Absolute storytelling masterpiece. From start to finish, Kendrick weaves an endearing tale that touches on the disparate expanses of a young, black man's experience growing up in Compton. The instrumentals and the lyrics both grip the listener, daring them to look away from a vignette that is equal parts beauty and despair.

Staying true to the rocking roots of The Police, they add a jazzy undertone to many songs on this album. While obviously mired by some overplayed and generally misplaced cuts in the midsection, the strong start and end--as well as some criminally underappreciated tracks sprinkled throughout--Synchronicity is influential, catchy, and most importantly, fun.

A vision of music to come. Eno and Byrne in virtuous form.

While irrefutably carried by Eric Clapton's virtuosity, it is hard to sit through the better part of an hour and a half of blues jamming. Clapton's voice is not nearly as endearing as his guitarwork, and although there are some timeless classic tracks, I couldn't help but find myself bored during a good deal of the tracklist.

Sprawling and conceptual. Never gave Pink Floyd too much of a chance, but this seems like a concept album of the highest degree. Not exactly my cup of tea for an every day listen, but impressive nonetheless. Wish there were half stars.

I wasn't expecting to enjoy this one as much as I did. The driving, crunchy, and surprisingly groovy instrumentals make this short album a treat. No filler, and no bullshit.

Pavement's Crooked Rain Crooked Rain is a delightfully playful, nonchalant and tasteful mix of catchy songwriting, solid grooves and enticing flow. They perform each song--tongue firmly in cheek--with an endearing laziness that encapsulates the entire album, yet never overstays its welcome. It is obvious that the landscape of indie-rock in the late nineties and subsequent decades pays homage to Pavement's sophomore album time and time again, including many of my personal favourites from those eras, and I will definitely be returning to this project many times in the future.