449
Albums Rated
2.79
Average Rating
41%
Complete
640 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1960s
Favorite Decade
Singer-songwriter
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Perfectionist
Rater Style ?
10
5-Star Albums
23
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Deja Vu
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
|
5 | 3.7 | +1.3 |
|
Moondance
Van Morrison
|
5 | 3.71 | +1.29 |
|
Boston
Boston
|
5 | 3.71 | +1.29 |
|
Graceland
Paul Simon
|
5 | 3.74 | +1.26 |
|
(Pronounced 'Leh-'Nérd 'Skin-'Nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
|
5 | 3.75 | +1.25 |
|
Happy Sad
Tim Buckley
|
4 | 2.78 | +1.22 |
|
The Stranger
Billy Joel
|
5 | 3.85 | +1.15 |
|
Kilimanjaro
The Teardrop Explodes
|
4 | 2.86 | +1.14 |
|
Want One
Rufus Wainwright
|
4 | 2.9 | +1.1 |
|
Merriweather Post Pavilion
Animal Collective
|
4 | 2.9 | +1.1 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Blackstar
David Bowie
|
1 | 3.48 | -2.48 |
|
Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
|
1 | 3.47 | -2.47 |
|
Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
|
1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
|
You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen
|
1 | 3.34 | -2.34 |
|
System Of A Down
System Of A Down
|
1 | 3.27 | -2.27 |
|
The Real Thing
Faith No More
|
1 | 3.2 | -2.2 |
|
Songs From A Room
Leonard Cohen
|
1 | 3.16 | -2.16 |
|
I'm Your Man
Leonard Cohen
|
1 | 3.1 | -2.1 |
|
You're Living All Over Me
Dinosaur Jr.
|
1 | 3.08 | -2.08 |
|
Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
|
1 | 2.97 | -1.97 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Van Morrison | 3 | 4.33 |
| Pink Floyd | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Leonard Cohen | 5 | 1.4 |
| Dinosaur Jr. | 2 | 1.5 |
| Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds | 2 | 1.5 |
| Joy Division | 2 | 1.5 |
5-Star Albums (10)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
The Residents
1/5
This is without a doubt the worst thing I've ever heard. I'm actually glad it's on this list to raise awareness for people to stay far away. At least with some genres like heavy metal I can kind of understand why some people might enjoy it. No one enjoys this music. This is nauseatingly bad. 0/10 (0/5)
4 likes
Portishead
2/5
Tough listen. Really hampered by the vocals. I'm sure there are people out there who are into this but it's so mopey and dark. The instruments aren't awful (albeit maybe a bit boring) but yeah, not great. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
3 likes
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
What is this nonsense? Started on a bad foot with the self-written Spotify description describing the band as "one of the world's most exciting, influential, innovative, and compelling bands." Get out of here with that pretentiousness. This is garbage. Vocals are creepy with empty ambient music backing them. Just write poetry instead. Turned off after 3 songs. 1.5/10 (0.75/5)
1 likes
The Incredible String Band
2/5
Heady hippie music with lots of singing in unison and sitars, flutes, etc.. Early psych but not very good. Vocals bring the record down. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
1 likes
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
A really good album for a genre that can be pretty decisive for me. It's definitely intense and noisy but there are some great hits on this album. Just when I was thinking to myself I needed a break from the noise Soma came as a nice relief. Maybe a little front half heavy. 7/10 (3.5/5)
1 likes
1-Star Albums (23)
All Ratings
Electric Light Orchestra
4/5
Turn to Stone, Sweet Talkin' Woman, and Mr. Blue Sky are all classics. The album is mostly upbeat, even Abba-esque? at times. The sound quality is pretty rough though (overly noisy/distorted at times). Lots of harmonies (sounding like Queen or even the Beatles at some points). Jungle & Birmingham Blues were new songs for me that I enjoyed. It's a good album and there weren't really any songs I wanted to skip, but I wouldn't say it was great by any means. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Jerry Lee Lewis
3/5
Holy tempo. I'm warn out just from listening to these songs, so I can't imagine how the audience in 1964 felt. Lots of covers- Money, Great Balls of Fire, Good Golly Miss Molly are 3 great songs all in a row. The other songs were mostly forgettable though. I do have to imagine it was an awesome concert to attend. 6.75/10 (3.375/5)
Snoop Dogg
3/5
Obviously a groundbreaking hip-hop album but just not for me. I like the Parliament Funkadelic samples...Some good beats and iconic songs but overly crass for no need at times. 6.0/10 (3/5)
Johnny Cash
4/5
I've never really listened to a lot of Johnny Cash but know he's a legendary country music artist. I was pleasantly surprised with this album. Some interesting/different covers on the album with Danny Boy, Desperado, and In My Life. I prefer a bit more upbeat than Johnny's deep baritone dirges but all in all an enjoyable listen. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
A really good album, very enjoyable listen. Gets a little slow towards the end before picking up a bit with the last track. Thunder Road as the first song may be one of the best album openers. A solid 8/10 (4/5)
The Prodigy
2/5
Not an album or artist I had ever heard of before, but I did recognize some of the songs. I can appreciate when they're doing and I'm sure it was great for late 90s Euro techno, but it just isn't for me. Repetitive, grating at times, with corny lyrics. Some catchy beats though. 4/10 (2/5)
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
3/5
Another album/artist I've never heard of. I don't even think I've heard any of these songs before. It's an enjoyable listen but I don't think there's anything that would make me want to revisit it. The songs run together a bit and it's just the definition of bang average. 6/10 (3/5)
George Michael
2/5
Ugh, the whiny 80s British albums have got to stop. Freedom is a classic but I'm just bored listening to this album. It just makes me feel like I'm listening to a much worse Michael Jackson. 4/10 (2/5)
Deep Purple
3/5
There's certainly some potential here. Classic rock and roll (with all the good and bad that entails). Definitely some enjoyable moments but some that just drag on way too long (looking at you drum and screeching guitar solos). A 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Talking Heads
4/5
Admittedly I'm a Talking Heads fan so I already knew I'm a fan of the album. Some forgettable songs but mostly solid with a couple hits. David Byrne's singing can get annoying after a while but all in all a really good album. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
Damn, what an album. So many great songs and enjoyable from start to finish. My only complaint is that the album is a bit front loaded with hits. The second half of the album starts to blend together a bit. 8.25/10 (4.125/5)
SAULT
3/5
I don't think this album was made for me, per se. It's above average though and somewhat enjoyable. I do think sometimes the music may have been compromised for the sake of making a message, but maybe that's more important. 6/10 (3/5)
Beatles
3/5
It's The Beatles so there's obviously a handful of timeless classics here. However, I can't help but feel like it sounds too dated. The vocals really have that 50s/early 60s quality and you can tell. Not a single song over 3 minutes as well. 6/10 (3/5)
Marvin Gaye
2/5
Well Marvin Gaye's vocals are good. That's pretty much where this album ends though. It's just so darn boring. Someone listening with me described it like they felt like they were at a bank and it was one continuous song. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
An above average album, but nothing great. Take Me Out is obviously a hit and there weren't any bad songs on the album really. However, I can't help but feel like I'm at a friend's band's show at a local bar with some of these songs. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
Meh. Just so average, I don't even really have any comments. It's a movie soundtrack. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Rufus Wainwright
4/5
A pleasant surprise. Have never really listened to Rufus Wainwright but I enjoyed it. The vocals are almost Thom Yorke-esque at times. Some of the slower ballads dragged on a bit but all in all an above average album. 7.25/10 (3.625/5)
Sepultura
3/5
Yeah I just can't fairly rate this album. It might be great but I can't get through a metal album. The vocals are so tough.
Elvis Costello
3/5
Meh. I like some Elvis Costello songs but this album doesn't really do it for me. Seems like it just relies on trying to be quirky and evoke a nostalgic 50s sound. I just imagine Fred Armisen in Portlandia singing all these songs. 6/10 (3/5)
Fats Domino
4/5
I can dig it. A couple songs missing on Spotify unfortunately. Great vocals and solid instrumentals behind him. 7.25/10 (3.625/5)
Arcade Fire
3/5
Solid album from start to finish. Every song was pretty unique and there wasn't anything I really wanted to skip. There's even some church organs on a couple songs which is wild. 6.75/10 (3.375/5)
Pavement
2/5
Eh. Had never heard of this band before so it was good to be exposed to something new. It's fine but the vocals get pretty annoying after a while. There just isn't really a good song on the album. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Leonard Cohen
2/5
As someone who admittedly doesn't listen to a lot of lyrics, these songs aren't for me for that reason. They are very lyric dependent with some light music going on in the background. The lyrics might very well be good (although they seemed corny at times) and reminded me of Bob Dylan/Paul Simon in places. Just not an album for me. Also- album cover looks like Al Pacino...is Leonard actually Al Pacino? 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Psychedelic Furs
3/5
Miles Davis
2/5
This album could've been one song and I would've believed you. Maybe that's on me for being ignorant but there just isn't much here. I think in general a lack of lyrics is going to make any album lesser rated, but even the instrumentation here is just kind of boring and grating. 4/10 (2/5)
Van Morrison
5/5
Yeah this is about as good as it gets. Every song is excellent and infinitely repeatable. Caravan also probably being one of my favorite songs of all time. My first 5 star review- 9.5/10 (4.75/5)
Roxy Music
2/5
What a weird album. I've never heard any of these songs before. I actually found myself enjoying a lot of the instruments, there's some great guitar, keyboard, and sax solos. The new-wave-esque vocals are too much though and really detract from the instrumentals. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
The Louvin Brothers
2/5
Meh. Too dated but some enjoyable guitar/banjo playing. Honestly one of the first albums I didn't listen to all the way through. 4/10 (2/5)
Orbital
3/5
I enjoyed this album more than I thought I was going to. Pretty unique and was able to keep me entertained throughout. I can imagine being at a rave in the early 90s and really digging this. 7/10 (3.5/5)
The Stone Roses
4/5
An album I still remember hearing for the first time. Enjoyable all the way through 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
Wanted to give this album a 4 purely based on No Woman No Cry alone but then you hear a song like Natty Dread and realize some of these songs are a bit phoned in. I know the simplistic nature is intentional but still. Solid album though. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Throwing Muses
2/5
Bit of a confusing one on the list here. No song with over 80,000 plays on Spotify so I don't quite understand the inclusion here. Sounds like a band that's playing in the background of a bar you're at. Occasionally you find yourself nodding along, but not really. 4/10 (2/5)
Album starts off with a banger but gets worse the longer it goes on. It's U2. Meh. 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Pharcyde
3/5
Interesting album for sure. Some of the other top comments summarized it well- playful/unserious to the extent where it's a bit detrimental to the quality of the album. The raps/flow is undeniably catchy but do we really need interludes and skits along the way? 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
The Beach Boys
4/5
Heavy hitter today. Widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. Definitely groundbreaking for its time and still holds up to this day. I think it comes down to if you vibe with the vocals or not. While I don't love them, I don't hate them either. 8/10 (4/5)
The Pogues
3/5
Solid way to start off St. Patrick's week. I definitely prefer the instruments over the vocals, but it was an enjoyable listen. 6/10 (3/5)
Public Enemy
2/5
I know this is a seminal hip hop album, but it gets pretty annoying after a while. The songs really start blending together and I feel like I'm getting yelled at. Not for me. 4/10 (2/5)
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Gotta love Frank Sinatra. Enjoyable listen all the way through but gets a little slow in the middle. I was right on the edge of rating it a 4 but I simply don't think I'd re-listen to the album again. I'll listen to certain songs but not the whole album all the way through, and I think that makes it a 3. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Little Simz
2/5
I mean sure this was a fine album and I enjoyed listening to it. Some good beats and rap. However, a top 1001 album of all time? Not even close. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
One of the great rap albums of all time. Plenty of above average songs. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Al Green
4/5
Short and sweet. Great vocals, good backing instrumentals and enjoyable throughout. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Weather Report
3/5
Well I definitely think they chose the right band name. Evokes memories of watching the Weather Channel in the 90s or going to Arby's with your grandparents. I'm so confused with this album though because I kind of dug it. Like I'm never going to listen to it ever again but it wasn't bad. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Dr. Octagon
1/5
I got 10 songs in and had to stop at a "A Visit To The Gynecologyst". I really tried to give this album a shot but it's trash. There's a bit of potential here but it's totally undone but the 90s rap crudeness and unnecessary vulgarity. 2/10 (1/5)
Ash
2/5
I can see why some people might like this, but I am not one of them. Whiny vocals with generic rock backing. 4/10 (2/5)
Adele
4/5
Not necessarily an album I'm reaching for but you have to respect the unique talent and songwriting here. An album deserving of this list. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
The Smiths
3/5
Another album that was more enjoyable than I thought it would be. Vocals can be pretty whiny Brit-pop at times but a solid and unique album. 6/10 (3/5)
T. Rex
3/5
Not bad, but also not really sure it deserves a spot on this list. Sounded like a Jack White prototype. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Fairport Convention
4/5
Wow, what an album. I've never heard of this band before but it's right up my alley. The psychedelic folk with Irish sounding vocals is top notch. 8/10 (4/5)
Tears For Fears
3/5
3 huge hits that are enjoyable but the rest of the album is kind of forgettable. The vocals can be too much at times. I did like the last song too though (since there wasn't much singing). Middle of the road. 6/10 (3/5)
Joan Armatrading
3/5
Middle of the road, no big standouts but no skips either. Down to Zero was probably my favorite off the album. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Linkin Park
1/5
Not an album I'm going to listen to all the way through. I get the gist after 3 songs and I'm not a fan on Linkin Park. I was going to give this a 2 as I know some people love it even though it isn't for me but F it, it's a 2/10 (1/5)
Nitin Sawhney
1/5
The deeper you get into the list the more you realized how UK-skewed it is. Also the commitment to a diverse array of music can be great but also a big negative at points. I think I need to start viewing this list as just "1001 random albums" and not the best 1001 of all time. "Pilgrim" was brutal to get through with its weak spoken-word. I feel like I've heard most of these songs in a wannabe trendy hotel lobby before. This album is all over the place, and not in a good way, with no cohesiveness from song to song. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Daft Punk
4/5
Finally an album I was excited to listen to. Enjoyable and some definite all-time hits on here. However, some of the other tracks fall a bit flat and get repetitive. I'm sure it'd be amazing live or at a club, but for just listening at home it doesn't translate very well. Still an above average album though. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2/5
Oh great, another Elvis Costello album. I feel like every time I listen to an album of his I enjoy the first 1-2 songs and then they slowly start to drive me crazy. 4/10 (2/5)
Pearl Jam
4/5
Not a favorite genre of mine but you have to respect the appreciate the significance of this album. Huge hits and the other tracks were good as well. 7/10 (3.5/5)
GZA
3/5
Not my favorite genre but an enjoyable listen. 6/10 (3/5)
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
2/5
Another random inclusion on this list. The vocals are really rough on this. Instrumentals are fine enough but all around it's just kind of a below average album that doesn't belong here. 4/10 (2/5)
Everything But The Girl
1/5
I made it 4 songs in and had to turn it off. Why is this here? Trash "easy listening" with shaky vocals. 2.5/10 (1.25/5)
Jorge Ben Jor
3/5
Actually kind of enjoyed this album. The first random "world music" album on this list that I've liked. The music is pretty catchy. 6/10 (3/5)
Count Basie & His Orchestra
2/5
Just fine. Not my genre, and maybe it's just me but the songs really blend together after a while. Cool album art and name though. 4/10 (2/5)
Beastie Boys
2/5
Classic Beastie Boys. Great if you're into them but the yell rapping can get old after a while. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Bert Jansch
3/5
Simple, easy listening. The vocals aren't great but the guitar is nice. Nothing wrong with this. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Bee Gees
3/5
Very unexpected when I only know the Bee Gees from their disco hits. This was like a David Bowie/Beatles/ELO combination. A fine album. Nothing great and nothing awful. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
Great, more mediocre British synthpop. Thought it was going to be an average 3 after the first couple songs but it could pretty annoying to listen to the longer it went on. Nothing really notable here. 4/10 (2/5)
Common
3/5
Solid album. Not much to note, good classic mid 2000 rap. 6/10 (3/5)
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Much better than the earlier Marvin Gaye album on this list. Songs flow together beautifully, the vocals are on point (of course), and the backing instrumentals are good too. Above average and would consider listening to again in its entirety. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Stan Getz
3/5
Better than most jazz albums. A couple of the songs I really enjoyed (especially Desafinado the opener. The songs do start to blend together after a while but it's nice that the album is on the shorter side. 6/10 (3/5)
M.I.A.
2/5
Look, I get it. It's a Sri Lankan fusion of rap and world music and that was new and unique, but man, this is pretty jarring. I feel like this album could be played by militaries to torture prisoners. It's just so noisy and busy in all the worst ways. For the sole reason that Paper Planes is a banger I'll give it a 3/10 (1.5/5)
Louis Prima
3/5
Fine, above average for an old album. Good vocals. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Frank Zappa
4/5
Yeah this album rocks. Only 6 songs but 3 of them are 9+ minutes which I think is a good choice. Great jamming and excellent drum & guitar work. A pleasant surprise. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Boston
5/5
This is a tough one. I'm right on the edge of a 4 or 5. Great album, very enjoyable and probably the best 3 song start to an album of all time. There is some repetition as the album goes on, but it's short enough that it isn't bothersome. Since this is probably the second or third best album on this list I've heard in 60+ albums, I'll give it the 5. 9/10 (4.5/5)
Green Day
4/5
A classic nostalgic album with some awesome hits (and great album art as well). 7/10 (3.5/5)
Jurassic 5
3/5
This was a fun hip hop album. Good flow, fun backing instruments, no complaints. No standouts but no skips either. 6/10 (3/5)
Cypress Hill
3/5
I do enjoy the nasally raps of Cypress Hill and thought it was an enjoyable listen. Many points lost, however, due to every song being about smoking weed. We get it, you smoke. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Massive Attack
2/5
Well every song sounded unique, but that isn't necessarily a good thing. Honestly just a pretty boring listen that I don't need to hear again. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Elvis Presley
2/5
It's Elvis. I'm sure it was groundbreaking and new at the time but it's never been for me. I'm just not a big fan of Elvis's vocals but you do have to appreciate the new sound and pioneering an upbeat country/rock and roll sound. 5/10 (2.5/5)
King Crimson
2/5
I mean...it's fine. Really just a lot of noises though for the sake of making noise. I don't need all the screeching and sirens and extended guitar riffs. Sounds like the music your kid's band makes in your garage. 4/10 (2/5)
The Darkness
2/5
Wow, the falsetto singing is absolutely brutal. It's almost comically bad. Just altogether pretty lifeless and bland rock with very few redeemable qualities. I'll round up to two stars just because some of the guitar didn't make me want to kill myself (like everything else did). 3/10 (1.5/5)
Ian Dury
1/5
More British nonsense. The vocals are so odd and boring. I'm turning this off after 4 songs. I'm not wasting any more time on this. 2/10 (1/5)
Beatles
5/5
A masterpiece. Timeless and a classic for a reason. Vocals, songwriting, instruments, production all top notch. 9/10 (4.5/5)
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Not always the biggest fan of the Rolling Stones but this is a good one. The prominent harmonica throughout is a big plus and a legendary opener in Gimme Shelter. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Elbow
3/5
Brand new to me and an enjoyable listen. I thought it was Phil Collins on vocals at first and very reminiscent of DMB/Coldplay. Nothing groundbreaking but nothing awful either. 6/10 (3/5)
The Beta Band
3/5
Ah great, some more bang average British music. Can't wait to listen to more tomorrow. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Britney Spears
2/5
Can't listen to this one but I'll give it a 2 star
Duke Ellington
2/5
I'm sure in 1956 this was the best thing going. Almost 70 years later though and I'm just kind of bored. Way too long of an album to finish. 4/10 (2/5)
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Admittedly I probably have a classic rock bias, so I may rate this one a bit higher than it's worth but it's an enjoyable listen. Out on the Tiles was a surprise standout. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Sonic Youth
2/5
Tough listen. Really not my genre and some really unenjoyable sounds all around. I know Sonic Youth is a very well regarded band if you're into punk, but it's simply not for me. At least the album was short. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Deerhunter
4/5
Oh yeah, this is a good one. A rare pleasant surprise. I've heard some Deerhunter before but never an album all the way through and it was a good listen from start to finish. 7/10 (3.5/5)
The Charlatans
2/5
You ever see an album cover and just groan to yourself because you know what's coming? This was better than expected but only because my expectations were so low. Unremarkably average. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Elvis Presley
3/5
Above average for an Elvis album. Vocals were cleaner but the songs get repetitive after a while (album has 16 songs, which is probably too many). 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
The Who
3/5
Amazing opening and closing tracks sandwiching some more middle of the road songs. I expected this album to be higher but it was still a good listen. 6/10 (3/5)
Mj Cole
2/5
It's fine. Never something I am going to choose to listen to but it doesn't make me angry like a 1 star does. Just a weird genre in general and boring. Album is also way too long and I turned it off after 3 songs. Sounds like something you'd hear in the background of a hotel trying to be hip. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Donovan
2/5
Definitely a revolutionary album for it's time and I'm sure it was a great addition to psychedelic landscape. However, it doesn't hold up very well. By no means is it a bad album, just kind of blase besides for a couple of hits. 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Electric Prunes
3/5
A new listen for me. Middle of the road. I especially enjoyed some of the instrumentals but the vocals were a bit dated. A short album though and there are certainly worse albums on the list. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
Definitely an above average album. Great guitar playing (which makes sense considering it's Eric Clapton and Duane Allman). I don't know what it is but I feel like something's missing for this to be truly great though. It's also too long of an album with six songs that are 6+ minutes. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Hard to dislike Stevie. An enjoyable album but he's at his best with more upbeat songs, which this album doesn't have enough of. Boogie On and You Haven't Done Nothin' are great and funky, but everything else is a bit too slow. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
The Beach Boys
3/5
Yep, these are songs. Fine, really nothing stands out about the album. I feel like the mixing is odd in places and the vocals feel like a whisper/distorted at times. Meh. 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Specials
2/5
This album isn't bad by any means...but it also isn't good either. British ska just seems wrong for some reason. At the end of the day it was just kind of boring and nothing stood out but at the same time it still kind of grooves. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Germs
2/5
Yikes, tough listen. Not being a fan of punk certainly doesn't help but oof, those vocals. One song would end and I would sigh in relief only for the next song to start right back up where the last left off- screetching and yelling. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Rush
3/5
Kind of silly to have a 20 minute song that's just a combination of like 5 different songs. But all things considered this was a good album. Not a huge Rush fan (mostly due to the vocals) but this wasn't awful. 6/10 (3/5)
David Bowie
4/5
Love me some David Bowie. This album was pretty good but not earth shattering. Some good diverse songs to keep the album from growing stale and a couple of great hits. 7/10 (3.5/5)
R.E.M.
4/5
Really don't have a lot to say about this album. It was a good listen from start to finish and I'd listen to it again. Definitely above average. 8/10 (4/5)
Jamiroquai
4/5
This music is pretty infectious. Perfect to put on in the background. Funky, smooth vocals, with great bass lines. I didn't listen to disc 2 (with live/demo versions) as it was simply too long. I'm between a 3 and a 4 but we'll round up for Jamiroquai. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Nine Inch Nails
2/5
If you're into this genre, I'm sure this is great. I'm not though, and I don't want listen all the way through this. Too much screaming and loudness. 4/10
(2/5)
Willie Nelson
2/5
I always wondered if I thought Willie Nelson was a bad singer/sounded like an old man because I've only heard him recently when he is a very old man. However, this album from 1978 shows that's just how he has always sounded. Maybe the appeal is that he sounds like he has absolutely no business singing? I don't get it. I thought Kermit the frog was singing sometimes. Songs were alright but man cannot sing. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
R.E.M.
3/5
Perfectly average. Nothing remarkable to note at all really but that's not necessarily bad. Great for a debut album. I enjoyed listening throughout and would listen again in the background. 6/10 (3/5)
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Noooo not this old bag of bones again. Turning off at the start of the second song. I don't want this old man raping my ears with his creepy voice. 1/10 (0.5/5)
The Style Council
3/5
Not what I was expecting at all, in a good way. I was worried this would be more British garbage when I saw the band name but it was a pretty good album. The piano especially was a highlight but also the horns and other backing instruments. Really all over the place though stylistically. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
The Smiths
3/5
Not exactly a huge fan of the Smiths but I liked this album. Morrissey's singing does get old after a while though and the songs tend to blend together. 6.75/10 (3.375/5)
Aretha Franklin
3/5
Great vocals, of course. Not my go-to style as it's a bit outdated but obviously immensely talented. 6/10 (3/5)
Solomon Burke
3/5
This was a fine listen. Short songs, nice singing, kind of boring. First song almost had a John Fogerty sound to it and I got some Elvis vibes throughout as well. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
The Slits
2/5
This album started off with a lot of potential and quickly went downhill. I thought the sound was new and fresh and then it turned into a lot of noise (summed up perfectly with the last song which is just banging of instruments). Almost Yoko Ono levels of screetching in places. Unique and I don't hate that it's on this list but it wasn't an enjoyable listen. 4/10 (2/5)
Van Morrison
4/5
Van the man. Vibrant, electric, and entertaining throughout. A perfect album to throw on in the background while hanging on the patio. The fact that it's a live album deserves some credit as well. 8/10 (4/5)
The Stranglers
3/5
Pretty average album. Some fun keyboards/organ with the usual weird British vocals. It really would be a pretty good album if it weren't for the dumb sounding singing. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Sam Cooke
3/5
A fun listen. Huge energy and I'm sure it was a blast to see in person. Vocals are great but there's not enough in the way of other instruments to elevate this album to a 4. Still glad I listened though. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Pulp
2/5
Average British pop. Not much to note and didn't want to finish the album. 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Replacements
3/5
On the fence with this one. Some of the more indie sounding songs were actually pretty good but the album also has a punk aspect to it which I didn't enjoy as much. We'll round up as I know there's much worse 80s British out there plus there being a song titled Gary's Got a Boner. 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Who
2/5
Honestly pretty underwhelming. The album just sounds a bit too dated to hold up and it's clear this album is from 1965. Obviously My Generation is a hit but that's about the only noteworthy thing on the album. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Going to give this one a rare 5. It's got everything. Great vocals, fun instrumentals, and a varied song list. This album never got stale and was enjoyable from start to finish. Some amazing hits and even the deep cuts were good. 9/10 (4.5/5)
Pink Floyd
4/5
Is it great? Yes. Is it a masterpiece? I'm not so sure. There are a heap of classic songs on here but at a certain point it's almost like it's reputation precedes it and you go into it assuming it's an all timer. It's simply too long and seems like it veers into too much of an "art project" for lack of a better description. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Dusty Springfield
2/5
This album is carried heavily by Son of a Preacher Man. While that's an amazing song, the rest of the album is very slow, sounds dated, and doesn't have a lot to offer. Not bad by any means but kind of boring. 4/10 (2/5)
The Youngbloods
4/5
I've never heard of this band before but this is great. I wish the vocals were a little bit better but honestly just a well made album. The album art perfectly summarizes how this album sounds- good, easy listening. I'm a fan. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Skepta
2/5
It's British rap. It's fine but not great by any means. Admittedly not my genre but still, there's not much to note here. Lyrics can be cheesy/cringe at times (see Numbers). Meh. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Sparks
2/5
Holy falsetto. This album sounds like Tiny Tim, Queen, and Rush teamed up to make an album. It's weird and I'm not sure who chooses to listen to this for enjoyment. It sounds like Sparks thought of a random song name and then they just say that word over and over again until you're mad. This wasn't good. 3/10 (1.5/5)
ABBA
4/5
ABBA rules, that's all. 8/10 (4/5)
The Cars
4/5
Amazing 3 songs to start off the album. A bit of a lull after that but still a great listen. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Johnny Cash
3/5
Definitely a very historic album and I'm glad I took the opportunity to listen to it. I enjoyed the "liveness" to this album with Johnny's banter to the inmates. After a while though I couldn't help but wonder when the album was going to end. A good listen but not my go-to genre/style. 6/10 (3/5)
Dinosaur Jr.
1/5
This album almost got 2 stars purely based on the fact I was able to get through it, but then Poledo came on and I think that may be one of the worst songs of all time. This is trash. Awful vocals, guitar is annoying, and tons of annoying screetching/noises put in just because. 2.5/10 (1.25/5)
Destiny's Child
3/5
Did not listen but giving 3 stars 6/10 (3/5)
Nirvana
3/5
I get it, but I don't necessarily like it. Still groundbreaking and raw and deserving of this list. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Arcade Fire
4/5
Yeah, this is pretty good. Every song is pretty solid but I still kind of feel like I want more from them. Other commenters are correct that it is just kind of boring after a while. Sprawl II is one of the greats though. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Cream
3/5
Excellent electric guitar playing. That's really about it. Very short album. Some classic late 60s vocals. Slightly above average 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Fine album. Not a huge fan of the Stones and Mick Jagger but it is what it is. A bit confused with the difference in the UK and US album versions so I'm not sure which one I should be ranking. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Portishead
2/5
Tough listen. Really hampered by the vocals. I'm sure there are people out there who are into this but it's so mopey and dark. The instruments aren't awful (albeit maybe a bit boring) but yeah, not great. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Dire Straits
4/5
Enjoyable from start to finish. Love the guitar. Dire Straits is much more than just the hits (though those are exceptional too). 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Steely Dan
2/5
I don't think I really like Steely Dan. Similar to The Doobie Brothers with Michael McDonald, I just don't like the vocals. It all just feels kind of...lifeless? I'm not sure why or when I would be listening to music like this. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Butthole Surfers
2/5
This....wasn't as bad as it could have been. There were parts that were actually enjoyable. Ruined by the awful screetching noises in spots, but better than most of a similar genre. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Really solid album from start to finish. Some great hits and a couple less popular songs. Just fun, classic rock and roll. John Bonham is so good. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
What is this nonsense? Started on a bad foot with the self-written Spotify description describing the band as "one of the world's most exciting, influential, innovative, and compelling bands." Get out of here with that pretentiousness. This is garbage. Vocals are creepy with empty ambient music backing them. Just write poetry instead. Turned off after 3 songs. 1.5/10 (0.75/5)
Fela Kuti
4/5
Fun album. Very different but glad it's on here. The instruments can be repetitive but in a good way. Above average for sure. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
Masterfully executed and an enjoyable listen. Not a genre I turn to often but this has to be one of the best of its kind. 7/10 (3.5/5)
The Young Rascals
3/5
A rather unremarkable album, which isn't a bad thing. The sound is a bit dated but there weren't any songs I was dying to skip. Short album, quick songs. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Richard Hawley
3/5
A nice, calming album. Soothing vocals backed by solid instrumentals. Gets a bit boring as it goes on but above average overall. I much prefer this over a Leonard Cohen or something similar. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
5/5
Just one of the best. You have to be a fan of the style and harmonization but it's so good if you are. Deserving of 5 stars. 9/10 (4.5/5)
Prince
3/5
Honestly...I don't get all the hype around this album. Sure it's good and Prince brings a unique element that only he can, but some of these songs aren't great. Let's Go Crazy is an awesome starter but The Beautiful Ones is awful. One of the best of all time? No. 6/10 (3/5)
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
A really good album for a genre that can be pretty decisive for me. It's definitely intense and noisy but there are some great hits on this album. Just when I was thinking to myself I needed a break from the noise Soma came as a nice relief. Maybe a little front half heavy. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Beck
3/5
Well this is an album. I'm just not really sure who it's for. Nothing great to note and nothing awful to note. Bang average. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Roni Size
2/5
Boring robot music. Probably great live at a rave, not listening through headphones at work on a Wednesday. 4/10 (2/5)
Cat Stevens
4/5
Such a pleasant album. Cat's got some great pipes and every song is an enjoyable listen. 8/10 (4/5)
Otis Redding
3/5
It's fine. Good, not great. Not really much to note but an above average soul/blues album. Exactly as the top commenter notes, it's too one dimensional to score any higher. 6/10 (3/5)
Jimmy Smith
3/5
When the album first started I thought it was great but then I realized it's pretty one dimensional. Nobody will fault you for having it on in the background but that's where it belongs. Still some great keyboard playing by Jimmy Smith though. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
LL Cool J
2/5
It's fine. Not my genre but could certainly be a lot worse. Too long in all honesty. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Leonard Cohen
2/5
God I really don't like Leonard Cohen and his vocals. Thought I was going to make it through this one and then Diamonds in the Mine came on. Why. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Shuggie Otis
4/5
Damn, Shuggie kind of rocks. Just some great R&B/blues-esque music that was entertaining throughout. Could be a bit more polished/dialed in in some spots but all in all a really surprising and enjoyable album that I will listen to again. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
This Jimi guy is pretty good at guitar. What an album. Amazing guitar playing, good vocals. Kept me entertained throughout despite being on the longer side (an hour and 15) and All Along the Watchtower being the last song on the album basically. Good stuff. 8/10 (4/5)
Radiohead
2/5
I continue to try and get into/enjoy Radiohead but I just don't like it. Thom Yorke's vocals are difficult and I feel like I need to be in a very specific mood for them. I know there are better Radiohead albums out there as well so this one doesn't score too well for me. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
The Crusaders
2/5
Not the biggest fan here. It's certainly not bad but it reminds me of eating in an Arby's or walking through an airport. Boring funk/jazz. 4/10 (2/5)
Randy Newman
2/5
Eh. Randy's distinct voice works for a Toy Story soundtrack, but I don't want to listen to an album of his for pleasure. The sounds are quick and similar and don't offer a whole lot. I don't hate the songs but I also don't feel a need to listen ever again. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Kings of Leon
3/5
I'm a bit conflicted on this one. There are some songs I really like but I also found myself being ready for the album to end (and it's a short album). I don't think the vocals hold up to present day and sound dated. It's fine. 2.75/5 (5.5/10)
Fiona Apple
3/5
Went into the album pessimistic for some reason but I liked it. Very pleasant sounding and the voice works too. Does get a little tedious towards the middle/end and wish the songs had a little more variety, but pretty good. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Thin Lizzy
3/5
This album is so long. Also as a live album it isn't the best quality either. It's fine I guess. Less hair-metally than I thought it was going to be but still not exactly my cup of tea. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
System Of A Down
1/5
How can I rate something like this? It's obviously very popular and enjoyable to some people but I made it exactly 42 seconds into this album. I think for that reason I have to give it a 2/10 (1/5)
Muddy Waters
4/5
Fun album from a legendary blues icon. Great harmonica and good vocals. A bit repetitive in rhythm but the album is short so it doesn't get too in the way of things. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
The Notorious B.I.G.
3/5
Classic album from an all time great. Sound is a bit dated now though and the skits are unnecessary. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Calexico
3/5
A pretty interesting album that grew in uniqueness the longer it went on. A lot of different varied sounds. Sounded like Sufjan Stevens at some points and then totally different in others. Nothing to rave about but glad it was included here. 6/10 (3/5)
Sigur Rós
3/5
A peaceful, melodic, and unique listen. Not particularly entertaining but was fine to have on in the background. Does get a bit laborious after an hour though. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Van Morrison
4/5
Astral Weeks is one of the greatest songs of all time. Besides that the album is mixed with some great hits and some lulls. Definitely above average though from Van the man. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Prefab Sprout
2/5
This is just more British garbage. Got worse the longer it went on. Album was short (45 minutes) but felt long. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Hugh Masekela
2/5
Admittedly not my genre but I wasn't able to get through this one. So many pretentious, drawn out jazz numbers that by the 7th song I was done. Boring, slow, uninspired. 4/10 (2/5)
Stevie Wonder
3/5
A nice easy listening album with a couple of great hits on it. Do I think it's a top 100 album of all time? No. But it's still solid and deserves it's praise. 6/10 (3/5)
Iggy Pop
3/5
Lust for Life and The Passenger are a couple of awesome hits. Besides that, the album is a bit meh but certainly above average. Bowie rules. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Belle & Sebastian
4/5
Surprisingly nice and pleasant album. Easy listening that reminded me at times of Ezra Koenig/Sufjan Stevens/Cat Stevens/Lou Reed/etc. A band that I haven't listened to before but certainly would again on the right occasion. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
The Pretty Things
3/5
You could tell me this was a lost Beatles album and I'd believe you. It's not as good as the Beatles, but an interesting listen. Some cool sitar and songs but nothing that really grips me. 6/10 (3/5)
Supergrass
2/5
Supremely average. Nothing wrong with that but nothing that stands out either. Alright is a fun song but reminds me of TV commercials. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Really good but not great. A bit over the top at times but some undeniably great hits and music playing. 8/10 (4/5)
The Who
3/5
A great live album that grew in stature the longer it went on. I think The Who are at their best during longer songs where they're able to jam a bit more. A lot of the songs on this album are quick 2-3 minute songs, especially the first half of the album, which isn't as resonating. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Quicksilver Messenger Service
2/5
Alright but what in the actual fuck is "Where You Love"? Way too experimental with screeching guitars and feedback that never led anywhere. Who Do You Love is fun but still, it's a cover. May have been a more groundbreaking album back in the 60s, but doesn't hold up as well today...and this is a genre that should be right up my alley. 4/10 (2/5)
808 State
1/5
This album is hot garbage. Awful vocals, outdated late 80s/early 90s beats. Turned off after 2 songs. 1/10 (0.5/5)
Big Brother & The Holding Company
3/5
This was good and I enjoyed it, BUT it's a lot of Janis Joplin. Obviously talented and unique but better in small doses in my opinion. 6/10 (3/5)
David Bowie
3/5
Good album but not Bowie's best. A few low points but Fame is one of the best of all time. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Jack White
4/5
I was just thinking to myself the other day that I wanted to hear some Jack White. Here we are. I think Jack is a tremendously talented artist. This album isn't groundbreaking but it's enjoyable from start to finish. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Stereo MC's
3/5
I saw the album cover and took a deep breath, expecting the worst. However, this actually wasn't bad. The early 90s electronic/hip-hop combo works in this instance (for once). Nothing crazy, but nothing offensive. 6/10 (3/5)
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
Some good early, old school, psych rock. The sound is dated but that's to be expected a bit. Vocals are above average and the guitar is good but there's nothing earth shattering. Slightly above average. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
The Doors
4/5
I really enjoy the Doors but never find myself putting them on. This is a great example of their work. The keys/organ in particular are a big highlight (most of the time). Jim's vocals can get somewhat grating after a while but this is an above average album for sure. Riders on the Storm- what else do you need. 8/10 (4/5)
Lorde
3/5
This is a beautifully sounding album. Would never normally turn on a "pop" album like this but it was a pleasant surprise. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Wu-Tang Clan
3/5
Not usually a genre I listen to but definitely a good album. The rapping/lyrics are the focus here, with most songs featuring prominent rap and a simpler backing track/loop. 6/10 (3/5)
Buffalo Springfield
3/5
This album never really went anywhere for me. It was a blend of a lot of different genres but I feel like it resulted in the album being less cohesive. While I appreciate what Buffalo Springfield brought, I am glad that these musicians went on to bigger and better projects. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Radiohead
4/5
I always feel like Radiohead is a band I'm supposed to like more but I can't get myself to do it. Thom Yorke's singing can be difficult unless you're in the mood for it. With that being said, this is a great album. High and Dry and Fake Plastic Trees specifically are two amazing songs. Some songs are a bit weaker but overall an above average listen for sure. 8/10 (4/5)
Frank Sinatra
2/5
Sinatra behind a mic is obviously going to lead to some great vocals, but that's kind of where the great parts of this album end. The backing instruments seem to just be there so Frank has something to sing over. Overall a bit forgettable. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
De La Soul
4/5
An album that has been on my list for a while and I'm glad I finally gave it a listen. I get the hype around this album- the raps and samples are great. Some weird sketch-like inclusions but that's typical for late 80s/early 90s rap. You can see how this album influenced many that came afterwards. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Commonly regarded as one of the best albums of all time. It's definitely up there but I'm struggling to rate it 5 stars. Tons of great songs (Sir Duke, I Wish, Isn't She Lovely, As) but album is long at an hour and 45 minutes. Stevie Wonder is awesome though. 8/10 (4/5)
Sepultura
1/5
As is usually the case with this genre, I made it through half a song and called it a day. I'm glad someone out there finds this enjoyable but that person is not me. 2/10 (1/5)
Janis Joplin
4/5
I'm just ranking disc 1 of this album (and not disc 2 with the live tracks), but wow, what a great album. Bluesy, soulful, and raw in the best way. 8.75/10 (4.375/5)
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
This was a fine early rap album. Some good raps and backing loops but nothing that stands out too much besides Can I Kick It? I'm sure it was groundbreaking at the time but through today's lens it's just a bit above average. 6/10 (3/5)
Beastie Boys
2/5
Ugh, this is a hard one. At times during this album I found myself nodding my head, but then about halfway through groaned to myself as the next song came on, "not another one." I think the Beastie Boys are best in small doses otherwise the rapping gets annoying pretty quickly. Fight For Your Right an obvious banger though. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Steely Dan
3/5
Steely Dan just doesn't really do it for me. Nothing here that I hate but nothing I love either- very middle of the road. The guitar/drums are nice but I can't get into the vocals. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Circle Jerks
2/5
This album is wild. It's 15 minutes long! It's also not very good. Probably pretty groundbreaking at the time (1980) as it sounds like it could be from much later in the 80s or 90s, but I think that's really the only thing of note for this punk album. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Wild Beasts
2/5
This album has potential, the music is catchy and sounds good...The vocals though. My god the vocals. So much weird falsetto yelling and British garbage. Could've been a good album otherwise. 3.25/10 (1.625/5)
Joy Division
2/5
I'll never understand the appear of some of these British singers. It's such an unnerving way to sing. There's some catchy elements to this album but will always be marred by the vocals. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Billy Joel
5/5
This album is the definition of a 5. Almost every song is a hit and contagiously catchy (Movin' Out, Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, Vienna, Only the Good Die Young, She's Always a Woman). An album that you wouldn't mind starting over as soon as it's finished. 9.25/10 (4.625/5)
T. Rex
2/5
Eh, a very average listen. Really just kind of boring and nothing really stands out. Vocals are a less good Bowie, the music is pretty slow and repetitive as well. 5/10 (2.5/5)
2/5
Just some pretty average early 80s punk/alt/new-wave right here. Almost like a worse version of the B-52s and the Ramones teaming up. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
The Residents
1/5
This is without a doubt the worst thing I've ever heard. I'm actually glad it's on this list to raise awareness for people to stay far away. At least with some genres like heavy metal I can kind of understand why some people might enjoy it. No one enjoys this music. This is nauseatingly bad. 0/10 (0/5)
Bad Brains
1/5
Well that certainly wasn't what I was expecting. This was weird in a not good way. Some of the guitar was fine but nothing else really was. Vocals get pretty weird and screetchy. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
There's definitely some great hits on this album. Born in the USA is an all-timer for sure. However, the rest of the blue collar, union working songs kind of blend together. Also wayyyyy too many references to young girls. What's the deal with that Bruce? 6/10 (3/5)
Parliament
4/5
I've got a soft spot for Parliament. Incredible embodiment of everything funk is. George Clinton is an all-timer. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
The Teardrop Explodes
4/5
Found this much more enjoyable than I thought I would. It's British as hell but it works and I was nodding along to most songs. Really had to lookup if Outkast sampled Use Me in their song Rosa Parks. Definitely a good early 80s new wave/David Byrne-esque sounding album. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Suede
2/5
There were parts of each song that I did enjoy, but I also didn't enjoy the vocals in every song either. Too mopey/ghoulish. Not awful but nothing stands out either. Meh. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Girls Against Boys
1/5
Yep, there's nothing of value here. Stopped listening after one and a half songs. 1/10 (0.5/5)
Eminem
3/5
Eminem is a legend and there's some great rap here. However (and this is more on me) this album is just so grotesque and crass and I'm just not in the mood for it. You also have the weird skits which usually don't add anything. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
The War On Drugs
4/5
Really enjoyed this on a Monday morning. The vocals, guitar, and keys all worked well together and there's a soothing sound to it all. 8/10 (4/5)
Kacey Musgraves
2/5
This was a fine listen but didn't blow me away. Her voice is nice and she wastes no time getting into each song. Most are quick (13 songs on a 45 minute album), but overall just average. As others have noted, there are some really cringey/weird lyrics. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Van Halen
2/5
The first four songs on this album are pretty well known, which I guess is something. Look, I get what Van Halen is doing and I think they do it pretty well. But I still don't like it. The over the top 80s hair metal simply doesn't appeal to me in the slightest. Was very confused by the first minute of Ice Cream Man too. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
OutKast
4/5
Tough one to rate. It's a double album and it's LONG (2 hours 15 minutes). I think consolidating some of the filler down and just having one album would've been a great idea. There are some awesome songs on here (including maybe the best song of the 2000s in Hey Ya!) but there are 40 to choose from. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Kanye West
3/5
Didn't love or hate any of these songs really. Fine enough for a huge commercial rap album. Lots of different features which is interesting I suppose. 6/10 (3/5)
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Love CCR and John Fogerty. Sure, maybe some of these songs blend together and sound similar but it's their sound. 8/10 (4/5)
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Some good late 90s British electronic music (which isn't very common). Right Here Right Now, The Rockafella Skank, and Praise You are all huge songs that I grew up with. There are some songs that get a bit annoying/repetitive looping but that's to be expected. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Beck
2/5
Beck is an artist that has been on my list to listen to for a while. Three songs in I thought to myself- "man, this kind of sucks." I didn't really like any of this. Too mopey sad boy. 3.25/10 (1.75/5)
AC/DC
4/5
What a great rock and roll album. Hells Bells, Shoot to Thrill, Back in Black, You Shook Me All Night Long, Rock and Roll Ain't Noise Pollution...Sure the vocals and guitar can be screetchy but this is an all-timer. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Dusty Springfield
2/5
Nothing really of note here. Sound is pretty dated and musically there's not much of interest. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Ramones
3/5
A classic and storied punk rock album. Quick, fast, and abrasive. Blitzkrieg Bop is a great way to start but it's not a genre that stands out to me. 6/10 (3/5)
Michael Jackson
4/5
May not be a personal favorite but you cannot deny the greatness of this album. It's the best selling of all time for a reason and MJ's perfectionism shows. The sound is perfect and there's a lot of huge hits. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Miles Davis
3/5
I know this is regarded as one of the best albums of all time, and potentially the best jazz album of all time. However, jazz has a ceiling for me and it can only be but so enjoyable. I liked listening to this in the background, but not sure I would ever throw it on again. 6/10 (3/5)
The Incredible String Band
2/5
Heady hippie music with lots of singing in unison and sitars, flutes, etc.. Early psych but not very good. Vocals bring the record down. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
The Stooges
3/5
There's some good here, and there's some bad here. Iggy's vocals aren't always the best and can get a bit annoying but there are some pretty fun different melodies and rhythms. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Green Day
3/5
I do enjoy some Green Day and this is no exception. Credit for having a punk rock album where 4 songs are 7:30+ minutes long. Huge hits in American Idiot, Holiday, Wake Me up When September Ends. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Beatles
4/5
A very good Beatles album but not their best. Disc 1 is stronger than disc 2 and it's a very long album. Revolution 9 is bizarre and takes away from the album, in my opinion. 8/10 (4/5)
The Only Ones
2/5
Another album, another random inconsequential British inclusion. Unsure why this album is here and who it's for. Another gloomy British vocalist mumbling through each song. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Underworld
3/5
It's oddly not as bad as it should be. A combination of looping spa music and call center hold music with random vocals thrown in. It does drift into laser tag music territory sometimes and is probably a bit too long. Still a bit of a surprise though. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
4/5
An incredible 3 songs to start off the album. Enjoyed the Indian/sitar influence on some of the songs too. Again, not the Beatles best album but still a damn good one. 8.25/10 (4.125/5)
Metallica
3/5
This was a beast to get through. It's heavy and thick and I feel weighed down after. I need some silence after this. I know that's exactly what Metallica is going for so they accomplish it well but it's just not a genre for me. One is a great song, though. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
The Magnetic Fields
2/5
Nah....get out of here. A 2 hour 45 minute, 69 song album just flat out isn't necessary. Just release three different albums (or MAYBE even cut some filler- what a novel idea). Male lead singer's deep voice is unnerving as well. Isn't the worst on this list by far but come on now. 4/10 (2/5)
Isaac Hayes
3/5
From a 69 song album yesterday (fitting) to a 4 song album today. Likely an album I'll never throw on again but have to respect what Isaac is doing for all the baby makers out there. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Deep Purple
3/5
Slightly above average classic rock. Some good guitar playing and I'm glad it's not all as heavy and screetchy as Smoke on the Water (which is still a great song). "Lazy" was an album favorite. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Lauryn Hill
4/5
Widely regarded as a top 100 album of all time (and even number 1 on a lot of lists). Clearly an excellent work of art and a wonderfully composed album. Not necessarily my favorite, per se but the talent and work spent on these songs is evident. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
The Jesus And Mary Chain
2/5
At least it's a short album? Really average stuff here and another British bias inclusion on the list. I don't even know what to say about this album it's so unnoteworthy. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Santana
4/5
Santana rules. Just amazing guitar playing and the drums are on point too. I don't find myself putting Santana on a lot but I should check out some more of his songs besides the big hits. Soul Sacrifice at Woodstock is a frequent watch though. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Ray Price
2/5
The first few songs you think "this is alright and sounds pretty good" but then you realize that's how every song is and the heartbroken cowboy shtick gets old quick. Probably a great listen in 1963 but too dated of a sound now. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
2/5
I'm just not a fan of this. I know Muse were a huge band but it isn't for me. It's like worse versions of Radiohead and Thirty Seconds to Mars combined to make "grandiose" mopey rock songs. Meh. 4/10 (2/5)
Bill Evans Trio
2/5
It's not bad to have on in the background but it still just sounds like endless jazz noodling. Not much here to make me want to throw this on again. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
D'Angelo
2/5
D'Angelo has a good voice but this just isn't a genre for me. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Various Artists
4/5
A nice compilation of classic Christmas songs. Not sure if any of these were originals at the time but they've mostly become classics regardless. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Peter Gabriel
3/5
A fine album. Some unique sounds/instruments but nothing that blows you away. Nothing you want to skip either though. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Muddy Waters
3/5
Some great live music that I'm sure was groundbreaking at the time. I'm not sure there's anything here to keep me coming back to it, but I'm glad I listened and I'm glad it's on this list. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
David Bowie
1/5
Oh no David. This is really, really bad. Bizarre vocals, feels like a Halloween album. Actually found myself getting angry halfway through this. Love Bowie's other stuff but this is not it. 2.25/10 (1.125/5)
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Ugh these guys again. Obnoxious and self-important. Noisy yet bringing no real value. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Air
3/5
Pleasant surprise. Some pretty interesting sounds that reminded me of MGMT's instrumentals in places. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Anthrax
1/5
Personal flaw but I'm unable to listen to these metal albums. I know Anthrax is huge in their circle though but it isn't for me. 2.5/10 (1.25/5)
Iron Maiden
2/5
Better than the usual metalish albums but still not my cup of tea. 4/10 (2/5)
Bob Dylan
4/5
A very good classic Bob Dylan album. The lyrics are masterful but occasionally hidden behind Bob's mumble. Gets rounded up for having Shelter from the Storm on the album, an all time great song. 7/10 (3.5/5)
John Lee Hooker
3/5
Not much memorable here. Lots of good features but nothing that particularly stands out. Just bang average blues. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
David Bowie
2/5
The more David Bowie I listen to the more I realize I either really really like his music or reallllyyy don't. This unfortunately leans more in the latter column. It sounds like a school play gone wrong. Or like when a younger sibling puts on a performance, but you do find yourself admiring the creativity. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Cheap Trick
2/5
Really only included due to I Want You To Want Me (and it is a great and perhaps the definitive version of the song) and to a lesser extent Surrender. But wow this sounds every bit of standing in the middle of a crowd at a Cheap Trick live performance. And not in a good way. The sound isn't great and it's not particularly enjoyable. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Amy Winehouse
3/5
Amy's clearly a very talented vocalist but I never got swept up in the hype. She falls in a category of artist where I'm not sure how famous they would be had they not had an early demise. Regardless, this album evokes a 1950s soulful sound in 2006 that was unlike anything else being released at the time. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
U2
3/5
Pretty bang average. Something you throw on and it's fine- you don't hate it but you don't love it. Mysterious Ways and One are big hits though and more enjoyable than the rest but perhaps that's just my familiarity with them. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
The Velvet Underground
4/5
Everyone knows the famous Velvet Underground album with the Warhol banana but it's nice to have this on the list as well. I think a major factor in liking/disliking Velvet Underground has to do with your opinion of Lou Reed. I enjoy Lou's vocals so I like Velvet Underground but can understand it's not for everyone. Some lulls (Jesus) but the album as a whole is a worthwhile listen and I will likely listen to it in its entirety again. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
KISS
2/5
The over-the-top glam metal really really isn't my genre. This opinion continues after listening to this album. Detroit Rock City is fun but the rest of the album is a real chore with not much to note. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
Janet Jackson
2/5
I do not want to be a part of rhythm nation. I actually made it through 5 songs but this is a tough album and it does not hold up well. Songs sound very similar and there's not much enjoyable with them. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Beatles
3/5
Meh, this is not the Beatles at their best. But that makes sense- they're young and new in this (it's their second studio album). Notable and included on this list due to what the Beatles became, but not solely based on this body of work. Til There Was You & Money were enjoyable. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Willie Nelson
3/5
I've never listened to a complete Willie Nelson so I'm glad this is on the list. Quick, solid old country songs. There's nothing here that's going to blow you away but it's great to have on in the background. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Dinosaur Jr.
2/5
Album started off fine enough but then the second song came on and I wanted to jump out the window. This trend unfortunately continued. Really awful whiney vocals, like your drunk friend at karaoke. This is garbage but at least it's short. 3.25/10 (1.625/5)
Kelela
3/5
I've never heard of this album or artist before. She has a good voice and the music was fine enough. Not really my style but didn't mind having it on either. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Hüsker Dü
2/5
Just some below average late 80s pop-punk album. A less good R.E.M. and the album goes on too long. 4/10 (2/5)
Nick Drake
4/5
Ah yes the cult icon Nick Drake. Definitely under appreciated during his brief time and a chillingly beautiful album. Great vocals with simple, but prominent, guitar playing. Short yet fulfilling. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Sade
2/5
The perfect soundtrack for mindlessly browsing the clothes section at a Sears in the 1980s. Not a genre for me and this album does nothing to change that. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
The Killers
4/5
How do you rate an album that has potentially THE song of the 21st century (at least so far) in Mr. Brightside? Plus other huge hits like Somebody Told Me and All These Things That I've Done. Some songs did feel a bit like filler but it's hard when you have massive hits to contend with. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
2/5
Well...at least this album is on the shorter end. This probably translates better to a live setting and not a recorded album. Maps is great but the female vocalist just screetching and making noises during every song isn't doing it for me. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Joy Division
1/5
A boring and less enjoyable British version of the Talking Heads? No thanks. This is just bizarre, moody, and so unenjoyable. 2.5/10 (1.25/5)
Metallica
2/5
I got 3 songs in but it's just too much. I know this is good metal but even good metal to me still isn't very good. Too angry, too much shouting. The exact opposite of the type of listening experience I'm trying to have. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
John Coltrane
2/5
Nice enough to have in the background or at a dinner party but that's about the only time/place I could envision putting this on again. Clearly talented just not a genre I listen to in my free time. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Supertramp
3/5
An album that reminds me why I love this list. Not the best album but a good reminder that Supertramp exists. I feel like this album could be great but it never really "gets there." The keys are awesome and production is top notch though. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
2/5
Definitely a trailblazing album and deserving of its place on this list. However, it isn't very good. Takes a weird turn in the middle too with some more ballad-esque songs. Regardless, this is the birth of hip hop and I'm glad the genre got better with time. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Happy Mondays
3/5
This was different but somewhat enjoyable. 80s British can be a genre I don't always love but this was fine enough to have in the background and nod along to. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Jefferson Airplane
3/5
One of the biggest bands of the time and this album does have a couple big hits. It's some good psychedelic rock but perhaps a bit dated. There's a blues song in the middle of this album too? A fine listen. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Wilco
2/5
I thought I was going to like this album a lot more than I did. There's lots of potential but the execution is lacking. I thought it'd be peaceful like a Bon Iver album or something but it was actually kind of stressful with all of the dissonance. I also don't particularly care for the lead's voice. There are some OK songs but overall a disappointment. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Pavement
2/5
Not a fan of this. Really hampered by the vocals. I get that there's a rawness to this genre but it doesn't make me want to listen to it anymore. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Heaven 17
2/5
Not the worst but still mediocre 80s British nonsense. Vocals, as usual, are a weak point. Some unique synth which may have been groundbreaking at the time. How many examples do we need of this same genre? 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Stan Getz
3/5
This is the quintessential bossa nova album. A bit tough to rate because it perfectly exemplifies the genre but it's still not a genre I'm listening to a whole lot. However, this was a great album to throw on to start the day and just when I thought it was dragging on it ended. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
It's a beautiful sounding album with some beautiful songs on it...but it isn't Simon and Garfunkel at their best. Paul Simon is one of the greatest of all time, however. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Meat Loaf
3/5
When I first saw the album cover, I was terrified for what I was about to have to listen to. However, this is a bearable rock opera which I actually found somewhat enjoyable. Fully deserving of being on the list. Takes some talent to have three different 8+ minute songs that didn't feel like they dragged on. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
There's something about the Smashing Pumpkins that I love. I normally don't enjoy the genre but for some reason I really like Billy Corgan's vocals. Did the album need be two hours long? Definitely not. But it's great and as soon as I thought it was getting too noisy/grating there would be a slow song. 7.25/10 (3.625/5)
Gary Numan
2/5
Why does this album need to be so long? How many Martian marching songs do I need? I know it's intentional but this is just weird. Cars is a big hit but without it everything blends together. 3.25/10 (1.625/5)
Guns N' Roses
2/5
Man this really is just the worst genre of music. Sure there are some huge hits on here like Sweet Child O' Mine, Paradise City, and Welcome to the Jungle. But the rest is just so bad. Bumped from 1 star due to Sweet Child. That song is good. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Bob Dylan
4/5
A great album. Excellent lyrics and harmonica playing of course. Not too many things wrong with this. 8/10 (4/5)
Judas Priest
2/5
This is just one of my absolute least favorite genres. The 80s power/glam rock with screetching guitars and vocals. This album did seem to go by quickly at least but not one I'm going to pick up again. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Christine and the Queens
2/5
I saw the album cover and said "oh no." It's really not bad though if you don't mind listening to music from the Sims. I got through two songs. 4/10 (2/5)
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Oh my god, come on. More Leonard Cohen?!?? I think his entire discography is on this list. I hate him. He cannot sing and that's literally all there is in his songs. 1/10 (0.5/5)
10cc
3/5
This album is fine. Nothing to really dislike about it but not a whole lot of moments to like either. A couple of times I found myself enjoying a part of a song but it was short lived. Not really sure it needs to be on this list. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Talking Heads
4/5
Always love the Talking Heads. There are some forgettable songs on here but also some big hits with Life During Wartime, Heaven, and Cities. A biased rating but nonetheless still an 8/10 (4/5)
Yes
3/5
An absolutely epic start followed by 50 minutes of frenetic keyboard and guitar playing. It's not bad but it fails to reach the heights that the first song does. An album I found enjoyable but not one that I need to play from start to finish again. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Ella Fitzgerald
2/5
When I noticed this album is 3+ hours long I went to the comments first. Well....they're not wrong. This album is way too long and gets boring fast. I'm sure if this is a style/genre you're into then you absolutely love it. But for me, this sound is dated and an album of this length seems self-important. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
3/5
This album is an interesting blend between (what I imagine was) a new sounding rock-n-roll vs. an older style of 50s love-ballad esque songs. The more upbeat stuff was great and I can see why this album was included on the list. Oh Boy!, Not Fade Away, and That'll Be the Day were all highlights. 6.75/10 (3.375/5)
Peter Gabriel
3/5
A solid listen and I'm glad it's on this list. Two all time songs in Sledgehammer and In Your Eyes on this one with some other filler that's not bad. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
It's....fine. It's better than the other Yeah Yeah Yeahs album I had on here the other week (Fever To Tell). There's not much here that particularly grips me, but the music sounds good. Heads Will Roll is great (but the remix is better). 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
R.E.M.
3/5
A bit underwhelming honestly, especially when compared to Out of Time or Document. Still enjoyable but not an album I'll listen to start to finish again. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
The Human League
2/5
This album is really really only here due to one song. And it's a great song but come on. These songs seemed unfinished and underproduced. Weird 80s and not in an endearing way. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Jane's Addiction
3/5
This album was fine. A bit heavier than I prefer but not offensively so. I'm not a normal listener of Jane's Addiction but know they are a pretty big influence in their genre. Obviously highlighted by Jane Says. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
David Crosby
2/5
This album comes up a little short for me. I love CSNY but Crosby solo doesn't reach anywhere near the heights that the group does. There are certainly some beautiful sounding moments but it's just all a bit boring. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Television
2/5
This was just an average album and I'm not entirely sure why it's included here. Vocals were weak and sound like a budget Mick Jagger. I did like the long guitar solo on Marquee Moon though. 4/10 (2/5)
David Bowie
3/5
As per usual with Bowie's albums, some good and some bad. Golden Years is one of my favorite songs ever but some songs David gets a little ghoulish for me. Short album but the longer songs made it feel longer. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
King Crimson
4/5
A widely applauded and celebrated album. King Crimson's prog rock is not something I've been a fan of in the past but this album works well. It does occasionally creep into "noise for noise sake" which can be an issue with prog sometimes but overall an enjoyable album. 7.25/10 (3.625/5)
The White Stripes
3/5
There's some highs on this album but a lot of filler too (especially towards the back half). The good news is the songs are short so if you don't like one it's over quickly. Jack White is definitely an incredibly talented musician. 6/10 (3/5)
Jungle Brothers
3/5
An above average album from this era of rap. Smooth and clean. You can hear the songs that were sampled later on in other works. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Buena Vista Social Club
3/5
A fine album. Good to have on in the background. Excellent sounding vocals and instrumentals but never an album I am going to put on again. Just not a genre with a lot of repeatability for me. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Michael Jackson
4/5
The hits are great of course. The other songs are fine but sound a lot like other 80s pop and don't stand out on their own. Thriller is a tough act to follow but this album does a commendable job. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Pixies
2/5
Wasn't really a fan of this. Everything sounds just a little below average, especially the vocals. I know the Pixies were a huge founding influence in the punk/alt-rock scene and I've found some of their songs to be great but nothing found on this album. 4/10 (2/5)
Coldplay
4/5
An above average album highlighted by the hits in Clocks and The Scientist. Every song sounds good though and is unique enough. 7.25/10 (3.625/5)
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
I wanted to like this (and it isn't bad), but Curtis' voice gets really old really quick. This was a tough album to get through after a few songs based on the very high pitch singing. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Harry Nilsson
3/5
I recognized a couple of these songs but not an artist I hear a lot from. Certainly not a bad album by any means. Perhaps a bit too long. Jump Into the Fire is a banger. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Sufjan Stevens
4/5
I really enjoy this album. It's all so melodic and has a unique sound. Chicago is an amazing song. I do think the album could've used a bit of curating before the final cut though. 22 songs at an hour and 15 is a bit much and 6 songs are under a minute long (with one at 6 seconds). That's some indie nonsense. 8/10 (4/5)
Buck Owens
2/5
It's...fine. It is exactly what it wants to be- a twangy old country album. Probably great if you like the stuff but I have no need to listen past 3 songs. 4/10 (2/5)
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
Good album from an artist I have heard of but have not heard much from. It does start to feel a bit mopey about halfway through. Enjoyable listen though. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
The Monkees
3/5
Yeah I mean it's fine but how many songs do we need of "gee what a gal I'm so in love I can't believe she's mine"? The Deluxe Edition is way too long at an hour and a half. Wild album cover. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Radiohead
3/5
Not bad by any means but not one of my favorite Radiohead albums. May be critically acclaimed (I feel like most of Radiohead's stuff is), but this doesn't do it for me. A little too much ghoulish waling and not enough songs where I think "wow that sounds beautiful" which is how I feel about some of their work. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Nick Drake
4/5
Nick Drake still rocks. Beautiful collection of songs and singing. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Ali Farka Touré
2/5
This is fine. It's different and a good exposure to some international (West African) music. The guitar playing is cool but I think there are other examples (Mdou Moctar) that I would turn to first if I was in the mood for this genre. A bit of a long album. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Doves
3/5
I have never heard of this band before. I kind of see why (though not in a bad way). This is pretty average music in my opinion. Nothing terrible, nothing amazing. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Black Flag
2/5
Probably a historic punk rock album but who cares. Not the worst thing I've ever heard and it's short at least but still. Not something I need to listen to ever again. Really grating by the end of it. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
The Doors
4/5
Historic album from The Doors. Big hits, enjoyable keys/organ and vocals. 8/10 (4/5)
Duran Duran
3/5
I don't hate any of this but you're getting pretty close to annoying/cheesy 80s British pop nonsense. Rio and Hungry Like the Wolf are huge hits (and probably the only reason this album is relevant). Not bad, but no need to listen to any of it again. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Frank Ocean
4/5
This album is pretty close to a masterpiece. Incredibly soulful and catchy songs. Numerous hits and lots of repeatability. An R&B standard. I don't like all the other artistic expression stuff with Frank but can separate the art from the artist. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
Another middle of the road album. Nothing terrible, nothing great. A few more good moments than bad but much prefer Neil's younger work. I'm not sure this genre best suits his talents. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
The Auteurs
2/5
This album really started wearing on me the longer it went on. Just middle of the road early 90s British rock/pop. Not needed on this list, 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Beatles
3/5
In My Life and Norwegian Wood the two highlights here. Still very much in the pop phase/style which is fine and the songs are fine but nothing groundbreaking. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Garbage
2/5
Really not my genre but at least they named their band appropriately. It isn't the worst I've heard, so it doesn't deserve a 1, but the album really wore on. The dramatic mopiness in the female vocalist's voice was too much. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Ms. Dynamite
2/5
A truly bizarre inclusion on the list. It's not bad I just have to imagine there are 100 other albums from 2002 that could be on this list instead. The British bias continues to run strong. Made it halfway and I don't need to listen to any more. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Gil Scott-Heron
2/5
The backing jazz piano/keyboard is nice. Kind of reminds me of something from Charlie Brown or Hey Arnold. That's about the only good thing I have to say about this. Not a fan of the voice and it's all just really boring. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
Bee Gees
2/5
I forget that the Bee Gees weren't always a disco group. I think they're much better suited for that genre than whatever this is. I can see why the album wasn't particularly well-received upon release, as the description indicates. I'm just not really sure what this album is. It's boring and a bit odd, not something I will listen to again. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Black Sabbath
4/5
Wow does this album start strong. The first 4 songs are all incredible hits one after another. Back half of the album doesn't reach the impossibly high standards of the first half but still a great album. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
N.W.A.
3/5
Just a really difficult album for me to rate. Obviously a very historically significant album but also one that is hard for me to relate to/enjoy. It's not a genre I enjoy and the tone is uber-aggressive but you have to respect the work. 6/10 (3/5)
Goldfrapp
2/5
Look- it's fine. But it's 100% one of the British bias albums on this list. I could see this album being played during an infomercial or at a mall department store makeup section. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Rage Against The Machine
3/5
Man what an angry and aggressive album. One of those albums that you have to take a break halfway through. But that's exactly what RATM set out to accomplish so credit where credits due. Killing in the Name is a great song. Not an album I'll listen to again but respect the art. 6/10 (3/5)
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Haha Leonard Cohen goes 80s pop. Even weirder than I thought possible. I remain beyond baffled how Leonard Cohen has like 8 albums on this list. I hate him with every fiber. 1/10 (0.5/5)
Janelle Monáe
2/5
This was a strange album for me. It didn't seem cohesive at all. It was probably well received by critics but I just don't get it. Meh. 4/10 (2/5)
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
I think Jimi's musical prowess is best exemplified by longer, more freeform jams (second half of Third Stone From The Sun). A polished 3 minute song from an album isn't going to exemplify his abilities as well. A great artist but likely better in a live setting than on an album. Regardless, this is obviously some great guitar playing and has most of his major hits (Purple Haze, Hey Joe, The Wind Cries Mary). 7.25/10 (3.625/5)
Haircut 100
2/5
More British bias nonsense. Not the worst of the list but turned off at the start of song 6. Not needed on this list. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Traffic
3/5
A pretty good album from a band I haven't listened to much (surprisingly as it's a genre/time period I enjoy). Enjoyable all the way through but by the back half everything did start to sound a bit similar. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Miles Davis
3/5
Definitely some of the more enjoyable jazz I've listened to. But at the end of the day it's still jazz. It's just too freeform for me to understand as an album. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
Definitely an above average album. Paul Simon is one of the greats. The harmonization does sound a bit dated/silly but you have to respect it for what it is. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Pink Floyd
5/5
It's cliche but I almost feel forced to rate this album a 5. It's great for a reason and deserving of the plaudits. 9/10 (4.5/5)
Spiritualized
3/5
The Lynyrd Skynyrd (and to a lesser extent Velvet Underground) "cover" of the Breeze (Run) is one of the more surprising things I've heard on this list. There's definitely an element of the British bias for this album's inclusion but it's not bad. Sounds like a less rock/more electronic version of the Stone Roses. Enjoyable, good to be exposed to something totally new, not sure if I will listen to it again. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
FKA twigs
2/5
Nahhh. I didn't enjoy this at all. The high pitched vocals were annoying and the backing electronic music didn't offer much either. Turned off after 3 songs. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Kings of Leon
2/5
Pretty early in this album the lead vocals started sounding like Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump and it was hard to unhear. Kings of Leon does have some songs that I like...they just aren't on this album. This is honestly pretty mediocre mid 2000s rock. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Neil Young
4/5
Definitely an above average album. You've got Heart of Gold and Old Man on this so it has to be. Some of the songs seem to be trying to be bigger than they are, if that makes any sense. Like full on orchestra in some songs seemed unnecessary. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
2/5
Turned off after 2 songs. Not needed and undeserving of this list. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
The xx
3/5
This album holds a lot of nostalgia for me and I'm glad it's on this list. Even so, I can only take so much of this. Intro and Crystalized are great but the back half of the album did seem to drag on a bit. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
2/5
I'm sure this was a hit back in the day but it's just so dated now. Her voice is nice and it's your basic old country stuff, but meh. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Joanna Newsom
2/5
As others have stated, the voice is pretty off-putting. It just seems so artificial and weirdly impersonating a 1920's female movie star. It's not as bad as others make it out to be, and the backing instruments are kind of cool but it's tough to make it through the entire thing. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Johnny Cash
3/5
Ah yes, another Johnny Cash live album from a prison. Quick little album. Still as enjoyable as the one from Folsom prison but not sure why we need multiple on here. I do wish there was a version that isn't edited to remove swearing. 6/10 (3/5)
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
This has to be one of the greatest of all time. Song after song is incredible and re-listenable. One of the masterpieces of our time and top rated here for a reason. 9.5/10 (4.75/5)
Goldie
2/5
21 minute song to kick things off, yeesh. Also an almost 2 hour album of pretty similar sounding music (to me at least). Sounds like something you hear in the lobby or spa of an upscale hotel. Not really any need to listen to this by choice. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Love
3/5
A fine classic 1960s psychedelic-era album. Nothing spectacular and the vocals are unique but I didn't mind it. Alone Again Or and The Humor Man were a couple songs I recognized. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Caetano Veloso
3/5
For a foreign language album, this was actually pretty enjoyable. I did feel towards the end that it'd be a lot better if I could understand the lyrics, but I like what he's going for here. Short songs keep things fresh. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Cyndi Lauper
2/5
Short album and definitely culturally significant but not my thing really. Respect to the craft but not an album I'll listen to again. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Charles Mingus
2/5
Maybe I just don't understand jazz and maybe that makes me uncool but I did not enjoy or get this. So noisy and lacking a cohesive path. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Billy Bragg
3/5
Sure, nothing wrong with this. Nothing earth shattering (though California Stars is a great song) but an enjoyable listen. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Super Furry Animals
2/5
I mean this is music, but pretty forgettable. Not sure why it's included on this list and definitely think it's the British bias setting in again. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
The Mothers Of Invention
2/5
Eh this doesn't really do it for me. There are some cool moments that I found enjoyable but overall feel like it was a miss. First exposure to this band though I am familiar with Frank Zappa's solo stuff. It does seem groundbreaking/unique though. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
OutKast
3/5
There's some really great things on here and some weaker as well. It's a long album and has those typical interludes/skits which don't add much. However, you also have So Fresh, So Clean, Ms. Jackson, and B.O.B. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Deep Purple
2/5
This is kind of just the most average/stereotypical rock album. It doesn't really stand out and ventures into hair metal territory with some of the screetching vocals and guitar. Meh. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Madonna
2/5
Madonna's obviously one of the most prolific female pop artists of all time but this doesn't do it for me. It's just not my genre and comes across as mass produced pop. Like A Prayer is good, but maybe because I'm just familiar with it. Act of Contrition is actually awful. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Talking Heads
3/5
Always love some Talking Heads. Probably not their best work but still enjoyable. Includes Thank You for Sending Me an Angel, Found a Job, and Take Me to the River. David Byrne's singing can get a bit laborious. 6.75/10 (3.375/5)
The Beach Boys
2/5
Got pushed this album 2 days after Brian Wilson's death (RIP). Production is great but it's just not for me. Has such a dated sound to it. All the songs are less than 3 minutes and it just seems mass produced and white washed. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
The White Stripes
3/5
I've always felt Jack White is a criminally underrated musician of this generation. However, feel like he may be better in small doses than a full album as he does get old after a bit. I felt like the first half of this album was a lot stronger than the second but still a good listen. 6/10 (3/5)
The Band
4/5
Iconic album from an underappreciated and legendary band. Some slower songs but bolstered by Rag Mama Rag, The Night They Drove..., Up on Cripple Creek, and King Harvest. If you haven't done so, please watch the Last Waltz. 8.75/10 (4.375/5)
The Police
4/5
This was better than I expected it to be. The first 3 songs are pretty unique and then you get potentially the worst song of all time in Mother, followed by a few more classic and well known hits (Every Breath You Take, Wrapped Around Your Finger, etc.). Have to drop a star for Mother but was pleasantly surprised by this one. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Tim Buckley
4/5
This album is a hidden gem. Almost has a Santana sound to it at some points, especially Gypsy Woman. Cheer up Tim Buckley, you made good music. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Queen
3/5
A bit of a tough album to judge. Queen is so over the top with their rock operas/musical ballads that almost ventures into early hair metal territory. However, you also get legendary songs like Bohemian Rhapsody and You're My Best Friend from it so it's not all bad. 6/10 (3/5)
David Bowie
2/5
The deeper I get into David Bowie's discography (which seems inevitable on this list given this is his 6th album on it...is his entire discography on here?), the less I find myself enjoying his music. I guess I've always just enjoyed the big hits and none of the other stuff. I didn't like much of any of this. 4/10 (2/5)
Metallica
2/5
This is probably a legendary metal album. The problem is I just don't enjoy metal. I've tried my best. I respect the art but don't want to listen to it. 4/10 (2/5)
Blue Cheer
2/5
This was a pretty grating album. Like the worst parts of psychedelic rock with all of the dissonant screetching. A genre I normally turn to but have no desire to play this again. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Faith No More
1/5
This is awful. Whiney Kid Rock/Limp Bizkit with very few redeeming qualities. The instruments sound like pretty generic rock (some cool bass though) with awful vocals on top. Turned off after 3 songs. 2/10 (1/5)
B.B. King
4/5
A truly exceptional album from a legend of blues. Was sad when it ended and wish it was longer. The guitar is incredible and B.B.'s voice isn't too bad either. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Pink Floyd
4/5
Another top tier album. Almost a 5 but not quite there. All great songs though and will listen to again at some point in time. Have to be in the right mood to listen to it. 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
Talking Heads
4/5
What an album- especially the first half. Second half gets dragged down a little bit with some weird David Byrne antics but I suppose that's to be expected. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
George Jones
2/5
Well at least this was a short album because one you've heard one song you've heard them all. Sure it's a great example of early country music and executed well but I don't necessarily need or want it. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Bauhaus
2/5
Well this is a weird album (fish cakes?). I've heard about Bauhus before so I guess I'm glad it's included on this list but just too bizarre to listen to regularly (or ever again). I was dragging by the end. 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Blur
3/5
Above average album from this late 1990s/early 2000s British era. Song 2 is an all-timer. Nothing too remarkable but nothing particularly unenjoyable either. 6/10 (3/5)
Radiohead
3/5
Not a bad album but doesn't quite reach the heights of some other Radiohead albums. Thom's ghoulish whaling gets a bit tedious towards the end of the album. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Blondie
3/5
Sure, this is a fine album it's just not something I'm going to listen to by choice. One Way or Another & Heart of Glass are obviously big hits. Since this came out in 1978, I'm sure it influenced a lot of artists after her. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Nina Simone
2/5
This might be an unpopular decision but this album got pretty grating as it went on. Something about her vocals just made me agitated. I think Nina has a lot of talent but it's just not for me. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Keith Jarrett
4/5
A really good album that I didn't expect to like as much as I did. Perfect to have on in the background and I enjoyed the different paces of the songs. It's probably a little too much piano in one sitting for me but man this was good. 8/10 (4/5)
Emmylou Harris
2/5
Not sure who this music is for or why it's on this list. It isn't awful but it's far from good. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
R.E.M.
3/5
An alright album, not my favorite but a fine listen throughout. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Jimi Hendrix
3/5
Eh. It's fine. Jimmy Hendrix has never really done it for me for some reason. The guitar is just a little too raw and dissonant. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Sabu
2/5
Eh sorry this just isn't for me. The singing/chanting doesn't add anything and the instruments are kind of just there. I have a hard time believing people actually listen to this besides to stay "look how cultured I am." 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
David Holmes
2/5
A few songs in I started to think "I'd rather listen to an Ocean's movie soundtrack" and then Rodney Yates came on. This is a pretty bleak album. All of these songs sound like the good foundations of songs but they never really go anywhere. It's just endless drum loops with an occasional subpar "rap." Oh and the James Bond song. This is right on the cusp of 1 star for me. 3/10 (1.5/5)
k.d. lang
2/5
This is a pretty unique album (in kind of a weird way). Singer who I thought was male, playing old time country/Western/cabaret style songs in an album from 1988. Bizarre but I guess some credit for being the only one to do it? 4.25/10 (2.125/5)
Depeche Mode
2/5
Having a general idea of this list by now (album #389), I feel like Depeche Mode must be on of the author's favorites. This is the first inclusion on the list but seems right up their alley. And I hate it. It has that late 80s British sound with awful vocals. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
Ray Charles
3/5
Ray Charles...obviously super talented musician with a great voice. However, it just sounds a little too dated at this point. I'm sure these were bangers back in the day but they don't live up quite the same. Album feels too long and I only made it through about half. Credit where it's due though 5/10 (2.5/5)
James Taylor
4/5
James Taylor has such an incredible voice. So good that his songs can stand on their own with just his voice and some simple guitar in the background. Always a great artist to throw in the background and there's no songs you want to skip. I enjoyed some of the more soulful songs on this album and Fire and Rain is one of the greatest songs of all time. 8/10 (4/5)
Black Sabbath
3/5
RIP Ozzy. Not a big fan of this genre but Black Sabbath/Ozzy does stand out as being one of the better examples of it. 5.5/10 (2.75/5)
Joe Ely
2/5
Starting an album with a song called Cornbread Moon is tough. I almost feel like this is a parody album. Very few listens and baffled why this is on the list. Even the instruments bother me and seem more poppy than country. What's with the synths? Made it halfway through and had to stop. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Bob's always great. The hits (Exodus, Jamming, Waiting in Vain, Three Little Birds) are hits for a reason. The other songs are all enjoyable too. What more needs to be said? 8.5/10 (4.25/5)
The Clash
3/5
Better than expected and a great representative of the punk genre. The songs do start to blend together with similar sounds/lengths but I like the quick nature. Then you randomly have a 6 minute Police and Thieves which seems out of place but it's my favorite song on the album. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Paul Revere & The Raiders
2/5
Another album that's pretty bang average. I'm sure this may have been excellent at the time (1966) but it has too much of that early rock sound for me. Short songs go by quick but end up feeling kind of hollow. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Throbbing Gristle
1/5
Ha, and to think I took a week off of this list because it was starting to seem like a chore and then this is the first album I get back. This isn't music and it's infuriating to listen to. At least I can turn it off after 2 songs. 0.5/10 (0.25/5)
Giant Sand
2/5
We're on a rough streak here. This isn't the worst but the vocals are really hard to get past. The guy's voice is just so awful. 3/10 (1.5/5)
Iron Maiden
2/5
Everything about this album is fine except the vocals. Way too over the top and operatic that remind me of hair metal. Only got through 4 songs. 4/10 (2/5)
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Excellent from start to finish. CCR is one of the best. A couple of songs on here I hadn't heard before which were almost as good as the hits. 8/10 (4/5)
Hanoi Rocks
2/5
I disliked this less than I should have but I still can't ever imagine there will be another time I'll listen to this by choice. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Sister Sledge
3/5
A fun disco/dance album. I do feel a bit like I'm at a wedding though. Does get a bit repetitive but a good example of the genre. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
2/5
This is some fine pickin' but man does it go on way too long. This should've been split into 2 albums. Cool for a genre that this album came out in 1972 and still sounds like songs coming out today. Doesn't necessarily stick out though but a fine listen. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Tortoise
2/5
This album is fine and unique but just all too boring. Nothing particularly offensive but also nothing more than background music. Hardly "one of the most influential music groups of the last 40 years" as their Spotify description reads. 4/10 (2/5)
Big Star
2/5
Thought for sure this band was British and this was another example of this list's British bias. Surprised to find out they're American and now even more confused why this is on the list. Altogether pretty mediocre and not much to note. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Rod Stewart
3/5
A good album but nothing exceptional besides the hit Maggie May. Rod's got a unique raspy voice that I like. Would listen to any of these songs again. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
The Smiths
2/5
Never got all the hype for The Smiths and Morrissey. This isn't a bad album if you're in the mood for moody boy music. The problem is I'm rarely in the mood for that. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Run-D.M.C.
2/5
Totally understand why this album is included on this list as it's a historic example of early rap. However, I don't really like it. The backing beats are simple and the raps just kind of feel like someone shouting at you the whole time (ala Beastie Boys flow). Glad the genre progressed as this just seems altogether outdated. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Le Tigre
3/5
This is a fun album. It's pretty loud and the vocals can be a bit screetchy but a good listen and glad it's on the list. Had only ever heard Deceptacon before and that's a great song. 6/10 (3/5)
Khaled
2/5
I mean what is there to say really? Such a hard album to rate. Stopped listening after 2 songs and won't again but I'm sure it's great. 4/10 (2/5)
TV On The Radio
2/5
I really didn't enjoy this. Ghoulish and winey vocals with uninspired backing instrumentals. Everything was listenable but I think I'd skip every song if it came on the radio. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
The Black Crowes
3/5
Very middle of the road contemporary-adult/dad rock. Something you'd hear at the dentist office. Not bad but also never what I'm looking for with the genre. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
3/5
This is some beautiful music. Only previous exposure to LBM was through some of Paul Simon's Graceland and this can stand on its own too. Would probably be even more prolific if I could understand the language but an enjoyable listen. Unsure if/when I'll listen again though. 6.5/10 (3.25/5)
Mariah Carey
2/5
Meh. Mariah obviously has a great voice but this is pretty forgettable and likely one I won't listen to again. Not my genre and it all just seems a bit sterile. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Dizzee Rascal
1/5
This is really poor. Made it through 5 songs before turning it off. The grime genre is not for me at all. 2/10 (1/5)
Animal Collective
4/5
A great and nostalgic album for me. In the Flowers, My Girls, Summertime Clothes, and Brother Sport have all been frequent plays for me at one time or another. Definitely a very noisy album but an enjoyable one. 8/10 (4/5)
Guided By Voices
2/5
Album's only 41 minutes long but contains 28 songs. I don't know, maybe if a song is 18 seconds long it's not a song? Songs come quick and fast which is good if you don't like one but they also don't necessarily flow together well. It's just not a cohesive book of work. The music is fine and probably paved the way for future artists (this came out in 1995) but there isn't much I'm looking to relisten to. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
PJ Harvey
3/5
Better than expected and an artist I've never heard before. You do get some corny indie lyrics on occasion but as a whole, not bad. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Coldplay
4/5
Great album. Excellent singing and lyrics. Yellow is one of the best out there. The album does feel like there could be some more going on, but that also allows the vocals to take the forefront. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
2/5
Listened to 3 songs and enjoyed it but found that to be sufficient. The vocals are a lot but the music is good but won't listen again. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Aimee Mann
1/5
Got to the 5th song and realized there's nothing here. It makes me angry to listen to with how bland it is. Absolutely should not be on this list. 2.5/10 (1.25/5)
Grant Lee Buffalo
3/5
This album grew on me. I wasn't sure at first but found it to be enjoyable background music. Wasn't paying too much attention to the lyrics but the vocals sounded good. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Elliott Smith
2/5
It's fine. Sounds like a lot of other artists who presumably came after (I get like Sufjan Stevens or Bon Iver vibes a bit, but not as good). Meh. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
The 80s synth are fine enough but the vocals/lyrics tread into droll British nonsense. Forgettable. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Really good classic Neil Young. I've had a couple Neil Young + Crazy Horse albums on this list and prefer the older to the newer. Cinnamon Girl & Down by the River are the two standout hits but everything is enjoyable. 7.75/10 (3.875/5)
Magazine
2/5
I actually enjoyed a lot of this. The main problem (and it's a big one)- is yet again the garbage British vocals. So mopey and annoying to listen to. About 7 songs in I started to wonder when it would end. Enjoyable instrumentation though. Went back and forth between a 2 and 3 a bunch. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Paul Simon
5/5
Man, what an album, almost every song is a hit. The Boy in the Bubble, Graceland, I Know What I Know, Diamonds on the Soles...You Can Call Me Al. Infinitely repeatable and unique. 9.25/10 (4.625/5)
Motörhead
2/5
Got halfway through and heard everything I needed to. Just not my genre at all- painfully noisy. Sorry Lemmy. 3/10 (1.5/5)
The Go-Betweens
2/5
A pretty middle of the road album. Nothing too noteworthy. I did enjoy Streets of Your Town and wasn't surprised to see that's the most popular song on the album. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
George Michael
3/5
Some good, some boring. The hits are the highlight but the album falls off as it goes on. 5/10 (2.5/5)
Small Faces
3/5
Pretty enjoyable album here. Right up my alley in terms of genre/timeframe and I think I've heard a couple of the songs before. As others have stated, a big difference between the first and second halves of the album. A little too wacky. 6/10 (3/5)
Ride
2/5
432 albums in and this list is starting to turn into a bit of a chore. There's just got to be better options out there. This album is totally fine, but just so unmemorable. Another Heavy British bias inclusion. Stopped after a few songs. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
Patti Smith
2/5
I get what Patti Smith is going for but her voice is just annoying to me. I respect the attempt though, it's something different. Just not for me. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Todd Rundgren
2/5
Oof this was not a great one. Went on for way too long and just the most bland dad/yacht-rock out there. Very little enticing me to come back to it at any point in the future. 3.75/10 (1.875/5)
fIREHOSE
3/5
Another pretty random inclusion on the list (almost every song on Spotify had less than 100k listens). However, I enjoyed it and found it to be unique and interesting. A cool blend of different genres. 6/10 (3/5)
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
Another super low key album (<100k listens on most songs) but a fine example of the genre. Nothing that really stood out but nothing that annoyed me either (except that 30 second yodel). 5/10 (2.5/5)
The Byrds
2/5
The Byrds are a tough one. They're a bit like a bridge between older sounds and a new psychedelic era. With that being said, they do sound more dated than others in the genre. I get that they're pioneers and lead to many other great artists, but they aren't my favorite of the time period. Just missing a couple pieces. 4.5/10 (2.25/5)
The Bees
3/5
Never heard of The Bees before but enjoyed their work. Different and melodic while staying interesting. 6.25/10 (3.125/5)
Fun Lovin' Criminals
3/5
Shouldn't have enjoyed this but I actually kind of did. I can't imagine ever listening to it again but it was fine while it was playing. Surprising. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
Holger Czukay
2/5
There's some interesting and enjoyable elements to the album. But there's also a lot of experimental/grating/annoying sounds as well. Kind of reminds me of Frank Zappa at times. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Sonic Youth
2/5
I know Sonic Youth is a legendary band but this isn't the genre for me. Didn't enjoy it and found it to be pretty grating. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Gorillaz
3/5
A solid debut album from Gorillaz. I think their best work came afterwards but there's still some good things here. It does seem like they try a lot of different sounds with this album- some which work and some which don't. There were some songs I really enjoyed and others I wanted to skip. 5.75/10 (2.875/5)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
5/5
Just about as good as it gets. An incredible first half of the album and the legendary Free Bird ends the album. What an amazing debut. RIP Ronnie & crew. 9.75/10 (4.875/5)
Tricky
2/5
Definitely a different sound to this album. Not a sound that I enjoy. Weird whispering and never really goes anywhere. 3.5/10 (1.75/5)
Alanis Morissette
4/5
A great, angsty, divorced mom rock album. Numerous major hits in You Oughta Know, Hand in My Pocket, Ironic, etc. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)
Grizzly Bear
2/5
Having only heard Two Weeks before, I was optimistic about this album knowing how great that song is. Unfortunately, the rest of the album does not live up to the highs of that song. There were a few other songs I liked but the rest of them I mostly found boring. Some cool melodic sounds but they never really go anywhere. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)
Flamin' Groovies
3/5
Sure, this was fine. Goes on a bit long and does sound a little dated but it was enjoyable enough. 5.25/10 (2.625/5)
The Sonics
4/5
Surprisingly good for an early (1965) rock album. I find albums from this genre to be hit or miss and this is one of the better ones. All the songs were pretty catchy, especially Roll over Beethoven. 8 of the 12 songs are covers but they do a good job with them. Maybe a few too many random screams/shrieks. 7/10 (3.5/5)
Steely Dan
2/5
Third Steely Dan album I've heard on this list so far and nothing's changed. Steely Dan should be right up my alley. The genre/timeframe is usually one of my favorites. There's also undoubtedly a lot of hits on this album. But I just can't get into it. It may be something with the vocals but it all sounds so sterile. I feel like I'm eating inside an Arby's. 4.75/10 (2.375/5)