Jan 08 2024
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Madman Across The Water
Elton John
I was surprised when I saw the tracklist how few of these songs I’d casually come across… then I heard them and it made sense. Not a ton to like on this one. Levon is a top five EJ song for me (but Tiny D is NOT… maybe because of that dumb scene in Almost Famous). Did Elton record/release Indian Sunset on purpose? I wish this was a 10pt scale or we could rate with half points, because prob between a 2/3 for me. Ultimately just not good enough for 3.
2
Jan 09 2024
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Crime Of The Century
Supertramp
What type of rock are we progressing towards with this? Truly a tough listen, and I’m a little upset this likely poisoned my algorithm.
2
Jan 10 2024
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
Great album name and a good (not great) listen. Some obvious Beatles influence, but plenty of stuff that feels like it should have been left on the cutting room floor. “Coconut” alone excludes this one from going any higher than 3.
3
Jan 11 2024
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Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
First of all, anyone remember the one hit wonder Jimmie’s Chicken Shack? This has to be where they got their name.
Anyways, loved this album. Listened to it twice back to back. I don’t know enough about jazz to say it’s a great jazz album, but I’ll certainly revisit along with the rest of his catalog.
4
Jan 12 2024
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Daydream Nation
Sonic Youth
Double albums are sooooo hard to pull off. This album starts off incredible, and just doesn’t have enough gas to pull off so many tracks. Super influential for so many of the artists a lot of us got into in the 90’s and later. But as an album, I can’t see myself revisiting it that often
3
Jan 15 2024
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
A clear turning point for the Fab Four, as they transitioned out of Beatlemania into the most important bands to ever do it. Like most of their albums from this point on, this one is loaded with timeless songs. John shines especially bright on this album. And for me, it really doesn’t get much better than ‘In My Life’ from a songwriting perspective. Easy 5.
5
Jan 16 2024
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Marquee Moon
Television
Surprised I haven’t heard these guys since I’ve seen every Wes Anderson movie? Overall, just ok for me. Starts off pretty good but was less into it as the album went on. I’m sure I’d be called a poser by some cool kids if I was caught listening to this publicly
2
Jan 17 2024
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Let England Shake
PJ Harvey
I appreciate the vibe, I like plenty of artists that are similar but PJH just isn’t it for me.
2
Jan 18 2024
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Aqualung
Jethro Tull
Props for making the flute an integral piece of the album/band. I don’t mind the occasional Tull making its way on the playlist of the local classic rock station, but can’t really get into a full album. Maybe too put off by the lyrics, because obviously some good musical moments on this.
3
Jan 19 2024
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MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
Though not truly ‘unplugged’, you definitely get an unproduced version of Kurt’s raw vocal talent with this live album. I love the song selection even though it’s so heavily reliant on covers, and glad they didn’t try to force in anything like Smells Like Teen Spirit. In the end, it’s just an abbreviated unedited set, so why have so many of these recordings been so inescapable over the last 30 years? Probably timing. Recorded just months before Kurt’s death and released just months after, this was unfortunately the last thing we got from the band, which is probably why people remember it so fondly. I do as well but can’t rate it up there with the truly great albums as it wasn’t ever meant to be that.
4
Jan 22 2024
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The World is a Ghetto
War
Get the funk outta my face. I must be missing something with this one, as apparently it was album of the year and the years best selling album, but to me it’s just boring. They definitely know how to find a groove and hang on it for several minutes, I guess that’s something.
2
Jan 23 2024
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Purple Rain
Prince
Gotta be honest, I don’t think Prince is as good as he gets credit for. As a performer, he was larger than life (though actually quite short! Few know this). Talented musician, unique, but does that make him a good songwriter? I actually find the majority of this album annoying and unlistenable. I would honestly never put this on and listen to the whole album.
It’s a shame that the album’s title track and finale is lumped in with the rest of this, because Purple Rain single handedly outscores the rest of the album combined. The moment he comes in with his trademark falsetto in the solo… chills, no matter how many times I hear it. Makes sense that it’s the last song, because what could follow that?
2
Jan 24 2024
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Soul Mining
The The
Yikes. I could only make it through half of this one before I had to spit it out and cleanse my palate
1
Jan 25 2024
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Gris Gris
Dr. John
What is John a doctor of, exactly? Hopefully just confusing voodoo music. I wouldn’t let this person anywhere near my chart. This one just left me with a furrowed brow and a lot of questions. Like “what actually was that?” and “has a spell just been cast upon me?”
1
Jan 26 2024
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Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
You freaky old bastard, you. As demonstrated on this and other records, Bowie had a unique talent for lulling you in with a familiar chord progression before turning it on its head and taking a song in a really unexpected direction. With a career that spanned so many years, you certainly got a lot of costume changes with Bowie. But this was from the era where I think he was at his best, maybe the last album of that era. Great songs, tons of originality, and lots of nuanced vocal performances. The only thing holding this album back is somehow it doesn’t include a song that really breaks into that upper level of classic songs (and we know not every Bowie album had that problem). I think a 5 album has to have at least a couple of those. So a 4.5 for me, and I’m not rounding anything up to 5.
4
Jan 29 2024
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Dirt
Alice In Chains
AIC has never really been my favorite flavor of 90’s rock, just always felt too adjacent to some of the stuff from the 80’s I don’t care for. But definitely some familiar tunes on here and a pretty cohesive album for the genre.
3
Jan 30 2024
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Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
We’re separating the art from the artist for this little exercise, right? Ok just making sure.
If this album doesn’t get you moving or doing your best Paul Rudd slappin da bass… see a doctor and get your pulse checked. Other than a two song lull in the final third, this album starts off hot and keeps it going through the end. Hard to deny how talented this guy was.
4
Jan 31 2024
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Channel Orange
Frank Ocean
Really a beautiful album that I probably should have revisited more times since its release. Definitely deserving of the accolades it got back then. Frank has such an effortlessly cool and understated vocal style, really enjoyed listening through this.
4
Feb 01 2024
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Water From An Ancient Well
Abdullah Ibrahim
This is fine I guess? Honestly a pretty sleepy album and not sure what makes this special.
2
Feb 02 2024
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Blonde On Blonde
Bob Dylan
Won’t be surprised to see some polarization with Bob. But to me he’s one of a select few of great American songwriters. B on B is probably the sweet spot for most listeners, where he’s expanded his sound beyond all acoustic but pre… whatever he turned into after this, which was at times unlistenable. A truly great album that I’ve heard countless times, but is missing a song that launches it into 5 territory for me.
4
Feb 05 2024
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Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
How many babies is this album responsible for? Perhaps Japan can solve its birth rate problem by blasting this in the streets of Tokyo.
3
Feb 06 2024
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Ellington at Newport
Duke Ellington
I navigated to the original LP which was a much more manageable 40 min compared to the 2+ hour version Spotify linked to.
This album cooks, no doubt about it. Makes me wish I was in the audience, taking down martinis and talking about the Eisenhower administration. Truly remarkable display of musical talent on this. Player after player just letting it rip.
4
Feb 07 2024
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Bitte Orca
Dirty Projectors
I’ve mostly known Dirty Projectors from occasionally showing up on Sirius or a Spotify playlist, and have never listened to an album in its entirety. An oversight by me, because I really enjoyed this. Lots of ear candy and creativity throughout. And I appreciate that it’s a brisk 9 track, 40 min album too.
3
Feb 08 2024
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Shadowland
k.d. lang
I just hate this so, so much. Ruined my day.
1
Feb 09 2024
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Antichrist Superstar
Marilyn Manson
An album that makes you feel like you’ve probably been added to some type of watch list. I def was NOT allowed to purchase this in 1996 so have never listened to it. Honestly I expected more based on how much press this got. Nothing impressive musically. The vocals, if we’re calling them that, are annoying. And lyrics that I’m sure were shocking at the time are now just kind of pathetic. Makes me sad that this resonated so much with a group of our generation, they deserved better. To me this is the epitome of someone who got way more success than they should have. You guys know about his ribs right?
1
Feb 12 2024
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Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading
Was completely unfamiliar with this one, which is what’s fun about this whole thing. When the album started, I had pretty high hopes. But I just couldn’t get into it. Nothing wrong with this, but just isn’t for me.
2
Feb 13 2024
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Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
Awesome album, terrifying album art. Loved this from start to finish, from riff to riff. The way they recorded this makes it feel like you’re listening to their live set. Just great, nearly a 5 for me.
4
Feb 14 2024
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Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Blasting forth with three part harmony, YEOW! I respect the art of constructing these vocals, because it’s not as easy as they make it seem and is truly an art form. Overall the album is a little sleepy for me, though it contains a couple classic tracks.
3
Feb 15 2024
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Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
Well yeehaw! This album makes me feel like taking my betrothed by the hand and do-si-do-ing all over the county fair. Or maybe just pondering all over yonder. A tip of the Stetson to these chaps for what feels like a solid execution of the genre. Can’t help but feel like there’s probably a lot out there pretty similar to this. But def enjoyable
3
Feb 16 2024
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The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
It’s Mingus, ya dingus! This one falls firmly into my “jazz=3” rule, since I’m too dumb to know any better, one way or another.
3
Feb 19 2024
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Paranoid
Black Sabbath
What a blessing to have been granted the opportunity to observe the Sabbath twice this week. Killer album. It steps in where the debut album leaves off, and ups the ante by dropping in a few classics. While I might prefer their first album, I think you have to say this one is better. And War Pigs is one of the best side one track ones of all time.
5
Feb 20 2024
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The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie
This album is phenomenal, track after track sets the bar for creativity that other works should be measured against. I sort of forgot how stacked this album is, but jeez. Just a joy and a lot of fun to listen to, will have to revisit much more often.
5
Feb 21 2024
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Bossanova
Pixies
First time all the way through this one, didn’t love it and didn’t hate it. I think they’ve got some better stuff, but ultimately this is still pretty listenable.
3
Feb 22 2024
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All Hail the Queen
Queen Latifah
I really tried to get into this and just couldn’t make it happen. Props to her for being a trailblazer with this (I think? Honestly I don’t know). But I just didn’t enjoy it. If this was considered good at the time, the rap game has come a LONG way
2
Feb 23 2024
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Aja
Steely Dan
I used to frequent a bar that had bands play on the weekends, often cover bands. When we’d walk in and see it was the Steely Dan cover band that night, we were so disheartened. We hated the songs and thought the band sucked… but in hindsight? They were nailing it.
1
Feb 26 2024
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Rock 'N Soul
Solomon Burke
Love this era of soul, always a vibe. Interesting that he name checked Sam Cooke in Can’t Nobody Love You (annd Ray Charles), invoking that comparison wouldn’t do anyone any favors. Dude can definitely sing, I felt like the songs were a pretty average representation of the genre.
3
Feb 27 2024
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Figure 8
Elliott Smith
I definitely revisit Elliott’s older stuff fairly often, so was expecting to feel like this one doesn’t hold up to those albums. But this album is great, with a more filled out sound to it and the great musicianship featured on everything he did.
4
Feb 28 2024
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Teen Dream
Beach House
Love to see this on the list. Super dreamy album indeed, great sonically and flows so well from start to finish.
4
Feb 29 2024
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Moving Pictures
Rush
Inject “Tom Sawyer” and “Limelight” into my veins and let me go quietly into the night on account of their bountiful rock. Unquestionably this oozes with musical talent. But if you understand the time signatures on this album, you are a nerd. Too difficult to adequately head bang to this, and at times it feels like experimental rock for its own sake. GOOD NOT GREAT
3
Mar 01 2024
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Suede
Suede
I liked this much more than I expected to. Having said that, I expected to hate it.
3
Mar 04 2024
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Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
I’ve only heard a couple of Tracy’s songs, one of which is obviously on this album. Other than that one, was pretty bored by the rest of this.
2
Mar 05 2024
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Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
I’ve never really been a big Stones fan, but actually really liked this album as I got into it. Perhaps because it didn’t have a lot of their more recognizable hits. Pretty fun album, where they’re tapping into their bar band gear and not trying to be the Shitty Beatles. The double album thing drags this down, as it really loses steam. You couldn’t find 6 or 7 songs to cut to make this a certified banger? I def could.
3
Mar 06 2024
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Picture Book
Simply Red
Tf Is this? I know “music” like this exists, but can we pretend it doesn’t?
1
Mar 07 2024
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Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
FUCK THIS BAND. Why do they hate everyone? Hey, at least if you’re having a bad day, you could always make it worse by listening to this shit sandwich.
1
Mar 08 2024
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Shleep
Robert Wyatt
Well, this album is definitely unique. Takes a seriously creative mind to craft this, and it’s not just utter chaos. But it was such a tough listen for me. So much dissonance and repetition, I just can’t say I enjoyed it or will ever listen to it again.
2
Mar 11 2024
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25
Adele
Like every Adele album, this one doesn’t fall short on vocal performance. Such a powerful voice. Unlike some of her others, this album lacks a variety and never really picks up enough steam for me. Probably doesn’t deserve to be lumped in with other 3s, but didn’t quite reach 4 status for me.
3
Mar 12 2024
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The Band
The Band
More like The Bland…. Nothing remotely remarkable about this. I didn’t mind it, but overall such an average band and average album.
2
Mar 13 2024
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Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
I don’t really like reggae, but I definitely like Bob Marley. I’m sure there are tons of people that share that view. Says a lot about the dude to be that synonymous with the genre. Felt like this album had some “lesser” versions of songs (No Woman No Cry, Rebel Music) that I’ve heard. Was between a 3 and 4 and rounding down on that alone, but I’ll never be upset with someone who grabs the AUX and throws on some Bob.
3
Mar 14 2024
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Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
Liked this a lot more than I expected. I didn’t know a lot about Iggy Pop, had mostly just seen those pics of him looking homeless. But I thought this album was great, a couple of very recognizable tunes and overall kept my attention for the entire record. Would definitely come back to this
4
Mar 15 2024
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The Slider
T. Rex
Enjoyed it, but didn’t feel like I’d take much away from this one. Good listen but ultimately not very memorable
3
Mar 18 2024
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Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Well you can’t say Queen ever pulls any punches. This band knows how to load it up with unique, interesting moments at nearly all times. Just constantly swinging for the fences. I thought this was a great album, and relatively devoid of the songs from them that have become a bit overplayed. One major nit - how the hell can you have Freddie Mercury as a front man and think it’s ok to take the mic from him on any song? Basically a felony.
4
Mar 19 2024
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Green
R.E.M.
REM knows how to live in the sweet spot. Stipe and Co tee it up on track one, hit the fairway and stay there for the majority of the album. They don’t take many chances, so I could see people getting bored with some of their stuff. I really enjoy this album, found it super listenable.
4
Mar 20 2024
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Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret
Soft Cell
After the needless woodwind solos started to pile up a few tracks in, I knew I was dealing with a 1/2 here. I check the track count….18 songs and 74 minutes?? Coffin nailed. I think it was presumptuous of them to go to the trouble of recording this and thinking anyone would enjoy it.
1
Mar 21 2024
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This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
These guys subscribe to a simple two step process to writing songs. Step one: find a groove, even if it’s unremarkable. Step two: do not leave that groove. Sort of indifferent about this album overall and don’t think I’ll revisit it. Lots of tracks felt skippable, but there were definitely some I enjoyed. Middle of the road for me.
3
Mar 22 2024
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From Elvis In Memphis
Elvis Presley
Never really been the biggest Elvis fan. Just always felt like even as iconic as he was, it was always more quantity over quality. And I can’t help but feel like this is post-prime Elvis on this album. A few great tracks but a lot of filler also.
3
Mar 25 2024
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Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
I guess I’m just never going to understand the level of praise some people have for this band. Truly tried to get into this, but man what a jarring stop at TRACK TWO. I just think the vast majority of what The Rolling Stones did was way more average than people give them credit for.
3
Mar 26 2024
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Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
This was definitely at times pretty fun, several tracks that rocked and were worth listening to, especially for a band that I had always thought (probably erroneously) was basically a one hit wonder. But not sure I needed this, and something tells me if I had a visual to pair with this audio I would have liked it less. The Spotify link initially took me to a four track version, inclusive of The Boys Are Back in Town… felt like that would have been sufficient for me.
3
Mar 27 2024
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Music From The Penguin Cafe
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
This was like a fever dream. Wait, did I accidentally drop acid at work? Truly great album cover by the way. I might try to find the vinyl for that reason alone. I liked this, can’t really imagine sitting around one day and having the presence of mind to put this on.
3
Mar 28 2024
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Transformer
Lou Reed
In this era of excess, I can appreciate the restraint of Lou’s records. But for me a little bit goes a long way with him. Some classic songs on this album, and a well placed Lou song in the right movie or something can be great, but I don’t really enjoy 11 tracks straight. At what point does atonal just equate to “not a great singer”?
3
Mar 29 2024
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Beautiful Freak
Eels
Hell yes, I love this album. My 90’s bias is probably showing, but I just think this album captures that post-grunge 90’s alt-rock sound so well. I think this is probably under appreciated, there’s a lot of clever choices from progressions to instrumentation.
4
Apr 01 2024
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Either Or
Elliott Smith
I’ve got a soft spot for Elliott and this album has a few of his best songs on it. I wasn’t cool enough to know about Elliott before Good Will Hunting, but have long been a fan.
4
Apr 02 2024
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Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
A fun trip down memory lane. I started to think about how old I was when I heard this, which made me laugh. Picturing a middle schooler acting like he identifies with any of this… hilarious. Some super memorable tracks and on and I’m assuming the album most would count as his best. But man there is a lot of cringe on here. Enjoyed it but couldn’t get above 3
3
Apr 03 2024
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Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes
TV On The Radio
A cool band and I can appreciate the creativity here, but just never been one of my favorites and felt like they blended in with a lot of other bands. The vocals on their records are often the weak link, makes it a tough listen for me.
3
Apr 04 2024
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At Budokan
Cheap Trick
I’ll take a fairly hard pass on this. What did these guys do to warrant getting screamed at as if they were the Beatles? And did they actually write a song about it being the end of the show, asking if the audience wants to hear one more? Jeez.
2
Apr 05 2024
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Oedipus Schmoedipus
Barry Adamson
Did I need to start my day picturing what Joe Cocker’s O face looks like? I did not. This album was hard to pin down, I guess you could say. It transitioned from what can only be described as ‘evidence for a murder trial’ into something you’d hear while on hold with AT&T.
2
Apr 08 2024
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At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
I could see there being a temptation to lump this into other jazz albums or put it in the “good background music” category, but that would be underselling how talented Sarah was. What an incredible voice, her skills are completely on display here with a live recording. I love how she screws up a couple of songs in (though I didn’t notice) and pretty effortlessly jokes about it with the audience mid-song. Seems like she was doing exactly what she was meant to do. This is a near 5 for me.
4
Apr 09 2024
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Led Zeppelin III
Led Zeppelin
I love LZ, but LZIII isn’t among my faves and always fell like a bit of a lull in an otherwise stellar catalog. Just too much slide guitar, kick drum and banjo (really any banjo is sub-optimal). I don’t think this album really highlights why they were so amazing, but still a great album.
4
Apr 10 2024
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Electric
The Cult
Really confused as to why this made the cut. This sounds like a million other bands.
2
Apr 11 2024
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Hms Fable
Shack
Overall I was mostly bored with this. A few parts that struck a chord with the emo kid in me, so rounding up from 2.
3
Apr 15 2024
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Ramones
Ramones
A quintessential album of the genre and rocks from start to finish. It wears me out a bit and it’s not like a TON of thought went into these songs… but I’m sure that is exactly the point.
4
Apr 16 2024
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Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
I def would not have guessed American Girl closed this was out. Feels like a classic track one side one. Anyways, definitely enjoyed this and have always loved Petty. Easy 4 for me
4
Apr 17 2024
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Second Toughest In The Infants
Underworld
I remember in the late 90s and early 2000s when it felt like people started to listening to stuff like this. I was TERRIFIED that this was the future of music. Luckily not true.
1
Apr 18 2024
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The Contino Sessions
Death In Vegas
Liked it more than the electronic one we had yesterday, but not a lot more
2
Apr 19 2024
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Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Is there a bustle in your hedgerow or are you just happy to see me?! This is LZ at the peak of their plentiful powers. I don’t care how many times I’ve heard Stairway (a million?). That song is flawless.
5
Apr 22 2024
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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
This album just makes me wish we got more out of Lauryn over her career. It holds up, great album that’s just as listenable today as it was when it was released.
4
Apr 23 2024
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Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Enjoyed this one a lot. Immaculate vibes. Gonna go listen to this once more and imagine I’m not working all day…
4
Apr 24 2024
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Superfuzz Bigmuff
Mudhoney
I’m down with this but not overly so. I feel like the musicianship is sloppy, but maybe that’s the point
3
Apr 25 2024
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Pyromania
Def Leppard
Rock, rock, til you drop?? Don’t mind if I do! This album made me want to play hooky. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. I thought Def Leppard was just a band you heard at… well you know. Anyways this was great, will def revisit.
4
Apr 26 2024
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Trio
Dolly Parton
I had no idea this album existed. Definitely some star power here from some lady legends of the country game. I found this pretty sleepy though. Problem with this and a lot of country is that artists pretty consistent use the same formula over and over again. Gets old fast for me.
2
Apr 29 2024
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Elephant
The White Stripes
Listening to this left me with the feeling that I take this band for granted. Their songs are everywhere (particularly track one of this album), so I don’t feel the need to listen to their records start to finish. But that’s a mistake, because this is great. If you love guitar and you don’t love this and pretty much anything Jack does, you’re doing it wrong.
4
Apr 30 2024
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Live!
Fela Kuti
Really liked this album, and the other stuff it led me to after it finished. Feels like a solid three but want to round up based on the upside surprise / good vibes.
4
May 02 2024
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Document
R.E.M.
REM knows who they are, you gotta give them that. Maybe not a ton of variation in their stuff, but they rarely miss. This album has a couple of their classics included. Great listen, easy 4
4
May 03 2024
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Nevermind
Nirvana
I feel stupid even writing anything about this. It’s perfect, iconic, timeless and plays like a greatest hits album. One of the very best ever.
5
May 06 2024
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Blunderbuss
Jack White
It’s almost like Jack didn’t even need Meg to make albums!
4
May 07 2024
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Tidal
Fiona Apple
Have loved this album for a long time, glad I had a good excuse to cruise though it again. This album from Fiona is captivating from start to finish, such a unique talent.
4
May 08 2024
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The Score
Fugees
It’s been a long time since I’ve listened to this one, and I think I remember it more fondly than it deserves. Some high points on here for sure, but a lot of it is just ok. In hindsight it feels like less than the sum of its parts
3
May 09 2024
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Blue Lines
Massive Attack
Was expecting a lot more out of this based on the way some artists point to them as inspiration. But didn’t hear what I expected to hear, and was mostly just bored.
2
May 10 2024
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Mott
Mott The Hoople
Obvious Bowie influence, so def listenable. But at times just felt like a cheap knock off of the Man himself.
3
May 13 2024
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Parallel Lines
Blondie
This was better than expected, but I guess I just don’t like many of these songs in general.
3
May 14 2024
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In Rainbows
Radiohead
This is my fave Radiohead album, but there are others that will get this same rating for sure. This album vibes throughout and there isn’t anything on this album that shouldn’t be.
5
May 15 2024
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I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
Richard Thompson
I started out loving this, could definitely hear how this could have influenced some more recent indie stuff. Ultimately I thought it didn’t live up to the first few tracks though
3
May 16 2024
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Ingenue
k.d. lang
Oh my god this is so boring
1
May 17 2024
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Penthouse And Pavement
Heaven 17
What an inclusion from the wiki on this: “It has since been regarded as ‘an important outing’”. Wow really makes you think. This album cover goes hard, GUYS DOING BUSINESS. But this was painful. Sounds like someone just got their Casio keyboard and has mastered the art of annoying you with every stock sound included.
1
May 20 2024
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My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Kanye West
Like most people, I lost interest in Kanye sometime after this album. But the first five of his discography is pretty incredible, and it peaks with this album. Not typically my genre, but this album is just crazy good. And then he just went crazy.
5
May 21 2024
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The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
Look, I get it. This is one of those bands that you’re supposed to put on a pedestal. I can appreciate their innovation but don’t personally find it all that listenable. And you just know these guys inspired some of the shittiest bands you’ve ever heard.
3
May 22 2024
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Sister
Sonic Youth
I think I preferred Daydream Nation slightly over this. Still feels like a band I can’t get into for a full album
3
May 23 2024
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Brothers
The Black Keys
Definitely the album that took these guys from Ohio garage band to giant commercial success. While this album makes me miss their more raw, unproduced, two man jam sound, this is such a great album loaded with some of their best songs.
4
May 24 2024
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
Man… keep in mind this was just LZ getting warmed up. What an unbelievable debut. It’s crazy to think these guys weren’t universally revered in their time. It’s unfair how much talent is in this band, man!! I bestoweth unto thee the easiest of 5s.
5
May 27 2024
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Highway 61 Revisited
Bob Dylan
I don’t need to say much about this album, it’s one of the all time greats. Ever hear the live version of Like a Rolling Stone where a guy yells “Judas!” at Bob because he’s traded in his acoustic for an electric? Bob turned to the band, tells them to “play fuckin loud” and then drops that tune on everyone’s head.
5
May 28 2024
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The Stranger
Billy Joel
This is an album by a talented musician who draws from some respectable influences but can’t help but write music for moms.
3
May 29 2024
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Damaged
Black Flag
This album unabashedly goes hard. I really enjoyed it. But the lyrics are at times too silly to ignore. Not exactly my taste but full props for the music this inspired as well
3
May 30 2024
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I Am a Bird Now
Antony and the Johnsons
Looking to sob in the shower, fully clothed? Or perhaps just walk straight into the ocean, but you don’t have a playlist for that? Well have I got an album for you…
2
May 31 2024
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Cloud Nine
The Temptations
A total vibe with maybe a few low points, but what’s not to love about this record?
4
Jun 03 2024
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Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
The Kinks have always felt like the answer to the question “what if the Stones were cool and wrote interesting songs?” to me. This is a great album, I think it actually gets better as it goes on.
4
Jun 04 2024
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Pearl
Janis Joplin
Sadly a member of the 27 club, which sucks. What a talent, and nothing contrived about her style. It just doesn’t get much better than Janis singing about Bobby McGee, and the rest of the album is just as great.
4
Jun 05 2024
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Your Arsenal
Morrissey
Well this caught me offguard. I always thought of Morrissey/the Smiths as music for sad boys. There’s some of that in here, but overall I dug this a lot!
4
Jun 06 2024
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Vauxhall And I
Morrissey
This one from Morrissey? Not so much. After being surprised at how much I enjoyed the first one we got from him, this reminded me why I was surprised. Pretty boring.
2
Jun 07 2024
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Here Come The Warm Jets
Brian Eno
I respect the creativity and some interesting sounds here, but I’ll never come back to this. Didn’t really enjoy it
2
Jun 10 2024
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Doolittle
Pixies
meh
3
Jun 12 2024
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So Much For The City
The Thrills
Pretty cool album, but vocals kind of wore on me. I dug the at times vintage feel, both in terms of the music and in terms of glorifying the state of California.
3
Jun 13 2024
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Out of Step
Minor Threat
4
Jun 17 2024
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Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea
PJ Harvey
Nice addition to the list, this was a cool album with a really unique vibe. Thom’s involvement clearly meant he gave his informal seal of approval, so hard to go lower than 4 here.
4
Jun 18 2024
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Pet Sounds
The Beach Boys
A true work of art from a song writing and production perspective. If you don’t think this is great, maybe you’re in the wrong place.
5
Jun 19 2024
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Le Tigre
Le Tigre
I’m down with the ladies and their message, but musically this was pretty annoying
2
Jun 21 2024
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Live At The Regal
B.B. King
Brews. Blues. And bruises.
4
Jun 24 2024
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Machine Head
Deep Purple
I dig this, was surprised at how solid this album was throughout, given I hadn’t heard much of this. Some great solos, love the organ usage, just solid 70s rock, man.
4
Jun 25 2024
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Songs In The Key Of Life
Stevie Wonder
Hot start to the week! At his best, few can groove like Stevie. Like with any album this long, there’s some stuff I could do without and Stevie can get sappy at times, but obviously this is a great album.
4
Jun 26 2024
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S&M
Metallica
Is Metallica the perfect candidate to team up with a symphony and perform their hits? Probably not. At times this feels like a long version of Live or Let Die. Likely not what they were going for. But it’s pretty epic at times, was between a 3 and 4 for me.
3
Jun 27 2024
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evermore
Taylor Swift
I guess I’ll never understand it. This is so totally average, and her carbon footprint is enormous.
2
Jun 28 2024
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Vento De Maio
Elis Regina
I didn’t spend a ton of time with this one. A few tracks I dug, but overall not sure why this is a must listen
2
Jul 01 2024
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All Directions
The Temptations
A good listen but not enough meat here to go higher than 3. Some of this drags out without much payoff at the end of the build up.
3
Jul 02 2024
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Endtroducing.....
DJ Shadow
I lack the expertise to adequately review this. But I didn’t hate it, was slot at times. 3?
3
Jul 03 2024
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Rejoicing In The Hands
Devendra Banhart
Recognizing this one probably won’t be for everyone, likely on account of his vocals. But I used to listen to Devandra’s stuff fairly often, just liked the vibe and his acoustic skills.
3
Jul 04 2024
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1999
Prince
At least accurately pessimistic about life in the 21st century and thus the need to rage like it’s the end of the 20th. At least that’s what I think he was saying.
2
Jul 08 2024
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Odelay
Beck
4
Jul 09 2024
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Dummy
Portishead
Cool but kinda boring
3
Jul 10 2024
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Selected Ambient Works 85-92
Aphex Twin
I found this relaxing. Like I was in the lobby of a spa, or at Lululemon or something. I was feeling this and might revisit, but the fact that this is such a passive listening experience sort of limited the rating for me.
3
Jul 11 2024
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Forever Changes
Love
Couple of tracks on here I knew, but I couldn’t have named the band. Pretty cool album and 60s vibes. Ultimately kinda mellow for me.
3
Jul 12 2024
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Under Construction
Missy Elliott
Not a bad listen but overall pretty forgettable. Some fun guest appearances that probably prop this up a bit.
3
Jul 15 2024
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So
Peter Gabriel
I guess there’s a time and place for songs like Sledgehammer and In Your Eyes, but man was the rest of this a slog to get through.
2
Jul 16 2024
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The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
I think this is another band I take for granted. I think this is their best work, even though I’m super fond of the first two albums as well. I kind of forgot how solid this was throughout, too. This one feels like they’re tried to recapture the magic of Funerals, after taking a small step back on Neon Bible, but upped the production. I think it pays off
4
Jul 17 2024
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The Poet
Bobby Womack
A few different types of baby making music here. Not much meat to it though, so didn’t really feel worthy of anything over 3
3
Jul 18 2024
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Music Has The Right To Children
Boards of Canada
Definitely didn’t feel the need to get through all of this one. Sorta got the point right away. No idea what makes this so special
2
Jul 19 2024
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The Coral
The Coral
Huh? Who? Is this the author’s cousin’s band or something?
2
Jul 22 2024
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Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
This album is STACKED. Credit to CCR for being one of those bands that truly developed and mastered their own unique sound, too. Simple five for me here
5
Jul 23 2024
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Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
Somewhat surprised to see this album make the cut unless we’re getting multiples from Muse, but per Spotify I guess this one has a couple of their most popular tunes. I prefer Absolution to this and while I can dig the occasional Muse song, they’re not my fave. Between a 3 and 4 for me
3
Jul 24 2024
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On The Beach
Neil Young
I can dig Neil and liked this album ok. Nothing on it really stood out or escalated it to a great album, but it was fine.
3
Jul 25 2024
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Get Behind Me Satan
The White Stripes
Not sure what inspired this album from these two, but I found this one pretty boring. It falls off dramatically after Blue Orchid. A rare miss, I guess
2
Jul 26 2024
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Revolver
Beatles
Do not overthink this
5
Jul 29 2024
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The Yes Album
Yes
This album definitely belongs on the list, but personally I say “ok sure I guess” to Yes. At a certain point, jamming as many parts into a song as humanly possible just feels aimless and doesn’t make the music any better.
3
Jul 30 2024
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You've Come a Long Way Baby
Fatboy Slim
Props for the successful songs on here, just not my thing
3
Jul 31 2024
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Devotional Songs
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
For what this was, I definitely enjoyed it. This guy must be the GOAT of this genre, given his inclusion here and the fact that he has roughly 3,000 albums
3
Aug 01 2024
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Truth
Jeff Beck
I’m down with early Rod vox and I brake for guitar gods. Really enjoyable listen, and frankly an album I wasn’t aware of
4
Aug 02 2024
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A Nod Is As Good As A Wink To A Blind Horse
Faces
How about another helping of The Stew?? Another good one, definitely some highs and lows here but enough to get a 4 for me.
4
Aug 05 2024
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London Calling
The Clash
I’m sort of torn here. Honestly nothing on this album goes as hard as that cover art would leave you to believe, and I can’t help but feel like this has been way over hyped. But I can respect that this influenced a lot of great music and def enjoyed it.
4
Aug 06 2024
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Here's Little Richard
Little Richard
Just letting it rip about a half a century before the extremely forgiving recording technology of today, this little man demonstrated that he was just born to fucking sing. And if your ivories needed tickling? He’d oblige. With his feet, if you’re into that. Are these songs all sorta the same? Yea so what. If you’re handing out any points for being “influential”, best not skimp here.
4
Aug 07 2024
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Fifth Dimension
The Byrds
There’s a couple of good tracks here, but a lot of forgettable ones too. Am guessing this one isn’t really their best work, because this was just fine.
3
Aug 08 2024
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Logical Progression
LTJ Bukem
Truly shit. How are you supposed to listen to this without feeling like a total douchebag?
1
Aug 09 2024
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What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
This really is a masterpiece and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of the genre. The way the songs blend seamlessly into each other make this such a great listen, it’s almost one long epic track.
4
Aug 12 2024
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Appetite For Destruction
Guns N' Roses
Definitely not my thing, but I can recognize that this band was hugely successful and that this album drove a lot of that. Tough to go lower than 4 when the album has hits like Welcome to the Jungle, Paradise City, and Sweet Child of Mine.
4
Aug 13 2024
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Disintegration
The Cure
This album comes from an era of music that I mostly ignore, but I loved this. Sonically it’s great, arrangements are interesting, just a great listen. Def some sad boy songs here, but still.
4
Aug 14 2024
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Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
I didn’t like much about this at all. A pretty forgettable album, so I’m just going to appropriately slap it with a 2 and go on living my life.
2
Aug 15 2024
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Heavy Weather
Weather Report
Someone’s gonna have to tell me how the last 80% of this album was.
1
Aug 16 2024
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Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Well this was just great. I wonder how much of a rarity this was in 1971? Because it doesn’t feel like it fits the era. Nowadays there’s a ton of posers trying to recreate stuff like this with no authenticity whatsoever. But I bet this was a welcome change of pace for some back then.
4
Aug 19 2024
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Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots
The Flaming Lips
It’s hard not to go full points here, I just have too much respect for this album despite its flaws. And by far the best thing to come out of Oklahoma, ever.
5
Aug 20 2024
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The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
No comment
4
Aug 21 2024
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I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
Aretha’s vocal talent is the obvious standout here, as the songwriting sort of out kicks its coverage. She could sing the dictionary and still get a 4, though.
4
Aug 22 2024
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Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
Ah yes, the days when Drop D, rap interludes and every band having a DJ ruled rock. Can’t say I miss this era. But LP was definitely better than some of their peers and hold up much better as well.
3
Aug 23 2024
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Ace of Spades
Motörhead
This album is pretty one note, but by design. At least that one note effing rocks
4
Aug 26 2024
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
Super boring! And an erroneous premise.
2
Aug 27 2024
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Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
I can’t help be see Spinal Tap when listening to parts of this with vocals. While that’s a funny thing, it’s not a great thing. But the guitar work here is worthy of a 4 on its own. Just absolute smoke.
4
Aug 28 2024
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Third
Soft Machine
Admittedly probably wasn’t on enough drugs to enjoy this. I found this to be the musical equivalent of the drunk guy at the bar who won’t stop rambling and never arrives at the point.
2
Aug 29 2024
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A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Coldplay
Easy to forget that these guys absolutely owned the musical scene during this period. While they went down some less appealing musical paths after this, it’s hard to argue how impressive this album is. Full credit from me, even though they aren’t really in my rotation anymore.
5
Aug 30 2024
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2112
Rush
Maybe the most front loaded album of all time. But the holy triumvirate can rock me anytime.
4
Sep 02 2024
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Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
Another great one from the early years of this band. Couple weird inclusions here keep it from getting full marks, but honestly that feels nit picky given how much good stuff is on this.
4
Sep 03 2024
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Amnesiac
Radiohead
Not among my top four or five albums from these guys. On the other hand… this is still a Radiohead album. Enough meat on this one to keep it above 3.
4
Sep 04 2024
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It's Blitz!
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Love me some Aughts Rock
4
Sep 05 2024
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90
808 State
If you dress like a doosh and buy your clothes from the mall, I bet they play this album at your favorite store.
1
Sep 06 2024
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The Man Who
Travis
Nice trip down memory lane, I was always fond of this band. They also had a good collection of interesting music videos to accompany a lot of these, back when that was a thing.
4
Sep 16 2024
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Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Not my fave band, but hard to argue that this album isn’t pretty stacked. This album got lots of play when it came out, and a handful of songs have lived on well past that. Where are these guys from again?
4
Sep 18 2024
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Searching For The Young Soul Rebels
Dexys Midnight Runners
Spent most of this album trying to determine if this is a parody band. And the rest trying to decipher which band they were parodying.
2
Sep 19 2024
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Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
T Heads is one of those bands that wrote a handful of songs I really love… but a little goes a long way. A full album wears me down a bit
3
Sep 20 2024
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Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill
Track one - We hate cops! Why are they harassing us??
All remaining tracks - admissions of various crimes that could reasonably be expected to draw the attention of law enforcement
3
Sep 23 2024
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The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
You don’t need to know much about the piano to know that Keith can rip. The story that surrounds this album makes it all the more interesting. Basically got hosed by being given a practice piano for this sold out performance instead of the finely tuned grand he expected, said eff it and made up for the piano’s shortcomings on the fly. Special.
4
Sep 24 2024
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Green River
Creedence Clearwater Revival
After getting Cosmos Factory earlier this exercise, this one sort of pales in comparison. But still a good album, between a 3/4 for me and I think I bumped it up on account of a couple classic tunes.
4
Sep 25 2024
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Goo
Sonic Youth
Our third album from Sonic Youth, and def my fave. This album makes you want to dust off the electric guitar, plug it in, and make some noise.
4
Sep 26 2024
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Fly Or Die
N.E.R.D
Those who can’t do, teach. I think Pharrell’s talents fit much more behind the mixing board than they do behind the mic.
2
Sep 27 2024
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E.V.O.L.
Sonic Youth
Fourth SY album overall and second of the week… this one made me feel like maybe this band is slightly over represented on this project. Didn’t really feel like this one deserved to be included, but was fine.
3
Sep 30 2024
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Talking Book
Stevie Wonder
Probably the best album from Steven. Also him at his Steviest, meaning 50% and 50% sappy. Though I prefer the former over the latter, he can definitely hit both gears successfully. The mix is enough to keep this at a solid four.
4
Oct 01 2024
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Ten
Pearl Jam
I think you’ll rightfully, and righteously, find this on most people’s Mount Rushmore’s of 90’s records. It’s there for me, and a pretty simple 5.
5
Oct 02 2024
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Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
While the front half of this album contains the hits (several), I think the vibes carry on consistently throughout. Really enjoyed it, while not typically my thing
4
Oct 03 2024
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Sex Packets
Digital Underground
I’d have been embarrassed to be found listening to this.
2
Oct 04 2024
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Aftermath
The Rolling Stones
Pretty average album, another one on the list that makes me wonder why we need several from bands like this and not just their best 2-3.
3
Oct 07 2024
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Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Ray Charles
Seems like it’s as trendy as ever for artists to dip their toes into Country music. But Ray does it so seamlessly that you wouldn’t know it wasn’t what he was mostly known for. Beautiful album, will revisit.
4
Oct 08 2024
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Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
12 songs in 25 min blows my mind. A perfect example of the beauty In simplicity. Obviously credit for paving the way for so many as well
4
Oct 11 2024
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Who Killed...... The Zutons?
The Zutons
I’m probably rounding up about a half point here, because I really enjoyed this and just didn’t think it deserved to be lumped in with a bunch of meh 3 star albums. Cool, unique vibes here. Just surprised Valerie wasn’t on this, haha.
4