169
Albums Rated
2.93
Average Rating
16%
Complete
920 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1960
Favorite Decade
Soul
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Critic
Rater Style ?
12
5-Star Albums
14
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
You Are The Quarry
Morrissey
|
5 | 2.86 | +2.14 |
|
Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
|
5 | 3.34 | +1.66 |
|
Blonde On Blonde
Bob Dylan
|
5 | 3.48 | +1.52 |
|
The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
|
5 | 3.61 | +1.39 |
|
Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
|
5 | 3.66 | +1.34 |
|
Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
|
5 | 3.74 | +1.26 |
|
Yeezus
Kanye West
|
4 | 2.76 | +1.24 |
|
All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
|
5 | 3.81 | +1.19 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The Smashing Pumpkins
|
1 | 3.68 | -2.68 |
|
Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
|
1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
|
Ritual De Lo Habitual
Jane's Addiction
|
1 | 3.19 | -2.19 |
|
Berlin
Lou Reed
|
1 | 3.09 | -2.09 |
|
Bert Jansch
Bert Jansch
|
1 | 3 | -2 |
|
Kala
M.I.A.
|
1 | 2.92 | -1.92 |
|
In Rainbows
Radiohead
|
2 | 3.85 | -1.85 |
|
Good Old Boys
Randy Newman
|
1 | 2.85 | -1.85 |
|
Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
|
2 | 3.81 | -1.81 |
|
Ys
Joanna Newsom
|
1 | 2.8 | -1.8 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Dylan | 4 | 4.25 |
5-Star Albums (12)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Janis Joplin · 1 likes
2/5
I do really enjoy Janis from time to time. I love her work with Big Brother & the holding company, but to me I’ve never resonated with her solo work the same way.
There’s nothing revolutionary here sonically. Yes, she is one of the best female voices of all time, but for this record specifically it’s very much just your standard blues rock & roll with a kick ass woman on vocals.
I really am surprised this one’s on 1001. Don’t come at me.
Favs: Move over, half moon
Liars · 1 likes
1/5
Just wrapped up the album and I can promise you I’ve lost some brain cells. This feels like Alien horror core noise slop. Get me out of the 2000’s man.
Who put this on the list? Why? No critical acclaim, and in no way could anyone convince me this is influential. Hell I could make a better song with my shit voice and whatever pots and pans I have in my kitchen.
And if you couldn’t tell, no saves from this one.
Depeche Mode · 1 likes
3/5
This sounds so DATED, but I actually love it?
Like it’s almost so cringe that it’s great.
Screams 80’s and stuck in the chase
Not very familiar with the artist, but I’ve heard some of these songs a TON. No idea why or where.
The beginning of the album suffers from some sameish tendencies, but then it breaks loose and goes all over the place in the back half.
Not something I’d listen to a ton, but was a fun listen
Tangerine Dream · 1 likes
1/5
I feel like I really need to be in the right headspace to listen to this one. I know of Tangerine Dream work that I actually don’t mind, but this didn’t hit for me.
Also not sure if we listened to the right album, as the one that came up was only the 2 tracks, but I definitely like the eery elements of these tracks.
The White Stripes · 1 likes
4/5
Okay so.. popularity rot for the opening track.. and 3 tracks in I was almost ready to throw in the towel not liking this.. BUT.. In the cold cold night flips a switch in my mind, switches up the vibes a bit and I throughly enjoyed the album thereafter.
In the cold cold night sets such a chill riding with the windows down at midnight vibe, and it's just fuckin awesome.
I also enjoyed "I want to be the boy" and "Ball and biscuit"
the riffing on ball and biscuit is nuts!
I know for a fact this is an album that will grow even more over time, so it's deff getting bookmarked.
1-Star Albums (14)
All Ratings
The Clash
4/5
The Stooges
3/5
Raw Power? More like boomer power. Not my vibe
B.B. King
3/5
My biggest gripe with this record is that the songs themselves sound very similar.
King’s vocal performances themselves are great, I guess I was expecting to hear more versatility on this one.
Elton John
4/5
From what I have heard of his solo work, this seems to be his transition into more progressive rock, I think the fact that this album is so front heavy is what holds it back here. However, this album deff gets shadowed by some of his other works in the 70’s. This is a good record.
Rush
4/5
Not sure what it is, but all of these songs bring me back to a time that never existed in my life. Like they all sound eerily similar to a lot of songs I’ve heard, and I’m attaching them to those experiences I guess? Idk. Fire album. Samuel is a hater bro
Willie Nelson
5/5
As a lover of country music, it’s crazy that I’ve never sat down and listened to a solo Willie project. This album is PURE country music. The instrument arrangements, the lyrics, everything.
I feel like a lot of people meme country music now a days ever since the “bro country” era, but this album is absolutely iconic in all the right ways
It’s really difficult to pick a favorite off this record, but I’m gonna go with Hands on the wheel.
D'Angelo
3/5
Chill baby making music. It took a couple listens but I could definitely get down to this in the right setting. My favorite track off the album is Jonz in my Bonz
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Led Zeppelin’s debut album definitely influenced a ton of metal and rock and roll of this era. This album also seems to pay homage to a lot of the blues greats before them.
As far as debuts go, what more could you ask for? Dazed and confused will always have a soft spot in my heart, as well as the solo in communication breakdown.
Cat Stevens
3/5
This album feels heavily influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Bob Dylan amongst others. I don’t have many qualms, as this is right up my alley.
Wild World, Hard Headed Woman and On the road to find out were my stand out tracks for me.
Bob Dylan
5/5
The most polished (musically) full album I’ve listened to from Bob Dylan thus far. Instead of leeching off the success of Highway 61, he dives even further into the absurdity.
I love the Rock & Roll themes we see here in this record, and whilst it seems very easy to get lost in this one (thematically) it all comes back around to Bobby boy being a hopeless romantic.
Lou Reed
3/5
Idk man. I just couldn’t get into this one. The melodies, and overall corny sounding lyrics.
I’m sure there’s a crowd that loves this album, it’s just not for me.
Deep Purple
3/5
Machine Head is another album I feel like I’ve heard millions of times, whether or not I actually have.
Given the date of its release, I imagine this to be some of the earliest heavy rock with metal elements.
Favorite Track = Space Truckin’
Jefferson Airplane
3/5
I’m getting folk rock vibes meets psychedelic vibes. In some of these tracks, I almost feel a bluesy structure to them as well.
This sophomore album from Jefferson Airplane has gems scattered throughout its long runtime- however, due to the long runtime, I do find myself bored with the vocals and Instrumentals in this one.
Still really enjoyed it, but probably wouldn’t revisit it as a whole.
Favorite Track: Today & Somebody to Love
Sabu
2/5
Unfortunately I find myself stuck once again in an album that is quite repetitive.
The language barrier definitely doesn’t help, but I’m also thinking a lot of this is on whoever mixed the album. We get a lot of vocals that could be/ARE great, but it sounds like we are listening to them sing from miles away.
However, this album has two fun tracks im fond of. “Rhapsodia del Maravilloso” and “Tribilin Cantore” both of these tracks feel like a breath of fresh air after most of the earlier tracks in the album are the same bongo patterns with the same guitar.
Ray Charles
3/5
Sorry boys, my review disappeared
David Bowie
3/5
I’m not really a big Bowie guy, but the first and last track of the album do stand out. However, I find myself really bored with his vocal performances. The production bangs at times, but it doesn’t make up for this coke ridden record. Sorry Samuel.
Tangerine Dream
1/5
I feel like I really need to be in the right headspace to listen to this one. I know of Tangerine Dream work that I actually don’t mind, but this didn’t hit for me.
Also not sure if we listened to the right album, as the one that came up was only the 2 tracks, but I definitely like the eery elements of these tracks.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
This album has definitely stood the test of time. The production and lyrics hit, and if you told me this came out in the last 20 years I would’ve believed you.
Favorite track: Title Track
The Monkees
2/5
“Mom I want to listen to the Beatles at home”
The Beatles at home:
Idk, I’m just not a fan of bands from this time that literally sound like clones of other popular bands. This feels like the equivalent of the radio crafted music I despise in modern times.
There’s nothing that particularly stands out or sets the Monkees apart on this album, which is yet another reason I’m not feeling this.
Soundgarden
3/5
The album that first comes to mind when I think of the classic “Grunge” sound.
This album of course features the one that everyone knows “Black Hole Sun” but there is so much good content here.
Yes, some of the tracks do give off the vibe of sounding similar, so I could see why some may not like this one as much- however, I think this is paced well enough to make up for it.
ABBA
4/5
They don’t make pop music like this anymore 🤷🏻♂️
An album that puts you right back into its era, I can just see myself in the 70’s driving around with the windows down at night bumping this fallen hopelessly in love.
Minutemen
2/5
The runtime really killed any momentum I had enjoying this project, I also imagine that due to the sheer volume of music, it makes this very forgettable.
Yeah punk music, whatever- I can’t stay interested for 40+ songs especially when they are too short.
They absolutely shred tho!
Prefab Sprout
3/5
10/10 driving at night vibes here.
Honestly thought this was gonna be some really cringe band, but it’s “Samuel fun”
Songwriting on point here, the instruments sound beautiful. Synthy pop at its finest. Yet another album that truly feels nostalgic, that I’ve never heard in my life.
Air
3/5
Unique, sexy and captivating.
What a wildcard of a banger.
This album was a very easy listen, I would probably say it’s more so background/gaming music but it’s definitely out of the norm for me and I’m happy to enjoy it. Another album where if you told me it came out this decade, I would believe you.
Fav tracks:
Sexy Boy
All I Need
Radiohead
2/5
To me, this is one of the more boring radio head albums. And while I at one point enjoyed nude and weird fishes, listening in full did not hit for me.
Am I missing something here? It seems like everyone is in love with this album. I honestly don’t see Thom Yorke farting into the mic as a transcendent album.
Meat Loaf
3/5
Meat Loaf is just as good as its food counter part.
I definitely got behind it a lot more on the second listen, still just not my cup of tea.
This is probably Tim Allen’s favorite album
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Quite a few repetitive blues chords in this one, this record wasn’t the slightest bit interesting to me.
I’m sure there’s more stones albums on this list, however I’m not sure why this one was one of the chosen ones. I think there’s one original song, and it doesn’t really push the needle like some of the others artists who pumped out albums full of covers in this same time period.
Despite this, I still enjoyed parts of this album- solid 3 for me
The Dictators
2/5
I’m slowly realizing I’m not big into this old school punk scene at all.
60’s rock with a variety of sub genres infused, (might I add the cringe comedy element) at times almost feels like reggae.
Don McLean
4/5
An emotional roller coaster of an album that is incredibly moving. Like yeah it’s sad asf but it’s almost so sad it’s.. calming?
Everyone talks about American Pie, but this album is full of absolute bangers.
Till Tomorrow is my personal favorite, followed closely by Vincent.
Eminem
4/5
Eminem on every drug big pharma has to offer is on another level boys.
SSLP is still one of the most iconic Hip-Hop records to this day, and one of the top 2 Eminem records ever.
In an era when radio music was actually good, we get a plethora of “radio records” but also a ton of deep cut Hip-Hop gems.
We all know about the classic hits of this album, so I’m going to refrain from going on about them. (Role model, my name is, guilty conscience, etc.)
Rock Bottom has always been one of my favorite Hip Hop songs, Eminem putting his wordsmithing on full display, while also showing his vulnerable side- we also get a banger record with Royce Da 5’9 (a duo that NEVER disappoints)
‘97 Bonnie and Clyde and “If I had” are also absolute bangers, so check em out.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
What’s the over under on how many babies were made in Iowa to this album in the 60’s?
Some great cuts here, but inconsistent. This album could deff use a remaster, as I find some parts get a little rough. I’d love to Dusty’s voice pop a little more over the Instrumentals.
Son of a preacher man is a banger, but as my boy Zachary has said before, I hate how the songs just abruptly end.
Heaven 17
3/5
I’m getting post punk synth pop vibes on this one. This screams 80’s and not in a good way, it doesn’t age well because the synths are too obnoxious and it punches you upside the face and doesn’t let you forget.
I understand this, Being that the genre was in its infancy (i think?) at this time, but to me the fun tapers off as it goes and I find myself bored.
Megadeth
3/5
There’s a lot of hard, wife beater and denim shorts riffing here, but holy hell were all these tracks cut from the EXACT same cloth.
I honestly am not the BIGGEST metal fan, but I was still able to enjoy some of these.
I think I enjoyed Devils Island the most on this one.
Elis Regina
3/5
I’ll admit it, I have absolutely no clue what’s being said here. But this album makes me feel happy and that’s all I care about. Beautiful vocals, and Instrumentals. Just good vibes man.
R.E.M.
2/5
Another album that is dark and somber; I’m getting folk rock vibes, and psychedelic vibes at times too.
There is certainly some catchy melodies and tunes here, I just don’t find much re-listenability to pre 2000’s sad boy tunes.
My favorite tracks are Everybody hurts and Star me kitten. I think this album is a solid 5.5, but giving it 2 stars as It doesn’t align with other 6’s I have already reviewed.
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
Okay so I really didn’t know who Ella Fitzgerald was but it turns out she’s like.. super versatile
Gershwin Songbook is deff more pop heavy than some of her jazzier stuff, but this is like peak pop music
Upon seeing the full compilation, I ended up rolling with the 44 min version, and although it’s shorter than the full sound book, I was a bit overwhelmed as is.
Regardless, this album was so calming in a time where I’m stressed out to the gills. Samuel gonna bash for being Bambi Esque music but it’s a banger
Common
3/5
A very strong entry from Common here.
I love the production on this record, I’m a sucker for the various singing choruses that remind me of classic hip hop.
To me I really don’t see a true “concept”here, we get heavy themes about the struggle of a woman, etc.
I think this album could’ve been lifted to a true 8 had the runtime been a bit shorter (I know, I know, classic hip hop and 4 min songs is normal) but it does drag on certain tracks that I didn’t enjoy as much.
I absolutely love the Intro and it serves as a great launch pad for a fun album.
Peter Tosh
2/5
Idk why but this gives me GTA 3 radio station vibes, K-JAH Radio anyone?
This album really has that raw and “real” feel to it if that makes any sense.. I will definitely check out more Peter Tosh stuff.
Not really a Reggae fan at all, my favorite track here is “Till your well runs dry” and “No Sympathy”
On a side note, can we talk about how fire the album cover is?
Oasis
4/5
Perhaps not the best Oasis album, but to me it is a very worthy debut. It isn’t too often we see a debut album sound as complete as this one.
On a side note, Was this the birth of what we now know as Indie rock? Kind of gives me cage the elephant vibes.
Yeah yeah. I know there’s a lot of Brit Pop and this may not be stray TOO far off the Brit Pop of its time; but idk- this shit slaps. And that’s coming from someone who’s not super into the genre.
Its still crazy to me that this was a 90’s album, I honestly had to check twice because I didn’t believe their debut was ‘94.
Slide away is my top track
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
I was such a hater when I first heard this album. I didn’t understand Costello. But these songs are quirky as fuck and awesome.
Depeche Mode
3/5
This sounds so DATED, but I actually love it?
Like it’s almost so cringe that it’s great.
Screams 80’s and stuck in the chase
Not very familiar with the artist, but I’ve heard some of these songs a TON. No idea why or where.
The beginning of the album suffers from some sameish tendencies, but then it breaks loose and goes all over the place in the back half.
Not something I’d listen to a ton, but was a fun listen
Def Leppard
2/5
I absolutely despise this genre of rock as I grow older. Younger me would’ve ate this up like laffy taffy.
What is bro growling about?
This sounds like all those hair metal tracks of this era, so I wanna know why this is a stand out.
Like genuinely most of this record just sounds like one really long song, and yeah this shit was probably hard in the 80’s but today? Just gross to me and doesn’t do it.
I wish Samuel wasn’t fraudulent and came here to defend this, cause I need boomer thoughts
Dexys Midnight Runners
1/5
Back to back 50 min albums that just make me want to eat a can of paint bro
This band has 5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, so either I’m clearly missing something here, or this is one of their weaker works?
To me this is just as cringe as the Elvis Costello record from the other day, in that this feels almost like a parody.
“One of those things” sent me over the edge by copying the melody of sweet home Alabama.
From that point forward I cringed myself into a coma and everything went blurry, I don’t even know what happened man.
Can this guy QUIT TALKING AND JUST SING?!
The Chemical Brothers
3/5
Don’t listen to electronic very often, but this was a fun listen.
At face value, The Chemical Brothers use very basic beats throughout this record, but I like how as the songs progress, they add multiple layers and nuance's that make it more enjoyable.
This sounds very 90’s and that’s okay, I love the 90’s.
David Bowie
2/5
Samuel close your eyes…
Hero’s and the final track are the only songs worth listening to.
Despite me not being a Bowie fan, I didn’t have as many qualms with this one as our last Bowie record, but I didn’t like how the album completely shifts in the second half.
The second half is mostly Instrumentals, but hey maybe it’s for the best- they sound better without vocals anyways.
I’m still gonna stay open minded, and hope I find a Bowie record I thoroughly enjoy though, because there has to be SOMETHING that makes this man universally loved.
George Harrison
5/5
God I love this record.
Disc 1 goes full throttle, no skips just beautiful music. There’s just something about George’s delivery that sets him apart from poppy Lennon, and rock & roll Lennon. He’s like the perfect mesh and I think that’s why they were such a great group.
George will forever be my favorite beatle- his music just speaks to me in a way that the others don’t. This record feels like a soundtrack and I’m the main character of the movie.
Disc 2. Honestly tapers off heavily from the 1st half, but that’s okay. We get some of the familiar sounds from the first half, but also some sick ass guitar solos.
Cloud Nine is my favorite record of his, so to begin there and work my way back through his career has been a trip. I believe this was his first solo album where he actually sings. It’s crazy because if I didn’t know any better, I’d think this is fully evolved George Harrison.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
This is 80’s ick IMO.
We get some tracks that are just happy and upbeat, and then we get tracks that try to take themselves too seriously and come across as Uber cringe.
I’m not as high as everyone else on here apparently as it pertains to post punk, but this was really flat to me. I didn’t have a single track that gripped me like I usually find.
As the album progresses, I find myself checking the time and becoming more frustrated. This will deff need a re-listen at some point, as maybe I’m listening in the wrong perspective.
Black Sabbath
4/5
Black Sabbath has some of the most addicting and iconic bass lines.
As per Spotify, this seems to be their second record (first released in the same year)
If that’s the case, it’s crazy how that one album has basically all hits.
I appreciate that this album is only 8 songs. It doesn’t drag out like many of these other 70 albums that are full of filler.
I wish I can re-listen to this record for the first time again, at this point in 2024 this is merely background music to me, as I’ve become numb to the millions of times I’ve heard it.
I really appreciate how they let the album riff out and don’t need to rely on lyrics throughout the entire project. I really enjoyed the tracks where they are just shredding
Solid 4/5 for me.
Yes
3/5
This was a surprisingly fun cruising album.
And yet another album where I don’t actually care for the most popular tracks- I may go as far to say that the filler is more fun on this one.
This album kept me on my toes, and was absolutely chaotic. We get mellowed out chilling vibes one song, and then get beat in the face with a guitar on the next.
I think America has got to me my stand out favorite of the bunch, and I will deff be revisiting this album. (I’ve never heard of Yes before)
Talking Heads
4/5
Straight up, this was a GROOVY album. The Jangly guitars throughout the record are so addicting. I love how the bass guitar is put on the forefront of most songs here, and it just further "funkifies" the record.
I can't say it enough, the production is on point.
I would have to double check, but this is yet another record where an artist early in their career finds their niche- and I feel like that was accomplished here.
1978 Timmy would've totally scooped a dime and played this on the way to watch John Carpenters Halloween.
Beatles
5/5
Crazy to think that I have dived so far into this bands solo release catalog, that I have never heard (in full) one of their most acclaimed projects.
With that said, I don't have much to compare to for previous records, but here is what I enjoy about this album:
Each member gets their fair share of the spotlight
Nobody is over shining the other- I feel like the performances from each member are on par with the other.
I like that we get to see the diverse styles of each member: John's rock & roll influence, Paul's pop influences, and George's slow and seductive style.
It's really hard to pick favorites from this record, as most of them are just smash hits that I have unintentionally heard millions of times just because of the popularity of the group.
I really enjoy Something, as it is one of my favorite George songs ever.
I also really enjoyed The end, and Oh Darling quite a bit!
Digital Underground
3/5
Wow, this unlocked nostalgia I haven't felt in a while..
When I think of classic hip-Hop, like the SOUND of classic Hip-Hop, I of course think of Dre's "2001" but I also think of Sex Packets sound.
Like literally, I would've never been able to tell you this groups name prior to today, the sound was just engrained into my brain and that is what I have been associating with old school hip hop all my life.
Rant over, but damn this was another groovy one.
Sure it's dated, sure Hip-Hop as a whole is pretty bleh during this time period, but we get some really innovative sounds here, and I love the multitude of genres here.
Hip-Hop to me isn't about who spits the fastest, who looks the coolest, etc. I don't think of dudes like Eminem for this very reason when I think of the classics.
Hip-Hop is an art form, and this album is that. Is this something that I would bump every day? Nah, but it is a staple of Hip-Hop and I really enjoy it.
The beat selection is absolutely crazy, I don't know if I want to play Mario or Tony Hawk right now.
I LOVE the interludes.
Fats Domino
3/5
Let Fat Cook..
Picture this, you are a iconic person in your music lane, and Elvis plops out of the sky at steals the spotlight cause he's a hot dancing white guy.
By all accounts of what I have seen in my quick study of Fats Domino, he was the complete opposite of Elvis Personality, looks EVERYTHING yet he was Catalyst of his time.
Apparently he was the second highest selling rock and roll artist of the 50's- only outsold by Elvis Presley himself.
On this specific album, we get HEAVY NOLA vibes- the smooth Jazzy, Groovy, slow rockin vibes. Honeslty, this album is very dated at this point, but I still had a fun time listening to this record, and learning his story.
I am still confused if we listened to the right album, but according to wiki we put the pieces together. I really love the tone of the album, as it is again a very chill and calming vibe, which is a nice change up from all the edgy depressing rock as of late.
This is a solid 7.5 for me, and it would be higher, but it's just something I won't revist due to how dated parts of it sound. Some tracks get a bit repetitive
Love Live Fat
Frank Black
3/5
Conceptually, I am not feeling much here.
Honestly, this feels like a Beatles situation where someone leaves the band and drops a whole bunch of tracks they were sitting on.
I am curious to see if this was Frank's first record without the Pixies, as that could sway my ranking just a TAD.
There is a PLETHORA of genres here, which again is why I feel like there is no identity, and that this was kind of just pieced together unreleased tracks.
With that being said, I did vibe out to quite a few of these- but really that's because I like the pixies and those songs give those vibes.
Im gonna be honest, if I want this sound, I will just listen to the pixies- there is nothing ground breaking, or innovative here.
My favorite track off this record is Speedy Marie.
Depeche Mode
3/5
So personal jesus is the only song on here that I have recalled hearing before.. But eh- I don't know if this sound is just dated or overplayed, I just didn't get into it.
Now, if we are talking 1990's standards, this seems like an album that would've pushed the envelope of what you "could and should" be able to do with music, and I am sure that garnered quite a crowd of supporters.
Now, what I do like in this album, is that it sets a CLEAR tone- it sounds like a cohesive album, and it sounds like they clearly knew what they were doing going into it.
I get urban boy at dawn vibes.
This is yet another album that is a rollercoaster of different styles, and again-I quite enjoy albums like this when they can pull it off (Cohesive yet different enough from eachother to not get bored)
I am in love with the synthy production here, i am just a slut for that in general though I suppose.
This is a solid 6.5/10 for ME soley because although I see the vision and enjoyed the record, it's not something I would revist routinely
The White Stripes
4/5
Okay so.. popularity rot for the opening track.. and 3 tracks in I was almost ready to throw in the towel not liking this.. BUT.. In the cold cold night flips a switch in my mind, switches up the vibes a bit and I throughly enjoyed the album thereafter.
In the cold cold night sets such a chill riding with the windows down at midnight vibe, and it's just fuckin awesome.
I also enjoyed "I want to be the boy" and "Ball and biscuit"
the riffing on ball and biscuit is nuts!
I know for a fact this is an album that will grow even more over time, so it's deff getting bookmarked.
The Prodigy
2/5
VERY 90's dance vibes.
There's a lot of fun, and creative stuff here- but I am getting tired not even 4 songs in.
I understand that this isn't my thing, and that you really have to dig this kind of stuff to get enjoyment out of it- I just don't.
To me it overstays its welcome- again, there are fun moments, but I would much prefer these tracks at shorter intervals, and a shorter track list.
At this point, this is quality gaming background music at best.
Solid 4/10
Billie Holiday
3/5
So.. here we go again with the 50's Disney soundtrack POV..
All Jokes aside, as far as music of its time, this is very listenable.
This comes from a time where most music was created at the office by the labels, and the artists who were popular were created in a test tube.
You can tell there is genuine feelings here, and that this wasn't a product of the system- however, I need more emotion- Idk there's just something off and I can't put my finger on it.
The production is AMAZING- there's so many moving pieces at any given time, and just makes these tracks feel SO alive.
HOWEVER, there's a lot of sameish songs here, and again with the weird missing emotion in her voice in some instances, it does get repetitive at times.
You've changed is such a banger.
Solid 6/10
Beck
3/5
Okay so this may be one of the most INTERESTING albums we have heard thus far- which makes sense, given that all we listen to is oldies rock 80% of the time and this is more modern..
Bro this album is literally a soundtrack of itself. I can portray movie scenes going along with each of these songs- I have no other way of describing it other than pure "Art" Lonesome Tears is a prime example of this.
Beck makes me feel a plethora of emotions within these songs, it's a rollercoaster for sure- I ride that I thoroughly enjoy. Not often do you get hit with songs that make you feel sad and calm at the same time, and actually hit- but here we are.
You know we get all of these albums that just feel planted into the scene for money, but this really hits home. You can feel the every emotion the artist feels here and it just feels so genuine. It's very refreshing.
This is definitely an album of healing, and the haunting lyrics and instruments paint that picture very well.
This album has aged gracefully. Never before had I heard a beck album, but I will be returning. I saved most of these songs!
Solid 8.5/10
Coldplay
2/5
Radio friendly, the guy your mom is cheating with friendly, JC Penny friendly, you get the point..
This album is the definition of playing it safe- nothing over the top pushing the envelope here, but nothing absurdly offensive (we can delete Yellow though)
Classic radio head pill of it's time, and I feel like I have heard dozens of albums just like this- this isn't a knock on coldplay, just a observation of the music in this era.
On a side note, how is this the same coldplay from the 2010's? lol
Chill vibes, I wouldn't mind if it came on, but not going out of my way either.
Ramones
4/5
Super Super repetitive cords progressions here.
Like yeah It was cool two songs in, and I thought the transitions were sick but.. Blah. Just boring and annoying there after.
The energy is on full display, but the vocals do not age well at all- these guys aren't known for their lyrics either!
I am honestly good forgetting about this album though I am positive it was a banger in its time.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
This album just makes me happy. It's so damn groovy.
The production is upbeat as hell and keeps me interested throughout, and the vocals are beautiful.
This is a very solid entry, and very digestible compared to a lot of other music of its time- we actually get subject matter that's both meaningful and impactful. (sorry boomer bros there a lot of cringe in this era)
Talvin Singh
2/5
A fun perspective of what I (believe?) is the early years of this type of electric music.
My favorite 2 songs on this project were Disser/point.b.mento and Sutrix.
Point B Mento gives me 80’s vibes in a whole new light, Idek how to explain it, just absolute ear po**
Being that I have no interest in this genre, I was pleasantly surprised, adding a different cultures range of instruments and ideas is such a fun spin on the normally dull and basic American electro I usually hear.
The Who
2/5
*Snores* maybe I am over exaggerating, but I really am just getting tired of the same old same old in the 60's. If I want this sound I'll just listen to the Beatles.
There's some fun moments here, and that comes in the form of the production, but ultimately gets absolutely drowned about by the whiny vocals and wonky mixing.
Neeexxxt
Count Basie & His Orchestra
3/5
Ladies, better hide your mans Cigar boxes, cause Count Basie is coming to town.
I wish I had a boujee rich setup where I could play poker smoking to this album, because it only seems fitting.
I’ve really grown a liking to Jazz and Soul lately, so I very much appreciated this one- just chilled out vibes
The Isley Brothers
3/5
I think I'm going soft for these funky albums boys.
This album is another feel good, groovy record that is meaty and straight to the point.
I love how much variety we get here- I can here the blues, I can hear Beatleseque pop as well- and whilst pulling from different influences, the album itself remains cohesive.
Really love the opener here (Did Kendrick sample this?) and I also love Sunshine and Don't let me be lonely tonight.
The Fall
2/5
Forgettable post punk.
Maybe I’ll revisit and see if my rating changes, but there’s not much to cling to on this record.
Just too many repetitive songs, and the album drags a TON because of it.
Grant Lee Buffalo
3/5
A very very well thought debut record.
Epitome of 90’s alt, I really enjoyed the lyrics in this one, a softer and easy listen.
Refreshing that we got 90’s that isn’t radio head pill
I think there’s clearly filler in this album, and without doing any research, I’m willing to bet fuzzy was a single- song is an absolute banger.
This really gives me Jeff Buckley vibes and I’m so here for it.
Thelonious Monk
2/5
Soothing & fun Jazz music.
I don’t have much to say, as I’m a casual in this genre. But the vibes were there!
Duke Ellington
3/5
Duke was pushing 60 and had a legendary performance.
Diminuendo in Blue is so fun, I really like the up tempo pace in this, which seems very different than the jazz we have heard recently, (there’s been quite a bit)
Idk with all the jazz and blues lately, I’ve really found a newfound respect for the genre. I’ve found myself cooking to jazz and popping in a Guy Lombardo record frequently.
I will definitely be Digging deeper into dukes catalog, I’m interested to hear what his studio LP’s sound like.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
Genuinely surprised with how much I enjoyed this one.
There’s some very good song writing here- I was honestly expecting some knock off Jim Croce vibes, but they give me a bit of that at times, but more so singer songwriter Beatles vibes.
I don’t think the conceptual aspect of the album lands for me IMO, but this is some really chill music to throw on and vibe out to.
I will deff be revisiting, I’d say this is a solid 78-79. 3.5/5
George Michael
3/5
ANOTHER 3.5!
George Michael is a king of ballads, they don’t always hit but they are never bad.
Voice is on point, as usual.
His sophomore album is more or less what I thought it would be given the popular songs of his I’ve heard, but I really LOVE soul free- such a banger of a song!
Unfortunately, this one looses points for its dated sound and the fact that it kind of sounds like a compilation album of sorts. Given the album title, I expected it to play more into a theme; but it really didn’t.
50 Cent
4/5
Admittedly there is quite a few filler songs here, yet we still have a handful of VERY popular 2000’s hip hop on here as well.
Do people not understand this was a DEBUT record? Yeah some of this sounds very dated at this point, but to me- this was the golden era of hip-hop and I hold this album in a very high regard.
Popularity rot with a lot of those bangers, but patently waiting will never fail to slap.
And for the love of god radio head fans stfu about him talking about guns. This man literally should’ve been dead 3 times over and survived.
Plus points for being a very influential hip-hop album.
Pink Floyd
3/5
Classic car show with dad vibes.
I absolutely adore the production on this album, and deff need to pick it up on vinyl.
Such a nostalgic album and I’m not even old enough for it to be nostalgic 🤬
Pixies
3/5
After my first listen, I’m left feeling in this mid state. Nothing particularly grabs me, but I also don’t hate anything about it type of deal.
This album bleeds 90’s, and is very distinguishable for its time, and again- I love that.
I’ll have to give another listen, because this one deff feels like it’s gonna grow on me big time.
I enjoyed Ana and blown away quite a bit!
GZA
3/5
Why do people have such an ick for 90’s rap?
I love the Instrumentals here, such wonky and non traditional beats are so fun.
NY Hip-Hop was so fire back in the day, bring it back.
This is another album that’s deff gonna grow on me as I reslisten.
Living in the world today; 4th chamber, Investigative reports.. gah there’s too many bangers bro
PJ Harvey
3/5
Oh my god- Another BANGER produced album.
The chaotic atmosphere here just bodes so well with the artwork which is equally sick btw.
This was probably the most edgy shit of it's time, and although I don't like a good chunk of this album, there are a ton of fun highlights!
Most of the time, I would complain about the instrumentals drowning out the vocals, but I actually think it works very well here.
My stand out is Me-Jane, absolute banger.
Holger Czukay
2/5
Is this another project that we are seeing the full length of?
Listened to the 4 song EP on Spotify, and I very much enjoyed the opener “Cool in the Pool”
Feels like a bunch of genres thrown into a blender and this was the result. Very very interesting and I will need to dive into this artist more.
As far as the rest of the project goes, it just didn’t really hit for me. I don’t think a re-listen will be necessary on this specific EP.
Bob Dylan
4/5
Bob Dylan’s records are so hard to rate bro.
They are all so amazing, and each hits a different string inside of me.
This album brings a bunch of country elements into classic rock and his usual spoken word poetry, and it works amazing.
She Belongs to me, Outlaw Blues, on the road again are my favs
Beastie Boys
3/5
Oddly enough, the Beastie Boys have grown very heavy on me.
I visited this album not too long ago after doing an Eminem revisit, and I was surprised how much I enjoyed this one.
Now I will say that a lot of these songs sound very sameish.. but, there’s still some good content that’s easily digestible here.
I like songs like she’s crafty where it blends hip hop and rock a lot, I wish there was more genre fusion on this record because that’s where they are at their best!
Charles Mingus
3/5
4 Tracks of very upbeat, high tempo Jazz.
Gonna go on a limb and say that the other tracks aren't cleared for Spotify, but from what I heard, this deff leaves me wanting more.
Update: apparently it's just 4 tracks?!?
Added them all, would love this in LP form!
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
Shoegaze is so hit or miss for me. I’m just an old fashion white man what do I know. I know Gen Z eats the sound up, but again another distorted noise slop album I just can’t get into. *had to add a review so my boy doesn’t kill me)
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
Holy fucking 80’s bro. In the best way.
Dr. Octagon
3/5
I’m convinced the people here who rate this a 1 are just rap haters. Sure it’s like extra terrestrial horror core porn at times, but the concept and atmosphere this album creates is sick. I was actually pleasantly surprised with how chill it is given the horrible ratings
Louis Prima
3/5
My record collection began by inheriting my great grandmas collection of vinyl- this album made me feel right back home. Not a big jazz head but this is definitely slapper dinner making music. Keely Smith sounds amazing on here, and Jump Jive is a banger.
Iggy Pop
4/5
This album was the one that made me fall in love with Iggy and give Bowie a second chance. Full of bangers.
Harry Nilsson
3/5
Hold up this is so fucking Beatles coded. I’ll admit this is one I wasn’t particularly looking forward to, as I want super familiar with Nilsson’s stuff. But this gives heavy Sgt peppers and early 70’s solo Beatles vibes. Tapers off on side two otherwise this would be an easy 4 for me. It’s a great 3.5. I’m sure it will only get higher the more I revisit
Steve Earle
2/5
Not sure if I’d classify this as a country album, it gives me more Bruce and Zach Bryan overdone Americana vibes. Nothing offensive that made me want to turn it off, I really enjoyed Good Ol Boy and Hillbilly Highway.
It feels criminal listening to anything other than 70’s “country” on here though
4/5
I believe this is during the time where Dylan going electric was super controversial. As such, the second half of the record (the electric side) goes off the walls right away with “Tell me, momma” holy shit that was a slapper. By the end, you can literally tell everything was maxed out to the limits. The amps are busting, the sound quality is super degraded. It’s amazing.
This is far from my favorite Dylan live album. Nothing touches rolling thunder imo- but I love how much Dylan goes on the attack here.
Jimmy Smith
2/5
My original review got overwritten with another random album. Rip. I’m looking at you Louis Prima.
Donald Fagen
3/5
Steely Dan Jumpscare. I love me some Steely Dan. Which makes me wonder who they put bros solo catalog in here when we have plenty steely albums.
It was cool to see the style of Steely Dan move into the 80’s, and while it’s a lot poppier, I’d say Fagen doesn’t stray too far off course compared to some of my other favorite artists in the crazy 80’s.
Fav tracks: IGY, green power flower street, new frontier, The Nightfly
The Smashing Pumpkins
1/5
Here folks were complaining about Morgan Wallen putting out super long albums. This was a painful listen. Broken up into 3 sessions. I don’t like anything here. I don’t like this band. This is two of my least favorite things combined- prog and 90’s slop. Next.
John Lennon
4/5
This album was my introduction to Lennon years ago. Lennon has the most atmospheric catalog of any of the Beatles. I will die on the hill that he’s the most creative. Imagine (the album) and Plastic Ono Band (album) were the soundtracks of my breakup. Shit slaps man.
The Cure
3/5
The things I’d go to be a scene kid in the 80’s. Holy banger opener. What a fucking atmosphere and mood to set right off the rip. I definitely think it should have been shorter, but fire none the less.
This is as just as haunting and depressing of an album as I was expecting. Super goth and emo, and I’m guessing this album was a trailblazer for that sound when it came out in 82.
Far from the best I’ve heard of the cure thus far, but I fucking love this band. Cold is still one of my favorite tracks by them, and I loved Strange Day and Siamese Twins as well. Solid 6.5/10.
Alice In Chains
3/5
Good album, but once again another case with these grunge albums where I’m fatigued by the sound by the time we get half way through the album. Grunge can hit the spot for sure, but not when there’s no variation. Same vocal inflection and play style all the way through. Snooze. I would totally bump some of these tracks by themselves though.
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
The whiny voice was more bearable here, I actually enjoyed this one decently. I wouldn’t mind if a song came on shuffle, but damn it gets so repetitive. Sad boy summer vibes for sure. I’m just glad pumpkins are over with for now.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Rumours isn’t my personal favorite FM album, albeit that’s likely skewed due to the sheer amount of air play it receives, but I do love how seamless they blend their rock style with pop here. It’s the most commercialized they’ll get without fully losing their rock sound. That being said, silver springs only being on the deluxe and only originally being released as a B side single back then is an actual war crime. Go watch that shit live.
Shack
2/5
Oasis spawned some of the most lame, beige sounding Brit pop albums ever in the 90’s bro. I’ve genuinely NEVER seen this record at any store in my entire life and that’s essentially all I do in my free time. Once again, another “we have “insert name here” at home album. Just sounds like a culmination of everyone else at the time. Nothing sticks out or is memorable here. Next.
Japan
2/5
Surprisingly easy listen. I can tell this band would birth several of the big acts we know today that came out of the 80’s. I was surprised this came out in the 70’s, and it’s even more 80’s core than stuff by the cure I’ve heard in the 70’s. I was also surprised I didn’t die of new wave cringe here. All in all, not my alley but nothing that made me want to mute the album.
Marianne Faithfull
3/5
It’s giving me blondie smokes cigs vibes.
I think her voice will grow on me, but I really dig the groovy production here. I had a lot of fun with this one.
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
Super easy listening experience, and the opener is so damn iconic.
This is a must for any record collector. This has been added to my list!
Carole King
3/5
Another record that was part of my initial record collection. In hindsight, this is a little too mom coded for my taste these days. If Janis Joplin wasn’t a hard rocking drug addict POV. The writing is great, the arrangements are awesome, but it just isn’t up my alley anymore.
The Zombies
4/5
Don’t tell my boy but I fuck with the zombies so much more than the beach boys. There’s something so nostalgic and warm about any record Colin Blunstone jumps on. Psych chamber pop that also sounds so folky. Idk why I get Nick Drake vibes so much from this record. Also, this album was recorded at Abbey Road two years before the big Brits recorded that one album. This rocks.
Living Colour
2/5
Possibly due to the opener and hearing it 10000’s of times, but this just feels like corny 80’s rock. Yeah it’s got elements and fusions of so many genres but idk. Feels plastic even then. Then I find out McJagger had his hands on these guys getting a deal and it makes sense. (I don’t like any of the bands these guys sound like either)
Randy Newman
1/5
Well. This was horse slop. Boomer ranting about the South. The fact that my dude sang the most iconic song of my childhood is making me cringe to infinity. It took the entire length of the album to get to something semi interesting (back on my feet again) 10/10 won’t reccomend.
The Temptations
4/5
Opening track was such a banger man. A little let down we didn’t get more of that psych/hard groove but you know what this shit still slaps. I need your lovin’ is also a certified hood classic. The R&B/Soul albums on here hardly let me down.
Songhoy Blues
3/5
Dude this is literally what this entire 1001 thing is for.
Despite the language barrier, this was hella catchy. I love how they incorporated the rock sounds of the west but still stayed true to their own sound. Opening song? Fucking banger. I can’t give a 4 because I have no idea what’s being said though.
Morrissey
5/5
Holy shit. I was not expecting anything crazy in a 2004 solo album by Morissey. Little did I know, the reviews are all slop because people don’t like the guy personally. This album is a banger. This comes off the heels of 6 year hiatus after his career was basically said and done. It’s basically Smiths with a modern sound.
I think the more modern production helps break up the same ish sounds you hear through the Smiths albums, and gives just enough of a poppyfreshness to truly feel like a rejuvenating moment in his career. 5.
Eric Clapton
3/5
Very surprised 461 made this list. This was an album I already had 4 songs saved off. However, I would say it’s far from Claptons best (solo and otherwise)
This album was fresh off the heels of Clapton’s heroin addiction, and I am guessing that’s partially why it’s on this list. We get a lot of reggae fusion here, even a wailers cover that I really enjoy. To me though, Clapton seems to have definitely lost a step. This seems so safe and tame for a Clapton album- even when stepping into elements of other genres.
Honestly Slowhand is the only solo album that should be here. Bring me more Cream, Derek & the dominoes, and Yardbirds. Clapton still fucking slaps.
Gorillaz
4/5
The amount of tracks on this album really brings it down to a 4 star for me. The highs are awesome. A shorter album would’ve made this an easy 5.
Favs: 5:4, tomorrow comes today, Punk
Nirvana
3/5
I know I’m a hater. This album probably deserves 5 stars sheerly for the fact that despite me being insanely annoyed by it, I know of basically every song. That’s gotta count for something. The live album goes in, and I love their debut record though.
Metallica
4/5
I much prefer the first couple Metallica albums. Raw. Thrashy. And feels more real. Are they technically better? Probably not. But to me, they were a hell of a lot less formulaic. It’s hard to deny the volume of insane hits on this album. I do enjoy those songs.
With that said, it doesn’t take away that this is still peak cringe dad music. Thanks radio. I’m so torn on what to give this, because despite all of my grievances, this album slaps.
The Undertones
3/5
Fun upbeat early pop punk. Nothing special IMO but I guess that’s what hindsight does. The opening track is quite literally “we have the clash at home” vibes.
Also seems like they took a page out of today’s streaming world with the super short songs but fill up the track list.
I’d definitely revisit this one. It’s repetitive but fun, and thankfully since it’s so short the repetitiveness really doesn’t matter.
Miles Davis
4/5
Definitive Jazz core. I don’t enjoy it as much as some of the other jazz records on here, but to each their own. Still a legendary record.
Blur
2/5
Been bumping Blur’s self titled a lot since i pulled it here.
Given that, I was actually pretty excited for this album. Unfortunately this falls flat for me. Maybe I’m just getting hammered with so much Brit pop lately and need to revisit, but this doesn’t capture any of the fun the self title does.
Favorites: End of a century, Jubilee
Joanna Newsom
1/5
I’m picturing drowning in the titanic to this album. In fact, that would actually put me out of my misery listening to this.
Another album where 5 star reviewers will tell you that you don’t respect art for disliking. This album grinds my ears. It’s boring. It’s hour runtime being a 5 song record is a stain to my brain. God help me.
Haircut 100
2/5
You know this isn’t an inherently bad album. I think I’m just fatigued with all the Brit pop stuff forced upon me lately. It comes in bunches here. This gives Duran Duran vibes but just very forgettable and safe. Genuinely sounds like 3 other albums I’ve heard on here.
Fatboy Slim
2/5
POV: me and the boys carpooling to the mall in 6th grade to go rizz up girls from school. No really, this album is very cringe.
I already had the hit “praise you” saved previously- and I can see why I never gave the rest the light of day. This sounds like some montage a kid would make over cod zombies on vine.
Gangster Trippin’ is actually fire too though, I will give them that. I don’t know if I’ll ever be in the mood to listen again tbh.
Nick Drake
4/5
Maybe it’s because I’m cynically depressed, but god damn, Nick Drake makes some damn good tunes. Sad boy music before it was a thing. Each album he had made had such insane atmosphere, a truly underrated artist of his time, and yet another tragic ending. I’m guessing this Nick Drake resurgence came during COVID, as before that he was mostly an afterthought. He seems to be a cult legend now.
I really want to be sitting by a campfire alone at night right about now.
Favs: Day is done, Mary Jane, Time has told me
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
EW&F holds a special place in my heart. My parents must have been big fans because I recall finding tons of these CD’s growing up.
I love me some funky disco. Yearnin’ Learnin’ is such a banger. I guess for this album specifically, I had higher hopes for some reason. Perhaps it’s because a lot of that sound I listen to is the refined and complete version of it in the 80’s?
Marvin Gaye
3/5
It’s a vibe for sure. My dad ruined this album when he told me what him and my mom did to it. It’s fine. It’s overrated for sure. I’m sorry boys. I much prefer some other albums by Marvin. Sexy doesn’t mean great.
Fav song: Distant Lover
Pere Ubu
1/5
Some of these songs could be fine, but whose idea was it to add all these obnoxious sounds and effects all over the damn place. Kills it for me. I don’t think I’ll be revisiting this one
Peter Gabriel
2/5
I will forever be grateful my dad never subjected me to Genesis (Peter Gabriel led) idk man this is just everything I find annoying in classic rock of this time. Peter Gabriel just doesn’t move the needle for me. Whether it’s his solo shit, or stuff with Genesis, it just feels mad generic and boring. Bowling Alley ass music.
David Bowie
2/5
If you’re gonna honestly tell me there’s not 1001 albums better than Bowie at deaths door, you’re crazy.
Legacy artists shouldn’t hold a spot on the list just for the sake of it. This album is so dull, so boring, and is just a sad homage to a legend of the game. Why.
Lou Reed
1/5
Listening to this while making dinner genuinely ruined the vibe. God damn. So dark, and not even in a good way. Just lame as fuck. I was wrong about transformer- not here tho
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
Why the fuck are there multiple Nick Cave albums? The audacity to make this ear rot a double LP is even crazier. I genuinely have no interest listening to some guy moan Christian rock like this ever again.
Deee-Lite
2/5
POV: it’s Wednesday night at the local roller skating rink that’s been on the verge of closing for a decade. The smell of mold emits from the ceilings. The musty carpets are fuming. This has to be a meme right? One hit wonder core. I can’t.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Green River was my first CCR record. After listening to them for some time now, I can safely say this is 3-4 on their discography for me. Perhaps it’s the hype they were getting by this point, but this feels so much more formulaic as a whole vs their first two albums that I love. I love darker and sludgy CCR. I could go a lifetime without ever hearing Lodi again. Please tell me we get their debut so I can redeem myself for 3 starring this.
New York Dolls
3/5
NY Punk is crazy. Sleazy and dirty. This band absolutely shreds. I put a handful of these songs into the playlist. I’ve heard a couple songs before and I only remember that because of the crazy artwork.
Beth Orton
3/5
Holy return of divorced mom Pop/rock. Why am I slowly succumbing to the vibes? This is a huge step up from the last 90’s pop record I did on here (Fiona Apple) albeit even more depressing. Never a good look when I resonate with the sad ones. Oh well. This rocks.
Blood red river is a banger!
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Curtis fucking Mayfield. Despite some of the darker depictions of America at times in this album, this shit is MY feel good music. Billy Jack is such a captivating opener. I wouldn’t say this is near being his best album, but it was a fun ride. I enjoy the concept of the album and this stuff still hits today.
The Police
3/5
Honestly surprised at how overrated this album has always been. Other than Synchronicity, I’ve only heard Outlandos and Reggatta in full.
The final entry feels lazy and slopped together. To me, this feels just like Mardi Gras from Creedance Clearwater Revival. One hit song here, and another good song there; carrying an otherwise flat record to close the book on yet another powerhouse band.
I don’t feel the same creativity here as I did from the bands first two entries. The synth textures and production on this one feel overdone for me personally. The song writing isn’t there for me either. The band at is conception felt more ahead of its time, while on this record they feel like they’re being forcefully dragged into the 80’s.
Overall, I’m just a hater who misses the bounce and vibes from Regatta. So take my opinion with a grain of salt. There’s still plenty of enjoyable tunes.
Favorite Tracks: King of pain, Wrapped around your finger, synchronicity II
Brian Eno
3/5
I love how there’s so many different sub genres thrown into one bowl here. I can hear Bowie, Roxy Music, and even new wave stuff that was still to come years later.
I definitely prefer your standard glam over the experimental fragmented glamish stuff we get here, but I can still appreciate the creativity.
Also can we talk about the atmosphere of the album. Area 51 rock core. Holy shit.
Favs: needles in the camels eye, dead finks don’t talk, Cindy tells me
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
going into this one totally blind. I’ve never heard a single song by this bad before (knowingly)
Definitely out of my wheelhouse musically, as I tend to lean toward darker production and lyrics- but this was surprisingly fun for a dance album.
This sounds super super 90’s. Is that good or bad? I’m not sure- For the most part, this feels like recycled ideas from the 80’s with OVER the top 90’s production slapped on top.
BUT I still like the overall vibes from the album. It’s bouncy, it’s upbeat, and it gets me out of my comfort zone sonically.
I feel like this could definitely be a band I like more the further back I dig into their discography- I like the vocals, and a lot of the production, but just too 90’s.
Favorite tracks: different point of view, liberation, young offender, to speak is a sin
Billy Bragg
2/5
So I love Wilco but I was really bored with this one.
I also just found out that this is a woody Guthrie covers album, so it makes sense why it feels so traditional. Traditional songs+90’s production is a no for me.
However, this does have one of my favorite Wilco songs ever on it (California stars) I also really enjoy “one by one” and “at my window”
1001 has a lot of mid tier albums, and I’ve got to break the spell of 3’s. This is a sold 2.5 for me. Don't see myself revisiting other than for those 3 tracks.
Patti Smith
3/5
Bob Dylan if he was a scene kid who discovered garage rock.
After a 2nd and 3rd run through, I’m starting to get it more. The lyrics are deep, it’s raw as fuck and the vocals are jarring at times, but that’s the point. It gives me similar vibes to Dylan.
Many people including myself are quick to write someone off because they don’t sound like you’d expect or want, but I think I see it now.
So much influence. Free Money gives me 90’s alt vibes. Redondo Beat gives me Police and Cars Vibes.
Favs: Free Money, Redondo Beat
Janis Joplin
2/5
I do really enjoy Janis from time to time. I love her work with Big Brother & the holding company, but to me I’ve never resonated with her solo work the same way.
There’s nothing revolutionary here sonically. Yes, she is one of the best female voices of all time, but for this record specifically it’s very much just your standard blues rock & roll with a kick ass woman on vocals.
I really am surprised this one’s on 1001. Don’t come at me.
Favs: Move over, half moon
Bob Dylan
4/5
I’m a Dylan fanboy so my review will be slop as such.
At face value, this album is boring. The stripped back performances, the monotone voice. But behind those, we find Dylan step into the shoes as an icon for a new generation of folk nerds.
What I love most about Dylan’s early stuff, is unlike many of his counterparts at the time, his music isn’t strictly protesting, he’s question the entire system itself.
Further more, what I love most about Dylan is the way he can paint pictures in your mind with his lyrics. I’ve found myself finding new meanings in his music on each listen. One day a song feels like a heart break song, the next day it’s clearly a political song. Etc etc.
With that said, this is still one of my least revisited albums by him. But it was still a moment and time for sure.
M.I.A.
1/5
Well. I can’t exactly say this was boring.
Experimental album from MIA here. I’m hearing just about every sound from around the world thrown into one bowl creating a sound I can’t say I recall ever hearing before.
Unfortunately beyond the cool production there’s absolutely nothing going on for me. It’s such a big & in your face feeling album but I genuinely have no takeaway.
This is some shit you turn on while you’re about to trip with your boys in Ibiza.
Totally thought the album would be in the same vein as paper planes- I was wrong. I can honestly say I’ll never return to this one.
1/5
Just wrapped up the album and I can promise you I’ve lost some brain cells. This feels like Alien horror core noise slop. Get me out of the 2000’s man.
Who put this on the list? Why? No critical acclaim, and in no way could anyone convince me this is influential. Hell I could make a better song with my shit voice and whatever pots and pans I have in my kitchen.
And if you couldn’t tell, no saves from this one.
The Go-Go's
3/5
My core memory of the go-go’s was riding around on scooters during a Miami Beach sunset and vibing to their music in my AirPods.
This is a fun surf pop rock album. Is a lot of the popular stuff super redundant? Yes. But there’s some slappers too. The deep cuts are the highlight for me. Lust to Love and Automatic have a darker, more standard rock edge to them, and I really enjoy that blended with their style.
Also shout out to the 1001 gods for finally giving me music that doesn’t make my ears bleed.
Fav songs: Lust to Love, Automatic
Television
4/5
I couldn’t help but feel like I was listening to an alternative version of the Rolling Stones here, especially on Side B. Goat’s Head Soup era to be exact. The loose guitar, the soft floaty vocals, etc.
I’ve visited this album before, but it’s ironic I revisit this during my post punk/new wave/ art rock bender I’ve been on.
There’s a few skips here for me, but I love Side B. It’s like a cluster fuck combination of so many bands I love.
“Guiding Light” feels like an early 70s rock song that gives me heavy Stones vibes, whereas songs like “Prove It” feel like everything I grew up on (90s/00s alt) “Prove It” sounds so fucking familiar I can’t put my finger on it. Strokes for sure. “Alright” by Supergrass even.
It feels nostalgic to everything I grew up on, but also something that easily could’ve came out today.
Sheryl Crow
2/5
it’s the 90’s. Your mom’s chain smoking cigs in her trailblazer. She just served your dad papers. You’re in the KFC drive thru ordering a 5 dollar bucket. Mom is singing this with the windows down and has never looked happier.
Brothers in here saying this is the female Tom Petty. I don’t see it. This is just divorced mom rock. This is one of those albums that FEELS like it’s time. This is so 90’s coded. I kinda mess with it actually.
Fav tracks: Na Na Song, Solidify
Jazmine Sullivan
2/5
No idea how this album was so big and I never knew about it.
Honestly it’s a pretty run of the mill R&B soul album. It’s got really good hooks and is a well produced album, but I’m not sure why this one would stick out more than any other in this genre. I get heavy early 2000’s vibes here. I prefer side A and I feel like it tapers off hard on the second side. I actually quite enjoyed “pick up your feelings” and “put it down”
Jane's Addiction
1/5
Everything I hate about the 80’s/90’s in one album.
Why does the lead singer sound like a pitbull who got a gland expression at the vet. Jesus Christ this is one of the more annoying albums I’ve had to sit through yet.
“Then she did” was the closet thing I got to enjoying a song. A cool prog rock track. The guitar work is okay for the most part here, but I cannot get over the whiny vocals. 10/10 never revisiting this again.
Nirvana
5/5
Nirvana’s sound is so much better when it’s raw and stripped back. I’ve always thought this watching their live performances. After Bleach, the biggest thing that bugged me was how commercialized that edgy sound became.
I’ve heard some of MTV’s unplugged before, and now I wanna go binge those. There’s tons more artists I like that did these.
This was a really fun listen, and the fact that it’s a live album definitely makes it okay for having so many covers. They rock. Where did you sleep last night is a certified hood classic.
The Rolling Stones
2/5
So this record totally makes this list merely for being a foundational blues rock album. Yeah there’s hits, but given the stones other work, what’s the actual point of putting this on here? This is a prime example of why we don’t need to have half of every big bands discography on here.
Overall just a boring album, maybe this was also their first record of all originals? Idk. Sure there’s hits all over, but they’ve been played to death. 1966 is stacked and this album doesn’t really push the needle for me.
Janet Jackson
2/5
I’ve never listened to a Janet album but there’s something off putting about this to me. On the surface it’s a good album, but something really bugs me about the production here.
For one, it sounds like it never escaped the 80’s/early 90’s. I can’t stand this particular production style. Janet is signing like this should be a dance album, but the production feels so much darker and trance like at times. Maybe that’s the pull? Either way I’m not a big fan. It’s the same ick I get with later queen music.
Bert Jansch
1/5
The cringe vinyl bro who picks up a guitar after listening to free wheelin’ Bob Dylan one time.
This is an actual war crime to have this and Aftermath in a 3 day stretch. Yet another fucking snooze fest. Sure, he’s a good picker but god damn this is so lame. It makes me appreciate the Dylan’s, The Nick Drakes, The Neil Youngs so much more.
I genuinely felt like this was one 30 minute song. The lyrics on paper seem deep but I feel empty, hopeless, bored and not moved. AND NOT EVEN IN A GOOD TIMMY WAY.
Fiona Apple
2/5
I know Fiona based off her Beatles cover of across the universe, and the fact that I see her name a lot on tinder. Welp, this is not what I expected.
There wasn’t anything particularly interesting here for me. The hit (criminal) is good, shadow boxer is good, and I really liked the jazzy score in Pale September. It’s only bonkers that this album feels so fully realized at only 18?! I don’t know how frequent I’ll revisit, but I’m definitely gonna check out more of her stuff
Blur
4/5
First thoughts: “on your own” sounds like a Mott the hopple song, and it’s lit. This album is everything I enjoy about the 90’s without going over the top into cringe slop territory.
There’s so many different songs on here, there’s honestly something for everyone. This isn’t even a debut but I still hear influence of so many bands. Roxy was another one, stooges is another. It’s crazy how they can go from glammy sounding, to acoustic, to grunge, to garage rock and keep it cohesive.
Tracy Chapman
3/5
This record came out in a time where I’m sure everyone was absolutely sick of the overly produced hair metal, and synth slop of the decade. For an 80’s record, it’s stripped down and mellow.
Tracy has such a great voice. I think the fact that she sounds so good helps this album along rather than dragging with such deep and sometimes dark topics.
For example, younger people will find this a lot more palatable than say early Bob Dylan. It’s all in the voice and punch. Maybe sounding a little more mom ish helps too. To me this is the modern take on the shit I love from the 60’s-70’s so I rock with it all.
Side note: why did we let Luke Combs be the guy to get popular off a cover of her song “fast car”🙄
Favs: For my lover, Across the lines, she’s got her ticket
William Orbit
1/5
I refuse to be the music bro that tries to find the bright side in this. It’s boring ambience music that you’d hear on some $20 dollar bin game in 2006 for the PS2. To make matters worse, there’s a Strange Cargo II that I accidentally listened to the first couple songs of as well. #StopTheCount
Kanye West
4/5
I still remember this album dropping. It was such a transcendent thing at the time. Like the new era of hip hop for me.
Blood on the leaves, Bound 2, Black skinhead.. all bangers that sound like they could have been released today.
This album is ranked so low because of things outside of the music itself. There’s reasons so many younger artists cite this album as such a big influence.
Björk
2/5
I talk about atmosphere a lot on these reviews but this might be one of the absolute best I’ve heard, even if I don’t fully resonate with the music itself.
This album feels like I should be having an awakening in another dimension. The vocals and production really are awesome.
This may be one of those albums I revisit down the line and adjust, but for now, I’m just not into it.
The Offspring
3/5
This is the shit my sister would bump in her Pontiac growing up. So punk and edgy 00’s teen. Tony Hawk pilled. I didn’t realize I’d heard this band so much before, just never knew em by name. Will definitely be bumping this band more.
MGK really thought tickets to my downfall hit like this
Muddy Waters
3/5
Muddy F’n Waters baby
I wish we got a studio album, but I’ll take what I can. Not my favorite project I’ve heard so far, mainly because it’s live, but I can still admire the absolute powerhouse of influence here.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
I REALLY don’t think 90’s Neil needs to be here. This album feels phoned in for his standards. This hits nothing like his 60’s and 70’s works. This feels like a group of friends got together drunk in a garage and made an album.
The guitars are grimy and dope as fuck at times, but to me there’s just no substance beyond that. I go to Neil young for the lyrics, and I didn’t find much here that scratches that itch.
Favs: Mansion on the hill, love and only
Love, fuckin up
Stephen Stills
3/5
Groovy with a little bit of Gospel sound. I love Stephen Stills. What I admire most about this album specifically, is how willing he is to get outside of the shit that made him/his bands popular. There’s so many different sounding tunes here, and I believe he plays a variety of those instruments himself. Underrated for sure.
Favs: Old times good times, sit yourself down, church, love the one you’re with
The Roots
4/5
This has been one of the more fun listens I’ve had in a while on here. Once again, reading the reviews of hip hop on this site is crazy. Haters. Such a diverse Hip-Hop record. I have a weak spot for 90’s-00’s Hip Hop and this didn’t let me down. I love the fusion of genres here. Is it the most consistent? Nope. Does it fall off towards the back half? Sure. But it was really enjoyable.
Favs: rock you, rolling with heat, thought @ work, The Seed 2.0
Radiohead
2/5
Wasn’t in the headspace for this album on this first go around, so maybe I’ll change my mind later. Dull and forgettable. I’ve always thought the radio head glaze is crazy, but at least for good albums. This just wasn’t that enjoyable of a listen at the moment.
Favs: I might be wrong, Knives out
Stan Getz
5/5
Insanely surprised with this pull. Not basic elevator music jazz like I was expecting. This is super cozy, intimate feeling jazz. It almost feels like the folkier stuff I listen to from the 60’s-70’s.
Insanely easy listening & doesn’t drag. Astrud Gilberto brings the perfect vibe to balance the songs out, and keep everything from feeling repetitive. Idk how to explain it, but this album just makes me feel at home. Miles Davis watch out. I think I enjoy this one even more
Emmylou Harris
4/5
Lore time:
Gram Parsons is one of my favorite musicians of all time, and this debut by EmmyLou showcases just how much influence and impact he had on her. In a way, this feels like the final Parsons project.
Because of this, this isn’t your typical debut album. I don’t think EmmyLou had intended on launching solo by the time Parsons died in ‘73. Despite that, she carried on the torch of their works in a super beautiful and impactful way. Songs like Boulder to Birmingham (one of the few non covers on here) showcase just how impactful that relationship was to her.
This same year, she would go on to collaborate with Bob Dylan on his album “Desire” where she takes on a similar role as she did with Parsons, doing harmonies and background singing. With that, she would also tag along for one of the best tours ever imo (Dylan’s Rolling Thunder Revue *Watch the doc it’s amazing*)
To me this era 1975-1977 is what cemented the legacy she was building from the early 70’s. She was already a well established artist in the folk and country scene, but now she was cemented in history. I fucking love EmmyLou.
Black Sabbath
5/5
Sabbath and cocaine and like peanut butter and jelly. Seriously this band fucking rocks. So hard to even fathom ranking any of their discography, as they are easily a top 3 band all time for me.
I love the aggressive don’t give a fuck attitude on this record- this vibe only grows as they would go on to release records after this, but at the time I can see how this was a controversial pivot.
Of all the sonically correct slop rock we get on this list, I’m happy we finally get a record where the meat and potatoes of it is just being complete chaos.
St Vitus and Snowblind are definitely my standouts here. I’d run through a brick wall to those. Of course changes is awesome. It’s crazy to me they threw a soft ballad in a record like this, but hey that’s the essence of this record. Don’t play by the rules.
Public Image Ltd.
1/5
I knew it was only a matter of time until I got alien probing music again this week. I’m not sure what I’d even call this. Experimental punk? -2 stars for not being on streaming, -1 star for being boring as shit, and -2 stars for being a depressing drag. Oops I’m out of stars. Idk what else to say, I don’t like it.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
POV: I didn’t realize this was Lou Reed singing prior to fully diving into this record
The most enjoyable Lou Reed project by far. I’ve known of this record forever because all the music snobs and alt girls swear by it, and although it’s not all for me, there’s some sick stuff on here.
The run from track 1-4 is awesome, “Heroin” was also a stand out track for me. That track feels like a late night drive reminiscing on life. God the feels. “There she goes again” probably gonna have the most replay value too. I know I can’t stand Lou Reed the singer more times than not but dude is such a good poet.
Prince
3/5
Prince is an artist that’s never clicked fully for me. I don’t know what it is, maybe it’s his voice not matching what I think it should ride like on some of these dancy/poppy songs, it’s a similar problem I had with the Janet record on here. My dude can shred on a guitar I’m hoping I can hear more of that and less of this squealing.
I saw the deluxe had 92 tracks and that was enough of a jumpscare for me today. I guess my takeaway here is I can at least respect Prince for doing everything his way for better or worse, you can clearly tell there’s suit and ties forcing a direction here.
Favs: slow Slow Love, U got the look, if I was your girlfriend
Basement Jaxx
2/5
I’m way too sober for this, king.
I can see the appeal to this kind of music in the right scene, but damn just bumping this hating my life fielding calls at work ain’t it.
Similarly to some other electronic we’ve had previously, I did enjoy the fact that there’s so many flavors of music here. One minute it’s mixing up some west coast rap, then suddenly we’re in South America. If this were any other genre I’d probably hate it jumping around sonically like this, but for this record it makes sense.
Iron Maiden
3/5
As a heavy rock fan, it’s crazy that this is my first full listen through a Maiden album. It’s just another band of it’s time that boomers love and I just don’t understand the hype. On a side note, I own a “Iron Maiden Eddie” funko pop so that’s gotta count for something right?
To me this is mostly guitar hero core but even then, I’ll just listen to other bands for sick riffs. I’ll have to dig deeper on them to understand, but I do have some saves here.
Favs: Hallowed by thy name, run to the hills, the number of beast.