597
Albums Rated
3.01
Average Rating
55%
Complete
492 albums remaining
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Rating Timeline
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When do you listen?
Taste Profile
1950s
Favorite Decade
Grunge
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
35
5-Star Albums
15
1-Star Albums
Taste Analysis
Genre Preferences
Ratings by genre
Origin Preferences
Ratings by country
Rating Style
You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| In It For The Money | 5 | 3.23 | +1.77 |
| S&M | 5 | 3.26 | +1.74 |
| The Beach Boys Today! | 5 | 3.27 | +1.73 |
| Blunderbuss | 5 | 3.4 | +1.6 |
| If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears | 5 | 3.42 | +1.58 |
| A Rush Of Blood To The Head | 5 | 3.44 | +1.56 |
| Parachutes | 5 | 3.46 | +1.54 |
| Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music | 5 | 3.49 | +1.51 |
| Black Holes and Revelations | 5 | 3.59 | +1.41 |
| Buenas Noches From A Lonely Room | 4 | 2.6 | +1.4 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Marshall Mathers LP | 1 | 3.49 | -2.49 |
| The Köln Concert | 1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
| Only Built 4 Cuban Linx | 1 | 2.86 | -1.86 |
| Deja Vu | 2 | 3.7 | -1.7 |
| New Boots And Panties | 1 | 2.7 | -1.7 |
| Birth Of The Cool | 2 | 3.65 | -1.65 |
| Catch A Fire | 2 | 3.64 | -1.64 |
| After The Gold Rush | 2 | 3.64 | -1.64 |
| A Love Supreme | 2 | 3.63 | -1.63 |
| The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan | 2 | 3.63 | -1.63 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 5 | 4.8 |
| Led Zeppelin | 3 | 5 |
| Nirvana | 3 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 4 | 4.5 |
| Coldplay | 2 | 5 |
| The Beach Boys | 2 | 5 |
| Metallica | 4 | 4.25 |
| The White Stripes | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Pere Ubu | 2 | 1.5 |
| Robert Wyatt | 2 | 1.5 |
| Joni Mitchell | 3 | 2 |
| Leonard Cohen | 3 | 2 |
5-Star Albums (35)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
2/5
Pioneers of rap. Some of this is really good and fun. Other stuff is unbearable.
4 likes
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
1/5
This is the soundtrack in hell. It was the worst thing I’ve ever heard. Some critics put it as high as top 60 of all time. Absolutely terrible. It wasn’t even on Spotify.
1 likes
Bob Dylan
4/5
This deserves more time and attention than I gave it. It’s one I’ll come back to. Does anybody really like his voice? No one sounds like him, however. There’s no mistaking Dylan.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (15)
All Ratings
Led Zeppelin
5/5
This is my first album review for this project. Does it get any better than this? It's a perfect album. I dare you to name a band with four better players. These guys are geniuses and freakishly good.
Talking Heads
3/5
This was the first time for me to really listen to Talking Heads. They do some cool stuff, but I don't love the singing on the record. Unconventional. Worth at least one listen.
Ray Charles
5/5
Pure voice. Horns and strings. Soul. Crystal clear recording. Space to breathe. Wonderful in every way.
Iron Maiden
3/5
First time listening to Iron Maiden. Don’t ask me what took so long. This is hit or miss for me. Great guitar work but don’t love the slash metal. “Children of the Damned” was my favorite
Cat Stevens
3/5
First time listening it’s all right. Solid song writing I don’t understand stand all the fuss.
Al Green
4/5
Oh yeah. Good listen. I knew the opener, of course, but everything was new. It’s a fun listen. Heart and soul.
Frank Zappa
2/5
Jazz fusion. Not my thing. It just sounded like he was playing with his little brother’s toy instruments.
Randy Newman
3/5
Holy Toy Story! That’s all I can think of listening to this. It’s not bad, but it all just sounds cheesy to me.
Pixies
4/5
There’s no mistaking The Pixies’ sound. I never would have guessed they were from Boston.
Public Enemy
4/5
Classic. Don’t make rap like they used to.
The Louvin Brothers
3/5
Old school country. Too bad today’s country artists have diverted from what country music really is. I’d rather listen to this any day.
The Beta Band
4/5
This needs to a 10 point scale. It’s a 7 (3.5). Never heard of these guys. They do some cool stuff.
Daft Punk
2/5
Not my thing. I feel like I need acid and some glow sticks to really get into this, but that isn’t going to happen any time soon.
Keith Jarrett
1/5
This was terribly boring and uncreative. No, thank you.
Jack White
5/5
I’m very familiar with this one. Love it. So creative and loud. He’s a legend, a guitar god.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
1/5
This is the soundtrack in hell. It was the worst thing I’ve ever heard. Some critics put it as high as top 60 of all time. Absolutely terrible. It wasn’t even on Spotify.
Miles Davis
2/5
Cool is Miles Davis. Miles Davis is cool. Nevertheless, it’s not my thing.
The Temptations
3/5
Fathers of groove.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Guitar God. Incredible drumming. Bold as Love” is my new favorite song.
Cypress Hill
3/5
I can hear their influence on so much hip hop today. Love the energy and drive.
Dr. Dre
2/5
Too much gangsta shit for my taste.
Metallica
5/5
The juxtaposition between orchestra and heavy metal is amazing. Beauty meets the beast. Love this.
The Avalanches
2/5
No. This repetitive electronic music puts me in a bad mood. It goes no where and tells no story.
Linkin Park
3/5
This album polarizes everyone it seems like. People either love it or hate it. The early 2000s was probably the weakest/worst rock music ever made. The whole rock/rap thing was bad. I’m so glad that’s done. Linkin Park’s songs all sound the same. It’s cool the first time and then gets really lame afterwards. I’m not siding with anyone.
Grant Lee Buffalo
4/5
I had never heard of this band before now. This has been the most pleasant surprise in this project so far. It really blew me away. I imagine it continue to get better as I keep listening.
Pere Ubu
1/5
This was exhausting to listen to. The singer sucks and makes this unbearable.
Fred Neil
2/5
Good if you need to fall asleep.
Fela Kuti
2/5
Good drumming. Need to brush up on my African languages.
The Only Ones
2/5
This was better than I thought it was going to be, but this band really does need a new singer. Put us out of our misery. We also need a ten-point scale to rate these albums. It’s not a 3, but it’s not a 2 either. 2.5 or 5/10.
Milton Nascimento
2/5
Background music at best.
Frank Sinatra
4/5
It’s hard to believe that this album is nearly 70 years old. It’s so clean and pure sounding. There is no other male singer with a more perfect voice. He’s the best. Classic yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Common
2/5
Jazzy, laid back rapping. Cool. Not for me, though. Common is an exceptional composer, however.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
2/5
Never been a big Bob Marley guy, but maybe it was because I wasn’t high enough. It is laid back, but it’s giving me beach vibes. But I don’t love the beach. Nothing wrong here. It’s just me.
New Order
3/5
This album didn’t age well. It’s sounds like old school video game soundtrack in some parts, but I can still hear so much of its influence on modern music. Thats says something.
Janelle Monáe
4/5
This is really an incredible album. It caught me by surprise. It has a little bit of everything on here for every music taste. I’m impressed. I’m going to keep listening. Potential 5 but a 4 for now.
Joy Division
3/5
Dark and moody. Doesn’t hold up well. Coincidence that I just listened to New Order like two days ago??
Country Joe & The Fish
2/5
These guys don’t really have a plan for creating music, which is fine if you’re in the band. However, when you subject other people to listen to the creation, you become a self-pretentious prick. This was not enjoyable, but maybe that was the idea. This is not one of the albums I needed to listen to.
Nick Drake
3/5
If I had time, this one deserves another listen. I’d like to focus on lyrics.
4/5
Unmistakable. Classic. Clean. Pure of sound. She’s the Queen of Country.
Lenny Kravitz
3/5
Kendrick Lamar
2/5
This is not pleasing to listen to. When rappers purposefully make their voices weird just to be different is not something I’m in to. Is he talented? Yeah, I guess. I think I could make a similar album if I was given the tools to do so. Not impressed.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
I was familiar with some of the songs here, and I was pleasantly surprised by the rest. This is good, and they had some really cool and heavy sounds that caught me off guard. Music was better then. Many artists are trying to do too much these days. I’d listen to this over Kendrick Lamar every single day.
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
This got more uninteresting as it went. It peaked in the first few and was downhill from there. Maybe I’m not gay enough to like it.
Thelonious Monk
2/5
It’s jazz. It’s nice, I guess. It’s good for background music at dinnertime. I wouldn’t ever choose to listen to it on the road or in my headphones, though.
Arcade Fire
4/5
Some of these reviews are dumb. If you don’t like it, you don’t like it. Whatever. But to call this music “self-important” is stupid. These guys make solid rock music. Are they claiming to be the greatest? No. But I’m gonna say they’re my favorite band to ever come out of Canada.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
I’d rather clean out my bathroom sink than listen to this again. It’s not the worst thing I’ve on here, though.
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
2/5
These guys were completely new to me. After listening, I can say that I was a little bit intrigued but mainly because I didn’t know what was going to happen next. Sometimes that can be a good thing, but this time it means that they lack identity. Clearly, they are flailing in the dark for something to hold on to.
Pere Ubu
2/5
This is what you get when a middle school concert band makes music for dogs. Dogs love it. Humans run from it.
Stan Getz
4/5
The opening track was my favorite and I like this way more than I thought I would it was like ice tea on a hot day.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
This was alright. Sounded like the first ska album.
Ali Farka Touré
3/5
Nothing more than background music for me.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Electronic music has never really been my jam - just too much repetition lyrically - but I enjoyed listening to this mostly. Maybe because it took me back to an exciting time in my life, though. I like thinking about how Fatboy Slim recorded this at his home. By the way, this album cover is 100% better than the shelves of records.
The Mothers Of Invention
1/5
I’m really disappointed this album is on here. It sucks. It’s disrespectful to real musicians. It’s not even fun.
Nirvana
5/5
Not only did it change everything, it freaking rocks. Everybody playing in this album is off the charts, including Butch Vig.
The Stooges
4/5
I can’t believe I’ve never listened to this. It’s a nastier, dirtier version of The Stones - so raw. I love Iggy’s vocals. “I’m Wanna Be Your Dog” is my new favorite song.
Joni Mitchell
2/5
Appropriate album today for the release of Taylor Swift’s new album. I don’t know much about either artist, but I can imagine Joni Mitchell having tremendous influence on TS. Anyway, this album did not impress me. I found it boring and her voice average.
Richard Hawley
3/5
Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it. I’m not gonna hate on a guy who makes nice sounding music from a past era. At least he’s not a copycat. The first song was my favorite.
The Sonics
4/5
The recording doesn’t hold up. It sounds really old. Nevertheless, this album is full of hits which everyone knows; however, most of them are covers. This album came out about the same time as some Beatles albums did with the same songs. Interesting. The Beatles did them better, though. I love the screams..too many?
Billy Joel
4/5
Albums like this one are why I’m living this project so much. Billy Joel was a guy that I never listened to even though I knew I should but never took the time to do it. This has given me the opportunity to listen to albums like this. Billy Joel is great. His style of rock makes me feel sophisticated. I recognized a few of these songs, of course. Great stuff.
Ash
4/5
Another reason why I love this project. This is my kind of my music from my day. How have I never heard of these guys? I loved it. I didn’t love the singer. I could do better, but they’ve got some nasty licks. I’ll keep listening.
Kacey Musgraves
3/5
Modern country music…like plain oatmeal. It’s just not that good. “Slow Burn” is great with the banjo, though. “Rainbow” is good. I can leave the rest.
Neil Young
3/5
Why is everyone so high on this guy. He doesn’t have a great voice. He’s not rocking out. Yet, he’s everyone’s musical hero. Not mine, though.
Nirvana
5/5
I wonder what Nirvana would sound like today if they stayed a band. If they had, we might not have the Foo Fighters. Nevertheless, we are left with this album, which displays raw energy and talent it never gets old listening to this.
SAULT
2/5
This is terrible. I’m embarrassed for them. They’re trying to make political statements that fall flat and are just plain annoying.
Paul McCartney and Wings
5/5
Paul, the master, is at work. Sit back and enjoy. I always wonder if this is what The Beatles would have sounded like had they not broken up. Maybe like this but better. “Nineteen Hundred and Seventy-five” might be the greatest closer of all time.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
It’s fine. I was a bit surprised actually. I had heard a few of these songs but didn’t know the artist. She had more soul and energy than I was expecting, but I didn’t give this album enough attention. Maybe it didn’t deserve it. Maybe I’ll listen again. It’s me, not you.
2Pac
2/5
Eh. More of a Biggie guy.
The Psychedelic Furs
3/5
I’ve heard of this album but never listened. It sounded exactly like I thought it would…and that’s not a good thing. It’s just fine.
John Martyn
3/5
Moving along.
3/5
Won’t listen again but not bad. Just not my thing.
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
I’ve only ever listened to their greatest hits. I actually liked this better. Great album.
Willie Nelson
4/5
So good.
AC/DC
3/5
Different singer and this band is great, but his voice grates on me and can only be listened to in small doses.
The Byrds
3/5
Big things were happening in this area of rock. The Byrds were a big part of that. Nice music.
Bill Evans Trio
2/5
Good players. Not my thing. Background music at best.
Pet Shop Boys
4/5
I liked this. It’s 3.5 stars, but I think I’ll round up this time. The songs peaked my interest -more than background music. If they came on the radio I wouldn’t change the station.
ZZ Top
3/5
Texas rockers! They’re really good at what they do.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
2/5
Pioneers of rap. Some of this is really good and fun. Other stuff is unbearable.
Taylor Swift
3/5
Acoustic love songs with cuss words. Alright. It all sounds the same. One thing I will say is the quality of production is second to none. It sounds pure.
Sly & The Family Stone
2/5
Funky. Stopped paying attention a few songs in.
Dennis Wilson
4/5
This is great. Gonna listen more I did not have time to list en to a 2 hour album.
The Chemical Brothers
2/5
Typical electronic music. Lots of repetitive beats and lyrics. Maybe it would be cool if I was in a European club with huge speakers, glow sticks, and a drink or two.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
I’ve wanted to listen to them. I had high hopes. They fell a little short.
Ray Charles
4/5
He’s the master. Everything he touches is gold. Incredible sound.
Radiohead
4/5
This is not Radiohead’s best album. This is very experimental, but I still dig it. 4
Wu-Tang Clan
2/5
Too many mfers and n-words for my taste. They are so angry.
Jurassic 5
3/5
It’s fine. Better than I thought it would be.
Hole
4/5
This album rocks. Love her or hate her, Courtney Love is all in on this.
The Isley Brothers
4/5
This took me by surprise. So good. Great guitar work.
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
Fun music on a day I needed something like this.
Otis Redding
4/5
Perfect. Gets a four just because it’s mostly covers. No one makes music like this anymore.
Sepultura
2/5
This was long. Too long. So much angriness.
Lucinda Williams
2/5
I hate her voice. It’s really weak. This sounds like a bad rip-off of Lisa Loeb or Sheryl Crow. The only redeeming part of this album is the steel guitar that sounds great.
Beastie Boys
4/5
Masters of sampling. This album is often overlooked.
Bobby Womack
2/5
Can you be too funky? This music sounded very outdated. It doesn’t stand up.
Ali Farka Touré
3/5
Nothing bad here. Just hard for me to get to not it due to the language barrier.
Billy Bragg
4/5
This album surprised me. It had a little bit of a country twang that I really liked. It’s a 3.5, but I’ll round up.
Cream
3/5
Sounds like a band that hadn’t figured things out yet. Potential insane greatest lays there, untapped, but ready to burst. They play on this record as if scared to let loose. Let the lion out!
Duran Duran
3/5
This is Duran Duran at their best. If you like this kind of music, this is the best you get. It’s not bad, but it doesn’t inspire me to do anything- not dance, not sing, not run through a brick wall. “Hungry Like a Wolf” is the strongest song on the album.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
So much different and more mature (full?) than the last S & G album I listened to. I liked this one better.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
No. I didn’t need to listen to this before I die. Bad “singing.” Nothing unique or interesting here. Why?
The Cardigans
3/5
I really expected more out of this. Their one big hit just gets stuck in my head and not in a good way. I just hear No Doubt, and I would rather listen to No Doubt…and that’s not saying much.
Pixies
4/5
Just a solid rock group. Often overlooked but never disrespected. These guys are killing it.
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Some classics on here. Some I didn’t know. Some hits, some misses.
Love
2/5
Coldplay
5/5
I miss this Coldplay. Every song is solid. I want this again.
The Stooges
3/5
This Stooges album didn’t have the same energy or uniqueness as the last one I listened to. This is a band that the listener would benefit from seeing the perform live. They are made for that.
Dolly Parton
3/5
I think Dolly’s voice is the strongest of the three or at least the one I recognize the most. Im glad they were finally able to make this album together. Would have loved to have seen them work in the studio together.
Slint
2/5
Any band with a bunch of moody spoken word is suspect. I would have liked to have seen the reunion tour where they play this album, but I don’t want to listen to it again. Maybe I will when I listen 898 more albums.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Bruce - the poster child of American rock and roll. Lyrically, he’s hard to beat, but his voice leaves much to be desired. He stands for the common man, and common men love him for it. Iconic album cover too.
Joanna Newsom
2/5
I can’t imagine anybody spinning this record because they love it - Maybe her mom. It’s not terrible, it’s just not what anyone wants to listen to. Her voice isn’t bad, but I’d rather listen to just about anything else.
Leonard Cohen
2/5
I’m going to go kill myself now.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Every song is perfection. Their worst song is the best song other bands only wish they could make.
Eminem
3/5
I was in college when this came out, and it blew people away. They were shocked and appalled and then he was White on top of that. Eminem changed rap forever with this album. Love him or hate him, he is an innovator and belongs on the Mt. Rushmore of rappers. For me, he’s too much.
The Divine Comedy
2/5
Sounds like show tunes to me. It’s very dramatic -over the top. Did he just trill a note? No thanks.
Madonna
3/5
Pop music. Over produced. Some people love it. This is the first time I’ve ever purposefully listened to Madonna. It sounded exactly how I thought it would.
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
This album is alright. 3.5 but I’ll round up because it’s better than Madonna.
Nine Inch Nails
4/5
Trent Rezner is a spooky guy with incredible ideas. Didn’t he record this album in Celio St. where the Manson murdered took place? Industrial metal is not my thing, but I can get into for a bit. This album was unlike anything heard when it came out. It’s the soundtrack in hell, and not in a bad way.
Gil Scott-Heron
2/5
Political jazz music. Nah. It’s like combining squash and oatmeal. Not a good combination for me.
Bob Dylan
4/5
This deserves more time and attention than I gave it. It’s one I’ll come back to. Does anybody really like his voice? No one sounds like him, however. There’s no mistaking Dylan.
Blur
3/5
This is not Blur’s best, but because they are better musicians, Blur became better.
4/5
I knew the name but never listened to her except for maybe a radio hit somewhere a long time ago. I could get behind this. I was thinking production pop rock, but I was wrong. It’s a 3.5, but I just got laid listening to it so it’s a 4. I’ll listen again and the good times will roll.
Black Flag
2/5
Middle school beginner music?
Jethro Tull
4/5
I’ve never heard so many flute solos. He has the market on that so that is something. I really liked it.
Steely Dan
4/5
American rock and roll. Put him in there with Springsteen and Petty. This is better, though.
Neu!
3/5
This made me think of a German U2 with fewer lyrics. It was like eating celery-not good, not bad.
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
Nah.
Yes
4/5
Say “yes” to Yes. I know, it’s cheesy, but I enjoyed the meandering journey of these songs. Better than rap any day.
The Magnetic Fields
2/5
This should not be on the list. It’s terrible. The dude can’t sing. It’s like listening to my dog wail. It’s disrespectful of my time. Who’s got 3 hours to listen to this garbage. Be better.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
3/5
Beautiful really. Unfortunately, these songs end up sounding all the same to me. Maybe it’s the language barrier.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
3/5
I don’t understand the hype about these guys. This is back ground music at its best, which is what it was to day.
The Darkness
2/5
This is really cheesy Van Halen knock off music. But weren’t Van Halen a bunch of knock-offs? So what is this really?
Destiny's Child
2/5
This sounds exactly like I thought it would. I didn’t need to spend an hour of my life listening.
Jorge Ben Jor
2/5
I don’t get it. This music from other parts of the world all sounds the same to me.
Beatles
5/5
Perfection. Anybody who says anything different needs to be committed to an insane asylum.
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Love Stevie Wonder’s voice! Not my favorite of his albums but enjoyable.
The United States Of America
2/5
Experimental for sure. Never heard this before. It’s work to listen when melodies are absent. 2.5.
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
My favorite band of all time. Love em or hate em. For me, it was love at first listen. Billy’s lyrics, his passion to always do something different and great, Jimmy’s drums, the softness, the heaviness, the rage, the art…it all works for me. This album is a masterpiece. It’s all different and beautiful. They are odd, and that’s what makes them legendary.
Circle Jerks
2/5
There is nothing special or groundbreaking or unique or even fun about this music. It’s immature and weak - something middle school boys would write and find entertaining. Lyrics and structure are severely limited. Thankfully it was only 15 minutes long.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
3/5
There are some legitimate jams on this album, but it’s 2 or 3 tracks too long - trim the fat. It’s not a 4 but it’s not a 3. I guess that makes it a 3.5. Some songs have not aged well.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Started off strong but went downhill from there. You can only make the same strange guitar sounds so many times.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
Karen O is the ultimate rock star. Attitude. Flare. Style. Sexiness. She brings it on every song on this album. The bass lines kill and the band is cooking.
Beastie Boys
4/5
This the Beastie Boys best album. It could be a 5 if they got rid of all the B sides and saved them for a reissued box set. But it doesn’t get any better than “Sabotage” and “Get it together” back to back.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
2/5
He’s like a miniature Thom Yorke singing sad songs in his basement. I’d give it a 3 if I didn’t have to go to YouTube and listen to commercials.
Pink Floyd
5/5
I’ve never listened to this album all the way through in one sitting - the way it was meant to be listened to. Too make up for my previous failure, I listened three times in a row. If anyone talks badly about this album I guess it’s just because they don’t like rock and roll or they had just have bad taste. What can you do? Can’t make everyone happy. It’s a masterpiece in every sense of the word.
Ozomatli
3/5
Fun. It kept my interest more than some non-English speaking artists.
The Black Crowes
4/5
I had only listened to their greatest hits before this. I was disappointed to find that nearly all of their “greatest hits” were found on this album. They hit gold with this album, but have done absolutely nothing since then. It’s odd that this album came around right before grunge. It doesn’t fit with anything else of its era. I guess we can it good, clean rock-n-roll.
Leonard Cohen
2/5
I don’t get it. Was it the same song ten times in a row. Stick to writing poetry not set to lame music.
Lauryn Hill
3/5
When this album first came out it was on fire. Everyone loved it - critics and fans. I never listened. It wasn’t my thing. I wish I been more open-minded when it came to music. But here I am now, 26 years later, and I finally listened. It’s nice but I don’t connect.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
It’s a classic for some. I like them. I don’t love them. I never thought they did something so great everyone should love them for it. When Kedis is singing about being hard, it’s weird and awkward. I wouldn’t want to listen to those kind of lyrics with other people. “Under the Bridge” is by far my favorite.
1/5
This is why people don’t like jazz. This ruins it for anyone else. This sounds like a junior high band warming up. Nothing to see here.
Pixies
4/5
Sounds like the Pixies. I’ll round up from 3.5.
Crowded House
3/5
Australian REM. Perfectly adequate.
George Harrison
4/5
Epitome of cool. What would I give to hear this live today.
5/5
I’ve been waiting for this one. So good. Creative. Masterpiece.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Two Pink Flores albums in one week! I must be living right. I’d kill to see this band live.
5/5
The only knock I ever read about this album is that it falls short on the concept. Who cares? It’s a masterpiece - The Beatles at their creative peak. “A Day in the Life” is unbelievable.
Finley Quaye
3/5
Scottish reggae. Weird.
B.B. King
3/5
Not the biggest fans of the blues but the dude can play. I saw it first hand at Bonnaroo. Legend.
Marvin Gaye
3/5
Epitome of laid back. Everything he does seems really easy, effortless.
Kendrick Lamar
2/5
This album goes from a believer’s prayer to disgusting lyrics. I’ll put this in same hypocritical category as Destiny Child. There’s a special place in music hell for this album.
The Flaming Lips
2/5
I’ve heard great things about this band that I’ve never listened to. This was a disappointment. Maybe I should have started with a different album.
Beatles
4/5
There has never been a band that matured as much as the Beatles in there sound and style. Lot’s of covers in this one, but the talent is there. It is fun to think that they were about to take over the world.
Big Star
4/5
This was great. Never even heard of it before.
Gene Clark
2/5
The second half of this was better than the first half, but I was bored through the entire thing. Wannabe Bob Dylan is all I heard.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
This was my first Rolling Stones album in this project and it was a great one. “Wild horses” This is blues rock and roll at its finest.
Machito
3/5
Not really my thing but it sounds clean and they’re talented.
The xx
3/5
How can it get anything higher than a 3? It just is just fine. That’s it. It’s pleasant to listen to - background music. It doesn’t have one song that sounds out. They don’t do anything that hasn’t been done. No song stands out on it; this, no singles.
Elvis Presley
4/5
The King of Rock and Roll gets his start with this album full of covers by mostly Black artists. I feel like it’s cheating. Don’t get me wrong, Elvis was special. I’d give it a 5 if he wrote the songs originally. I guess the question is, “Where would we be today if it wasn’t for him?” Love the energy. I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall in the studio.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Good week with two Rolling Stones albums. Killer band. I like them more and more the more I listen. I’m familiar with the greatest hits, but their entire catalog is worth a listen. Hard to pick which album I liked better. Solid either way.
D'Angelo
2/5
Sexy background music. That’s it. Not impressed.
Big Black
2/5
Punk music made by Trent Reznor is what it sounds like. This was pretty terrible.
The White Stripes
4/5
Rocked then. Rocks now. Jack White is a true rock and roll star.
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
I know everyone loves these guys, and they are supposedly rap pioneers. I’m not that impressed. The music is not timeless.
Muddy Waters
3/5
Classic blues.
Neil Young
2/5
What is it people see in this guy? I don’t get it. He can’t sing. He doesn’t do anything spectacular on the guitar. Am I missing something?
The Cure
3/5
The kings of no rock music do it again.
The Dandy Warhols
4/5
I really loved this album. I had maybe heard of this band before, but I had definitely never listened to them. The guitar sounds are incredible. With some listens it could honestly be a five for me, but it’ll have to settle for a four for now.
Van Halen
4/5
VH at their finest, which isn’t really that great. Most overhyped band in history? I’ll give them a 4 just because if you put Eddie in any other band, they might be better.
The Who
3/5
This one deserved more of my attention. I need to revisit it another day.
The Specials
2/5
This sounds like circus music from hell. No one really likes this, do they?
The Zutons
3/5
It’s music.
Michael Jackson
5/5
I don’t give 5’s often, but when I do, I give them to MJ.
Rush
4/5
Rock on. Neil Peart is a rock god.
The Monks
3/5
I like it. Sounds like 60s rockers having a good time.
OutKast
3/5
I’ve tried and tried to get into this, but I never can. Outside of the hits, it just falls short. It seems too disjointed, so I never know what is happening.
Moby
3/5
Pretty cool for electronic music, which isn’t that cool.
Fiona Apple
4/5
Moody, angsty…I love it.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
3/5
Are all these jazz records towing in me? Don’t know but this was alright. Sax sounds great.
GZA
2/5
I’m totally gangsta when I listen to this.
David Bowie
3/5
Not his best but pretty good still.
Soul II Soul
2/5
I knew one of these! Surprise surprise! The rest was blah.
Culture Club
3/5
“Karma Chameleon “ was stuck in my 10-year-old’s the rest of the day after listening to this album with me. I hate that he was tortured like that. The rest of the album isn’t bad. The sad I’m cover kills me.
John Lennon
4/5
Classic. It’s great. Something is missing, though. None of The Beatles were ever as good without their band mates who helped them create magic. It’s close, but close only counts in horseshoes, grenades, and slow dancing.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
It could be a four star album with a live drummer.
Drive Like Jehu
3/5
Started slowly but gained traction as I went. It deserves more of my attention. Sounds like the raw and unabashed Nirvana we all love. I’m gonna put this one of the shelf and come back to it with the hopes the three grows.
Wire
2/5
They’re a band. They made some music. The end.
R.E.M.
3/5
Couple hits in here. That’s about all I want to hear from this band.
The Fall
2/5
No. This is unpleasant to listen to.
Koffi Olomide
2/5
It all sounds the same to me.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
4/5
Rock and roll has come a long way since this. This just seems right. Like your mom’s meat loaf - can’t go wrong.
Beatles
5/5
5 stars for the cover art alone? Yes. Or “Golden Sumbers”? Yes. Ringo’s drum solo? Yes. John’s madness on “I Want You”? Yes. Paul’s ditty to the Queen? Yes. George’s guitar tone on “Something”? Yes. Is it perfect? No, but only because I wish it would never end.
Solange
2/5
I’m trying to think of something good and to be positive, but I just can’t.
The Police
3/5
I don’t understand the reggae vibe, and it turns me off. This album was a first and a last for me.
Miles Davis
4/5
Perfect for a rainy day. I could have sworn I was in the jazz club with him.
The Who
5/5
Keith Moon is a beast and he might be at his best on this album. Every song is rocking.
Khaled
2/5
This album was hard to find and then went on and on and on, but I listened. I would not let it defeat me. The director songs were cool and then it was just same ol same ol. Bright spot: great horns.
Louis Prima
4/5
This was never on my radar, but I loved it. No one makes music like this any more. It really makes me appreciate the recordings we do have. I wonder how much great music was lost before it was preserved.
Eagles
3/5
This is the most overrated album by the most overrated band of all time. What do people see in this? It’s just boring rock music, real boring. It makes me feel bad for people who think this is as good as it gets.
Neil Young
3/5
This guy has influenced so many of the artists I like today, but he doesn’t do anything for me. If I was sitting around the campfire with him droning on with guitar, I’d have to drink a lot more.
10cc
2/5
This was just weird and not in a cool way.
Metallica
4/5
This does not hold up well, but Metallica has a special place in my heart. Although the songs are outdated and are too long, they did have a significant influence in heavy metal music.
Fugazi
2/5
This is the voice I hear in my head after I bang my head through the wall. It just hurts. I like some of the guitar work, but, good gosh, find a new singer.
Girls Against Boys
3/5
This has a certain darkness to it that I like. You have to be in the right mood, but Halloween is coming.
The Clash
3/5
Never listened to these guys before today. I know they are iconic. I was expecting something I didn’t like, but this was tolerable. I felt kind of like I was at a circus, which is not bad.
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
His falsetto voice wore on me, but I enjoyed the horn. But not enough to give it more than a 2. I guess I’m just not funky enough.
Animal Collective
2/5
No melodies. No choruses. No fun. I always think I’m going to like these guys, but then I’m bored to tears. Ruined a perfect fall afternoon drive.
KISS
3/5
Is this the most overrated band of all time? Boring riffs. Boring drums. They had the rely on gimmicks to keep people interested, but even that falls short for me. Better than experimental psychedelic rock music at least.
Electric Light Orchestra
3/5
This was fine. It’s another lame name for a band that I don’t want to listen to. Heavily influenced by the Beatles but who is not.
Motörhead
3/5
Well, there’s definitely a vibe here. Need some whiskey, a bike, a dirty bar, a scanky hoe, black leather, and a lot of facial hair and I’ll fit right in. It ALL sounds the same.
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
This band is just trying to give everyone a migraine. I could do better by myself in a metal shop. This band was ahead of NIN. Why torture us with this one?
Sex Pistols
2/5
They have an audience, but I’m not in it. Sorry, fellas. Keep being punky.
Suede
4/5
This was a nice surprise. I heard bits and pieces of other bands I really like in their music. I’m feeling generous today.
Doves
3/5
I lost my soul listening to this uninspired music.
Adele
4/5
No one can sing like her. No one. She’s in a class by herself.
Prince
5/5
It gets a 5 for “Purple Rain” alone. Prince is a freak in every sense. Miss that guy.
TV On The Radio
3/5
They’re doing some interesting things that remind me a bit of minor league Radiohead. I won’t listen again, though.
Thin Lizzy
4/5
Rock and Roll lives!
Norah Jones
4/5
Beautiful. Not usually what I listen to, but it sets the tone for the evening.
The Smiths
3/5
I’ve never liked this band, but this album was better than I thought it was going to be. Just don’t like the singer.
The Kinks
3/5
I expected more out of this one. It was pretty lad back.
Mudhoney
3/5
I like the rawness. For a time, these guys were on top of the world. I miss those days when rock was still alive.
Wilco
3/5
I feel like a really cool hipster listening to these guys. Got some definite Radiohead influence in there. It’s cool, but not cool enough for me.
Sigur Rós
3/5
I feel like a hipster listening to these guys. Finally, I’m really cool. It’s great ambient noise. Beautiful. Put me right to sleep.
Mylo
2/5
No one can destroy r-n-r. If that was the intention, this album falls flat on its face. Electronic music is not meant to be listened to. It’s unbearable. However, you turn it up as loud as it will go and dance, then that’s a different story. But not if you have any taste whatsoever.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Masterpiece.
David Bowie
4/5
Albums like this are the reasons why I decided to do this project. I should have listened to this a long time ago. It is great. David Bowie is a legend.
Death In Vegas
3/5
I liked this more than I thought I would.
John Coltrane
2/5
No. This is not enjoyable for me.
Beck
3/5
This was not what I was expecting at all. I haven’t listened to much Beck except for his mid-90s stuff, but this was great with a hint country in there. Sad and moving music. I liked it just enough.
Elton John
4/5
EJ is amazing.
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
I’m not sure why people like this album. The drums are tingy. The vocals are drown out. It sounds like white noise. I can’t imagine seeing them live and having any idea what they were doing.
4/5
This one takes me back to the good old days. Great album with fine song writing and passion powering the performance. It’s too bad these guys hate each other. They could do something more.
Paul Revere & The Raiders
4/5
I love these guys. Some might say they are knockoffs, but they captured a popular sound and produced fun music. This is not their best album, but it’s still solid.
Metallica
4/5
Talk Talk
3/5
Chill. I could get into this if I really invested in it and if I was wide awake.
Willie Nelson
4/5
Willie’s voice is indistinguishable. I love the covers, and the originals are good too.
LTJ Bukem
2/5
Had to go to YouTube…and for good reason. This was a chore in every definition of the word.
Magazine
3/5
80s written all over it. It doesn’t hold hold up well. It’s a bit theatrical for me, but there’s some new stuff that at least holds my attention for a few minutes.
Green Day
3/5
Just saw them in concert recently and they played this whole album. I thought it would be better. Adults playing immature punk music. It’s a little embarrassing. Still, it took me back to some good high school days.
Gillian Welch
2/5
I expected more from this. This was pretty boring.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
3/5
Saw these guys in concert once. This album is pretty famous with lots a of guests. Gotta be in the right mood for the hoedown music.
Eagles
3/5
Congratulations. You are the most boring rock band of all time.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
“Scarborough Fair” is beautiful, but these guys are pansies. I imagine them in a fight getting it handed to them by Metallica. I feel super wimpy after listening and now I need to do something manly like chop wood or fart and drink beer.
The B-52's
2/5
Most annoying band ever?
The Byrds
3/5
Sounds like the music of that era. I like it, but not enough to give it more than a 3. It probably deserves more love than that, but I need to immerse myself in it more.
The White Stripes
4/5
So good. Almost a 5. Jack White is a beast on the guitar. Probably my favorite album from them.
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
This was good. No cussing on a rap album. What?? Unheard of. This took me by surprise.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
These guys are crazy. The distinct sound makes them great. I got to see them recently in concert but without Dave Navarro. They are the definition of dysfunctional.
The Clash
3/5
Hard to believe that a just a few years earlier music sounded completely different. These guys definitely changed the scene…and not really for the better.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
I’m a fair weather RHCP fan. I like most of the hits, but I’m fine to leave the other stuff behind. This was a solid comeback album for them, though.
5/5
I remember buying this CD, and I still love it. Yes, it’s over the top, but I love the guitar riffs. Bellamy’s voice is incredible. Their energy is hard to beat.
The Modern Lovers
3/5
Middle of the road. Sounds like a mash-up of several 60s bands. Nothing special to see here, folks.
Pearl Jam
5/5
It’s a 5. I’ll fight you if you say otherwise. Rocks.
System Of A Down
2/5
For me and my generation, this is the worst band hands down. It’s not even close.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
I listened to this in the middle of nowhere Arkansas in a log cabin while making an apple pie. That’s probably never happened before. I liked the first three songs, but then it lost me. It went free m cool and fresh to redundant dance jazz. Weird.
Primal Scream
2/5
Nothing to see here, folks.
Nirvana
5/5
Kurt’s voice in this performance is incredible. I love this dude if Nirvana that no one had seen before or even knew was possible. The tone of the songs is perfect. I’ve listened to this album countless times, but I’ve never watched it. I may need to do that.
The Adverts
2/5
Punk music requires punk rock taste, which I just do not have. Best song on the album was the last one.
Incubus
4/5
This one took me back to some great times. Every song rocks. They never reached this level of success again.
Radiohead
5/5
This music is meant to be listened to with headphones and then get lost in it. The layers of sound are incredible. One of the most innovative bands of all time. If I have a negative criticism, it’s that Thom Youree’s vocals are covered up at times and he drones in and in and I don’t know what he’s saying. The music makes up for it, though.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Not a 4 but not a 3. I’ll round up because he has a great nickname and represents blue collar ‘Merica. Some great piano makes me feel happy.
Motörhead
2/5
Listening to this was like pressing a drill against my head for an hour. Tough singer. No range.
Incredible Bongo Band
2/5
Bongo covers. Am I supposed to be impressed or entertained by bongo covers? If I wanted that I’d just go downtown in any major U.S. city to listen to the guys beat on buckets.
Green Day
3/5
Green Day again. Kings of pop punk, I guess. If Green Day is good at anything it’s bringing people with bad music taste together. Is this really what the people want? A pop punk band full of mediocre musicians making political statements? One bright spot is “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” with the cool guitar.
Bee Gees
3/5
I was expecting disco music. This was Beatlish. Not bad.
CHIC
2/5
If I’ve heard one disco song, I’ve heard them all.
The Flaming Lips
4/5
Music for acid trips.
Leonard Cohen
2/5
I’m not even going try to get behind this. I don’t like it because it’s boring, and he can’t sing.
Meat Puppets
2/5
Very interesting. Just last week I had Nirvana’s MTV’s Unplugged album, which features three Meat Puppets’ songs. Without Nirvana, no one has even heard of these guys. There’s a reason for that. I’ll give them credit for some decent ideas that were executed poorly.
The Go-Betweens
3/5
Nothing memorable. Nothing terrible.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
It seems like everywhere I go I see his name, but I’ve never heard his music until now. It has just never interested me, I guess. Solid rock and roll. Won’t listen to him before someone I like, though.
Wilco
4/5
I really loved this. I have never heard it before, but everything was right about it today.
Elton John
4/5
One of the greats and his greatest album. I’d give him a 5 if he wrote his own songs.
Van Morrison
3/5
Kind of cool. Kind of boring.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
2/5
Jam band. Maybe my least favorite kind of music. Well, maybe not but close.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2/5
This guy again. Lucky me - twice in one week. This one is definitely weaker. He sounds like a whiney teenager that needs a good whipping in this one.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
4/5
I had never heard this before except for the one song and some bits that Eminem sampled. I never knew that Janis Joplin and Brittany Howard sounded so similar. That’s a good thing.
Joni Mitchell
2/5
Good gosh. This was terrible. “The River” was the only redeeming feature. So bland. Where’s the soul?
Hüsker Dü
2/5
Turned it on and immediately tuned it out.
Hole
4/5
I love this album, but maybe it’s because it’s heavily influenced by Billy Corgan. Or maybe it’s because the album cover is fire. Courtney Love is easy to hate, but give the girl a shot. Rock on!
Talking Heads
3/5
They’re different. They’re having fun. I’m glad someone is.
Caetano Veloso
2/5
No Felix navidad.
Various Artists
3/5
It’s Christmas music. Not much to get excited about here.
Nick Drake
2/5
I couldn’t feel lighter in my loafers after listening to the riveting flute solos. Please don’t make me listen to more of this guy.
Portishead
3/5
Cool vibes. One song sounds like all the rest. I always thought this was a heavy metal band because of the name. I was way off.
Dead Kennedys
2/5
Santana
3/5
Sounds like Santana.
The War On Drugs
3/5
Poor man’s Bruce Springsteen. This band is close to being great, but something is missing. I can’t put my finger on it, but maybe it’s because I could play drums for this band - so basic. The songs just don’t go anywhere. I want to go on a ride and they don’t do it for me.
The The
2/5
There’s a line between weird and suck. They crossed it. I gave them a chance, but nobody wants to listen to this more than once. Music is not supposed to be a chore.
T. Rex
4/5
Rawk on!
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Cinematic. Some Christmas sounding jungle bells stuff in here that turned me off. Maybe it’s worth another listen, but it didn’t interest me enough to clear my calendar for another chance. But maybe…
Sister Sledge
2/5
Is it because their one hit is played out or is it because I never like their best to begin with? I’m not sure, but I know I’d change the radio station if it ever came on while I was driving. For that, it gets a 2.
Robert Wyatt
1/5
Rock Bottom is right. It can’t get worse.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Highlight was a cover. That’s not a great sign. BD is not background music. It takes concentrated effort. This is not a bad thing. I just need more time to fully appreciate him and his song writing.
OutKast
3/5
Love em. Hate em.
Underworld
2/5
I thought it would be worse, but it’s just not my thing.
Kanye West
4/5
I really think Kanye is a genius. Some of the songs on here are incredible. I just wish he’d clean it up.
Talvin Singh
2/5
This was an interesting combo that I didn’t see coming. Electronic Indian music with flute solos - not filling any arenas with this but it’s different. Album cover reminds me of Ok Computer, but the music is no where close.
Joan Armatrading
3/5
I hear so many different sounds she must have influenced. I’ll give her that.
Rocket From The Crypt
3/5
Better than I thought it would be. Sounds better than a lot of bands like this.
George Jones
3/5
The guy had an incredible voice. Too bad he wasted his life away on booze.
U2
4/5
I took a break from this for about 40 days. This was a great album to fire me back up. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” is by far the highlight, but the whole thing is solid. This one is special.
Guided By Voices
2/5
28 really lame song ideas. That’s all.
Iron Maiden
3/5
First time Iron Maiden listener. It sounds exactly like I thought it would. Not worth revisiting.
The Youngbloods
2/5
What do they do that stands out or is memorable? What is special about them? Am I missing something?
The Blue Nile
3/5
Intriguing at times. Would I change the radio station if it came on? Depends on my mood, I guess.
2/5
Super cheesy. 4 Ever 2 Gether was the highlight. Everything else was just kind f dumb.
Queen
4/5
Queen never lets me down.
Marilyn Manson
1/5
This music is not good for one’s heart and soul. It makes me feel bad. I can’t imagine listening to it and then treating people with love and kindness.
The Notorious B.I.G.
2/5
Dick and gun lyrics. Cool for 13-year-old boys. Lame and stupid for everyone else.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
2/5
How four guys can put their talents and minds together to create one of the most boring albums of all time is impressive in itself. I guess you have to eat kale salad to enjoy this.
Massive Attack
2/5
This sounds like great background music for people with no taste and no identity.
Robert Wyatt
2/5
Low hanging fruit with the title. Would definitely rather shleep than listen to this one again.
Nina Simone
3/5
He’s got an interesting voice, which kept my attention. The style isn’t really for me, but it’s different and bearable at least.
Faith No More
3/5
Solid.
The Zombies
4/5
Underrated.
Lou Reed
3/5
First time to hear this and the original.
Metallica
4/5
Loud and angry, the Metallica is meant to be.
Elvis Presley
4/5
This just felt right as we drove across Tennessee. Not all of these songs sounded live, which I thought they were going to be. Never the less, it’s a solid listen.
X-Ray Spex
2/5
If I’ve heard one punk rock song, I’ve heard them all. Are we seriously singing about rats?
Nick Drake
3/5
Nothing stands out as great or bad here. I’ll never listen again, though.
Booker T. & The MG's
3/5
Fun music. Reminds me of baseball, The Sandlot and childhood.
Tom Waits
2/5
This guy makes me think of a muppet. It’s actually pretty ridiculous.
Songhoy Blues
3/5
I love this guys’ energy, but I can’t understand them.
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
This is really fun and good music. Puts me in a good mood.
White Denim
4/5
I had never heard of these guys. I really liked the front half of this album but the back half was weak I thought. Plus points since they’re from Texas. Almost a 4.
Jerry Lee Lewis
4/5
Love this one. Pure Rock and Roll the way it is meant to be. The live energy made this one come alive.
Iggy Pop
3/5
Compared to punk music today, this is alright. Today’s artists in this genre have flown so far away from the base model that it exposes their lack of musicality and taste.
Tortoise
2/5
I read all the raving reviews before listening. What do people hear in this that is so amazing? I don’t get it.
The 13th Floor Elevators
3/5
These guys have some really cool sounds. Never heard of them before, but I’m glad I was finally introduced - 59 years later.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
This guy is so talented. Really loved this one.
Badly Drawn Boy
3/5
I thought this was going to be heavy metal. It wasn’t bad. It had some good grooves, but I don’t understand what makes it so special.
The Monkees
3/5
Hey, hey, you’re The Monkees! I’ve never understood this band - a fake wannabe TV band. It’s not that I don’t like their sound. They seem manufactured and there lacks a genuine quality missing from their music.
The Mars Volta
4/5
Rocking. This drummer is crazy good.
Violent Femmes
3/5
These guys have such a distinctive sound. Bass and guitar and great lyrics. I like what they’re doing. I’m good for about 30 minutes of it, but then it’s time to move on.
The Lemonheads
3/5
This fits for the era but doesn’t age well compared to some other 90s bands. Good sound for a Saturday night.
Tom Waits
2/5
No. It’s like Gilbert Godfried made an album with the Muppet band. It’s so stupid, it’s funny.
Neil Young
3/5
Better than his last one. This one least had some melodies. I’m still not seeing what everyone else sees, though.
Fairport Convention
3/5
Started strong and faded with a whimper. Love the band and singer. Their upbeat stuff is better.
Frank Ocean
3/5
Sounds great. Some interesting and engaging lyrics. However, I can’t get behind the vulgarity and cop killing message.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
I don’t love punk rock, but this was alright.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Are these guys the ultimate American rock and roll band? If not, they’re up there.
Hanoi Rocks
3/5
Like a punk hair band.
George Michael
3/5
Generic pop at its best but not unpleasant.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Solid again. It’s a 4 but barely because there are just too many covers on this one.
Bonnie Raitt
3/5
I didn’t feel like this really showcased her guitar playing. Maybe next time.
Dire Straits
3/5
Is this country music? I’ll say yes with a twist of Americana. Decent to listen to but nothing flies in my face as incredibly interesting.
Christine and the Queens
2/5
Didn’t need to hear this before I died.
Television
3/5
I liked this more as it went. I’m tempted with a 4 but it needs to age more. Good vibe. I hear a lot other bands in this album.
James Brown
4/5
Soul music with serious soul.
Bad Company
3/5
Classic. Falls short in many ways. Would be fun cover these songs with life instead going through the motions.
Fleet Foxes
3/5
Maybe I’m not hipster enough to like these guys. Maybe I need to grow a beard.
New Order
3/5
Gotta have the right look to really get into this - that 80s emo look. I don’t have it. Not gonna try.
Black Sabbath
4/5
This probably blew people’s minds when it was first released. The power and darkness of the riffs are still amazing today.
The Charlatans
3/5
I liked this even though they sound like Oasis rip-offs. Almost a 4.
Steely Dan
4/5
First time to listen to Steely Dan purposely. The only way to listen is in the backyard with the fire going. Perfection.
LCD Soundsystem
2/5
No. Any music I can make on my computer doesn’t deserve a listen. At least I didn’t pay for this.
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
Some guys just try too hard to be cool.
5/5
This is one of my favorite albums of all time. It’s perfect in every way. I’ve listened to it hundreds of times, yet it’s still fresh. The songs are full of life. They’re real. It’s complete.
Deerhunter
3/5
Exactly what I thought this band should sound like. The last song was the best, but nothing else stood out to me. Middle of the road.
Kraftwerk
2/5
I have a German surname. I have a computer that can make beeps. I can chant stupid lyrics in a monotone voice. I have great idea! I’ll start making music! Some ideas are better off left alone. This is one of them. Maybe this was ahead of its time in 1977, but this was just plain dumb.
Dirty Projectors
3/5
Not that interesting. Someone should have told him that the weird female vocals needed to go where dreams go to die.
David Bowie
4/5
Lots of hype about this one, but I’m going to tune it out. Did I enjoy listening to this album. Yea, absolutely.
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
2/5
With a name like “Rattlesnakes,” I really expected something more. It falls flat badly. No bite whatsoever.
Britney Spears
2/5
I purposely avoided listening to this album my entire life until today. Britney finally busted my cherry, and I’ll never be the same again. I feel dumber and gross. Never again.
The Offspring
2/5
This band is in the running for worst ever. Other than “Self-Esteem,” this album does nothing for me. I’ll stop there before I attack your music taste if you’re one who likes this band with a severe lack of talent who must resort to gimmicks to get people to listen.
Chicago
3/5
Seems like a weird collection of songs, like none of them go together.
The Incredible String Band
2/5
I have so many questions. Like, is this meant to be taken seriously or are they trying to be funny? Music is not supposed to make you angry. This does.
Ravi Shankar
2/5
I have respect for the playing. It’s just not my thing. There’s some real talent there.
ZZ Top
4/5
I liked this more than I thought I would. This is just good, clean TEXAS rock and roll. Need to listen to listen to them in a dancehall with a few beers.
Blur
4/5
This one has grown on me over the years. This album gets overlooked because if “Sing 2,” which is fun, but there’s a lot of good things going on here. Much like Radiohead, they creat a cool vibe with distorted guitars. Love it.
Alice Cooper
3/5
Honestly, this is not what I was expecting. I thought it would be dark and dramatic (“Sick Things” was the exception). This was more in the vein of Steely Dan or CCR. It was good.
The Beach Boys
5/5
Perfection.
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
From Pet Sounds to Pet Shop Boys. It’s a long way from the best. Weak is a good description of this album.
The Verve
3/5
There’s some stuff on here I really liked. Guitar work is solid, and I got lost in it. So close to giving a 4, but I think I’ll round down today. Gotta earn it.
Les Rythmes Digitales
2/5
Nothing against the people who like this type of music, but it’s just so one dimensional and uninteresting. Never again.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
It’s hard to believe that that this album is pushing 40 years old. It’s timeless - no one ever gets tired of it. You hear it everywhere you go. Love it. I wish Axl could still sing. The only knock on it is Axl’s voice. I can only take so much of it, just like AC/DC. “Sweet Child” is my highlight.
Weather Report
2/5
Elevator music. Blah.
Fairport Convention
3/5
I read reviews before listening. People exclaimed positively about this, so I was expecting something amazing. Maybe I set my expectations too high. It was fine. There’s definitely a reason I’ve never heard of it until now even though it’s older than me. The artwork and title don’t make want to listen either.
Yes
2/5
I guess I just don’t love funky bass lines.
Herbie Hancock
2/5
No. I did not enjoy this at all.
Lana Del Rey
3/5
Atmosphere and mood has so much to do with music. How am I feeling when I listen? Where am I as I listen? What time of day do I listen? Who am I with when I listen? Am I hungry? Tired? I listened to this on my porch at night with my wife after a meal and a long day. It was nice. Will I listen again? Probably not. The whisper singing that Billie Eilish popularized really do it for me, but you can hear the professionalism in the production - so clean.
Anthrax
2/5
A little bit too intense for me.
Carole King
3/5
All these songs ran together. Maybe it deserves another listen.
Radiohead
3/5
20th best album of all time??? No. I can’t agree. I respect what they did on this album, but I don’t enjoy listening to it. Maybe my music IQ isn’t great, but if I have to try to like the music, it’s not for me. It’s about liking it, not the best.
Dr. Octagon
2/5
I feel embarrassed for this guy.
3/5
I’ve liked other albums by these guys, but this one didn’t have the same edginess I like about them. It falls a little flat.
Slipknot
2/5
These guys have zero touch. Maybe they intend it to be that way. I’m not impressed by it, but maybe some people like drinking out of the fire hose.
Dion
3/5
The Who
3/5
It’s fine. It sounds nice. It’s rock music. I am underwhelmed. Honestly, I expected more. Lots of The Beatles influence in there. I think I’ll just listen to them, though. They get better, right?
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
If I was the singer for a band, this is what it would sound like. Shameful they’ve got this singer because he really brings the band down. Vocals are so limited and bland. The guitars sound great, but his voice…
Billie Holiday
4/5
Albums like this one are why I love this project. Of course, I’ve heard of Billie Holiday, but I’ve never listened. This is absolutely beautiful - something I’d play at nice dinner party. Classy and timeless. Pure.
Tina Turner
3/5
It’s okay. Never listened before but it was what I expected. Good legs, though.
Aimee Mann
2/5
This sounds like every other white solo female artist from the 90s. Bland and boring. I think you have to have no balls to enjoy this.
Morrissey
3/5
Who listens to this? I mean, what’s the appropriate setting for music like this? Dinner? Dancing? Chill? I guess I just don’t get it.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
She’s amazing.
The Coral
2/5
These guys don’t know who they are. I have some suggestions for replacing this album. This is not the best 1001 albums but the 1001 album that need to be listened. There is a difference. This did not need to be listened to, though.
Red Snapper
2/5
My boys say, “Noooo!” They’re right.
Living Colour
3/5
I imagine only guys who watch a lot of football, drink beer, and never get off the couch listen to this. Is that the fan base?
Orbital
2/5
I can make this music on my Yamaha electric keyboard.
The Young Gods
2/5
I just know he’s singing about prison sex.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
Really enjoyed this one. Solid.
Peter Gabriel
3/5
I really expected more out of this album. It let me down. It was like ordering a T-bone steak and then it gets delivered to your table but it’s been cooked to well done. I’ll still eat it, but there is so much potential not met.
Elbow
4/5
Loved this. I knew one song but had never listened to the album before. Compare them with Radiohead and Coldplay. What’s wrong with that? Almost a five.
Digital Underground
2/5
These guys are delusional. It’s so stupid it almost makes me not want to plug my ears.
Elvis Costello
3/5
I’ve never listened to him before. I didn’t really connect. Maybe because he’s a copycat. It’s not bad but something is missing.
Skepta
2/5
Nah.
Deep Purple
4/5
Maybe the most famous yet simple guitar riff of all time on this album. Love the underlining heaviness on here. I’ll go 4 but barely.
M.I.A.
2/5
M.I. A. succeeded in making one of the most annoying albums of all time. One song is cool and after ten songs of the same thing just give me a Bucky done gun.
Eric Clapton
3/5
I expected more, but it was enjoyable more not interesting to me. “Let It Grow” stood out.
The Beach Boys
5/5
Crazy that I got this album a day after Brian Wilson died. It’s a 5. Easy.
Lorde
4/5
It’s been a few years since I listened to this, and it’s better than I remember, but not as amazing as Pure Heroine.
Queen
4/5
I didn’t realize this album was so theatrical. It’s a bit silly at times, but “Bohemian Rhapsody” bumps it to a four.
Kanye West
4/5
Sounds so good. Don’t love the offensive and immature lyrics. Too bad all of his albums aren’t Christian-based. I’d be more likely to listen.
George Michael
4/5
This was my first listen. It sounded like 80’s pop but surprisingly it holds up well. I never thought I’d admit it, but I’m a fan.
Shack
3/5
I liked half of it. It’s a 3.5, but I’m rounding down.
Elliott Smith
4/5
Dang! This has some jams. Never saw that one coming.
The Go-Go's
3/5
Girl pop. Completely average.
Fiona Apple
3/5
I’m not gonna lie, that was pretty weird, but I kind of liked it. It took me three listens to start enjoying it. However, I like music to be love at first listen. Who’s got time for it otherwise. I do like the attitude she sings with. Scrappy.
Sabu
2/5
Another bongo album?! The only way this was entertaining was to imagine that my three sons were the ones making the music. Now that was hilarious.
Joni Mitchell
2/5
She succeeded in creating the most boring album of all time. This was excruciating.
Love
3/5
I wonder what these guys think about their music and lyrics today. There’s some lame stuff lyrically calls, but it’s not terrible to listen to. Maybe on acid it would rate higher.
Doves
4/5
Solid rock. Great layers. First time listen.
Eels
3/5
Tunes were interesting and chill. Never heard of these guys before, but it was a pleasant listen. Makes me feel nostalgic about teenage summers for some reason. Swimming late at night with girls. Listening to music. Driving with the windows open.
Killing Joke
3/5
This holds up well. I never would have thought it was recorded in 1980. It lacks lyrically and is pretty repetitive, which was not helpful keeping me awake on a roadtrip.
Goldfrapp
3/5
There was some cool stuff here. I especially liked “Human.” It sounded like it should be on a Bond film.
Baaba Maal
3/5
Well, I listened to this as I ran through Central Park, which was a huge treat for me. So I was pleasantly distracted from this music. Life was good for those five miles. I listened to the rest in my hotel room, and it was not so pleasant. Perspective and environment changes everything. But I’m going to be real and not let an external factor sway my vote.
Leftfield
2/5
I never get to run Central Park, but today I did. It’s a special privilege to do that. This album almost ruined that experience. Bad stuff. Take it off the list.
Bob Dylan
2/5
I’m not sure what people like about this.
Tori Amos
3/5
This sounds like all of the other 90s female artists except she has a little bit more of an edge. It wasn’t but I won’t listen to it again.
Jacques Brel
2/5
I guess I can see how some people might be into this. It’s more of a vocal performance? I can’t imagine being in this crowd and enjoying it that much. The band is decent, though.
The Verve
4/5
Another British alternative rock band makes the list. I like this album. Others are going to say that it doesn’t stand up or hold up. This was peak for these guys.
Baaba Maal
2/5
I don’t have anything good to say, but it is not the worst thing I have heard.
Screaming Trees
4/5
Distorted guitars…heaven. I want to see these guys in concert. It would be amazing.
LCD Soundsystem
2/5
Lots of computer beeps that I can make on my keyboard too.
Brian Eno
3/5
Eno got some major talent in the studio with him. He definitely got a bit of a boost from surrounding himself with those guys. Nothing stands out to me here, but I did like Phil Collins on the first track.
Slade
3/5
This is much different than I expected. The cover art made me think punk rock. Solid rock and roll. Fun.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
4/5
Legend. I miss him.
Eminem
1/5
Are his lyrics really jokes? They aren’t funny. It’s disturbing music and just makes me feel like I’m going to hell. It’s sad because he’s arguably the greatest rapper ever. Too bad he couldn’t do something positive to uplift others instead of himself.
Spiritualized
3/5
Space rock…the name says it all.
Janis Joplin
3/5
Alcohol. Dirt. Drugs. Wailing. Peace. Love. Janis. All connected. Not all good.
Antony and the Johnsons
3/5
This was very sad and beautiful music.
Suzanne Vega
2/5
Ten songs in I thought I had accidentally put the first track on repeat. Lame but on par with solo female artist’s music from the 80s and 90s.
Raekwon
1/5
Nothing special here. No clue why it’s on here.
Orange Juice
2/5
Nah.
The Saints
3/5
I’ll give them a three for the horns on a few songs. That is all.
Black Sabbath
5/5
Whoa! A coincidence that this is the album of the day the day after Ozzy dies?! The Prince of Darkness left his mark all over rock music. We’ll miss him. This is Black Sabbath at its finest.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
Interesting just because it’s so old. Hard to believe anyone today would seek this out to listen to (which is why it’s not on Spotify?). There’s some stuff on here that is just funny, but I don’t think it’s intended to be. Always good to go back in time.
Peter Gabriel
3/5
Honestly, I expected more. It all kind of ran together for me like a casserole. Tasty and good but nothing too exciting.
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
I listened to this, but I didn’t actually listen. Nothing caught me. I remember saying this the last time he had an album on here. Rufus has TWO albums on this list??!
Sheryl Crow
4/5
This was better than expected. It’s stronger lyrical than anything else. It only took me 30 years to finally listen to it.
2/5
Still not growing on me. Should have been a songwriter and not the singer. How did this guy ever make it?
Beatles
5/5
What’s to say that hasn’t already been said about this album. It’s the Beatles. Perfection.
The xx
3/5
Very atmospheric. Very average produced pop.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
2/5
Just noise.
Heaven 17
2/5
This did not age well. Never again.
Röyksopp
2/5
If I wanted instrumental music I’d listen to Bach or Beethoven or Zimmer, not this. Come on. Seriously?
The Jam
2/5
Some of these albums leave me shaking my head. What makes this album stand out? I don’t hear anything special or unique about it. These guys must be friends of the author.
Bon Jovi
3/5
This was a low era/point in rock and roll history. Was this really considered good? How anyone could shamelessly listen to this without seeing dollar signs falling from the sky is beyond me. This is a long fall from the greatness of 60s and 70s rock. I’ll go three just because of its lingering (unfortunately) impact on the time; although, I do not understand it.
David Bowie
2/5
Low as in a low point for Bowie. This didn’t work for me.
The Damned
2/5
Cool album and band name. It lead me to believe it would be a take-no-prisoners banger. Instead it was punk music that led me down a tunnel of disappointment. Not bad overall but not what I was expecting.
Sugar
4/5
This was completely new, but I liked it.
Le Tigre
2/5
Girls who shout out random things and call it music get benched to never be heard from again. The first 30 seconds is all you need to hear.
The Sugarcubes
3/5
Energy is there. Thats more than I can say for my recent albums.
R.E.M.
3/5
I’m a casual R.E.M. fan, so these songs were all new to me. No hits here.
Megadeth
3/5
Great title. I’m just not into the music so much.
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
I like edginess, don’t love everything about their style or lyrics, but it was real. Points for that.
Amy Winehouse
3/5
Can I say one of a kind? Maybe not but she’s missed. Sad but her music lives on. It’s not as good as her next album, but this one is good too.
Judas Priest
4/5
Rawk!!!
The Associates
2/5
This was not enjoyable and very annoying.
Gotan Project
3/5
Good guitar work. That’s all.
The Hives
3/5
Not a punk guy. Not a post-punk guy. They sound like every other band of this genre but maybe I like these guys a little bit better. Feeling generous today.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
#1 album of all time??? Not quite. It’s good but come on, people.
Megadeth
3/5
Heavy metal! I’ve gotta be in the right mood for this. This didn’t hit me today, but it did wake me up and make me angry. My music needs something me touch. This lacks touch.
The White Stripes
5/5
It had been a while since I listened to this, and, man, it holds up. It’s definitely the best White Stripes album. Now if he would just shut his mouth about politics and just do what he does best.
Pink Floyd
3/5
After three 5 star records, I had high hopes for this one. I had never listened to this before, but it let me down in a big way. At times I couldn’t even tell who I was listening to, and it was just strange. This one falls short but doesn’t change their legacy.
The Flying Burrito Brothers
4/5
Real country rock. Loved this.
Orbital
2/5
Why God?
Little Simz
3/5
This was interesting and fun. Great beats.
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
I’ve meant to listen to these guys for a looong time because I knew they had influenced so many of the bands I enjoy today. It all makes sense to me now. I liked this. It was a long overdue listen and won’t be the last.
Beth Orton
2/5
I listened to this yesterday, but I can’t even really remember anything that stood out. It’s about as vanilla as one can get. First track was the “best,” but it was all downhill from there.
Fats Domino
4/5
He’s classic. Of course I know his name and some of his hits, but it’s about time I sat down to soak it in. Although this album is not on Spotify, I found his tunes and they transported me to a simpler time. Everyone should know and respect the le mark he left on rock-n-roll.
Japan
3/5
Way better than I gave it credit for based on the album artwork alone. Moody and atmospheric. Solid 3. Not even close to a 4
Os Mutantes
4/5
Someone said the Brazilian “Sgt. Pepper.” Bingo. Loved this!
3/5
Live then was so much different than live today. They really didn’t have a plan. It sounds like they showed up to play and what happened happened. I miss that. Good energy. I don’t love live albums, especially on this list, but whatever. I’d rather be there. I doubt I’ll ever revisit this one, but it was fine.
2/5
I’ll drown myself if I have to listen to this again.
The Fall
2/5
How much of this punk rock crap is going to be on this list? I’ve heard enough.
Rage Against The Machine
5/5
Incredible album - one of my favorites. After listening to this I can do anything.
Donald Fagen
3/5
Radio Test
1 star: I’m on the wrong station - change it quickly.
2 stars: Not my thing. No no no. Keep scanning.
3 stars: Listen for half the song until it bores me. Search.
4 stars: Oh yeah! Interesting. This is good stuff. Hold steady.
5 stars: Blast it until the neighbors complain. Then play it again.
Fagen does something I’ve never heard. It’s a clean recording. I like some jazzy sax. I’ll give it a 2.5 and round up because one of my boys liked it because it reminded him of his favorite pizza joint.
Kate Bush
2/5
Hmm. Well, it’s not what I expected. Seems like some experimental stuff. I wish I hadn’t listened to this album of her’s first. She was really reaching here.
MC Solaar
2/5
This was just plain weird. Why would I ever listen to this? Nothing wrong with it but I could go without forever.
Arcade Fire
4/5
I wonder if they knew that this album was going to be massive as they were making it or if they just got really lucky. They do this kind of music really well. “Sprawls II” is definitely the highlight.
Air
3/5
Background music for a movie. Doesn’t belong here.
Everything But The Girl
1/5
I want to give this a one because it was so boring and bland and really annoying, but I’ll be generous and bump it up. Wait. No, I won’t. I don’t ever want to hear this terrible elevator music again. It actually made me mad.
Air
3/5
Cool background vibes. That is all.
Nanci Griffith
4/5
This was refreshing after a bunch mediocre alternative/emo rock. As I get older I find that I like the older country music a lot more. There are always amazing players on these albums and I love Griffith’s voice - it’s always interesting, never boring.
Madness
2/5
This is really dumb music, or I’m not smart enough to get it. Considering my education, I side with the former. What a waste of time.
Arrested Development
4/5
This was good, and I didn’t see it coming. I can see who the Black Eyed Peas are trying to sound like…but coming up way short. Solid hip hop album without all the vulgarities. Points for that.
Cocteau Twins
4/5
Fist time listen. I’m on board.
The Cars
4/5
A no doubt 4. Not quite perfect, but it’s approaching. Pure rock and roll. Love it. I don’t know what to do for someone who doesn’t like this. The problem with free will…
Youssou N'Dour
3/5
I just can’t get into this world music. Understanding lyrics are important to me, but this was well recorded and beautiful.
Coldplay
5/5
Coldplay in its purest, most perfect form - the Coldplay that was good without all the pop crap and political statements. This was some of the only good music of the era.
Neneh Cherry
2/5
This did not age well but then, did it ever. I’m so glad no one walked in on me while I was listening.
Ananda Shankar
4/5
The sitar is an amazing instrument, and this guy plays it masterfully. I enjoyed this but because they were all covers I can’t give it higher than a three.However, I like all the songs he played, and the sitar gives these songs a sound I have never heard before. So on second thought, maybe I can give a 4.
Can
2/5
“Experimental” goes too far. It gets just stupid.
Jazmine Sullivan
2/5
This is kind of the worst. When you have zero talent, resort to filthy songs about sex.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
LZ1 was my very first album reviewed in this project. I’ve been waiting over 500 days for this one. Was it worth the wait? Ask the virgins that on their wedding night. Finally, yes! It’s in the running for greatest album of all time. Every song is perfect.
Sonic Youth
4/5
I feel like the cool kid listening to Sonic Youth. I liked this. I’m a sucker for distorted guitar and lots of fuzz.
Ministry
2/5
This was tough. Some cool stuff mixed with some terrible things. I feel uncomfortable listening to it, like I might I might get struck down by a lightning bolt thrown by God at any moment. I hear a little bit of influence from several metal bands. At the end of the day I gotta be in the mood for metal, and today was not the day.
Teenage Fanclub
3/5
This was voted as album of the year in 1991?! Over Gish, Ten, BSSM, GnR, and Nevermind? That’s crazy. I mean, it was good. I enjoyed listening to it. I wondering if someone, somewhere out there is hanging tight to that opinion and going against the flow. Not me. I’d never heard of this band before.
Frank Sinatra
4/5
Classy. Timeless. Greatest male vocalist of all time. This music moves me.
R.E.M.
4/5
Great album all the way through. This is definitely their best one. JPJ helping out with the strings brings a great element. This just has more substance than any of their other stuff.
John Lennon
4/5
I like his music. I wish he wasn’t so surly, and I could like it more.
Joe Ely
3/5
It’s a 3.5, but I’m not feeling generous just because singing about honky tonkin seems silly. Most of the songs sound great.
Roxy Music
3/5
I didn’t even hear the music. I never got past the album cover.
The Beta Band
3/5
From great album cover to terrible. Despite that, this was cool. Nothing stands out. I know what I like and this falls short, but trip hop is usually a hard pass for me.
Manu Chao
4/5
This was great. Loved everything about it. It put me in a great mood all day long.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
He’s a master of guitar. I wish he was a better songwriter.
Julian Cope
2/5
This makes double albums two days in a row. This one was terrible - 2.5 hours of my life I’ll never back. Julian Nope creating “music” nobody will ever listen to again. I’d bet I was the only one in the world listening to that album in that moment.
Paul McCartney
4/5
“Maybe I’m amazed” is one of the great rock songs of all time, and the rest of these songs are perfect to listen to on the front porch. Sometimes simple is just better, so all the haters that say this album is unfinished don’t know what they are talking about. I always wonder what these songs would sound like if all 4 Beatles worked on them, but Paul by himself is pretty good too.
The Birthday Party
1/5
When I was 6 I made a band in my basement with my friends. We had drums with pots and pans. We made up lyrics on the fly. We made lots of noise with lots of energy. We had fun and were terrible - the playlist of Hell. I didn’t realize that my mom recorded us and sent the tape to the record company. Here it is 40 years later for the world.
The Electric Prunes
4/5
Other than a few odd ball songs on this album, it was the right vibe today. I’d never heard of them, but I’d give them more listens in the future. Listened to this one at the lake, and all seemed right in the world.
Solomon Burke
4/5
Great voice. Backup singers. Horns. Vibe. It’s all working. This was another great one for our time at the lake.
Spacemen 3
3/5
Lots of space and atmosphere. You gotta be in the right mood for this. It’s sounds nice but it’s background music at best.
Ian Dury
1/5
It’s hard to imagine that there was an audience for this type of music at one point. It sounds like music for the Muppets Show. Not for me. It would be interesting to meet someone who actually did like this.
Nas
3/5
Dude’s got beats and rhymes for days. He’s one of the best for what this genre is.
Supergrass
5/5
I’ve heard of Supergrass but never listened to them. This album blew me away. I had so much fun listening to it. Is this the first time I’ve given a 5 on the first listen?
Super Furry Animals
4/5
Ok. I don’t know why, but I liked this. It caught my attention. Maybe it was because I was painting the house while listening and it just worked, but it was cool. I’d give it another listen.
The Vines
4/5
Loved this! Pure rock energy.
The Cramps
2/5
These songs made me feel like life had no flavor. Like eating stale crackers out of your grandma’s cupboard.
The Thrills
2/5
Thrills? With a name like that you better bring it. This was nothing new or exciting.
Rush
4/5
I love that they put a 20 minute long song as the opener as a big f-you to the record company. We do what we want. This alone gets you points.
Van Morrison
3/5
I was leaving 4 because the horns and saxes in these songs are crazy good, but then they just fell into a pretty boredom ng set list without enough fire power. Solid 3.
Sonic Youth
3/5
This one didn’t grab me. Lacking self me melodies that I gotta have.
Christina Aguilera
3/5
She has an incredible voice. Too bad she wastes it on bubblegum pop music. However, this album has a lot of OG influences that make it bearable mostly. Sing like this but keep the dirty era look. Oh yeah.
FKA twigs
3/5
Never heard of her. The wife knew she had dated the vampire. This was interesting, though. She had some cool going on. If I had more time I’d listen again with a little more vested interest.
Minutemen
2/5
This was kind of like torture for me. 43 songs?! Over an hour of this? This is a sick joke. But I listen and the streak of listening to every album all the way through is intact.
Ryan Adams
3/5
Am I missing something here? He’s a poor man’s Bruce Springsteen, right? I’ll just listen to The Boss. I’ve got the money.
Ghostface Killah
2/5
Even though there’s some cool beats, no. Not for me.
The Human League
3/5
This one came out of a time capsule. It’s fun but doesn’t hold up. Kind of like mom jeans. No one really likes those yet they exist.
CHIC
2/5
Not for me.
Kings of Leon
4/5
At the time that this album came out alternative rock really needed something cool and this album did it. My hometown boys tap into stadium rock anthems and caught fire. “Closer” and “Revelry” are my favorites. Love this album.
50 Cent
3/5
He showed up at the right place, right time, riding in the coattails of Dre and Eminem. This album was massive for wannabe boys who really know nothing about this life. Flavor of the Month and he’s set for life…until he’s not. Surprise surprise.
PJ Harvey
3/5
The British version of Sonic Youth? Eh.
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
This was fun I liked more than I thought I would Lauper attitude and tone her singing works in any level. I could see myself visiting this album in the right time of place.
The Undertones
2/5
This band sounded almost exactly like I imagined they would, even though I have never heard them before. The one surprising thing, however, was the flavor of sixty’s rock mixed with new wave. They almost hooked me but not quite.
Big Star
3/5
This had to be found on YouTube but that happens sometimes. This made me think of a precursor to Radiohead. So I kind of like that.
The Young Rascals
3/5
Sounded just like I thought it would. There’s nothing wrong with that. I enjoyed this, but nothing stood out to me. It’s like Wheaties - solid but nothing flashy.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2/5
I think I might like this if I wore a black turtle neck, stat on modern furniture, and smoked a cigarette. I just not pretentious enough.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
3/5
After reading the comments I thought I was going to hate this. This was actually alright. Maybe it caught me on a good day, but I liked the dramatic nature of it. Rock operaish. Do your thing, Harvey.
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
Someone else said this is an essential vinyl to purchase when you buy your first record player. Funny. That’s true. This is the highest ranked album in this project? I don’t get it. Maybe it’s not tough enough for me. Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles, I don’t need em. The songs are well constructed. I’ll listen, but honestly, I’m just looking forward to the next song. They don’t suck me in. Maybe I need to sit down with headphones and completely invest. Maybe one day when I have time.
Traffic
3/5
Bland rock and roll. It’s fine. Nothing stands out.
Ride
3/5
I like me some shoegaze from time to time. It takes me somewhere. Nothing wrong with this.
The Undertones
2/5
Punk rock just doesn’t do it for me. It lacks substance and style. When I listen to it I fell stupid, and embarrassed.
Kraftwerk
2/5
Computer game music. What else could this be good for? Do people really listen to this?
The Yardbirds
4/5
This was just beginning of incredible music to come from the core of hard rock. You can hear the greatness emanating to burst. They were close. They just needed the right formula.
Gang Of Four
2/5
I’m so tired of this lame British crap. How many albums like this can they possibly put on this list? A solid 2. Surprise surprise.
Fatboy Slim
2/5
What’s the point of this? There’s no depth. No beauty. No lyrical poetry. No instrumentation that makes you go “Wow!” It’s just to dance? No one actually listens to this because they like the music, right? Why is it here?
Kings of Leon
3/5
I don’t understand the hate that this band get’s. They brought something cool and different, that the copycat grunge band couldn’t do. Although, this album is not my favorite of theirs. They found gold on their next one.
3/5
Their performance on SNL is legendary. Every music fan should watch that if they haven’t seen it. To do that on a national stage is crazy. When it happened, people didn’t think it was real. A band like them today wouldn’t even sniff SNL. People want too much pop produced crap. I was surprised to see them on this list and am happy for it. You should go watch Billy Corgan’s The Magnificent Others podcast with Devo - it’s great.
CHVRCHES
3/5
There’s not much to say about this. It’s fine. Some songs I already forgot about but others have cool atmospheric feel. I imagine this is what guys who play soccer listen to.
The Residents
1/5
Music art? Isn’t all music art? That’s not what this is, though. This is art school dropout music. This is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.
Kings of Leon
3/5
This makes my third KOL album in two weeks. Don’t get me wrong, I like this band -seen them in concert - hometown heroes. But three albums from them on this list?? That’s more than I have reviewed from Zeppelin. Come on now. One was good enough. This be is really not any different from the previous two. Same genre, same sound. Been there. Did it.
Steely Dan
3/5
Jazzy Steely. It didn’t get me anywhere near ecstasy. This was a letdown compared to the last Steely Dan album I reviewed.
Dwight Yoakam
4/5
I am very late to the Dwight Yoakam game, but better late than never. He’s in my top 5 of country artists, this is not his best album but it is still great. I’ll come back to it.
Ray Price
3/5
There’s nothing I dislike but there’s nothing I like. I sounds like all of country music of the sixties.
The Icarus Line
2/5
This is pretty terrible. They sound like a really bad Marilyn Manson, and that’s not saying much to begin with. This band falls short on so many levels starting with the guitar work that is flat, boring, and weak.
Jungle Brothers
2/5
I was more hopeful for this one when I knew that it was going to be clean, foundational hip hop, but it left me a bit disappointed. Just too repetitive. Plus, always a strike when it’s not on YouTube.
Lou Reed
2/5
Rolling Stock had it right - a disaster. This was not enjoyable. How could anyone possible enjoy this?
The Rolling Stones
4/5
This is a solid album from beginning to end. The Rolling Stone’s worst song is other’s best. A rock band that has questionable lyrics about women? *gasp* If those writers were alive today they would have a conniption fit. Music is a slippery slope.
4/5
I’m feeling generous today. Maybe it was the sax solo or the horns, but I thought this was solid rock and roll. Worth another listen when I have time to listen to my music choices again once this project is over.
De La Soul
2/5
Is it sad that this music is said to be so groundbreaking and amazing. Music with repetitive beats and adolescent lyrics. I’m not impressed. But it is better than gangster rap.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
It’s Thanksgiving, and this seems like the right music to listen to on this day - one of my favorite days of the year. It’s the keys and saxophone that does it for me. I’m thankful today. And I’m thankful for Bruce today as well.
Moby Grape
3/5
I’m not sure where to listen to the rest of this album because Spotify only has the bonus tracks. From what I’ve heard, it sounds like the rest of mediocre 60’s psychedelic rock music. I guess there was once a time and place for this, and there are times when it’s okay for me today.
Roni Size
1/5
I had to listen to this garbage in the last two hours of a road trip. It was absolute torture. This is music you make for yourself and don’t share with anyone else. I know no one forced me to listen to it, but for respect of this project, I had to listen. Good news: I still have my hearing by some miracle. But my mind is gone.
Brian Eno
2/5
Well, this is 1,000 times better than yesterday’s album, but that’s not saying a whole lot. I know this project is supposed to challenge me by listening to music I don’t normally listen to but come on. There were some nice moments on this one, but I’ll never come back to it. The closer was the best song on this one.
The Kinks
3/5
These guys may be the most underrated band of all time or at least in the conversation. Unfortunately, they got away from what they do best on this one. Although it’s still good, they’ve had better outings.
Dagmar Krause
2/5
Why in the world is this album on the list, especially when they know they have to piece it together on YouTube. This album is lamo.
Silver Jews
2/5
This band could be so much better with a new singer he has no range no tone. The country rock guitar is cool, unfortunately the singer over shadows it.
The Mamas & The Papas
5/5
This is lightning in a bottle. I could say more but I will leave it at that.
DJ Shadow
2/5
I’m so tired of this electronic music. This is better than some, but it’s all the same to me. I’m not impressed at all. It’s like a freckle. It’s just there and doesn’t do anything for me.
Soft Machine
2/5
The lead track is garbage, but it got better as it went. Not at all for me.
Scissor Sisters
3/5
Neutral as neutral gets.
2/5
Music from probably the worst era in rock history. This is a shameful disgrace to music.
Saint Etienne
2/5
I listened and immediately forgot.
Aphex Twin
2/5
It’s not like this is terrible, but who sits around listening to this stuff? It’s like a cracker. In order to really enjoy it, you need to add some cheese or salami. Maybe the extra for Aphex Twin is a dime bag.