that’s a Sir Rod Stewart song.
Seriously, that guy robbed more cradles than Hugh Hefner. When he dies, the makers of Viagra will hang his picture in their lobby in tribute. He’s only 80, so he’s got a few years left to woo another super model. Isn’t love grand?
The albums is pretty good. Fun, upbeat. I gave it a few spins.
Sigur Rós
2/5
What? Is? This? 2 stars for not blinding me.
Wire
4/5
I like it! Some of my early Pop-Punk exposure. 1980, and I fucking loved it! I’m gonna buy this one tonight, cause it deserves $.
Stereolab
3/5
Boringly ok.
The Avalanches
1/5
Couldn’t finish. Not my thing.
Pixies
3/5
Ok. Band is a bit overrated, as are their hits.
Sufjan Stevens
2/5
Odd stuff lately. This one is a gem… a poop nugget.
Madness
3/5
Of the 80’s ska bands that made it, these guys probably hit the highest chart peak. Certainly weren’t the best in my opinion. Specials, The Beat, and The Selecter were all the real shit, while the “Our House” boys sold their precious souls for cash. Trite little tunes of 80’s joy. No harm, no foul. Just a bit boring.
Go spin Too Much Pressure. Boom!
Black Sabbath
4/5
Legendary album. Groundbreaking band. No denying their appeal. I spent a wee bit of life spinning this stuff, but it never really stuck, and I quickly moved on. Too dark. Too slow. And come on… Ozzy’s voice is fingers on chalkboard pleasing.
4 stars, because duh.
Motörhead
3/5
Not a big Motörhead fan. Ace Of Spades is fun, but the rest of it hums the same noise. Lemmy is a legend, mostly as a skirt chasing booze hound. Guys like him are getting rare, and I miss that.
The White Stripes
3/5
Still overrated.
The Smiths
3/5
Pretty good album. Kinda quirky at times, but rolled some nice bass lines throughout.
OutKast
1/5
Catchy little ditties. I wanted to sing along, but it didn’t sound quite right replacing all the N-Words with “N-Word”. And there a lot on N-Words. So not for me. And anyway, most rap sucks, and this one is no exception.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Great Album. Early Stones is hard to beat.
The KLF
2/5
Ok. A bit boring. Nothing special.
Lou Reed
3/5
It’s alright. A couple of classics and a few dogs pencil it out as average. Considered unhip to not worship him. I can live with that.
Sepultura
1/5
Nope. Good for MMA, and meats in the barracks. Soundtrack for the Deplorables.
Fela Kuti
3/5
Pretty cool album! Worthy of another trip or two.
Röyksopp
3/5
Pretty. Dreamy. Back in my pot smoking days, this would fit the bill nicely. Unfortunately, I’m sober and alert. Relaxation is a no go.
The Kinks
3/5
Ok. Not my favorite. A bit too mellow. Need bad boy kinks.
Funkadelic
4/5
Funk yeah! Love it!
3/5
I remember well when these guys landed on MTV and took the music world by the balls. Mostly just a fad, and not terribly good. But their timing was everything, making their hits and unique brand a legend that stands the test. I rejected them initially, like most things MTV. But you couldn’t escape their infectious and energetic bop, those stupid outfits, and their unrivaled weird. As for this album, I love Uncontrollable Urge. The rest, yawn. 4 stars for creativity. Minus a star for making MTV a household name.
The War On Drugs
2/5
When a rest is required, I go here.
Elbow
2/5
A story is being told. Somewhere out there, there’s an audience. Not here. No one is listening.
Stephen Stills
4/5
Very nice! I will spin this again. Reminds me of my mom’s hippy boyfriends, many Nam vets. Nice dudes. A little messed up, but friendly. We need more of them. And this.
Genesis
3/5
Genesis was never my thing. There’s skill, and a melody. But it’s boring. Shrug, move on.
Elliott Smith
5/5
Have it. Love it. Miss it.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
Stone Cold Classic! From originals to covers, it’s a 5.
Beastie Boys
2/5
Overrated east-coast twits with nary a decent nor useful thought between the lot. Smoke this rubbish, and pay the boys their money.
The Band
3/5
Not bad. A bit boring. The Weight will always play. Easy Rider is the lesson plan for America in the 60’s hippy era. Man, what a weird time it was. Still, better than what we got going down now.
Kings of Leon
4/5
This is a cool album. And I don’t really like these guys. Or do I? I’m definitely no fan of Sex on Fire. Hate hearing it actually. How can I like these guys? I can’t. I won’t.
But I like this album. Oh yeah, I’ll spin it again. Go figure.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
It’s Ok. Not my favorite. Funny that Stand was supposed to be the hit, but Everyday People snuck in to take the prize.
Sonic Youth
2/5
My previous opinion applies; overrated and pretentious. Not impressed. But I’ll give it 2 stars for the angsty adolescent vibe.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
5/5
Timing is everything, and this one crushed the start. Yes, the hits are obvious, and at this point, overplayed. But it’s the rest of their work that makes it a classic. I’ve moved on from these guys, and that rowdy stupid spot in life… but it was a fucking blast cranking this in the 90’s and living life large. Still a classic. Smiles.
Throbbing Gristle
1/5
Seriously? The only folks that listen to this are introverted boys too smart for their own health, and men with high IQs and no ability to use it for good. Padded cells and heavy meds get them thru the day. Why remaster this shit?
The Incredible String Band
1/5
Folk No! Such 60’s era nonsense. Pretentious, acid fueled sleep sounds. Hangman missed the mark here.
Nick Drake
1/5
Folk No! Such 60’s era nonsense. Pretentious, acid fueled sleep sounds. Hangman missed the mark here.
Pere Ubu
2/5
I heard a bit of this dude growing up, and my thoughts at the time remain true 40 years later. Sucks. Really sucks.
Beastie Boys
2/5
The Boys have always been overrated, but thanks to their genre, plus pale pasty appearance, they’ve been anointed some cult fame, with plenty of fortune. A couple of good songs. Otherwise, nothing close to special. Just another long list of shit music in a slow era.
Lupe Fiasco
3/5
Not Bad. Not my gig, probably won’t listen again unless forced.
Duran Duran
4/5
My Wife says 5 stars, but I just can’t do it. I will recognize their 80’s era greatness, and appreciate they’re still alive and mostly intact. But I just don’t swing their way. Ain’t my flavor. Still, I’ll probably go see them if they come to town. Happy Wife, Happy Life.
Don McLean
4/5
It’s a hell of a song, there’s no denying. Don said it all when once asked what the song meant; “It means I don’t have to work anymore.”
Damn near a 1 hit wonder though. The rest of the album; ho-hum. But what a wonder! 4 stars for the day the music died.
Guided By Voices
2/5
Better to have not been guided to listened to these voices.
Foo Fighters
5/5
Man, I do love this album, and I do love this man.
It’s pretty amazing how this all came about; from the ashes of a destroyed kingdom, wrecked and bumming around the UK in depressed isolation. Fuck that, pull yourself out! Make some cassettes, play every instrument on every song, hand out and see who listens. Everyone. Uh Dave, this fucking rocks, go get a band!
It’s a unique story. Had Kurt missed his head, the Foos might never have been. And as much as I revere Nevermind, I like Dave and the FF’s far more than I miss Nirvana.
Anyway, the album; top to bottom, kicks ass. Sets the tone for this man’s ever evolving incredible journey.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
4/5
I can picture my dad be-bopping to this album. He was such a nerd in the 50’s, but he’d pretend to like rock n roll to impress all the Boston ladies. What he really liked was playing Bridge, drinking coffee all day, and chain-smoking Lucky Strikes with his MIT frat brothers.
Buddy was the real deal. Same age as my dad.
Moby
3/5
A couple of cool tunes. Most of the songs are a bit odd, repetitive. And like everything he does, ego centric. Maybe I just don’t trust young bald guys.
Bee Gees
2/5
The Bee Gees are proof positive that man can lead a rewarding and successful life after self-castration.
Though it is still not recommended.
The Zombies
3/5
Maybe this should be called “1001 Songs” instead of albums. Cause this is a great song… referring, of course, to Time of the Season. I mean really great song. The rest is pretty bland stuff. One Hit Wonder? Don’t know enough about them to judge. But this is a monster dish looking for a home on a better platter.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Excellent album, one I don’t listen to enough.
Doves
2/5
Boring. Got thru half a listen.
DJ Shadow
2/5
Rap? I guess. Art Rap more like. Not good.
Beck
4/5
Love Beck. Love his story, his voice, and his music. Some would call this one his best, and their case is strong. I like a few others a bit better, so I’ll go 4.7 here, and put it back in the rotation.
Nina Simone
3/5
Not really a Nina fan. Just too moody. Obviously she’s talented, so it’s clearly more about my lack of appreciation. I’m ok with that.
Van Morrison
3/5
A live album. Odd when these make a “must listen” list. And I do love a good live album. This one is just alright.
David Bowie
3/5
Like it some.
Julian Cope
3/5
Mildly there.
Patti Smith
3/5
Another overrated NY Art Punk act that was far less about punk… or music, or art. Just yuck. I mean, in the 70’s, New York was such a shit hole, inhabited by overmedicated, self-indulgent brats. Give me California hippies any day of the week over these filthy fakes.
Otherwise, not a bad effort.
3/5
Interesting. Not great, but a few gems.
Gene Clark
3/5
Never heard, not bad.
Gotan Project
3/5
Pretty cool. No need to translate; funked along nicely.
The Cure
2/5
Still don’t get the fascination with these lads. Is it because Smith sounds gay, wears lipstick, and dresses like Count Dracula? I get that there are people who like depressingly morbid music, but this is an act, and not worthy of the accolades.
Prince
3/5
Big pop album. Not my thing, but hard to escape hearing it in the day. Prince was a pretty special talent, but just not to my taste, then and now. Known now for joining the long list of dead musicians who drugged just a little too hard.
Fiona Apple
2/5
Oh god, no. Whining, bitter quasi-feminist music has its place, but not here. Old news; this genre had a good run, but just sounds dated and irrelevant now. Get over it, find a new love, and move the fuck forward!
Cee Lo Green
2/5
Not bad for a date raper.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
5/5
It’s the album by which all Reggae is measured. Not a masterpiece, but beautiful work non the less. I appreciate him more as I get older, but unlike a few of my good friends, I won’t spin this daily. Love it.
Beyoncé
2/5
A lot of T&A on this lady, and her daddy knew just how to use it. I must be an old fuddy-duddy for sure, cuz this is all about bitchin and fuckin. A lot of unwanted babies were conceived during the playing of this album.
The Associates
1/5
Painful. Just painful.
Pentangle
2/5
Nope. Hippy dippy silly prancing merrymakers.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Jimi!
Shivkumar Sharma
1/5
Old school crank call.
Maxwell
4/5
Pretty cool. I like it. Nice mix of genres.
Television
3/5
Trendy choice, given the East Coast bias about literally everything. At the end of the day, this album is average at best.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
3/5
ELP… clearly a bushel of talent. Yet there songs either sound spliced together, or written for some theatrical accompaniment. Big sounds, some great notes of jazz, mixed with some spaced out stoner vibes. Reminds me of my brother growing up, and not in a good way.
Paul McCartney
3/5
Pretty good. Weird, but not bad. You can hear The Beatles sound and influence in this album, from the Sargent Pepper era. Fun, but about the time things began to come off the rails.
James Brown
5/5
God bless James Brown! One of a kind. Saw this badass back in the early 90’s, on Seattle’s downtown waterfront. A bit long in the tooth by then, but still managed to light it up like it was 1968! This album I own, and gets in the rotation on a regular basis. I love him and miss him!
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
These guys were badass! Timeless cooking.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
Not my favorite of his. In fact, once he turned 30, it was all down hill.
ABBA
2/5
Well that was fun. Just made my 27 year-old punker of a son sit thru this ABBA album on a drive across the city. Groaning like a 2nd grader. “Make it stop!”
The price you pay when you come home to freeload. More tortures to come.
Iggy Pop
4/5
I like Iggy! He’s a Punk pioneer, and a certified bad little bitch. Some of his stuff I love, and his latest album is solid. Never was a big fan of this album, but I get the appeal. God love and keep Iggy Pop!
The Monkees
4/5
Hey Hey, I loved this show! Davey Jones was the teen idol, but Micky was my favorite. This is pretty cool, never heard before, and sent me down a deep rabbit hole. I’m gonna dive a bit deeper, see what’s lurking at the bottom.
Jane Weaver
2/5
Average.
Dennis Wilson
2/5
Beach Boys were not my scene. Too clean cut, overly melodic, boring. They just never broke thru my need for long hair, bell bottoms, and that free lovin vibe. Dennis was a mess, but at least he could surf.
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
Hip vintage stuff. Doesn’t stand up too well to the musical sounds of today, but it was new and cool in our parents lives, probably got them all smoking reefer.
Santana
5/5
Beautiful album, with fine cuts throughout. Moonflower is my favorite, has been since the 70’s. But this is one of their best.
The Soft Boys
3/5
They probably had a place in the post-punk, Brit-noise era. Fun I guess, but like many 80’s British bands, they just don’t age well.
The Prodigy
3/5
Kinda fun for a moment, before becoming annoyingly repetitive. Like a couple of young dudes discovering new buttons to play with on their older brother’s synth in the garage. Soon all the stoner bros in the hood stop by, to be gobbled by the radness of it all.
Sade
5/5
Oh boy, this one takes me back to the good place. 1984, the world in front, school in the rear, girlfriend in tow. Where we paused, the turntable found power and the needle did damage. Add the Cerwin Vega amp and ridiculously large speakers, and our neighbors enjoyed this album on a weekly basis. Sorry, not sorry!
Shack
2/5
Nope, not rewarded by this listen. I mean, I heard it. It penetrated my space every so often, a distraction that lasted less than a moment, then quickly shoved back to that area already occupied by all the other daylight noises… distant cars, the construction project next door, the AC fan, the damn phone ringing, the wife. It failed to deliver; join the list.
Neil Young
5/5
In my opinion, his best album. Tip to tail, I love this thing, know all the lyrics, and would spin it weekly on full blast so I could sing along and not hear myself.
One year at summer camp back in the early 70’s, I had a tent leader who played a 12 string acoustic with harmonic neck holder, and he just crushed Neil Young songs. It sounded so damn sweet, and I was hooked forever.
Many great songs on this album, but my favorite is Cripple Creek Ferry, mostly because I loved singing it, and it made no sense.
Ray Charles
3/5
Good stuff, love Ray Charles. Genius is probably a stretch.
Barry Adamson
1/5
Not gonna lie, I was digging a trench while listening to this album. Between the two, not sure which was worse.
No doubt I’ll dig more trenches. The other? You’re asking too much of me.
Paul Weller
3/5
I am a huge JAM fan, and consider them to be among the top 3 coming out of the UK. They were on top when Paul sent his dad in to announce the break up to his bandmates. Shitty!
I guess he’s since had a solid career, but he’s not achieved the level of success he had with The JAM. Don’t know why he decided to go a different direction with his music, and he clearly has no regrets. Good for him.
I own this album, and it’s not bad. I guess I bought it simple due to the connections with his former band. It’s not as good, not even close.
Parliament
3/5
Rick James again? One too many on this list. He’s good, their stuff is funky, but the songs average about 3 minutes too long. Hard to dance too, but great if you’re trippin. This one has its moments, but gets a bit boring after a while.
Echo And The Bunnymen
2/5
Never liked these guys much. Odd, considering I liked other bands from that era that had a similar sound… U2, Icehouse, The Smiths, to name a few.
Maybe these guys are too soft and cuddly for my taste… like a gaggle of “cool” high school girls’ gay best friend. Back in the day, I needed a harder edge to my post-punk music, and these guys were simply a boring, mainstream version of better bands.
Django Django
2/5
It’s music. It’s not annoying.
Missy Elliott
1/5
Wow! She’s a charmer. N-words, bitches and unwanted babies… let’s promote that. Get that money.
Frank Zappa
3/5
One of a handful of shock artists from the 60's and 70's that actually had some talent. HIs music is diverse and complex, and often hard to enjoy. Setting aside his narcissistic personality and cult status, (which I'll admit clouds my musical rating) this album jams along nicely.
My older brother had a large poster in the 70's of Frank sitting nude on a toilet, presumably taking a shit. Later that poster ended on the wall of the only bathroom in a shared house, and I had to stare at his ugly naked self far longer than anybody should. My brother had a kinship with Zappa. Weirdos need leaders too. That's America.
D'Angelo
2/5
Silly little fella.
Serge Gainsbourg
1/5
Weird Nelson. Can’t sing, can’t play. Stick to crime, Baby Face!
Radiohead
2/5
No. These guys suck. Boring, whiny. What genre is this anyway? If Rock has an Overrated list, put these spaced-out crooners in the top ten.
The Beau Brummels
2/5
Happy Hippy music from a strange land. Sounds like so many others, none of them particularly good. Hey, young folks we’re all getting high, ditching their clothes and skipping the shower. Free love baby! Dudes had it made, getting laid without trying. This music reflects that mood. Dumb, bland and easy. Poor misguided lassies.
Elastica
4/5
Haven’t heard it in a while, and I like it! Not typically a fan of female punkers. Call me sexist, but they typically screech too much. These ladies sounds sultry, melodic, and pissed. And the rock it with authority. More listens required!
Kraftwerk
2/5
Another band my pretentious brother used to listen to. Ugh, he was an obnoxious twat!
Kraftwerk. My first exposure to “German” music. “What weirdos!”, my prepubescent brain screamed. Europe must suck if this is the crap they’re grooving to. No thank you!
I’m older now, only marginally wiser. These guys might be pioneers, but they’re still weird. But Europe kicks ass!
Duke Ellington
3/5
Strange. There are so many Ellington live albums out there. Why this one? Regardless, clearly talented, but after a few numbers, it’s background. Gotta be a middle school band kid to not be bored by this.
Suicide
1/5
Another head scratchers; why remaster? Putting a rose in a pile of shit won’t change the stink on my shoes. Whatever…
Dusty Springfield
2/5
No particular opinion. Not great, but not bad. Recognizably boring? Sad Dusty, died to young. Had she come around in this era, she’d have been a superstar.
Pixies
3/5
Classic album, with lots of mileage on these tracks. Not a big fan, but worth a spin now and again.
Mariah Carey
3/5
Modern day Queen of easy listening. She’s got a nice voice. I could sleep to it.
Merle Haggard
4/5
He’s a cool cowboy, no doubt. I spent some formative years on a working ranch in Texas, and brother, this fella’s voice takes me back to the boys shooting the breeze around the corral. Tough, real, and thoughtful.
Madonna
3/5
I love Madonna, for a variety of reasons. Her music is down on that list. Much respect for the true Queen of Pop, but the sound just doesn’t move the needle with me.
Electric Light Orchestra
3/5
Big, familiar sounds. I don’t love it, but don’t hate either. They’d make a decent, overpriced Vegas act at the Sphere.
Beatles
5/5
Love the Beatles. Their music helped shape me. This album… not their best imo, but still goes 5 stars.
Happy Mondays
2/5
Pretty lame.
Run-D.M.C.
2/5
Raising Hell in my brain. More like raising hellish nightmares. Hell has raised bad music to a new level, and it's name is Run-D.M.C.
Ok, maybe a bit harsh. But mama didn't raise no fool; this stuff is hell on my ears. Run away!
UB40
3/5
A bong-load of boring background.
Gram Parsons
4/5
Godfather of AltCountry! Own it!
Kid Rock
1/5
Nope. This rests neatly between the steamy bottom layers of a 3-day outdoor summer concert porta-pit.
Fuck this twat.
Pulp
2/5
Not a fan, but mildly amusing.
Hole
1/5
You’re killing me. There’s only two reason this band got airtime; Kurt, and Kurt’s death. Seriously… she’s an awful singer, pitiful guitarist, and a terrible human. You do know they used to just turn her amp off during live shows? I saw her live a few times… that’s what you did growing up in Seattle. And I was at the fountain to mourn Kurt, listening to her slobber about how hard she tried to help him. Goddamn, what a load of horseshit!
The rest is history. What a horrible skank.
Supertramp
4/5
These guys were not really my flavor back in the day, but I was guilty of cranking them up when no one was looking. Ssh… I like it!
Green Day
5/5
Bought it right when it came out, and still love it today. Blistering pace, old school punk vibe in new package. Throw backs, and really one of the few rock bands left standing today. Seriously… rock is dead in America… but these guys will live forever!
The Chemical Brothers
3/5
Kinda fun for a while, but ultimately fails to keep me interested. And occasionally, it’s annoying. Not good.
The Young Gods
1/5
Weird romantic euro death metal. I love the French, but they shouldn’t try to emulate the worst parts of other country’s music.
The French suck at rock, but that’s ok. They’re great at other stuff. Pastries. Strong coffee. Hedgerows. Protesting.
The Everly Brothers
3/5
Ah, classic Frat boy music from the 50’s/60’s. My dad loved these guys! Makes me ponder on what he was supposedly like in college; sitting around with his frat brothers wasting the day, playing cards and chain smoking Lucky Strikes, bemoaning about not getting laid (similar to gamer bros today). Then he met my mom, quickly flunked out, and the rest is history.
The music is dated but fun. The cigs eventually took my pop, but this album brought him back for a while.
Al Green
4/5
Love it!
Pet Shop Boys
1/5
Imagine lying in your Dentist’s chair, semi delirious from the combination of novocaine, laughing gas, and pain. The dental dam makes it impossible to talk or swallow, and the jaw clamps are trying to tear your lips off. The Dentists appears, tools in hand, and adjusts the light to near blindness. Is he smiling behind his mask and spit shield? He mumbles, but you can’t understand. The high screech of the drill begins, growing louder as it goes to work. Is that smoke? You begin to squirm, and close your eyes. DON’T GO INTO THE LIGHT!
Then you notice the office audio is playing Pet Shop Boys. Oh no, too late. You’re dead.
Nightmare.
Mott The Hoople
3/5
I was never a big fan of these guys, but I get their impact at the time. To me, their sound was fairly generic and unrefined, with average vocals at best. Probably a fun night if I saw them live, but otherwise, pretty blah.
Fleetwood Mac
3/5
All the hippie chicks in my high school wanted to look like Stevie Nicks. I dated a girl, an aspiring singer, who spent her junior year as a Nicks devote. Senior year, she went with Nancy Wilson. Whatever… she was cute either way.
Monster group of the 70’s. My mom turned righteous hippy early in that decade and spun these guys often. I was never a huge fan, certainly never spent good money on their albums. But I enjoy them in small doses, and reminisce about that sweet girl in high school.
Eagles
4/5
My wife is prepared to sing this entire album, in order. Yeah, heard it often, and payed way too much to see their live act.
Even spent a night in Winslow Arizona, and stood on the corner like a dumbass tourist. Such is the life of a husband married to a white chick of the 70’s.
Snoop Dogg
5/5
Gangsta rap at its finest. It’s kinda hard to believe this guys not dead from aids, drugs or guns. At some point, he figured out how to stay relatively clean and wear the dirt too. Probably a good, very forgiving women. Now the guy is so mainstream, it’s laughable. I wonder if Martha Stewart or the network heads ever bothered to listen to these over-the-top misogynistic lyrics? Maybe someone will sing Gin and Juice or For All My Niggaz and Bitches song on the Voice? That, I’d watch!
Pavement
2/5
Dated and overrated. Stale and pale.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Giants of my youth. Gotta admit that I was fascinated with Cass’s size. She was perhaps the fattest famous person I’d ever seen. Why that bothered my 5 year old self is beyond me, but I’d stare at the album cover for hours.
My dad was a big fan, and these stoners helped usher in his hippy days. We went from crew cuts to shoulder length overnight, and I was complaining. My dad loved to harmonize along to the music. It seemed to be some of his happiest moments.
I’m not really a fan, but it’s always nice to trip down the old brain lane.
The Afghan Whigs
3/5
Pretty good. Never heard before. Might give it another spin.
Todd Rundgren
2/5
Rundgren and Zappa tried to out-weird each other in the 70’s. In my opinion, Frank came out on top, in terms of both talent and success. There are a few TR songs I do like, so I’ll go 2 here. That’s generous, as this album is most definitely rubbish.
The Offspring
4/5
Hard not to enjoy this fun album. I own it. Haven’t played it in forever, but it’s solid.
John Martyn
3/5
Not bad. Different. Never heard. Spa like. But in the right setting… like a lazy sun-drenched afternoon on the veranda, overlooking the unsettled Hawaiian surf, palm trees high above, pressing into warm trade winds like reporters covering hurricanes, eyes weary yet fighting the nap that will not be denied … well then, this album is just about right.
The Stooges
5/5
Iggy and the Stooges. The Fathers of Punk Rock! How he’s still kicking is beyond me, but I love it!
Ozomatli
3/5
Not unpleasant. Not incredible. Somewhere in the middle. Nowhere near my rotation.
Nirvana
5/5
It’s Nirvana in sweaters!
I always thought it odd that Kurt changed the lyrics to In The Pines. My mom, born of the Southern States, used to sing the song to me as a tot in the 60’s, using the Lead Belly version. Her mother sang it to her in the 30’s, shortly before Belly’s recording. I always knew it as Black Girl, and loved hearing it before bed. Kurt, a fan of LB, changed it to My Girl for this album. Still beautiful and haunting, but even more so using the original lyrics. Wish he had.
Anyway…. Courtney Killed Kurt.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
What’s there to say? What a beautiful album.
Bow down to the Queen! God Bless Aretha Franklin, the One and Only!
Cornershop
1/5
One hit song does not make a good album. Lots of noise here. No thanks.
Beatles
4/5
Look at the Lads! Growing right before our eyes and ears. Not the innocent Fab Four anymore. Now it’s sitars and sex in a smoke filled package. Love these damn hippies!
Björk
1/5
As bad as they come. I mean, if you’re in on weird and creepy dark ages and mystic noise, then you’ll love it. For the rest of us not living in a padded cell, this is shit.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
An album right out of the pages of 70’s folk rock, and it’s not bad. Not for me, but not unpleasing.
Deep Purple
4/5
Rocks with the best. Underrated movers of the 70’s.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Classic! Miss him.
M.I.A.
1/5
I wouldn’t buy it. I wouldn’t even steal it on Napster.
Arcade Fire
2/5
Zzzzzzz.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
3/5
Funny hippy tunes from a better era.
Nirvana
5/5
The iconic album that shook the world and created a new fashion line. Grunge arrived, flamed bright, and soon died, high and isolated in an room above a garage in a rich man’s Seattle neighborhood.
I had college friends from across the country blasting this disc, asking if I’d ever met Kurt. Had to break the news that Kurt wasn’t from Seattle, but rather a depressed logging town near the coast, about 100 miles as the crow flies. Ironically, he died not far from where I grew up. My crew and I used to get high in a little park by the lake just below his house. Rode my bike by there many days and nights, and had friends raised throughout the hood. I never knew he lived there until after he pulled the trigger.
After… friends and relatives would want to visit the park and see his house. It got so bad, security was posted, once screamed obscenities when my Chicago cousin got too close.
The fashion line wasn’t new. It’s what we wore. My wife ran into an old high school classmate of mine from the 70’s, who described me as “Grunge before Grunge was cool!” She wasn’t from Seattle, but I assured her it was a compliment.
Anyway, Courtney killed Kurt.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
A good album. Not my favorite, but I could listen all day. His electric guitar work, while unique, has never been particularly good, yet manages to rock hard with the best of the bunch. His strength is his writing, which has carried the rest of his modest skills for decades. I’ve got no problem with that. God Bless Neil Young!
Beach House
2/5
This album is way to slow for my taste. Fever dream stuff. Can you imagine going to their concert? Ugh. Damn chairs better recline, cuz I am out!
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Tip to Tail, this one is a classic. God Bless the Rolling Stones!
Linkin Park
2/5
What do you get when you combine Rock, Rap, and Pop?
Shit.
Sugar
2/5
I have listened, and I have forgotten. Next!
Bob Dylan
5/5
Dylan is a cult folk hero to many. Age wise, I missed his heyday, and will admit I haven’t tried hard to catch up and join the flock. I think it’s a New York, Center-of-the-Universe thing… and that’s foreign to me. Repulsive actually.
I honestly like everything about him and his music, and this album is one of his best.
There is growth in me left to be done before I die, if only I’d let it happen. Bob might lead me.
Simon & Garfunkel
2/5
Oh boy…
My dad sure loved the title track. He used to sing along in harmony, and wasn’t half bad. For a ROTC and MIT grad of the late 50’s, sporting a high and tight and building missiles for Boeing, he sure struggled with the sexy powers of the budding hippy movement. Burning bras only helped fuel his transformation to the left, and before long, his goatee was born and leaves were burnt. And goddamnit, I had to listen to this shit! Yuck.
It’s not awful.
Little Richard
4/5
Fun album. I used to have it on vinyl, but now it’s all in the cloud. Legend.
Dinosaur Jr.
2/5
Unoriginal. Doesn’t hold water. Boring.
Gorillaz
2/5
Fun. Simple. Sophomoric.
Khaled
3/5
Pretty cool. I’ll lend more ear.
U2
4/5
Top notch album! I own, I like. Not quite a 5, but oooooooh so close.
The Police
4/5
A big player. My wife has all the lyrics down pat, and when I fired this up on the hi-fi, hips were in full sway. That alone gets them 4 stars.
Can
2/5
Sounds like a garage band from a developing nation. Not awful. Wait…Can? As in, they’re playing with cans? Ok then… street performers in a developed nation. Not particularly good, but at least they’re enjoying themselves. How can you not when you’re beating on cans.
Christina Aguilera
3/5
Fun and sexy.
Tortoise
1/5
“Post Rock Trailblazers”, according to some dweeb’s review on Apple Music. First, why call it Post Rock? Rock is alive and well, and this shit is nothing like rock. Post Music is more like it. As in, after music, you have noises from amps. I guess that could be Pre Music too. Oh well.
Second, Trailblazers? Where have they been? Which way are they headed? How soon will they leave?
Lastly, this sucks.
Neil Young
5/5
God, this album just crushed it! Stoned or sober, 5 STARS!
Thundercat
1/5
This is America, and America has truly gone to shit!
Paul Simon
2/5
Overrated little art project from a wee lad with large ego.
Green Day
5/5
5 Stars. And so appropriate. The fascist circus is back in town. God Bless Green Day!
Metallica
3/5
Hard rock gods, at the pinnacle of their genre, where most try and fail to reach. I’m no worshipper, but my respect has been earned.
Steely Dan
3/5
Some big hits, but the rest? Ehh… inoffensive and easily forgettable background.
Van Halen
5/5
Hell of a good rocker, this one! I remember well when these guys hit the scene. I think I was still in middle school, and just beginning the move from soft rock to the harder stuff.
Was never a monster fan, but didn’t turn it down either. This album just kills it! Top 5 guitarists of all time. God Bless and Keep Eddie Van Halen! You are missed.
Alice In Chains
4/5
I’ve got this album. Grunge! It rocks.
The Youngbloods
2/5
A hit and some fluffy filler. The hit is decent, and the fluff doesn’t suck.
Dire Straits
3/5
Good, but not their best. Still beats many to the table.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
Dusty is a bit dated, but can still pack a punch.
Peter Gabriel
2/5
Just not my bag. Maybe it’s his voice. Maybe it’s the echoey, big sound. The pretentious lyrics? All blended, and it bores me.
Grant Lee Buffalo
3/5
Almost there, but not quite. Good vocals, writing, and composition. Not great.
Sebadoh
2/5
Not good. There is potential, but mostly overindulgent and pithy.
Peter Gabriel
2/5
Damn, 2 Gabriel albums in one week? Someone up there must hate me.
Jane's Addiction
2/5
Not terribly fond of this album or the band. Overrated glam grunge, and listening to Farrell is like walking on hot coals.
Spiritualized
1/5
Nope. Weirdly slow. Slowly weirder. Ultimately, weird and slow.
New Order
2/5
Nothing special.
Leonard Cohen
1/5
I just don’t understand the appeal? Poetry I get. Putting it to simple musical arrangements doesn’t make this anything special. But if you don’t like his poetry, then you really won’t like his music. That’s me.
David Bowie
3/5
Bowie. He was cool. Miss him.
Simple Minds
1/5
Damn, even my 80’s era wife can’t stand these new wave twits. All I think about when I hear this stuff is a whiny and desperate John Cryer and his gayass bouffant in Pretty in Pink. No thanks.
ZZ Top
4/5
Love these guys! Just a threesome of hard rock beasts. Classic Americana. Aging and dying now, but still pounding the road and putting it down. Good Bless ZZ Top.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
It’s good, no deny. I still won’t worship at their feet like my many peers. But I listen when forced, and sometimes enjoy it.
Ali Farka Touré
2/5
You know, kinda weird. Not really my thing. Better than classical….that’s something I guess.
AC/DC
5/5
A kickass rock storm of an album! While the early 90’s mainstream moved painfully towards Dance, Pop, and New Wave, these dudes dropped a beast into the mix, proving that rock n roll was far from dead. I’m not a true fan of the band, but tip to tail, this is a 5.
Ministry
4/5
Not gonna lie… I’ve had zero exposure to this group. And I fucking like it! I’m diving in!
The Mothers Of Invention
1/5
The Mothers of Pretension! Simply not good.
George Jones
3/5
Folks love this guy! I’m not there. He’s the country crooner, but that never worked for me. I like my country with a bit of rasp and dirt, torn jeans and sweat.
Bob Dylan
3/5
One great lead off, the rest just kinda sounds the same. Don’t mind the rambling and rhyming, but it’s pretty simplistic stuff, both lyrically and musically. The stoners in the day thought it was cutting edge poetry, and perhaps they still hold that same view. But then again, they were stoned.
Pink Floyd
5/5
5 Stars, and in my opinion, the best Pink Floyd album.
For me, this release arrived at a most impressionable age. I used to put it on, sit on the floor and stare at the burning man, read the lyrics on the liner, and just listen. In later years, with a little grass, i’d spin it and run wild with imagination. Now, many years later, it still stops me cold.
Music is truly an amazing medium. It has seeming endless reasons and uses, and is ever evolving. Many tracks are there to add or enhance your current experience, like dancing or driving or fucking. For most, it’s just to provide background. This album tells a story, using lyrics, but mostly with music and sound. To truly experience, listen at night, alone, by fire or candlelight, preferably as a storm rages outside. Use good headphones…. you’ll want it loud, to catch notes and sounds played so quiet and delicate. If you enjoy recreational drugs, definitely use them here. And just listen. And imagine.
Damn near Spiritual.
God Bless Pink Floyd.
Johnny Cash
4/5
How cool is it to cut albums of this caliber in the very twilight of your life! His American series hears a man facing down the end after a long life of love and struggles. The songs of redemption from the lord, though not my beliefs, are nonetheless powerful, if only because of what they mean to him. His cover of Hurt is epic of course, and better than the original. Good Bless Johnny Cash! (I actually have that Bumper Sticker)
The Who
4/5
An excellent intro to the world! Not my favorite, but well worth every spin!
Lorde
1/5
I guess she’s got a decent singing voice. But the slow, quiet and breathless songs just don’t do it for me. Add the cursing and general simpering about their broken relationships, and it’s a pretty good snapshot of today’s anxiety-riddled woke white females. Lorde leads the way. It’s a yuck. I much prefer the Madonnas and Britneys and Taylors.
Calexico
3/5
I like these guys. Good music, but waiting for an epic breakout. At this point, it will likely never come.
Elton John
4/5
Pretty great album. It definitely runs out of steam toward the end, but side one holds its own with the very best.
This was the first album my wife ever bought with her own money. Middle schooler listening on her 70’s era portable record player, lying on the carpet, reading everything on the liner, soaking up every sound coming out of the cheap tinny speaker. A small moment of bliss.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Another great album from NY! Not my favorite; his electric guitar work is pretty simplistic. But no denying the spirit and energy of the work. A must have for his fans. Go 4.5 here.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
5/5
Very top of the game here, and a stunning collection of beautiful songs and misfit men. God Bless CSNY!
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Another Stones offering. Most of their early work will make this list, and almost all of it I’ve heard. Doesn’t make them any less worthy, but I’m here to hear what I haven’t heard. Next!
Muddy Waters
4/5
Never hard decision to play this album again. Love it. Timeless!
Mercury Rev
1/5
Indulgent. Boring.
Various Artists
3/5
Christmas classics on Christmas Day! Who woulda thunk it? I wonder if everyone got the same album, or are there other Christmas platters that made the list? I guess I’ll go another year and find out!
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Great album! Hit upon monster hit! Wtf, then you go die? Stupid. So incredibly, soulfully stupid.
Kraftwerk
2/5
Overrated euro noise. Unique and mildly interesting at the time, now sounds dated and simplistic.
Jeff Beck
2/5
Not very good. Plus I never could warm up to Mr. Hot Legs.
Justice
2/5
Not great. Reminds of background music for old GameCube simulator games my boy used to play. Addictive and mind numbing.
Buena Vista Social Club
3/5
Good, not great. Like scenes from a festive restaurant, house band the attraction and reason seats are filled. But after 5 minutes, with hustling waiters and bustling busboys buzzing around like ants at a picnic, your attention slips to your food and your company. What’s left is part of the background.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
A beautiful album, and no doubt an enduring classic. This one was in my parent’s collection, and got steady playtime. Most definitely a part of my musical rearing. Odd that these lads were on the verge of their breakup when this one dropped. Can’t we all just get along?
Lenny Kravitz
3/5
It’s good. Not great, but nothing stands out really.
Britney Spears
4/5
Another monster intro. Welcome to the Big Time Britney! Who knew this sweet kid would go on to the highest levels of fame and misfortune. What a crazy ride, but she’s clearly a survivor. While I’m not really a fan of her music, all props deserved for shaking the world with this album. Keep it going Brit!
Black Sabbath
3/5
Ozzy is a Rock God, but not at my church.
Barry Adamson
1/5
Bleeuckk!
Giant Sand
1/5
It’s a Chore alright.
Earth, Wind & Fire
5/5
Great album! 5 Stars. Most of these songs I first heard from their live album, Gratitude, which I bought new in middle school. Grabbed this album shortly after I saw them live in the Seattle Coliseum in the mid 70’s. Bell Bottom pants over heels, rayon disco shirt with a print of surfers under a setting sun, dancing until the sweat spun off my brow… a moment of childhood bliss!
I broke a few needles playing these records, later transferring to cassette, then bought the CDs. Now I stream them as regulars. The originals still sit in the stack, damn near unplayable. But I’ll probably own them til they put me under.
Blondie
3/5
Blondie really hit hard during my college days, and for a little while, I thought the bleached hot chick in a tight dress was Blondie. Nope, she’s Debbie, and the band be Blondie. Ok, whatever. The band is average, and she is the Bomb! Typical of the time. Sold a lot of records, but besides a few hits, the boys don’t stand out behind her.
The Style Council
2/5
Can’t really be pissed about a guy who wants to play what he wants. But the Jam was, and still is, perhaps the best pop/punk band to come out of the U.K. To tear it down for something so mediocre was sad, self-centered, and in the end, not terribly bright. I’ll keep spinning The Jam, and try to forget the misguided behavior of their squirrelly frontman.
Badly Drawn Boy
2/5
It’s interesting enough, but won’t be something I’ll go back to.
Joy Division
1/5
I’m waiting for something good to happen here, but losing what little confidence I have. This is really simplistic shit. Simple guitar, simple base, simple drum. And the synth? I feel like Curtis couldn’t find any adults to back his weird lyrics and creep vibe, so he hit up the local middle school, promising sex and drugs if they’d join his band. There was so much better music coming out around 1980, MY era, and these twits road their coats and made us look like fools. Fuckers! This is cringe.
Todd Rundgren
2/5
Never really got this band. Boring. What gives?
Liz Phair
2/5
Bought this new when it came out. Why? So long ago, I don’t remember. No tracks that stand out. Her voice is below average. Lyrics are a bit self obsessed. What gives? Was I trying to be sensitive to emerging chick-powered indie rock? Or was I suckered by some Rolling Stones review? (Which I learned long ago is just another bullshit advertising Mag selling the industries wares) Just another in the long list of bad buys.
Led Zeppelin
3/5
One monster song, the rest good/not great. Immigrant Song is a stud, and I do love it. The rest is easy listening with a lean towards the Blues.
Bill Evans Trio
3/5
These fella’s got talent. But without vocals, this becomes dinner theater pretty damn quick. Tough way to make a living.
The Band
3/5
Ahh, Hippies! I briefly lived that life, thanks to my mum. Loved that simple world view… and the drugs were fun too. But I left it all behind soon after I shook hands with Punk.
The Weight is still one of my favorites songs. It’s not on this album. This jam reminds me of the Dead. Average.
The Waterboys
3/5
Decent and relatively entertaining. But not my spin.
Jimmy Smith
3/5
Good, almost great.
Bill Callahan
2/5
He sounds too much like Jon Lajoie. All I can think of is The Birthday Song, and I’m waiting for the punchline.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Better. Not a big fan of this group of misfits. Unless you’re trying to rest during a particularly heavy 4-day Meth binge, noisy nonsensical punk gets tired fast. This one had moments of more traditional punk rock, and it was so much better. Alas, they still suck.
The Clash
4/5
Best Clash album. Punked it up nicely, with notes of Sex Pistols, Ramones, and their own brand of ska. I was never a big fan, but this one is true to form. All down hill from here.
2Pac
1/5
A family of gangsters, to live and die by the gun and machismo bullshit. His music is average and simplistic, but thanks to his violent death, he’s become immortal. Let sleeping thugs lie.
Dire Straits
5/5
All time classic here. A uniquely clean rock sound that immediately stood out from so many noisier players of their era. They occupied their own genre, and cut a fantastic album worth a spin any day of the week.
The Beach Boys
2/5
Never a fan of these lads. Too much annoying harmonies and squeaky clean California vibe. The fact that most of them weren’t surfers, and one died from drowning, makes me wish they chose a different name. Beached Boys?
2 stars cuz they remind me of my dad… a fan who loved harmony, but also couldn’t surf.
Van Halen
4/5
During the early 80’s, these guys faded from my view, as I turned my attention squarely towards punk and power pop. Plus I hated Jump.
Fast forward 30 years, and thanks to my youngsters, I learned to appreciate some of the other songs on this album, and a compilation of my own making has a few of these in play on regular. Do miss Eddie. Can do without David.
Kate Bush
1/5
The only thing memorable about this is the album cover.
Pere Ubu
1/5
Back in the early 80’s, a few friends used to occasionally spin some PU at shit hole (name of our rental) gatherings. This being a strictly hardcore punk crowd by then, it rarely went over well. It was fortunate we had plenty of beer and coke to get us through the music.
Now that I’m sober, it’s just fucking awful.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Great album. She would’ve been one of the best… but got in the wrong line instead. RIP.
The Replacements
5/5
Love it! ‘Twas my first taste of the replacements back in the mid 80’s, and I’ve owned everything since. Jumping back to their earlier punk days found a different vibe, but equally as good. I can get their early fan base resented the transition to a more contemporary sound. Perhaps I was lucky to catch them in the middle. One thing seems certain; Westerberg was no sell out. His distain for MTV was apparent on their Bastards of Young vid, and getting banned from SNL cemented his status as an anti-establishment rock curmudgeon.
People also complained about their live shows, as they often played hammered. I rather enjoyed them in their raw, playful behavior. Caught their show a handful of times in Seattle, where sets often ended in a noisy haze of smoke and humor. One night, they came on stage without eyebrows, courtesy of some shaving silliness with their opening act and drinking buddies, the Young Fresh Fellows. Fun night.
Back to the album…. 5 stars! Unsatisfied gives me chills. God Bless the Replacements.
Bonnie Raitt
3/5
Love her name. Her music is average American fare. Safe and bland.
Mike Ladd
1/5
Lipstick on a pig.
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
I could never warm up to Corgan’s vocals. Nasally screech or whispering whine, it just doesn’t work for me. Otherwise, these tracks are pretty solid musically, and stand the test of time. A fine album.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
Some big songs from my preteen years, as this album spun on regular in my house. Was about the same time my dad went back to college and my mom burned her bra… and they let my hair grow long too!
I also thought Tom Jones might sing vocals a few of these songs. Wrong. Oh well. The album is alright, but while i do enjoy an occasional stroll down memory lane, I won’t be humming these tunes along the way.
Def Leppard
2/5
White Trash arena rock from the 80’s, now playing at a tribal casino near you.
Marty Robbins
4/5
I own this vinyl, bought used in the 80’s. Transferred it to cassette, and loved cranking Big Iron as I roared across the desert Southwest in my old Fiat ragtop. The Spider is long gone to the scrapper, but the outlaw ballads still gets regular PT in my space. God Bless Marty Robbins!
Ice T
2/5
As gangsta rap goes, it’s pretty good. But when I think of all the wrong that was and is motivated by this genre, I feel a sense of hopelessness for society. Certainly no empathy. You reap what you sow.
Ryan Adams
2/5
As gangsta rap goes, it’s pretty good. But when I think of all the wrong that was and is motivated by this genre, I feel a sense of hopelessness for society. Certainly no empathy. You reap what you sow.
The xx
2/5
It’s average. Not even remotely my thing.
Radiohead
1/5
Awful. Shit. If these guys represent the best of progressive rock from the 90’s and 00’s, then I’m glad I wasn’t listening. A hazy fever dream of noise and misery. Anthem for addicts. Fuck no.
Beastie Boys
2/5
One monster hit! Anthem for aging frat boys and high school dropouts alike, now living contently in their parent’s basement. Very white, very male, very East coast. More amusing than good. The rest is fodder and fill. 2 stars for losing their best porno mags.
Bad Brains
2/5
I got nothing….
Janet Jackson
3/5
Janet was so hot in the day! I wasn’t a fan, but recognized her stature as a pop powerhouse. My favorite moment, of course, was the Super Bowl wardrobe malfunction with Timberlake, that wasn’t a malfunction at all! The shock of seeing a black breast with a pastie was apparently too much for the old white Kens and Karens, so the studio brass had to make some shit up to explain their poor decisions. I loved it! From the boob flash to the fallout, it was a classic American freak show.
Beck
4/5
Given his humble beginnings, Beck is damn near a musical genius. I don’t love everything he does, but he can spin a story with music, and rarely records without purpose.
The Velvet Underground
2/5
Fair score. Reed is an out of tune stoner poet of the 60’s, and now sits on that pedestal of east coast legends. New Yorkers probably think he invented the wheel too. Average, not Art.
Nick Drake
1/5
Ugh. Slow and steady actually lost the race.
Gillian Welch
3/5
Good album. Her stuff isn’t found in my collection, but I enjoy her warble and hum.
The Only Ones
3/5
As Punk goes, it’s not a bad album, but nothing that’ll set my hair ablaze. A nice blend of grit and whine.
Iron Maiden
3/5
In my mind, metal maiden music never distinguished itself from the dozens of head banger bands of the era. Simple. Average.
The Temptations
4/5
Come on… who doesn’t like The Temptations? Seriously, let’s see a show of hands! I dare ya!
Living Colour
3/5
Not bad. Sort of a weird hybrid version of hard rock. Reminds me s little like The Tubes. A bit of pop, glam, and hard guitar. Vocals heavy. Not my thing, but didn’t make me cranky either. That’s a win.
Daft Punk
2/5
The first minute is good... maybe I could go 2. After that, it's drugs or nothing.
Manic Street Preachers
1/5
Bad. Power Pop nonsense.
Super Furry Animals
2/5
Caring very little, yet wanting to move this along, I punted my review to ChatGBT:
Super Furry Animals’ Rings Around the World promised a groundbreaking journey through experimental rock, but unfortunately, the result feels more like a convoluted mess than a cohesive album. While their ambition is undeniable, the execution falls short, with tracks that seem more preoccupied with quirky sound effects and abstract arrangements than with any semblance of melody or structure.
The album lacks the emotional depth or clear direction that made their earlier work memorable. Instead, the listener is left to wade through layers of overproduced noise and disjointed experimentation, which ultimately distracts from any real impact. For all the flashes of creativity, the album feels like it’s trying too hard to be weird without a solid core.
While a few moments stand out—like the upbeat “Juxtapozed With U”—they’re few and far between in an album that overstays its welcome. It’s an ambitious attempt, but it feels like it’s trying to do too much, without ever delivering something truly satisfying.
For fans of experimental rock, Rings Around the World might seem like an interesting curiosity, but it’s far from a must-have in the genre. If you’re looking for substance along with the style, you might want to look elsewhere.
Aerosmith
4/5
Hell yes! Bought this new in 8th grade, and eagerly made the transition to flashy hair rock. Within a few years, I’d moved on. But in that short time, life was good as gold! Concerts, dances, weed, and hot chicks… best time of my life! Now I spin it on rare occasions, and it’s good… on occasion.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Not gonna lie, I kind of enjoyed this album. EDM was never my gig, but sometimes it fills a need. This is one I’d go back to if that itch needed a good scratch. Except for the “fucking” song. Stupid.
The Thrills
1/5
Hard to put into words just how boring this album is. If this is their definition of Thrills, then the Blue Plate Special and Bingo Night must be highlights of the month. Please, no more.
A fine album! Not my favorite from these lads, but wouldn’t kick it out of bed.
Portishead
2/5
Nope. Achingly, painfully overrated. Nothing revolutionary about it. Damn, these high reviews really give me no hope for humans.
Suede
2/5
I’m leaning more toward the early assessment, “one of the most pretentious albums ever released by a major label.” Its growth in critical acclaim is fairly meaningless when considering quality or talent. Plenty of ugly old things are now considered priceless… yet it doesn’t change the fact that they’re still pretty damn ugly. Such is the life of the lazy art reviewing industry.
The Beach Boys
2/5
Ugh. Still reminds me of my dad, ugly sweaters, and racist frat boys. Can’t get there.
LL Cool J
3/5
As rap R&B goes, it’s pretty good.
Seems all the R&B these days talks about wet pussies and fucking bitches.
I tried to listen to the latest stuff on Apple Music… made it thru 3 songs and about 50 N-Words. It’s worthless crap. No hope for black youth in America.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
1/5
There is nothing quite so annoying as a screechy, atonal female angrily screaming into the mike. Put it to some mediocre punk arrangements, and what? Edgy? Maybe if you’re a fucking poser. This is crap, always will be.
Aerosmith
3/5
Plenty of good Aerosmith albums out there. This one tickles my average button.
Lana Del Rey
2/5
Nice voice, but not a fan of whimpering.
Metallica
3/5
Interesting, cool, and bizarre, neatly rolled into one. I would imagine for some folks, this hit their musical apex, a better than sex moment. I’m not in that bed. Enjoyed it, but I’ve had better.
George Michael
2/5
Not my jam. Never was. The wife got worked up, but she’s not playing the game. 2 stars to hear her sing!
Beck
3/5
I do think Beck is a musical genius, but this one is slow for me. Especially on a long road trip. Bad timing?
4/5
A good jam album with a monster at the tip. Nice example of the period, and a fine recording.
Van Morrison
4/5
Van is not my man. I was partial to the other Morrison. But my wife owns this album, says she loves it…. But never spins it. You lose a star buddy.
Stan Getz
2/5
As a few before me have noted, this is a pleasant but otherwise uneventful elevator ride.
The Stooges
5/5
Crazy Iggy and The Stooges. A good album, but more importantly, the vehicle to a movement. Father’s of Punk? Perhaps…
Def Leppard
1/5
Hair rock balladeers are like stupid chotchkies sold on late night TV. Cute, amusing, and maybe a bit entertaining. At the end of the day, it all ends up at Goodwill or the landfill. Such is Def Leppard.
3/5
Traditional country music is pretty far down my list. With the exception to a few, I like it with a little filth and attitude.
Nothing wrong with pretty little housewives… just not in my jukebox.
The Verve
2/5
It’s somewhere between decent and annoying. Too bad it doesn’t include their best songs.
Lauryn Hill
2/5
I skipped the 90’s era rap class. She’s got a nice voice, and as far as rap goes, it could be a lot worse. Same old angry lyrics and tired cries of racism and oppression. Whatever…. Pay your taxes Sister!
Afrika Bambaataa
3/5
Silly but fun.
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Outstanding album. Bought this as a pup in the late 70’s, and played it til the needle broke. A top Stevie Wonder offering, doesn’t get much better.
Van Morrison
3/5
He’s got a cool voice, but his music is otherwise kinda boring. Reminds me of the girls from my high school class… pretty, but vacant.
Tom Waits
1/5
More spoken word from T. Waits? I still don’t see it.
R.E.M.
1/5
I’m not sure why this simple music is considered smart? Is it because it’s so impossibly white? Stipe’s childish lyrics and atonal vocals, joined by average rock-folk instrumentals, and you somehow get a legion of pampered white collegiate devotes swooning to their groove. Ugh. What the loving fuck? Hard to find a more overrated group.
Alice Cooper
3/5
This guy…. I certainly heard a ton of this band growing up, and for the most part, I liked it. Typical boy stuff. Early Shock and Awe. Now it sounds simple and generic, and the vocals are shit. But that was never the point. Alice is an entertainer, and he mastered his craft. Even my dad started listening to them… a man who swore by high and tight hair and boring harmony. 3 stars for reminding me of my pop.
Belle & Sebastian
2/5
Not gonna lie; Indie music shrinks my dink. (Opposite of floats my boat?)
Depeche Mode
2/5
Though I recognize their accomplishments, I still wish I’d never heard them.
David Ackles
1/5
Wow! This is not good! It even pissed the missus off! Bernie Taupin with a swing and a miss!
Siouxsie And The Banshees
1/5
Previous review of the Banshees still applies: atonal and screech noise.
Peter Gabriel
2/5
His Masterpiece? So be it. Ear of the beholder… I think it’s over indulgent, overrated, and boring. I could easily sleep to it, making it worthy of 2 stars.
Frank Black
2/5
Not a big fan, but wasn’t the worst thing I’ve heard today. Sorta like a meal for the sake of eating…joyless but necessary.
Eels
3/5
I wasn’t listening to this in 96. My 2nd kid was born that year, and I was spinning Raffi and the Wiggles. No that was a good fucking year for music!
System Of A Down
1/5
Music for sexually repressed, violence seeking, undereducated white boys. Always looking to blame the weaker sex or darker skinned, this is their marching music. Regardless of the music’s message, angry impotent boys get their hard-on for hate.
Solomon Burke
3/5
Good vintage R&B. No complaints.
Sonic Youth
1/5
Fuck no already. Overrated.
Blue Cheer
2/5
Sounds like a metal cover band of The Who. Can’t stop hearing Roger Daltrey.
Fun for beers and a chuckle.
The Specials
4/5
Love this album! Bought it new, sang along to every track. ‘Twas a mystery considering my punk leanings. My friends thought me a bit odd for my musical choices…. But fuck em…they came around! Fucking fun as hell live shows back in the day, and we kids bopped!
Hawkwind
2/5
I can understand the 1’s. No question it’s towards the bottom of my list. But 5’s? Seriously? Who are you fucking people? Clearly not sober. Are you in prison? Hospital? If not, then fellas, you’ve got options. I feel sorry for your ladies, if any exist in your life.
I have heard worse. 2 for going live with this misery.
Keith Jarrett
3/5
Classical piano! I was starting to believe the genre would not make this list. My brothers would be thrilled! Me, not so much.
Goldfrapp
4/5
I'm slightly embarrassed to admit that I kinda like this album. So very sultry and sweet. Maybe it was this lovely afternoon on the porch, watching Turkey Buzzards floating in the warm gentle breeze above the bluff over the river. Two beautiful foxes approach thru the tall grass, tentative in their search for seed under the bird feeders. They watch me as I watch them. Deciding that I'm no threat, nor fleet on my feet, they relax and settle in to munch what they can find. Two tan siblings, almost identical.
Seventh Tree plays quietly to my foxes in the lawn.
A fine afternoon.
The Last Shadow Puppets
3/5
We like. Another album that escaped my view at the time of its release. I was no raving Arctic Monkey fan, so I'm not sure this would've been my thing in the moment, but it's a fun listen now that I'm old and weather beaten. Big sound aside, it is yes... we like.
Love
3/5
Not bad. Something I've never heard before. It has all the good trappings of the mid to late 60's quirky folk rock, adding some hard bark here and there. Unusual and unique. I don't dislike, but not sure I like enough to pursue further. This gets a 3 and thanks for the new old music.
Charles Mingus
5/5
This is so badass before badass was a thing! Complex and beautiful. I'm no lover of Jazz, but this simply grabs your neck and slaps you to attention. If you give this a 1, you shouldn't be here. Go spend your time on MyFace and TicTac, and fuck right off!
Joy Division
2/5
Nope. I remember these years well. Post Punk wasteland filled with dopey new-wave bands flooding the airwaves with simplistic notes and atonal vocals. This crushed the punk movement, but was certainly a welcome arrival for all the dance-crazed white teen twits too terrorized by the Ramones and Sex Pistols and Dead Kennedys.
Another band immortalized by tragedy. Makes it a classic, but still not good.
k.d. lang
2/5
Eh…. Lovely voice. Boring material.
Lightning Bolt
1/5
Ha! I draw this fucked up album for a drive thru the Georgia countryside? Nope. Didn’t make it 10 miles! My wife thought this was Yoko Ono’s Punk band. No thanks.
Abdullah Ibrahim
3/5
Background dinner music. One way to make a living.
Deep Purple
5/5
My first Deep Purple album. Iconic, and so fucking badass! Highway Star is the stuff of legends, and if IT doesn't get you moving, you must be dead. GOD BLESS DEEP PURPLE!
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Solid.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
I like Frank. I got into him back in the early 80's, and became a pretty huge fan for awhile, mixing it into my punk and power pop phase. This is not my favorite album. The Girl From Ipanema is fine, but overrated, and therefore, over-played. Songs for Swinger Lovers is excellent, and one of my favorites. LA Is My Lady is another one I played aplenty, close to his last album, arranged by Quincy Jones. Not sure why I like it, but it spoke to me.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
I don't really get the appeal. The arrangements are quite theatrical, which makes sense. The vocals are simply abysmal. Pass.
Buck Owens
4/5
Wham Bam Thank You Ma'ma? Means something different now, but uttered from a more innocent time is pretty badass. Love Buck. Hee Haw introduced him to the mainstream, but kinda crushed his reputation as an individual artist. His music is solid, and stands the test of time. I own this album, and plan to dust it off once more.
Gene Clark
2/5
Nice voice. Reminds me of John Denver or Jim Croce, except more boring, and not as good. Maybe more like my summer camp counselor from the early 70's. Hip at the time, but sleepy time now.
The Mothers Of Invention
1/5
Not Zappa again! Too much! All I'll say... If this was my meal at a restaurant, I'd get drunk, start a food fight, then dine and dash. And crush them on Yelp.
50 Cent
1/5
This sucks... to each their own. One thing is clear; No other form of music has played such an integral role in the deaths of so many American youth, nor led to an epidemic of unwanted and parentless children. 50 Cent and his peers reap the riches from their message of bravado bullshit. I've got no use for this misery.
The Go-Go's
4/5
Jesus, what a monster in my college years. Every girl wanted to be a Go-Go, and the boys just followed the girls. This was not in my wheelhouse at the time, but not gonna lie, I listened.
Five seconds into Our Lips Are Sealed, my wife is up and dancing. She apparently saw these gals open up for the Police in the 80's. Damn! A different era, a better time.
The Undertones
5/5
Own and love this album. Lived live with this band. Some of the best sounds of their generation.
The The
2/5
New wave MTV fodder. Ho fucking hum.
Alice Cooper
3/5
Alice broke ground with his macabre persona and grim lyrics. True performance rock, not much more. Vocals are not good, and the band is average, playing mostly simple notes. Having said that, School’s Out was the party anthem of May and June, played loud, sung with gusto and pleasure. A signal of the coming summer. No sweeter music to a young boy’s ears.
Fred Neil
2/5
60’s folk. Nothing special, and nobody’s talkin about it.
Grateful Dead
2/5
I’m sorry… I’ve tried. These guys just bore me. And I enjoyed the appropriate drugs once, so I get it. I should like this, but I don’t.
Taylor Swift
2/5
A nice gal, but this album is slow and weepy.
Louis Prima
4/5
What’s not to love about Louis Prima?
The Byrds
3/5
60’s era harmony folk. I love Wasn’t Born to Follow. The rest is a bit boring. Peace and Love are good things, but no amount of grass will keep me interested in this band.
Dirty Projectors
1/5
Who is giving out 5’s here? Please stop! For god’s sake, let’s get this rating below 2 where it belongs!
The Teardrop Explodes
2/5
Add another New Wave Brit band to the list of mediocre sounds of the 80’s. I know… I lived it.
Public Image Ltd.
1/5
Ugh. Awful. Overrated. Rotten.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
2/5
Generic blues. Nothing too special. Extra star for Clapton.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
Good call here. I own this, and love it. Contains none of his iconic tracks, but as a total work, one of his best albums.
Morrissey
2/5
Was a Smiths fan when they hit the scene. Could occasionally listen to them today if the mood struck. Morrissey’s music seems to be a bit bitchy, and this album whines on. Not for me.
The Kinks
4/5
Lovely example of the early brit pop rock scene. These lads proved every bit as good as the Beatles, perhaps better as musicians. Brilliant!
PJ Harvey
2/5
She seems upset. I hate to see a grown woman cry, much less listen to an entire album of it. Lighten up PJ! “Make yourself a sandwich, drink a glass of milk, do some fuckin thing!” Dennis Farina, Midnight Run
Blur
3/5
Not bad. Couple songs to enjoy.
Megadeth
2/5
I’m a guy who likes good hard rock n roll from time to time. This era of fast guitar tapping and screaming hair- children just doesn’t do it for me.
Public Enemy
5/5
I own this and like it. Rock and anger has a place, and that place is here! Fear the Black Planet? Nailed it!
The Pretty Things
2/5
I can hear the Beatles and The Who, but Pink Floyd? No ma’am. Had I been a fan in the 70’s, I probably would’ve enjoyed this more. Now it sounds dated and overindulgent. And the bands that some say are followers of these lads are far better.
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
Its good. Perhaps really good. At the end of long night, it’s just background music to a stained and soaking dance floor, sweat, booze and vomit commingling to remind the janitor he’s probably better off.
Spacemen 3
3/5
It has moments. I have movements. A match made in heaven.
The Strokes
3/5
Is it this? This is it? It is this. This it is.
Talking Heads
4/5
I love the Talking Heads. In a time of significant upheaval within the rock scene, here come these oddballs, blending Pop-Punk, New Wave, Rock, and Funk into a sound all their own. Tight, smart and unique, and gone too soon.
Not my favorite album, but a 4 for fantastic.
The Undertones
5/5
This came out the year I left the nest. I acquired it via cassette recording from my buddies sweet stereo. I probably had over 200 albums off his turntable-to-cassette recording setup, and we’d spending countless hours getting high and putting groves to tape. A waste really, as the cassette era lasted only slightly longer than 8-track. I still have the cassettes, collecting dust in the bottom of my closet. They’d probably snap within moments of hitting play. Damn near useless, but the cases make pretty effective windshield ice scrapers.
Yeah, this album is a gem.
Dolly Parton
3/5
Classic Dolly album. Quirky and upbeat. Lacking the religious vibe that came later as she aged. This is a good thing.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
I like the Wailers. There are times, like late mornings after a long night of debauchery, when their music is perfect. Otherwise, it’s a bit slow. Yeah, I used to love smoking pot, but those daze are over. Another band loved for the legend than the music.
Leftfield
2/5
Funky disco pinko commie!
Brian Eno
2/5
Soothing, beautiful, sleepy.
SAULT
2/5
More a message than music. Doesn’t really speak to me.
The Beta Band
1/5
Not hot, even after II shots. There are betta bands out there. Pass.
Wilco
5/5
Love it. Top Alt effort from a Man from Uncle.
This morning I learned my cousin died. He was the same age, and we were close growing up. We spent far less time together as adults, living far apart, with vastly different lifestyle choices. But he was kind and generous, and quick with smile and hug. He was the last of his immediate family, having all been taken too early. Cigarettes killed them all.
Somehow I think he would’ve liked this album, though I have no idea if he ever listened. I thought of him while listening today, and will now associate this album with him for the rest of my time. I think that’s good.
Rest in Peace Kirk. Say hi to your brother and folks for me.
The Streets
1/5
As a comedy album, it’s not bad. Kinda like a Brit Weird Al… loads of albums with tracks trying to parody American black rap. Worth a giggly.
Sadly, I think these lads want to be gangsters. Such rubbish.
The Cardigans
2/5
Too many sad and tattered sweaters.
The Icarus Line
2/5
Punk humps Grunge; both left unsatisfied.
The Jam
5/5
Top of the Pops right here. I cut my late teen teeth on The Jam, and their influence on my development still haunts to this day. I’m still bitter about their break up, and written extensively in previous reviews. Stupid really, I should get over it.
5 stars. Maybe not their best album, but Down in the Tube Station is in my top 10 songs of all time, so this record gets the full meal deal. God Bless The Jam!
Roxy Music
2/5
Never liked this band. Again, no fan of Eno. But the cover on their 4th album sold a lot of records! Yes, I bought it used for a dime back in the late 70’s. Best thing they ever did.
Incredible Bongo Band
3/5
It’s good. It’s cool. Doesn’t blow my mind, but definitely solid background in the right situations.
Aphex Twin
2/5
“Selected”…. Selected for what? Quick nap or full coma?
The Go-Betweens
2/5
One marginal hit should not lift mediocre music to such lofty lists. Ho-frickin-Hum.
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
Not bad… drugs would make it a lot better.
SZA
3/5
I’ve heard a lot about sza over the past half decade, but never intentionally heard her music, nor could I pick her out in a crowd. Today’s black youth could do better, but T&A sells, so they get this. She is average in all matters except her bank account.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
4/5
Cool beans!
Tom Waits
2/5
Tom Waits again! Really? As much as I want to skip the listen and go straight to 1 Star, I won’t cheat. Giving a spin now, wait one….
Done. Remastered, for no obvious reason. Didn’t hate it. Still a far cry from like. He’s better as an actor. Enough with the Waits.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
Very cool. I like, and will dial it up again. Good pick.
Dexys Midnight Runners
2/5
Nope, not for me.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
2/5
Basking in mild lunacy, drugs drawing others into the glow, a youth full of freedom and abandon. Older, sober, amused, slightly embarrassed.
Wistful for better days? Can’t go back, please don’t try. Not a good look.
Fishbone
2/5
Fairly generic sound. Sublime found the edge, while these guys hunted that MTV movie soundtrack sound. Bonin in the Boneyard? Yawn.
Jeff Buckley
3/5
Hallelujah! Jesus, that’s a big song. Will always remind me of the West Wing episode. Tears jerked!
The rest of the album? Not my brand. 3 stars for CJ!
Dizzee Rascal
1/5
Ear hole diarrhea.
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
Killer group from the 60’s. Grace Slick is a beauty, with vocals that shake the bones. Add the iconic bombs, and this album stands the test.
The Beach Boys
3/5
It’s not what you’d expect when you spin it, and fans of their poppy hooks will be disappointed. I’m not a fan, never have been. The fact that this one is so different is the reason why I kinda like it.
Method Man
2/5
Not the worst rap I’ve heard. Still think it’s crap.
Michael Jackson
5/5
I used to the like the Jackson Five back in the early 70’s, and since I too was the youngest of 5 brothers, I felt a kinship to Michael. Plus at the time, their shit was dope! By the end of the decade, my musical taste had made a dramatic shift, and I rarely gave their music a thought. Yet this album, as much as I tried, could not be ignored. It was everywhere, and it was annoyingly solid. Wasn’t helping that my girl was a monster fan. Such is life. Much older now, I recognize the greatness of his work.
I listen to this today, and it makes me sad. So much fucking talent. What the hell happened? Money and fame? Family dynamics? Mental illness? Drugs? Some combination of it all?
God Bless and keep poor Michael. The undisputed King of Pop. Your music will live until the end of time.
Minutemen
3/5
I owned this one back in the day. Ended up giving it away. It’s OK, but definitely not a masterpiece, as some might argue. Too long, too simple, too similar.
The Doors
3/5
Decent. In general, I like the doors. Some of their songs are fantastic. Many are just Jimbo exercising in self indulgence. This one is good, not great.
Skunk Anansie
3/5
90’s Brit Alt Indie. Clean and tight. Not shabby. Too produced for me.
Robert Wyatt
1/5
Oh my god, this is so boring!
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
I’ve never really liked the Boss. I can take or leave the E Street Band. I do like Springsteen, and I like this album. Striped and raw, simple and jagged. I could listen to this guy’s voice and guitar and harmonica all day!
Taylor Swift
4/5
I own this one… sorta. The first time I heard these songs, it was courtesy of Ryan Adams, who covered the album in its entirety. And it’s great! The arrangements were vastly altered, and while the brainless Swifties were quick to condemn his work, Taylor herself heaped high praise. It had surprised me that he described her album as “perfect”, and given his popularity at the time, that is a bucket of respect. Since then, he’s been Me-Too’d, and who now gives a fuck what he thinks? Me. I still listen to his album on regular.
First time I’ve sat thru this version. It’s good, and she’s a great lyricist. Not sure what’s all the hubbub about her, why the vitriol and social media madness. To hell with all that. I hope she keeps kicking ass!
Justin Timberlake
2/5
I like this guy! In particular, his Wardrobe Malfunction, and his Dick in a Box!
This album is just for dreamy little girls. That’s where the money is. Not for me.
1/5
Whoa… this is the shit you hear as the Elon machines take over your brain and body. Conscious yet unable to speak, your existence is now suspended in eternal hell as they slowly harvest your cells. The machines have been programmed to placate their subjects with sound and drug. As is typical of all new government software, they only got it half right.
Sabu
3/5
They had more fun making this than I had listening to it.
Violent Femmes
2/5
Damn, these guys are overrated. I don’t know what people like here. Whiny atonal vocals? ✅ Simplistic arrangements? ✅ Inane lyrics? ✅. Hilariously, they’re still touring… old dudes rolling out the same tired adolescent giggles.
Sigh…. A wasteland of ear rubbish.
2 stars for Pride Month.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
Again with Dexy? Odd. They’re ok, but really not special nor unique, good or bad. Move along, nothing to see here.
Jamiroquai
4/5
Ok, so this is no joke good. I am a Stevie fan, so I was caught wondering if this was him on a few tracts. A nice blend of R&B and funkpop. I do dig it, and will give it more PT.
Scott Walker
2/5
Big voice. Fills a room, demands attention. Just not in my house.
The Stranglers
1/5
Nope, shitty attempt at edgy Brit Punk. Frogs in heat sound better.
Death In Vegas
1/5
Sounds. Not pleasing. Not art. Not music.
Can
2/5
It’s not awful.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
1/5
I’m devoted to my wife and kids. I will not play this for them.
Sheryl Crow
5/5
Timing on this album was spot on! Early 90’s, a Dem in the White House, and people were happy again. Economy was beginning to cook, and religion was on its heels! Hell yeah, this is a fun album from better days. Sheryl’s one of the best… and she’s normal!
Orbital
4/5
Solid EDM. Great for a dance workout or simulator video game. Beautiful in the background.
Gil Scott-Heron
3/5
3 stars for background jazz.
Ali Farka Touré
4/5
Pleasant album. Enough diversity and rhythm to keep an interest. I’ll listen again.
Butthole Surfers
1/5
Nightmares and fever dreams. I kinda feel sorry for folks fucked up enough to enjoy this. “Brain is squirming like a toad”…No thanks.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
3 Stars for being so cute and fuzzy.
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
Ugh. Nope.
Doves
2/5
Simple soft rock. Nothing much here.
Astrud Gilberto
3/5
Not terribly beachy. Background.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Tip to tail, this is a master! And in my opinion, the album’s hit (come on, you know the song), while certainly a true iconic rocker, is one of the weaker moments. Not that I’d kick it out of bed…
5 stars all day.
Suede
3/5
It’s not bad. Arguably, it’s pretty good. I’m just not much for the post punk, new wave, glam phase of the 90’s. Plus, sounds like U2 and the Smiths love child.
Eagles
4/5
Take it Easy is one of the top songs to come from this group, and a top ten American anthem of all time. Damn near everybody over the age of 40 who listens to Rock n Roll will know the words to this feel good gem. The rest of the album is alright… later albums were better. 4 Stars for the leadoff to a great American rock band. God Bless The Eagles!
The Flaming Lips
2/5
Yuck.
Jean-Michel Jarre
3/5
Now this I can dance to!
Garbage
4/5
Good album. Plenty of catch and hook, power fuzz and punk energy. Still works well today.
Portishead
1/5
Weird people music… there’s a place for it, but not on my box.
The Mars Volta
2/5
Fits and starts, screams and moans. Is this music or horror? I can’t do anything with this. I feel like I’m about to be carjacked!
Stevie Wonder
4/5
One of my favorites as a lad. Timeless. God Bless Stevie Wonder!
Faust
2/5
Krautrock? All these genres. Not my bag.
Sister Sledge
4/5
No complaints. Good stuff.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
Bruce has been crushing for decades, and this one is an absolute Beast! A transition, the recognition of his age and his need to speak up and out. The title track is once again the weakest part of the album, and the most abused. The rest is pure pleasure. Fuck yeah, I love it. God Bless Springsteen!
Black Sabbath
3/5
Ahh… hair and metal. Nothing gets the white chicks undressed faster. This genre arrived on my teen watch. Lucky me.
Sepultura
3/5
I love the sound of Metal in the morning! Sounds like victory!
Astor Piazzolla
2/5
Painfully silly. These are not my people, and this is not my jam. 2 stars because he sounds so fucking happy.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
Good old rock n roll from across the pond. Nothin fancy, just a good beat and happy tapping toe.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
Still don’t get the fascination with this fella. Singing voice: below average. Lyrics: not cleaver, nor powerful. Musical Composition: simple and slow. Somebody help me understand!
If he wasn’t taking himself so damn serious, he’d be having a good chuckle at all the adoration. Deep down, you all know he sucks.
Yes
3/5
A busy album at my house growing up. As Prog Rock goes, it’s a good listen. Unfortunately for me, it’s a reminder of my brother.
He’s not dead, he’s just an asshole.
Throwing Muses
3/5
For the era, it’s fine. Nothing special. It’s inoffensive… for me, that’s boring.
Fever Ray
2/5
Nothing special, mildly annoying.
Public Enemy
4/5
This stuff is so relevant today, it’s fucking tough to listen. Is there a popular black rapper or musician today that will stand up and motivate the people against this racist and fascist regime? Seems like all we have today are the Diddys and Kanyes and all the rest who don’t give a fuck about nothing but money and pussy? And they’re terrified of the nazi-maga fucks in power, afraid to lose their Bentleys. So they toe the line and don’t question. Just like most everyone else. Sad.
Maybe Kendrick is our modern day NWA? We could sure use a little more anger right now.
Tim Buckley
2/5
Pretty boring, fairly generic. 70’s were an interesting time for rock music, with a lot of change. This one was a last gasp from a dying breed of 60’s era doe-eyed folk crooners. Pleasant enough, but nothing that stands the test of time.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
2/5
Lots of hate in the reviews for these fellas. Me, I’ve never heard of them, so I got no history of hate. Now I’ve listened…. No hate. No love either.
a-ha
1/5
Posted: No Hunting.
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
In my day, I probably identified to Punk music more than any other. Perhaps I still do. Anti-establishment fuck all! Right about the end of high school for me. Not that I was a petty criminal or drug abuser. I was just pissed off.
I needed the energy and anarchic vitality that punk brings, the relentless beat and lyrical snarls, and the fuck you message. The Sex Pistols brought that home big time, and some of my earliest exposure to Punk was Never Mind the Bullocks. Fucking legendary!
PiL doesn’t cut it for me. Yeah, I listened to them… we all did. But I never really liked the sound. The growl was there, but the post punk genre is simply depressing. It’s like the punks forgot it wasn’t about them. Rotten’s ego became the music, and that was that.
Wilco
2/5
Love Wilco as a general rule, but this odd album I’m no fan. No flow, no rhythm, and a whole lot of oddity. Of course the critics say “masterpiece!” Weirdos.
Flamin' Groovies
5/5
Well alright! Thru the haze of the hippy smoke and fume comes this true gem. Not bowing to their generation, at least initially, these fellas just crank out funk, blues, and some good old pre-punk rock n roll. It’s not drugged by the messages of their era, nor slowed by dreary themes or broken hearts. Instead, we’re off the chair and looking forward, howling and hungry for more! Love it! Good pick, and my thanks!
Miles Davis
4/5
Maybe not the birth, but pretty cool nonetheless.
3/5
Like, don't Love. It still reminds me too much of growing up with my asshole older brother. Also Like, don't Love.
Nine Inch Nails
4/5
To be honest, my jury is still out on this guy. I wasn’t a follower in the day, and shunned the pressures to like his music. Thus I never gave it a chance. Now, much older and a little grayer, I feel like I need to hear more of what he’s trying to say. This is a good album clearly, and perhaps an important album in the day. I’ll go 4 stars, and make an effort to broaden my mind a bit further.
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Yawn…. Drama Queen.
Fugazi
2/5
Heavy rock/punk sound, with plodding tempos and monotonous atonal yelling. Pick it up, make your vocals more compelling. Otherwise, pass.
Pixies
3/5
Hey, I’m more alternative than most people, but these guys aren’t really very good. Reminds me of the Cure… a couple of hits for the radio stations, and somehow they become pioneers of Alt? Naw, it’s slow, average and noisy.
Wild Beasts
2/5
Snoozer.
Ride
2/5
It’s a long ride. Not a lot of curves, mostly downhill. Not much see, time to get off.
Solange
3/5
Gave this a brief spin. Beautiful voice, but slow out of the gate. Too dreamy for me.
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
1/5
This is really not very good, and I’m feeling a bit resentful for the listen. Is the author fucking with us?
I got excited for a sec, thinking we might get music from the great Ennio Morricone. Instead?
Bahh! Yes, I’m bitter.
The xx
1/5
Bore Factor 10!
Jethro Tull
2/5
Flute Rock at its finest, if there is such a thing.
I saw these guys as openers for The Who at Folsom Field in 82. From what I remember, it was an annoyingly long set. (Unlike John Cougar, the filler, who left in disgust after a few songs. He did not like being ignored)
There really is little use for a flute in Rock, and certainly no business putting the thing front and center. I’ll give it 3 stars for a couple of monster songs, then ding them one ⭐️ for sounding so damn pompous.
Madonna
5/5
Dropping bombs with this one! What a little powerhouse she turned out to be, and a couple of these tracks simply dominated the airwaves and dance clubs in Denver in the 80’s. No escaping her for this punk, who happened to be living with a little pop tart at the time. Fun to mix the genres on any given night, and with a big ol’ amp and 3’ speakers, there were few dull moments in the house!
Madonna is not my thing, but she is the Queen. Many have tried, but only one wears the crown. 5 Stars and fond memories. God Bless Madonna!
Q-Tip
2/5
Noting special about it, and not my thang. 2 stars for a decent beat.
1/5
Shit from a shit era. Makes for great hate, perfect timing for 9/11… Plenty of undereducated American males hopped up on testosterone and teen angst and ready to kill. Now they’re cops. Great.
Seriously though, fuck these guys.
Songhoy Blues
2/5
Not bad, but not something I’ll listen to again, if I can help it.
Coldplay
2/5
I had high hopes for this anlbum after the excellent Parachutes. Sadly, for me, the chute never opened. The result was a sickening splat!
Ice Cube
1/5
I like Cube’s acting, and he is a legend with NWA. The violence towards women I don’t get. Others do, and that’s not good.
Rod Stewart
2/5
The man has never done much for me musically. Some catchy tunes that certainly got airplay. A lot of attention for all the skirts he chased and models he brought to bed…. kinda like the Donald Trump of Rock and Roll. All hat, no cattle. But man, you will get laid.
ABBA
5/5
Oh man, this gets my wife moving! She bought this new, spent countless days dreaming her school-years to Dancing Queen. She was the prototypical innocent teen girl, consumed by fairytales, royal weddings, and happily ever-afters. 37 years later, you’re damn right I’m her Prince Charming! And for that and for her, God Bless ABBA!
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
2/5
Yeah, no. Pretty boring.
Eminem
2/5
Angry, whiny white boy, worshipping is own cock. Making stacks off his so called misery. The tough guy act don’t really fly when you 5’6. Hard pass.
Cat Stevens
2/5
I can’t deny he’s a pretty good songwriter, but I was never much of a fan. Cat? Too cute for my tastes. And he looks a bit like Jeffrey Epstein now. Pass.
The National
2/5
Push Play for Sleep.
fIREHOSE
3/5
It’s kinda fun. So is ping-pong, nachos, and Ryan Reynolds. But only in small doses. Not a daily player.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Just ok. Not enough grunt in the giddyup. Double the tempo, and I’m all in.
Bauhaus
2/5
Performative nonsense.
Terence Trent D'Arby
4/5
Pretty funkin good! Wasn’t in my wheelhouse back in the day, but this old dog has learned a few new tricks. Spin it!
Kate Bush
2/5
She’s got the voice. Glad her world is sensual. For me… shes more of a cold shower.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
New York Coffee House Art Rock. Good for a gander, but if you came for good music, you’re in the wrong genre.
The Beta Band
1/5
I think the title says it best.
Tracy Chapman
4/5
Beautiful album.
LTJ Bukem
4/5
Some of the finest zone-out music I’ve heard.
Elvis Costello
4/5
Pretty solid.
David Bowie
5/5
This is excellent! What a fun album, and I gotta think he was quite proud of it. Hard to believe he once produced and performed with Lou Reed and the Stooges.
A true artist and showman, with a cut above the rest. He is missed, but his music lives forever. God Bless David Bowie!
CHIC
2/5
One great Disco hit is reasonable. But a whole album? Cruel and ill-advised.
Love
3/5
The hit? Stands the test of time, no doubt. The rest of it is fairly ordinary and forgettable. 3 stars for the opener.
Emmylou Harris
3/5
It’s ok, but probably won’t listen again.
My Bloody Valentine
1/5
It’s more like a bad acid trip, or that moment you realize you’ve drank too much and it’s time to leave the party, but you’re too dizzy to find the exit. It’s a bad feeling, and so is this album.
Youssou N'Dour
2/5
A cushy bus ride across the Polish countryside, somewhere between Warsaw and Krakow, when I start thinking back to my brief introduction to Youssou’s music the previous evening. Not a lot to remember… African caterwauling comes to mind. To be honest, my head was filled with Vodka at the time, my belly full of Bigos. The polish busker playing Nirvana for tips in the Old Town was far more compelling. Fuck Russia! Nostrovia!
Mike Oldfield
3/5
Hilarious! The spookiest movie of my generation, yet I never placed this iconic track to an artist. The music will forever remind me of a floating Linda Blair turned Satan shouting, “Your mother sucks cocks in Hell!” Not sure that’s how Oldfield wants to be remembered, but I’m happy for his success.
The album is ok. Falls into the ever-expanding category called Background.
Kendrick Lamar
1/5
This album is shit on all levels. And that’s being kind.
The Flying Burrito Brothers
5/5
Yes, this is it! Hippies playing Country! What could go right? Who would listen to these freaks and their fucked up lyrics?
Nothing like stumbling into a new genre. They may not have been the best, but they were the first. God Bless The Flying Burrito Brothers!
Basement Jaxx
2/5
It’s not bad, but it’s EDM, so a couple dudes in the basement with a mic and a noise making synth does not count. The whole genre takes little skill. Cheaters.
Holger Czukay
1/5
That was a waste of 10 minutes. Weird, silly. Like a curious cat stuck in a piano.
Deerhunter
2/5
It has moments that tickle my taste, but in the end, I’m glad I got there.
T. Rex
3/5
Well you’re dirty and sweet, with a hub cap diamond stud halo, and the teeth of the Hydra upon you. Such a silly wonderful thing you are.
Drive Like Jehu
3/5
It’s average angst. Needs a bit more salt.
Arcade Fire
2/5
As a general rule, indie sucks. Ok, a couple songs get the sandals sliding and over-tatted arms a swaying. Decent. But when it goes all Anthem Indie, it’s just annoying. Arena Indie? Who does that? Pass.
Missy Elliott
1/5
Not my thang. Even if it was, this wouldn’t be. Extra half star for the elephant.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
Ok, as a general rule, I don’t like chicks singing punk. Too screechy and performative. But I’m warming up to Karen O. She’s got a Chrissie Hynde vibe that’s both sexy and vicious. The band name is dumb, but the music is legitimate.
Silver Jews
2/5
Wow. Maybe I need to go into this project with lowest expectations, or at the very least, realize that most people truly cannot write and/or sing well. Then when I get something good that I’ve never heard before, it gives me renewed faith that there’s more to gain from life.
This album is not entirely unlistenable, but I’ve heard enough.
2/5
Not bad, not great. They’d make a great Led Zeppelin cover band. 😏
Joni Mitchell
3/5
I listened to Joni a lot in my formative years, thanks to my bra-burned hippy of a mother. I didn’t mind it so much, and this style of music might have played a role in the development of my soft and tender side. Helped with the ladies. Within ten years, I fully switched to Punk, and really couldn’t give a fuck.
Now a days I can take it, but prefer to leave it. Lyrics are too wordy, pitch and tempo are all over the place. Keep it simple soul sister!
Cappuccino!
GZA
3/5
The beats are simplistic. The lyrics are some serious shit. Above average rap is still only average in my collection.
The Human League
1/5
I hate that song! HATE! Until today, I never knew the name of the band that shat that song into the world. Thanks I guess?
TV On The Radio
2/5
Alternative… as in an alternative to real musical talent. And by the way… dumb album name pairs well with dumb band name. But they get 2 stars… cuz 1 star is hate, and I don’t feel it today.
MC Solaar
4/5
Quite possibly the sexiest man I have ever heard. Considering dudes have never been my thing, I’m a bit perplexed by this feeling. I’d better stay out of France.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
I’ll admit, the little fella can write a fine song. And this one has a few. Reminds me too much of my youth and my dad. That’s not bad necessarily, but it doesn’t say “love you” either.
James Taylor
4/5
Back in the early 80’s, I had a thing for a girl who spun this guy daily. She was groovy and sweet, and we gave it a go for a little while. But I was a dedicated punk rocker, and JT was a bit slow and sappy for my plate. Alas, she cut me loose. No regrets. Now I imagine she’s out there somewhere, spinning around a sunlit room, barefoot and flower skirt, singing Fire and Rain to a room all her own. Makes me smile. Thanks for the memories.
The B-52's
5/5
Now this was a Bomb! What a great time to be alive! No wars, New Wave, cocaine, and MTV. To be honest, this is the era I’d go back to. Bands like The Clash, Dead Kennedy’s, Sex Pistols, 999’s, Rezillos, X, English Best… all breaking out and away from the mainstream drumbeat. If you were young and hip in 1980, this was your jam. Hell of a time to be young!
The first 2 albums from this group are true timeless classics of the period. I pretty much know every word on this album, even though I haven’t spun it in years. It’s a mood-lifting blast from the past, and for that, God Bless the B52’S! Boom!
T. Rex
2/5
It’s ok. In its day, it was probably the bomb! Now, a bit of a bore. Slow and predictable. Next time, instead of Bang a Gong, they might want to Gang a Bong for inspiration.
Get it? You know… do drugs. At a party. With friends.
4/5
Cool live album. Some serious fire on the B side. Love the energy! I’ve never been a Dylan disciple, but he’s silly, and I enjoy an occasional spin down desolation row.
Ananda Shankar
2/5
Couldn’t make it to the end. I lasted through the Stones, but had to fast forward the Doors track. Everything else was unpleasantly foreign to me… like gumming down food with no texture or taste. 2 stars for Sitars.
Soundgarden
5/5
Pretty kick ass album. It has few flaws and no weak moments, and rocks the 90’s era west coast sound with the best. Cornell can bring the pipes, and while I never saw these guys live, i was lucky to catch his excellent solo set in Austin about 11 years ago. Miss him.
This is top notch grunge, and as a dude born in Seattle before it went Tech-Bro shitty, I approve!
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Stevie Wonder at the top of his game. A beauty from tip to tail, and a very worthy inclusion.
The Fall
2/5
A couple of catchy moments, but nothing remotely special. 2 stars for trying.
Fairport Convention
4/5
Good folk rock. Takes me back to my hippy days of stems & seeds and cheap wine. Enjoyed the rambling jam of A Sailor’s Life, but the winner for me is The Ballad of Easy Rider. One of my favorite soundtrack albums, and Roger McGuinn’s version of this song damn near brings me to tears, every damn time, damnit!
This album just gets better as it goes along. 4 Stars for growth!
G. Love & Special Sauce
4/5
All together, a good listen. At times, sounds like beatnik poetry slams. Not dance music, but there’s some rhythm and rhyme a happenin.
Hanoi Rocks
2/5
Trying too hard to be badass. No sale.
The Boo Radleys
5/5
The Boo Radleys. I’d heard of them, but never gave them much attention. 1993… hard to remember what I was listening to at the time. It was the year before my first kid dropped, and for those that have children, and love them, y’all know it can be difficult to remember what it was like before parenthood. I think I was listening to Nirvana, Green Day, Barenaked Ladies, Alejandro Escovado, Replacements, Lemonheads, The Jam.
Damnit, I missed this album! Hands down, one of my favorite discoveries from this project! Not sure what to think of their more recent work, but this baby is a stone-cold Star.
The Crusaders
3/5
Background Band. Nothing to exciting.
Fats Domino
3/5
Did you know that Fat’s was an accomplished surfer as a youth, and would spend his summers in the waves off Southern California? He met his first wife on the beach in Santa Monica in the late ‘30’s, who described his surfing style as “Fat Spinnin” because of his foot turns while riding. Soon all the kids were calling him the Domino Rider up and down the beach’s of LA, and he liked the sound of Fat’s as well. Thus FDR became quite the sensation in the city of angels, and before long, Capital Records came calling. His first album, a 1943 limited release titled FDR Blasts the Beach, never could find a place on the charts, with critics calling it slow and disorganized. After a few months, the project was shelved, and the masters for the album were reportedly destroyed. Fats nearly quit music after that, but he gave it one final try, dropping the Rider and simply going by the name Fats Domino.
And as they say, the rest is history.
Yes
5/5
Another awesome album I bought new at Tower Records back in the 70’s. An influence of my older brothers, which under normal circumstances, might put me in a pissy mood. Not this time. This one is a beauty, from the iconic Roundabout, to the complex South Side of the Sky and Long Distance Runaround. This one ticks all boxes, and clearly I don’t spin it often enough. Muchos gracias.
Dexys Midnight Runners
1/5
Not the worst piece of shit I’ve heard in October, but it is shit, and it does stink.
Suzanne Vega
2/5
Don’t hate it.
Gary Numan
2/5
Nope. Hated this genre then, and a strong dislike lingers. Simple grade-school fancy. Gary’s vocals are the highlight, but the music is pure Radio Shack. Funny… the bonus live tracks on Apple Music are much more appealing. Still not saying much, but it keeps the album off the bottom tier.
Aimee Mann
3/5
Pleasant listen. A bit forgetful.
Brian Eno
2/5
More Eno. Still a no.
Pulp
2/5
Disappointing. Indulgent.
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Indie rock. Starts slow, simple and whiny, like most all indie. Gets better as she goes.
Marianne Faithfull
3/5
Yet another of Mick’s castaways. Jeez, how many famous ladies did this boink? I don’t think there’s an uglier guy who’s bedded so many hot women without paying for it, unlike Trump.
Anyway, she’s a weird chick, and it reflects in her music. If you’re into strange, then it’s not a bad listen. Knock yourself out.
PJ Harvey
1/5
Odd sounds for oddballs. I’m better without oddballs.
Guns N' Roses
3/5
This one hit the stratosphere, with a couple of bombs that cement the crew into legendary rock god status. What a shit show, but it worked for a while, and most of these studs are still alive and picking. And then there’s Tracii Guns, who formed the band that carries his name, only to leave it before recording a note. Luck for the band. Not so lucky for Guns.
Never really carried much for hair metal and leather pant, but I can see the appeal.
The Who
3/5
Classic Who. Undeniably Pete Townsend. A blast from my youth. So many good times tumbling about with the lads. Loved listening to this and Quadrophenia.
Not a perfect album, certainly odd in spots. Wasn’t that the point?
k.d. lang
3/5
It really is a beautiful album, and KD has a sweet voice. No complaints. Not really something I’d play on regular, as it all starts to sound the same. Dang, I guess that makes it background music.
U2
4/5
Solid album. I started listening to these guys from Boy, and I like their earliest stuff the best. My guess is most people like their later work, but I began to lose interest as they became more mainstream, which started with this album. A worthy addition to this list… I Wouldn’t kick it out of bed, but not my favorite.
Bad Company
4/5
Bought this brand new from Tower Records, saw them live at the Seattle Coliseum as an 8th grader. Seriously, this thing got a ton of PT in my house. Must’ve driven the family crazy. I shed that phase long ago, but the blast of past is well worth the short, 8 track listen… so much so, it got a second spin. Are they good? Sure. Great? Not so fast….
The Who
5/5
Can’t remember how I ended up with a copy of this album in 1980, but we played the cogs off this cassette. It became an anthem of sorts for our wilder side of youth, and we stomped along in blissful ignorance and performative outrage. Young Man’s Blues, My Generation, Magic Bus? Are you kidding?? So badass, such rebellion! Townsend and Moon going nuts on stage! The whole spectacular package was undeniably glorious! Were they Punks? Hell yes!
God Bless The Who!
Tim Buckley
2/5
Remember the scene in the movie Animal House, during the Toga Party, John Belushi walking down a crowded staircase as a hippie folk singer woos the coeds with cringy lyrics? Yeah? If not, go look it up on YouTube.
I’m with Bluto on this one.
Pantera
1/5
Music to stunt your growth. Best played while planning a school shooting. Hate has a home here. 🇺🇸
The United States Of America
3/5
Absurd project. Parts are hard to listen to, while other tracks are hippy-silly and a pleasant grove. Must’ve been fun to produce, given all the shameless sex and reckless drugs that went into the making. People shouldn’t be so hard on this album. It was a truly fucked up and joyous time in America. 60’s kids were the best!
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Yet another Nick Cave album? Fine, I’ll say it now: Overrated. But…. that voice! He should do audio books.
King Crimson
2/5
Not much to like here, unless you’re stoned. I’m currently sober, so yawns.
Black Flag
5/5
Oh yeah, I had this baby on cassette! A true punk classic, not only for the content, but also for it’s creation and troubled distribution. They tried to bury it, then they tried to capitalize on it. Fuck you Suits, you lost! God Bless Black Flag!
John Cale
2/5
Ugh. Wow. This guy really sucks as a singer. It’s painful and distracting, and I find myself chuckling in disbelief as I listen at work today. He does remind me of someone who might write children’s nursery rhymes, where the listeners (victims) are less likely to notice his many vocal flaws. Stay in your lane Cale. Stick to the kid’s table.
Slayer
2/5
Change the costumes, cut the hair, skip the solos, and you’ve got bad Punk.
Isaac Hayes
4/5
Bad movie with a better soundtrack. American Movies and Television depicting urban Blacks in the 70’s was uncomfortably cringey and stereotypically racist. Isaac Hayes played the part, got paid. Hey, if that’s what Honky wants, that’s what Honky gets! Ugh.
But the music is pretty damn good!
The Prodigy
2/5
If this is what the generation is listening to, I’d dump them too.
CHVRCHES
1/5
Bland and overproduced pop does not have a place here.
Dinosaur Jr.
2/5
Average. Crop, not Cream.
Adele
3/5
She’s got the pipes, no argument. But the material is weepy and a bit boring. How many times can a heart be broken? I guess for Adele, 25 and counting.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
This is a true classic, Full Stop!
Need I say more? Ok… for all you 2-star twats that say “don’t get Hendrix”, or “I know he’s supposed to be great, but…”, or “I’ve never done drugs, so…”.
Thank you for coming, appreciate your feedback, now gather your shit and follow the signs that say please Fuck Right Off.
God Bless Jimi Hendrix!
The Birthday Party
1/5
Oh fuck, not Nick fucking Cave again? Fucking seriously? How many 1 fuckin stars do I have to post before this fucking misery ends? I mean, what the shit?
Love, mum
Willie Nelson
4/5
My favorite Willie album by far. He’s never been one to float my boat, but this is solid 70’s nasal and twang. Have you seen him act? Painful.
He’s a Hill Country God now, selling out arenas in his 90’s! Why Texas hasn’t legalized pot just for him is a mystery. Keep huffing and puffing Willie!
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Exceptional album! Damn, she was the Queen, prove me wrong! We have songs here that are legends, and the rest of the album holds it together. Relevant today, treasures for tomorrow. God Bless Aretha Franklin!
Randy Newman
2/5
Never really enjoyed this guy. I kinda feel like he has a learning disability, producing music and lyrics that are childish and theatrical. He’s found success there, probably with a ton of help. Can’t help being reminded of my kids’ second grade music recitals, ie a bunch of retards blowing on recorders for adoring parents. Good times.
Megadeth
2/5
I like Metal from time to time. Not these guys.
Spiritualized
2/5
I so wanted to categorize this as background, but it’s just too damn distracting! I found myself continually turning down the volume, until I finally just turned it off. It forces you to pay attention, be decisive. Fine! 2 Stars for successfully bugging the shit out of me!
The Bees
3/5
Spun it twice. A couple of pleasant songs. Nothing special. Don’t hate it, but won’t be going back for more.
Miles Davis
4/5
Distractingly good! Not much you can do when this is playing. Just turn up the volume and get High!
Björk
3/5
I don’t get the appeal. But then again, I’m not a pissed off, mid-20’s white lesbian.
George Michael
3/5
Big radio play material. The dude was a star, but not in my world. Great voice. Sorry he died I guess. Messed with the Bull, got the horns.
Public Enemy
5/5
At the time this came out, I was firmly on polar opposite poles of the music world. Closed minded? That’s fair. It just what I was listening to in my 20’s. Rock, Pop, Punk, Alt-Country, R&B, Jazz, classical, oldies…. All good. Rap? Not a sniff.
Sad I missed out. Wasn’t until my 40’s that I started paying attention. Still not a big fan of the genre, but these guys are fucking excellent! We could use more of this now! Bring it on!
Hole
1/5
The best of the Hole bunch, which isn’t saying much. Honestly, can’t we all admit they got their fame from the notoriety of the famous hubby? Otherwise, average grunge band. Courtney is the weakest link; voice is crap, and her guitar work is shit. Have you seen the vid of her guitar isolated during a live performance? They basically turn her guitar off. She can’t play. Good thing their shows are loud; hides her glaring flaws.
Yes, I was a kid from Seattle. Saw Nirvana and Hole live. Kurt killed himself blocks from my home. Listened to Courtney at the fountain as she sobbed about failing to save him from himself. Poor little Courtney.
The rest is painful history. Courtney’s a tramp who capitalized on Kurt’s death, then continued to fuck her way up the ladder. Yuck. Can’t like this. It’s got her stink on it.
Tom Waits
3/5
Yet more Tom Waits? The author has a man crush. Fine: A rambling drunk with a pretty good voice and a gift for gab. In this case, a live album comedy routine, and far better than his more serious endeavors. He’s climbing in the charts for me… not saying much.
Tina Turner
3/5
Strong album, great comeback! Out of the blue, she became an 80’s household icon with some of the best legs in the business. I was never a big fan, but do respect the story. She’s kissed the USA goodbye, and I don’t blame her. Live in Peace Queen.
Cypress Hill
1/5
Shotguns, Pigs, Niggas, Gangstas, lalalalalalalalaaaa.
Music for mental midgets. Boring.
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
What’s up with this guy? Just a whole lot of hollering! Slow loud hollering. Who’s he yelling at?
XTC
2/5
Not gonna lie, this is hard to take today.
Sinead O'Connor
3/5
A hit song. The rest leaves me uninspired. Sad too. I so wanted to like the music from the chick who tore the pope’s pic in half during SNL. Fucking epic! Who does that?? Oh well. Rest in peace you crazy Broad!
The Adverts
4/5
Definite solid punk vibe going on here. One Chord Wonders has to be one of the best rock song titles ever.
Silly shit, I like it.
Adam & The Ants
1/5
No business. None. Kings of the hairy hills of my ass!
Lucinda Williams
5/5
Going on decades, aging like a fine bourbon or a majestic bald cypress by the bayou. Every song is a spark for the southern soul. Nothing weak here, full stop. The standout for me; Lake Charles.
Did an Angel whisper in your ear? And hold you close, take away your fear? In those long, last moments. Damn… one beautiful tribute!
A heavyweight in a class of her own. God Bless Lucinda Williams!
FKA twigs
2/5
Music for weepy, self-indulgent individuals who identify as they/them. Decent voice, but oh so boring.
Oasis
4/5
Maybe…
Had I been a bit younger when this came out, my score might be higher. It’s good, not great. Big rock sound, heavy dub. Vocals are unique, but not a fan of the whine. Lyrically good, but composition is average. Just my opinion, but that’s all that counts, right? 2 stars for each bratty brother.
Air
3/5
SoOK. Not something I’d probably loop back to, but it’s chill and different.