697
Albums Rated
3.15
Average Rating
64%
Complete
392 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1950s
Favorite Decade
Jazz
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
145
5-Star Albums
97
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Slipknot
Slipknot
|
5 | 2.67 | +2.33 |
|
KE*A*H** (Psalm 69)
Ministry
|
5 | 2.69 | +2.31 |
|
All Hope Is Gone
Slipknot
|
5 | 2.7 | +2.3 |
|
My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts
Brian Eno
|
5 | 2.79 | +2.21 |
|
I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail
Buck Owens
|
5 | 2.81 | +2.19 |
|
69 Love Songs
The Magnetic Fields
|
5 | 2.85 | +2.15 |
|
All Hail the Queen
Queen Latifah
|
5 | 2.86 | +2.14 |
|
The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
|
5 | 2.88 | +2.12 |
|
Mama Said Knock You Out
LL Cool J
|
5 | 2.91 | +2.09 |
|
The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
|
5 | 2.92 | +2.08 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Parallel Lines
Blondie
|
1 | 3.76 | -2.76 |
|
The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
|
1 | 3.62 | -2.62 |
|
Ramones
Ramones
|
1 | 3.58 | -2.58 |
|
Document
R.E.M.
|
1 | 3.56 | -2.56 |
|
Electric Warrior
T. Rex
|
1 | 3.54 | -2.54 |
|
Marquee Moon
Television
|
1 | 3.5 | -2.5 |
|
Green
R.E.M.
|
1 | 3.47 | -2.47 |
|
Different Class
Pulp
|
1 | 3.42 | -2.42 |
|
If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
|
1 | 3.34 | -2.34 |
|
This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
|
1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Radiohead | 6 | 4.83 |
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 5 |
| Beatles | 6 | 4.67 |
| Metallica | 3 | 5 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 3 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 3 | 5 |
| Miles Davis | 3 | 5 |
| Black Sabbath | 3 | 4.67 |
| Yes | 3 | 4.67 |
| Michael Jackson | 3 | 4.67 |
| Stan Getz | 2 | 5 |
| Amy Winehouse | 2 | 5 |
| Slipknot | 2 | 5 |
| Johnny Cash | 2 | 5 |
| Frank Sinatra | 2 | 5 |
| Fleetwood Mac | 2 | 5 |
| The Smashing Pumpkins | 2 | 5 |
| King Crimson | 2 | 5 |
| Willie Nelson | 2 | 5 |
| Joni Mitchell | 4 | 4.25 |
| Creedence Clearwater Revival | 3 | 4.33 |
| Stevie Wonder | 3 | 4.33 |
| Björk | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| The Stooges | 3 | 1.33 |
| T. Rex | 2 | 1 |
| R.E.M. | 2 | 1 |
| Elvis Costello & The Attractions | 2 | 1 |
| The Divine Comedy | 2 | 1 |
| Rufus Wainwright | 2 | 1 |
| Sonic Youth | 4 | 1.75 |
| Kings of Leon | 3 | 1.67 |
| Motörhead | 2 | 1.5 |
| Dinosaur Jr. | 2 | 1.5 |
| The Pogues | 2 | 1.5 |
| Echo And The Bunnymen | 3 | 2 |
| Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds | 4 | 2.25 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| The Velvet Underground | 5, 1 |
| Doves | 5, 1 |
| Brian Eno | 2, 5, 1 |
| Van Morrison | 5, 3, 1 |
| Def Leppard | 2, 5 |
5-Star Albums (145)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Madonna
4/5
I thought this album was a very soothing and sophisticated album. I really enjoyed the more experimental songs, and the pop songs were more interesting than one would expect in a pop album. The poppier songs were definitely a tier below, but the album as a whole was a solid listen. Top tracks: Diamond World/Substitution for Love, Shanti/Ashtangi, Mer Girl
2 likes
Cheap Trick
4/5
A pretty solid, pleasantly surprising live album. I was not sold on it when I started, but the second half absolutely carries the first. Fiery, energetic and fun. An all around good listen. Top tracks: Need Your Love, I Want You to Want Me, Surrender
1 likes
Isaac Hayes
4/5
I went into this album expecting a soulful masterpiece based on what I've read. What I didn't expect is how much innovation and genre diversity there would be in 4 songs. Truly captivating listen, although I do feel like the longer songs contain too much filler and are better enjoyed in their single-release lengths
1 likes
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
1/5
I really find it humorous that every time I get a new wave album from the 80s, it's either amazing or terrible. No in between. Unfortunately I thought this was terrible, none of the songs felt cohesive or like complete thoughts
1 likes
T. Rex
1/5
Very derivative and uninspired. Honestly don't get how this band nearly rivaled the Beatles for a brief time
1 likes
4-Star Albums (154)
1-Star Albums (97)
All Ratings
Stan Getz
5/5
Somehow calming and exciting simultaneously. Able to evoke a joy and passion for love. All I can think about is dancing at my wedding
CHIC
3/5
Not bad, didn't know this album has the "Freak out!" song. Overall not that into disco
Lorde
4/5
Never listened to Lorde before, overall solid. Top tracks: Liability, Perfect Places
5/5
Absolutely incredible album. My favorite from Muse. Top tracks: Knights of Cydonia, Supermassive Black Hole, City of Delusion
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
Very unique. Never heard alt hip-hop before, intrigued. I don't think the album is for me, but it's infectiously catchy and fun. Top tracks: After Hours, Can I Kick It?, Ham 'N' Eggs
Pretenders
2/5
Side one has some catchy riffs but nothing great. Side two is better but not by much. Favorite tracks: Private Life
Rod Stewart
2/5
The cover songs are better than the originals, which makes me want to listen to other songs by the original artists instead of more Rod Stewart. Top tracks: Only a Hobo, Country Comforts
Santana
4/5
Solid and fun, enjoyed the whole album. Nothing stood out, but nothing was bad
Amy Winehouse
5/5
Absolutely incredible. Somehow never heard any of her songs before. Every song was fun, engaging, and enjoyable
Cornershop
4/5
Fun and unique sound, very easy listening. Just wish it didn't have any filler tracks; less is more Top tracks: Brimfield of Asha, We're in Yr Corner, Good to Be on the Road Back Home
Ash
1/5
A few catchy riffs, but not very good or memorable otherwise. Unfortunately generic
Peter Gabriel
4/5
Very good and engaging album. Never listened to Peter Gabriel's solo career, glad to hear he's still good after Genesis. Top tracks: Solsbury Hill, Here Comes the Flood
Kate Bush
3/5
Really can't tell if I love or hate this album. All the songs feel like they have great parts and bad parts, very torn. Top tracks: Running Up That Hill, Cloudbusting
Sisters Of Mercy
4/5
Really surprised how much I like this album. Music is great, vocalist is very 80s corny. Might turn into a guilty pleasure album. Top tracks: Dominion, Flood I & II, Driven Like the Snow
G. Love & Special Sauce
3/5
Songs start great, but all feel the exact same. Album should have left more on the cutting room floor. Top tracks: Blues Music, Walk to Slide
5/5
Absolutely loved the album. Fun, driving, and a very easy listen. Also will never not love a concept album Top tracks: Victoria, Shangri-La, Mr. Churchill Says, Arthur
Elvis Costello
2/5
Costello's voice took some getting used to, never been much of a fan of easy listening music. Top tracks: You Tripped at Every Step, Still Too Soon to Know
Buena Vista Social Club
5/5
Very fun and relaxing listen. Entire album was superb. Top tracks: Chan Chan, Dos Gardenias, Candela, Orgullecida
Eels
3/5
Lol, the Shrek band. Pretty decent; don't know if I'd say I loved any of it, but far from disliked. Top tracks: Beautiful Freak, Guest List, Your Lucky Day in Hell
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
5/5
Fantastic album. Heartfelt and entertaining songs. Love every song on the album
The Rolling Stones
2/5
Honestly don't understand the hype around this album, did not enjoy. Overrated in my opinion. Listened to both US & UK versions
Method Man
4/5
Pretty solid, very fun rhythm tracks. Don't know if I'd listen to regularly, but definitely could put it on in the car. Top tracks: Being the Pain, All I Need, Release Yo' Delf
Solomon Burke
3/5
Never been the biggest R&B fan, but certainly still enjoyable. A lot of the songs do feel very similar, which is unfortunate. Top tracks: Cry to Me, If You Need Me
Linkin Park
4/5
Very nostalgic album. Peak 2000s rap-rock. Cringey, but in a fun way. Top tracks: With You, In the End, Pushing Me Away
Metallica
5/5
Absolutely incredible album. Metallica is always electric, but the orchestra fits together perfectly with the band. Great performance. Top tracks: The Call of Ktulu, Master of Puppets, For Whom the Bell Tolls, The Outlaw Torn
3/5
Nice and easy listening. Nothing too noteworthy, nothing too offensive. Would make for good studying music. Top tracks: Tantos Desejos, Felicidade, Sereia
Sister Sledge
3/5
It's disco. That's about as much of a reaction that any disco album will get out of me. Still some decent/fun songs. Top tracks: He's the Greatest Dancer, We Are Family
Steely Dan
3/5
Muzak/easy listening is fine, and this is certainly better than standard yacht-rock. The jazzy feel definitely helps it stand out. Top tracks: Deacon Blues, Josie
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
Was ready to not like this album at all after the first few tracks, but I was pleasantly surprised that it ended strong. Top tracks: Archives of Pain, Revol, Die in the Summertime
T. Rex
1/5
Very derivative and uninspired. Honestly don't get how this band nearly rivaled the Beatles for a brief time
Metallica
5/5
Fantastic album. Raw unparalleled energy mixed with excellent musicianship. Top tracks: Master of Puppets, Disposable Heroes, Orion
Serge Gainsbourg
1/5
Maybe I just didn't get it, but I honestly thought this album was terrible. Nothing else to say really
Black Sabbath
4/5
Always love returning to the roots of good music. Still sounds a little dated and Ozzy is Ozzy, but the music is fantastic. Top tracks: Black Sabbath, NIB, Evil Woman, Warning
Ella Fitzgerald
5/5
Was a little intimidated by the 3+ hour run time, but it's absolutely worth it. Every song is fun and soothing, sweet and a little goofy
Gram Parsons
2/5
Would probably like it more if I was more into country, but fairly respectable. Tops tracks: Brass Buttons, In My Hour of Darkness
Nick Drake
2/5
The music is superb, but I really don't like Drake as a vocalist. Unfortunate, because I feel like these songs with a better vocalist would be incredible. Top tracks: Introduction, Northern Sky, Sunday
Pearl Jam
4/5
Honestly always liked Pearl Jam the least of any of the big grunge 90s bands. That being said, this album is still really good. Top tracks: Even Flow, Jeremy, Oceans
Hanoi Rocks
1/5
Was expecting to hate this album. Didn't end up hating it, but still not really a fan. Just kind of feels like whatever, no real purpose to the album. Top tracks: Tooting Bec Wreck
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Somehow despite always hearing about how good Jimi Hendrix is/was, I never got around to listening. Can't believe it took me this long to appreciate greatness. Top tracks: Crosstown Traffic, Voodoo Chile, Rainy Day, Dream Away/Still Raining, Still Dreaming, All Along the Watchtower, Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
Paul Weller
2/5
Nice easy listening. Nothing remarkable, but nothing too bad. Never been one for soft rock but this wasn't the worst
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Very powerful and soulful album with important lyrics. Don't know if I would have listened to it before this project, so thankful for that. Top tracks: Freddie's Dead, Eddie Should Know Better, No Thing on Me
Derek & The Dominos
3/5
Pretty solid overall, nothing too offensive. A lot of the songs do blend together unfortunately, but the top songs stand out in a satisfying way. Top tracks: Little Wing, Layla, Thorn Tree in the Garden
Bob Dylan
4/5
I don't think I've listened to a more powerful lyricist yet on this journey. I only wish I liked Dylan's vocals more, some tracks are just a bit much. But there's no denying the passion behind every song, and I have an immense respect for this album. Top tracks: Idiot Wind, You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go, Shelter From the Storm, Buckets of Rain
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
I appreciate Bob Marley and the social message in his lyrics, but I don't think this album connected with me unfortunately
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
1/5
I really find it humorous that every time I get a new wave album from the 80s, it's either amazing or terrible. No in between. Unfortunately I thought this was terrible, none of the songs felt cohesive or like complete thoughts
The Verve
3/5
Not really sure how to feel about this one. Bitter Sweet Symphony being almost a meme song is hilarious, the rest of the album was decent and a little corny. Definitely some stronger songs. Negative points for making me thinking Lucky Man was going to be an ELP cover. Top tracks: Sonnet, The Drugs Don't Work
Madonna
2/5
The slower more heartfelt tracks were nice, but I'm just never going to be that interested in pop music. Especially 80s pop. Top tracks: Promise to Try, Cherish
Snoop Dogg
5/5
Hilarious, bizarre, catchy, original. Absolutely incredible album from start to finish. Nothing feels like filler either. Some hidden gems that get overshadowed by the bigger songs too
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
+1 for sounding incredibly modern. This could have been released in 2024 and I would not have questioned it
-1 for it just not being that good. The instrumental tracks were good, just too few of them
Top tracks: Tides, Nadia
Roni Size
1/5
This may be the single worst album I've ever heard. Maybe if it was a 20 minute sample of each 4 bar loop, but almost 3 hours of the same repetitive drum beat? Legitimately embarrassing that this was released, much less got a 20th anniversary edition. Even more appalling that it's in this list
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
5/5
A timeless jazz classic. Combines two of my favorite things: jazz and odd meter
Beth Orton
4/5
Really enjoyed this album. Every song feels melancholy and comforting at the same time. Very relaxing and reflective listen. Top tracks: Stolen Car, Central Reservation, Stars All Seem to Weep
The Blue Nile
1/5
Unfortunately forgettable and generic. Nothing else really to say. Reading that this band was endorsed by others like Peter Gabriel really set higher expectations, which this didn't come close to meeting
Bee Gees
4/5
Surprisingly enjoyable, shame the Bee Gees moved away from this sound into disco. This album feels more timeless and interesting. Also could have removed some of the songs to make a perfect single LP. Top tracks: Odessa, You'll Never See My Face Again, Melody Fair
The Isley Brothers
3/5
Would not have been something I normally gravitate towards, but a very easy and fun listen. I always find soul to be so relaxing. Top tracks: That Lady Pts 1&2, Summer Breeze Pts 1&2, The Highways of My Life
Devendra Banhart
4/5
I found this album to be really calming and charming. I do think it would have functioned better as an EP; there is definitely a variation in the quality between some songs. Top tracks: This Is The Way, The Body Breaks, Autumn's Child
Gotan Project
3/5
Very fun and energetic songs, excellent dance music. Unfortunately I do feel that the songs all sound the same and run together with their longer lengths, which makes it not ad enjoyable to sit and listen to
Beastie Boys
5/5
Absolutely wild in the best way. I was a little skeptical when I read that this album has a heavy use of samples, but I love how smartly they are woven into the songs. Almost feel like easter eggs. Every song is enjoyable and fun
James Taylor
3/5
I definitely enjoyed the first half more than the second, I prefer calmer less upbeat folk I think. Overall fine, but would rather listen to Bob Dylan for a folk fix. Top tracks: Lo and Behold, Sunny Skies, Oh Susannah
N.W.A.
5/5
Incredible album with lyrics that are still disappointingly relevant today. 1312
Paul McCartney and Wings
3/5
Was a little disappointed that I didn't enjoy the first half of the album too much, but the second half is markedly better. Really though it just makes me want to listen to the Beatles, the solo works all feel incomplete to me. Top tracks: Let Me Roll It, Mamunia, Ninteen Hundred And Eighty Five
The White Stripes
3/5
Let me start by saying Seven Nation Army is by no means a bad song, but is so wildly overplayed that I was not looking forward to this album. Color me surprised it's very unique. I had no idea how bluesy The White Stripes are, and there are so many better songs that 7NA on this album. Top tracks: In the Cold Cold Night, Ball and Buscuit, Little Acorns
Supertramp
5/5
I actually really enjoyed this album. I was expecting to like it being a prog rock fan, but in surprised how much I liked every song. Will definitely check out more Supertramp
The Sugarcubes
4/5
I've never been a big punk/new wave fan, but I night be a Bjork fan. She's a phenomenal vocalist, and even if I didn't like every track on the album, I absolutely feel the energy and talent she brings. Excited to hear more if her solo career. Top tracks: Birthday, Delicious Demon, Deus
Al Green
4/5
Seemingly timeless, soulful and fun. Doesn't overstay it's welcome, and every song carries a meaning and passion that's unmistakable. In a word: excellent. Top tracks: Let's Stay Together, Old Time Lovin', How Can You Mend a Broken Heart
The Doors
2/5
I feel like this is my most controversial opinion - this album was not very good. It feels like baritone screaming over discordant ambience. The End was a solid song, but I didn't care for anything else. Unfortunate, after hearing about how good The Doors are since as long as I can remember
Orbital
1/5
I legitimately never thought I'd find a genre that I dislike more than country, and then this project showed me EDM. Maybe I'd like it more if every song was 2 minutes instead of 8+? Monumental waste of time and incredibly boring
Fleet Foxes
3/5
Overall solid album. Personally I'm not as interested in more contemporary folk music, but thus did have some noteworthy songs and was on the whole decent. Top tracks: White Winter Hymnal, Tiger Mountain Peasant Song, Blue Ridge Mountains
Queen
5/5
I don't think I can say anything about this album that hasn't already been said. Absolute masterpiece, truly a timeless classic
Fun Lovin' Criminals
2/5
Honestly just sounds like knock-off beastie boys. Fine, but forgettable. The soul elements come through in a more relaxed tone compared to other rap-rock bands which does help make it a bit more unique. Top tracks: The Grave and the Constant, I Can't Get With That, We Have All the Time in the World
Sarah Vaughan
5/5
If I had to describe this album in one word: charming. Sarah Vaughn has an incredibly soothing and calming voice, that's also very subtley powerful and welcoming all at once. The laughter at minor mistakes during the show really makes the album feel authentic, like you're really there listening to the performance. Top tracks: Willow Weep For Me, How High the Moon, Dream
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
I can't explain it, but this album is really good. Which is funny, because I don't think I've ever liked anything that sounds close to CCR. I just love that it's got a groovy rock-n-roll pureness to it. Top tracks: Graveyard Train, Penthouse Pauper, Proud Mary
Abdullah Ibrahim
2/5
Honestly the first jazz album I've listened to that I wasn't completely blown away by. Some of the songs are decent, but I feel like a majority of the songs are forgettable or go on for way too long. A bit disappointing. Top tracks: Song for Sathima, Water From an Ancient Well (though it goes on way too long), The Wedding
Khaled
4/5
Very different than anything I feel like I've listened to previously, in the best way. Really unique sound; some of the songs started to blend together towards the end of the album, but I'll chalk that up to my inexperienced ear. Very enjoyable listen, fun dance music. Top tracks: Aâlach Tloumouni, C'est la nuit, Imagine
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I was pleasantly surprised at the depth in the songs on this album, the title track always skewed my opinion that every song would be a rock-n-roll "America is awesome" fest. But I'm pleased with the diversity in both song style and lyrics. Some powerful, fun, and just good times songs. Top tracks: I'm On Fire, Dancing in the Dark, My Hometown
Songhoy Blues
3/5
A very unique twist on blues rock, being much more up-beat and dance oriented. Very enjoyable listen, although again to my untrained ear the album did start to blend together towards the end. But you can hear the fun and passion behind each sing. Top tracks: Soubour, Al Hassidi Terei, Petit Metier
Motörhead
1/5
I don't think I'll ever get Motorhead. Some of the riffs are okay, but Lemmy is a terrible singer and the lyrics are somehow worse. Glad they were an inspiration to other musicians, but this is a hard pass from me
The Magnetic Fields
5/5
I was terrified when I saw this album was actually 69 songs long, that this album would be boring and gimmicky. But I could not have been more wrong. The stylistic versatility and genre diversity really make this a compelling album. No song feels out of place, and it doesn't feel bloated despite its nearly 3 hour run time. I absolutely loved every song
Marty Robbins
4/5
I love the feel of this album, real rancher/outlaw country songs. My only complaint is that a lot of the songs and even lyrics start to feel repetitive by the end of the album. Very similar cadence with very similar themes. But still excellent overall. Top tracks: Big Iron, Cool Water, El Paso
The Stooges
1/5
I can't tell who the biggest "Stooge" is: me for listening to this album, the band for making this album, or the record company for producing this album. Maybe it's able to be more appreciated within the context of when it was released, but I think this album is horrible frankly
The Avalanches
1/5
Whoever decided to put more EDM on this list needs to re-evaluate what music "needs" to be heard. I feel like since I heard one EDM album I've heard them all: droning beats with songs that don't go anywhere. At least this album wasn't 2+ hours, and the music videos for Since I Left You and Frontier Psychiatrist were fun
The Young Rascals
1/5
A very boring, almost paint-by-numbers imitation of Beatles and R&B sound. Very derivative and uninteresting
Bruce Springsteen
2/5
Overall I wasn't as impressed with this compared to Born in the USA. Some solid melodies and instrumental work but I didn't enjoy the harsher vocal style, felt more forced and unnatural. Top tracks: Racing in thr Street, Prove It All Night
Kings of Leon
2/5
I feel like someone should show Kings of Leon some ways to make their songs interesting. Every song feels like it has the same structure: start really strong, and never really go anywhere. Like they came up with one riff and decided that's a whole song. Props to the bass player for trying to be interesting. Top tracks: Use Somebody, Revelry
The Specials
3/5
Very fun take on reggae. Could imagine listening to this by a poolside or sun bathing. Don't know if I'd listen in any other context though. Top tracks: Hey Little Rich Girl, Do Nothing, Stereotype
Bob Marley & The Wailers
5/5
Timeless song after timeless song; how can you not feel relaxed after listening to this album. Powerful lyrics, fun melodies, and great words to live by. Everything is gonna be alright
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Absolute masterpiece of an album. Though I personally like it the least of the I-IV Zeppelin albums, which really highlights how incredible Zeppelin's entire discography is. The bluesy tone doesn't always land for me, but this album still has some incredible songs. Top tracks: Dazed and Confused, Communication Breakdown, How Many More Times
Soundgarden
5/5
I think Chris Cornell might be one of the greatest vocalists to ever do it. Absolute travesty he's no longer with us. One of the definitive albums of grunge and the 90s. Every song strikes a perfect balance between heavy and restrained with some excellent complexity. Overall incredible
Dr. Octagon
3/5
Very unique album. I'll admit some of the weirder parts went over my head, but I did find some enjoyable tracks. I'm sure with more listens I'd enjoy it more, this is definitely not for everyone. But I definitely found it solid. Top tracks: Real Raw, Bear Witness, Halfsharkalligatorhalfman
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Stevie Wonder is a musical genius. It's so easy to write formulaic love songs and have them be successful, but I can't get over how modern this album sounds. I wouldn't bat an eye if this was released today, even crazier that it's over 50 years old. Truly excellent. Top tracks: Maybe Your Baby, You've Got It Bad Girl, Superstition
Leftfield
2/5
I'll give the artist credit, they at least tried to make EDM interesting. Still failed of course, but the effort was commendable. Top tracks: Original, Inspection (Check One)
Joan Baez
4/5
Very powerful and moving covers of already fantastic songs. I appreciate that she's able to make each song her own while still retaining some core parts of the songs. Top tracks: East Virginia, House of the Rising Sun, John Riley
Fela Kuti
4/5
Passionate, furious, powerful. Anytime music can upset an authoritarian regime, you know it's good. Sadly still relevant lyrics, plenty of zombies running things and inflicting terror everywhere. The musicianship is excellent as well
Pixies
3/5
Solid album with a unique sound. My two biggest gripes are that I feel like there are too many filler tracks, and I don't like the song order on the album. The Happening is a phenomenal song that in my opinion should end the album. Instead it's followed by a few throwaway tracks that kill the album's momentum. A shame, because a good album is still there. Top tracks: Ana, All Over the World, The Happening
Van Morrison
5/5
In my humble opinion, the best way to judge the greatness of a musician is how they perform live. No studio editing, no best take. Just one shot to leave it all out there. And this album is the best way to show someone that Van Morrison is an incredible musician and performer. Leave alone the songs, I love his interaction with the audience, and credits to is performing musicians. One of the best live pieces of music I think I've ever heard
Love
2/5
Not sure how to feel about this album. It's a shame that (at least to me), everything from the late 60s just sounds like knock-off Beatles. Which unfortunately includes this album. I will give props to the lyrics, very interesting and descriptive (to a fault in some songs). Top tracks: Alone Again Or, You Set the Scene
Herbie Hancock
5/5
What a musical odyssey. Powerful, driving drum beats, awe-inspiring melodies. And despite only 4 tracks, so much emotion and uniqueness between them. Absolutely incredible
Le Tigre
3/5
I feel like I might want to go back and listen to this a second time; I really did not like the sound at the start of the album, but I was warming up to it by the end. Pointed and humorous lyrics also help make this stand out. Honestly one of the first times a punk sound hasn't completely turned me off. Top tracks: Eau D' Ballroom Dancing, Friendship Station, Dude Yr So Crazy!!
Sinead O'Connor
5/5
Hauntingly beautiful. Incredible diversity in tone between songs without losing consistency. Some of the greatest vocals I think I've ever heard. Every song is incredible
Led Zeppelin
5/5
I always feel like III is the black sheep of the first four Zeppelin albums. Much more unplugged and raw. And while I love it for what it is, I do find that this and I are always the two I come back to the least. Need to be in a certain mood to really enjoy the whole album. Still incredible because nothing Zeppelin ever did was short of incredible, but it's never the first record I'm reaching for. Top tracks: Immigrant Song, Tangerine, That's the Way
10cc
4/5
Funny, catchy, outright bizarre sometimes. But that's what makes it fun. I feel like some of the tracks were too out there for me to really get into, but I see and appreciate the creativity and originality put into every track. A very enjoyable listen. Top tracks: The Wall Street Shuffle, The Worst Band in the World, Somewhere in Hollywood
Happy Mondays
1/5
Some catchy moments, but really hard to get past the loud brashness of the music. Chaotic in a bad way unfortunately. The singer has an awful nasally inflection as well. Overall not a very enjoyable listen
Mudhoney
2/5
I feel like punk and grunge are to genres that would always make sense together. Unfortunately not my taste. I prefer grunge that's slower and more plodding. But there are definitely parts in here that are good. Not AiC or Soundgarden good, but good. Top tracks: If I Think, In 'n' Out of Grace
The Velvet Underground
5/5
I'm truly blown away by how timeless this record is. You could have told me an indie folk band released this in 2022 and I would believe you. How they never found contemporary mainstream success is a mystery to me, and a damn shame. One of the most enjoyable albums in this project. Top tracks: Candy Says, Pale Blue Eyes, I'm Set Free, After Hours
LCD Soundsystem
4/5
This was the first album in the project that I had to stop and come back to. I've never been the biggest fan of the 80s sound, and the album started off on a terrible foot in my opinion. But the second half is absolutely incredible. It's one of those albums where every song is either a love it or hate it for me. Which is still better than leaving me with no impression at all. Top tracks: oh baby, call the police, american dream
Holger Czukay
1/5
An absolutely terrible waste of 40 mins. I don't care if Holger Czukay is considered a pioneer for his sampling, this album is incoherent and awful. I'd almost believe if this was made as a joke, but I definitely feel like this is supposed to be taken as a serious record.
Pink Floyd
5/5
There's nothing I can say about this masterpiece that hasn't been said. A brilliant stroke of musical genius that is near perfect in every way
Slipknot
5/5
Was not expecting to get a high school nostalgia trip today. One of the albums I listened to extensively when I first decided I wanted to learn how to play drums. Powerful, heavy, and totally complex. Has appeal to long time fans and more mainstream sounding hits. Excellent album. Top tracks: Sulfur, Psychosocial, Dead Memories, Snuff
Primal Scream
2/5
While I respect the album for trying to encompass a wide variety of sounds, I feel like it's lacking a central idea, outside of getting high. I feel like it would have been better served leaning into either the electronic or poppy sound, instead of trying to do both half heartedly in my opinion. Top tracks: Higher Than the Sun, Damaged
Cheap Trick
4/5
A pretty solid, pleasantly surprising live album. I was not sold on it when I started, but the second half absolutely carries the first. Fiery, energetic and fun. An all around good listen. Top tracks: Need Your Love, I Want You to Want Me, Surrender
Deep Purple
5/5
Prior to listening to this album, all I knew about Deep Purple was that they did Smoke on the Water. Once again I'm very thankful for this project, because this album is a masterpiece. Heavy, soaring, dramatic but not too cheesy or dated. Some truly phenomenal soloing from all members as well. Every song is incredible
Johnny Cash
5/5
I can't believe how much of Johnny Cash's personality comes through this record, it takes a true performer to have such a commanding presence and yet seem so human. I love that there are mistakes, ramblings, and crowd interaction. A truly excellent performance and recording.
Dinosaur Jr.
2/5
I can see how this album (and sound) would pave the way for a lot of the 90s and 00s hard rock/grunge bands. But I'm happy those later bands came along, because I didn't particularly enjoy the sound on this record. Some of the riffs are energetic and forceful, but I do not like the singers voice at all. And I really feel like it takes away from what could otherwise be a much better album. Top tracks: SludgeFest, Tarpit
Elton John
4/5
This was not at all what I expected from an Elton John album. I love that it feels more intense and almost prog rock-esque in its sound, not nearly as poppy as I would have thought. Obviously still an Elton John record, but a more unique listen than I expected. Top tracks: Tiny Dancer, Indian Sunset, Goodbye
The Undertones
2/5
Not bad for a punk album. I still don't get the appeal of two minute songs that are just loud and fast, but this at least had some musical depth to it. Also wasn't just blast beats for 30 mins. Top tracks: Teenage Kicks, Get Over You, I Know A Girl
Suede
3/5
I liked this album more than I expected to. Funnily enough, I thought the less popular songs/less Brit-poppy songs were infinitely better than the others. I did also find the singer to be a bit hard to listen to on some tracks, but I attribute that to just not liking the style of Brit-pop. Overall a solid listen. Top tracks: Pantomime Horse, The Drowners, Breakdown
Fairport Convention
5/5
This album is such an emotional journey. Loss, joy, fun, melancholy, longing. Every song is excellent and nothing feels out of place. An essential album for anyone who enjoys folk music
Thin Lizzy
5/5
If I had to describe this album in one phrase, it would be "kick-ass". I never really thought much about Thin Lizzy beyond The Boys Are Back in Town, but that might actually be my least favorite song on this recording. Electric and punchy musicianship, the perfect kind to dance and head bang to
Scissor Sisters
4/5
This was a really fun listen. I don't think every song connected with me but I could feel the energy and passion behind every second. There's something to be said for being unapologetically yourself, and I feel this album is a great embodiment of that. Top tracks: Take Your Mama, Tits on the Radio, Filthy/Gorgeous
Motörhead
2/5
I don't think I'll ever like Lemmy as a vocalist and Motorhead will always be overrated in my opinion, but this was a better offering that the stuff I've listened to previously. Top tracks: Metropolis, Iron Horse
Van Halen
3/5
I feel like the one thing this album is lacking is some song diversity. The opening three tracks are incredible, and then the rest of the album doesn't really go anywhere else or explore any other musical ideas. Every song being the same length and same tempo unfortunately makes them all start to blend together; when everything tries to punch, nothing really does. Top tracks: Runnin' With the Devil, Eruption, You Really Got Me
The Go-Go's
2/5
Not much to say about this album. Not a fan of new wave or punk, so this one doesn't really land for me. Some of the slower tracks are good, and it makes me wish the album had more of them. Top tracks: Just to Love, Fading Fast
Björk
4/5
What a strange (in the best way) album. I don't think every song lands for me, but the ones that do are truly incredible. Even though I knew this album was almost entirely a capella, I still wasn't prepared for how innovative and different it is. Definitely worth a listen, even if you don't connect with the songs themselves. Top tracks: Where Is the Line, Oceania, Mouths Cradle
Fever Ray
4/5
When I saw that this album was electronic music, I was immediately skeptical that I would find it tolerable, much less that I would enjoy it. Color me surprised it's actually a very good album. Dark, eerie and very musically interesting. Definitely worth a listen. Top tracks: Dry and Dusty, Concrete Walls, Coconut
Cyndi Lauper
2/5
I feel like this might he the single most 80s sounding album ever made. Which unfortunately for my taste is a bad thing. Some fun songs, but not really a lot of music depth or anything else going on. Also not the biggest fan of Cyndi Lauper's singing style. Worth a listen for the time capsule that this album is, but not much else. Top tracks: Time After Time, Witness
Emmylou Harris
3/5
Not bad for a country album. Definitely found myself gravitating towards the folk songs over the more country sounding songs. Not a whole lot to say, the folk songs were good, the country songs were generic and forgettable. Top tracks: Too Far Gone, If I Could Only Win Your Love, Sleepless Nights
Elvis Presley
4/5
A very entertaining listen. A nice menagerie of fun, upbeat, swooning, and sexy that kept everything on the album moving. I usually prefer longer songs, but every track is short and succinct and nothing overstays it's welcome. Not every song was great, but all were generally enjoyable. Top tracks: Fever, I Will Be Home Again, Soldier Boy
Eagles
1/5
I honestly don't get the hype around this album or Eagles. Maybe their sound was innovative and interesting in the 70s, but I feel like other bands have taken their music and just do it better. Ironic that I consider this album derivative, but I feel like that just means it didn't stand the test of time in my opinion.
Joy Division
2/5
I really wanted to like this album a lot more than I did. The tracks are hit or miss for me, but whenever I started to get into a song, the singer completely ripped me out of it. I'm not the biggest fan of new wave or punk, but I feel like these songs would be much better if covered by bands with real singing talent. A disappointing listen overall, but some songs have good instrumental bits. Top tracks: New Dawn Fades, I Remember Nothing
Nirvana
5/5
One of my all-time favorite albums. I would put the first three tracks on this album up against any first three tracks on any record. A perfect balance of raw energy and edge without being gratuitous. A quintessential album for anyone remotely interested in rock music
Neu!
4/5
A very good albumnd pleasantly surprising listen. What I can't believe is that this album is almost 50 years old, but I would believe if it was released this year. My only gripe is that the songs go on for a bit longer than I'd like, but the songs themselves are very engaging. A good balance between calm and energetic, for all moods. Top tracks: Seeland, Leb' wohl, Hero
Isaac Hayes
4/5
I went into this album expecting a soulful masterpiece based on what I've read. What I didn't expect is how much innovation and genre diversity there would be in 4 songs. Truly captivating listen, although I do feel like the longer songs contain too much filler and are better enjoyed in their single-release lengths
The Saints
2/5
When I read that this album mixed punk with R/B and a horn section, I was very intrigued. The first song on the album is great because of the innovative sound, but each subsequent song loses that uniqueness. By the 5th song the album just sounds like any late 70s punk record, which is a shame because the album never fully recaptures it's early intrigue. Overall disappointing. Top tracks: Know Your Product, Lost And Found
Sade
3/5
A very relaxing listen. I'm not one for an entire album of love/longing songs, but I think the smoother tone of the album at least keeps it interesting enough. Decent, but probably not something I'd rush to come back to. Top tracks: Smooth Operator, Your Love is King, Why Can't We Live Together
Coldplay
5/5
A true masterpiece of an album. Strikes a perfect balance between rock, pop, and soft ballad that really looks like lightning in a bottle with 20 years of hindsight. The only thing disappointing about this album is that Coldplay hasn't managed to recapture what made their sound so great since. A must listen
The Rolling Stones
3/5
While I appreciate the bluesier tone of this album, there's just something unexplainable that I don't feel like I'm connecting with it. The songs are either really gun and out there, or just feel like filler thay doesn't do anything for me personally. Still one of the better Rolling Stones albums in my opinion. Top tracks: Sympathy for the Devil, No Expectations, Jigsaw Puzzle
Television
1/5
Did not like this album at all. Everything about it sounded amateurish, from the production and mixing to songs dragging on for no discernable reason. Very underwhelming and uninspired
Syd Barrett
1/5
This album really is tragic. Syd Barrett obviously had ability to write fun and sometimes heartfelt songs, but the entire album feels half-baked and underwhelming. Almost as if it suffers from the same things that afflicted Barrett. If this were re-released with proper production and a cleaner sound I think it would be much better, because in it's original state it's a hard listen
Massive Attack
2/5
Overall a decent album. Some fun and engaging beats without being too repetitive from song to song. Though it does fall victim to the same trapping that every electronic song seems to have: the songs themselves are way too long. There is no reason any of these songs should be longer than 3 mins. Which is a shame, because good songs can become annoying very fast if they go on without a purpose. Top tracks: Safe From Harm, Unfinished Sympathy
Def Leppard
2/5
Prior to listening to this album all I knew about Def Leppard was Pour Some Sugar On Me. And after listening to this album, I realized I already knew everything I needed to know. I don't know how they managed to turn one musical idea into an entire album, but then I've never been one for arena rock. The only reason this album isn't bad in my opinion is because of the title track - it feels like an actually complex song that the band made accidentally based on the rest of the album. Listen to Hysteria and pick any one of the other songs, and you've listened to the whole album
The Bees
4/5
A very nice listen, with almost a lo-fi feel. Quirky and melancholy but not overplayed or derivative. Honestly sounds like it could have been released last year; I feel like this will be an album that people recognize as a trailblazer for the modern indie sound. Top tracks: Sunshine, Lying in the Snow, Sky Holds the Sun
The Police
3/5
This album is incredibly polarizing for me. On one hand, they were clearly going for a more experimental and different A side. Which I respect, but unfortunately doesn't land for me at all. The B side is much more accessible and overall better, but I still think the songs can be hit or miss. Overall a good album with lots of musical diversity, that just unfortunately didn't resonate with me as much as I thought it would. Top tracks: Synchronicity II, Every Breath You Take, Tea in the Sahara
Jerry Lee Lewis
3/5
Maybe the most raw and energetic performance I've ever heard. Every song has a fiery attitude that makes it impossible to not move and dance. My only complaint is that every song sounds exactly the same, which is more a product of the songs chosen. But I feel like 2 tracks on a 45 would get the same effect as the full album. A fun listen overall
Robert Wyatt
1/5
This felt too eccentric even for me. I felt as if I was listening to the mind of a madman, or something straight out of Alice in Wonderland. This is where I feel more experimental genres go from boundary pushing to just incomprehensible. Not a pleasant listen, and not much going on
Sepultura
4/5
An excellent album full of raw aggression and groove. Excellent incorporation of Brazilian musical themes as well. My only gripe is that the album does feel slightly bloated; it would be much better if the second half was trimmed a bit. But overall an excellent album. Top tracks: Roots Bloody Roots, Attitude, Ratamahatta
The Rolling Stones
5/5
I'm very glad that I finally found a Rolling Stones album that I love. I really appreciate the more mature and stripped down sound this album brings. The lyrics feel more personal and heartfelt. This album is a great example of less-is-more, and is a masterpiece as a result
Dion
1/5
Overall inoffensive and fine. Unremarkable and easy listen. Nothing really stood out, but nothing was that bad. Just an album that is not for me.
Jeff Buckley
5/5
A hauntingly beautiful masterpiece. Raw and vulnerable emotion mixed with driving and fun melodies. A perfect balance of upbeat and somber. Nothing but good things to say
The Prodigy
4/5
I'm always pleasantly surprised when I hear engaging electronic music. This album should be the template for how to make a good electronic album. The songs don't overstay their welcome, and there is plenty of melodic progression to keep the listening experience refreshing and pleasant. And obviously fun to dance to. Top tracks: Breathe, Mindfields, Narayan
k.d. lang
3/5
I feel conflicted about this album. One one hand, k.d. lang is a phenomenal vocalist. Her ability alone made thus album worth listening to. But I didn't really connect with the songs as much as I expected to. They were all fine, but nothing stood out other than the excellent vocals. Some decent songs, but nothing else to write home about. Top tracks: Save Me, Constant Craving
Air
4/5
A hauntingly beautiful sound that I'm sure encapsulates the essence of the film. Unfortunately I haven't seen the movie with this soundtrack, so my appreciation can only go so far. But it was a very interesting listen. Very ethereal and carried a deep sense of almost longing. Will definitely be checking out the movie. Top tracks: Playground Love, Empty House, Dead Bodies
Brian Eno
2/5
Not really sure how I feel about this album. On one hand, it has a quality that makes it hard to describe, very genre-pushing/avant-garde which tracks for Eno. And while I respect that from a musical perspective, I just can't get past the songs almost sounding too pretentious and self-insisting. A lot of it didn't land for me personally. Interesting listen, probably not one I'm coming back to. Top tracks: King's Lead Hat, By This River
The White Stripes
2/5
I feel like this is a really disappointing follow up to Elephant. It definitely had its moments, but I this felt a little too forced to be quirky and out there for no reason. Has a very "look we can be weird" vibe that doesn't really land for me. Top tracks: Blue Orchid, I'm Lonely
The 13th Floor Elevators
1/5
Not really sure I van say anything positive about this album. It feels underproduced, janky, and disorganized. Very unpleasant listen
The Psychedelic Furs
3/5
I was initially turned off by this album. The production seemed really shoddy, and the entire sound felt very immature and under developed. But the end of the album really saves it from being totally bad in my opinion. The longer songs have a more refined quality that I wish extended to the rest of the album. Interesting use of saxophone throughout as well. Top tracks: No Tears, All of This and Nothing, She Is Mine
Garbage
4/5
I was not initially expecting to like this album. But I thought it was a fun and sunny offering that felt edgy and self aware, but also had some maturity as well. Would have been better as an EP, as a lot of the second half starts to feel like filler. But definitely good overall. Top tracks: Queer, As Heaven Is Wide, Milk
Nine Inch Nails
4/5
A raw and oppressive album that is unrelenting in its message of pain, longing and apathy. I almost feel like the overly harsh and very loud sound add to the discord and despair the album conveys. It's not an easy listen, which makes it almost feel like an art piece instead of just another album. Jarring and yet not as unpleasant as you'd think. Top tracks: Heresy, A Warm Place, Hurt
The Smiths
2/5
It took a while for this album to get engaging, but once it hooked me I found it captivating. Which is a shame; the last 3 songs are excellent, but the first 6 were not interesting at all for me. I'm glad it ended on such a strong note with a lot to say, I only wish it had more substance throughout the album. Top tracks: Well I Wonder, Barbarism Begins at Home, Meat Is Murder
Hole
2/5
Not a lot to say about this album. It was mostly fine, generic late 90s hard rock. A few standout moments but nothing great or offensive. Does feel a little commercialized at times, but the ending of the album does enough to keep it decent. Top tracks. Reasons To Be Beautiful, Playing Your Song, Petals
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
2/5
This album feels very raw and edgy, but it almost comes off as more whiny and amateurish than I believe is intended. The album does end on a stronger note, due to the softer and more refined sound from the last few tracks. But not a very enjoyable listen overall. Top tracks: Maps, Y Control, Modern Romance
Supergrass
3/5
Probably the most quintessentially British-sounding album I've gotten so far, and it's a standout with the highs and lows of the genre. The energy and upbeat tempos keep the album engaging, but the quality from song to song isn't terribly consistent. Overall a solid listen with a few fun jams. Top tracks: Mansize Rooster, Alright, Time to Go
Britney Spears
2/5
I feel so conflicted about this album and the context that surrounds it. On one hand, sure it's a fine pop album with catchy songs. But I felt so uncomfortable listening to it knowing that Brittney Spears was a child when this was recorded, especially with some of the lyrical content and music videos. I wish I could rate it incomplete if I could.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
A solid offering of folkish melancholy. Leonard Cohen's voice has always been hit or miss for me, and this album is no exception. But I really appreciate the musical rawness and simplicity of the songs. There's something about just and their guitar that is so powerful despite being so simple. And this album captures that spirit well. Top tracks: Master Song; So Long, Marianne; Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye
Neil Young
2/5
Decent easy listening. I felt like this album was fine, definitely preferred the slower songs to the poppier ones. Also not a huge fan of Neil Young's voice. Overall a fine and musically safe album. Probably not something I'd come back to, but okay enough for one listen. Top tracks: Birds, I Believe in You
AC/DC
5/5
I don't think there's a more quintessentially "rock and roll" album than this. Every track is an absolute ass-kicker. Simple but effective and powerful riffs and beats that just make you want to dance. An absolute must-listen for rock enjoyers, or people who just want to head bang
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
2/5
This has to be up there for one of the corniest records ever made. And I mean that in both a good and bad way. On one hand, it's a fun and goofy album that slowly gets more serious and ends on a real high note. On the other hand, I feel like so much of the album feels dated and bloated. Definitely worth listening to the title track, but not much else worth staying for
Miles Davis
5/5
An excellent easy listen. Certainly lives up to being "cool" with its sound. There's inherently something cool about all jazz in my opinion, and this is an excellent showcase of fantastic jazz. A must listen for anyone who appreciates older music
Bob Dylan
2/5
A tough record to judge that really falls short in a major way in my opinion. On one hand, the lyrics are powerful and interesting, and the melodies themselves are heartfelt and very engaging. But Dylan's vocals performance is downright unlistenable at times. It may be one of the worst performances I've ever heard. It's a damn shame too, because the songs are really excellent; until he starts singing again. I don't know if it would have been possible to edit his voice in production, or even get someone else to sing his lyrics. Because man he's rough to listen to. Top tracks: Standing in the Doorway, Not Dark Yet, Make You Feel My Love
Skepta
4/5
A very good listen. Each song had a nice blend of humor and clever lyrics to keep me engaged, and the beats themselves were energetic and also interesting. My only complaint is there is a definite disparity between the quality from song to song on this album. Nothing is horrible, but there is a but of inconsistency between the tracks. I would have ordered the sings differently, but very good as a whole. Top tracks: Konnichiwa, Man, Detox
Beatles
3/5
I've never been the biggest fan of early Beatles. And I think this may be the weakest album in their discography. Certainly not bad by any means, but doesn't really have any standout tracks or memorable moments like the rest of their albums do. Would only really come back to if I was doing a Beatles binge or something similar. Top tracks: All My Loving, Don't Bother Me, Roll Over Beethoven
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
Was a nice listen. Almost felt conversational, with a friend talking to me as he played his guitar. This might be the first time I wished an album was longer, because it felt way to short. Wish I could hear more. Top tracks: Ol' Reily, New York Town, Cocaine
Miles Davis
5/5
Not many musicians could make two side-long tracks that capture warmth, tenderness, dynamic energy, and fantastic soloing without dragging on or overstaying their welcome. But Miles Davis is not like many musicians. A great listen for really any occasion
Lambchop
1/5
Very boring an unremarkable. The production quality from song to song is also very uneven. Reminds me more of muzak or a b-movie soundtrack
Pixies
4/5
One of the catchiest albums I think I've ever heard. Some inconsistencies from song-to-song (especially in the beginning), but a driving and powerful album and ends really strong. Can definitely hear how influential this would be on the 90s as a whole. Top tracks: No 13 Baby, Hey, Gouge Away
Bauhaus
1/5
I didn't connect with this album at all. I thought it was sloppy, poorly produced, and downright incoherent at times. Not a very enjoyable listen either.
Eurythmics
3/5
Definitely a tale of two sides wit this album. I didn't enjoy the A side at all, and was honestly ready to hate this album. But the B side was significantly more compelling and interesting in pretty much every way. So a decent listen overall. Top tracks: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of These), Jennifer, This City Never Sleeps
Muddy Waters
3/5
Was honestly expecting to like this album more than I did. I though it was decent, but the album was far too short to really digest. This was also exacerbated by every song sounding nearly identical on a first listen, which unfortunately made everything very forgettable. Will definitely revisit, but not a compelling first listen. Top tracks: Got My Mojo Working (pts1/2), Goodbye Newport Blues
Buffalo Springfield
4/5
A fun, twangy, easy listen. On a personal level not every song connected with me as much as I would have liked, but still a very good album. Feels like one od the most authentic and rustic country sounds I've heard for an album. Honest and bare without any commercialized trappings that so much of modern country/folk music falls into. Top tracks: Mr. Soul, Bluebird, Sad Memory
Laibach
1/5
Absolute incoherent garbage. Just sounds like I'm listening to a Nazi concert. Nothing even remotely interesting going on. Wish I could give zero stars
Echo And The Bunnymen
2/5
I thought the album started really strong, but ran out of musical ideas by the end. The B side particularly suffers from forgettable similar-sounding songs. I also find that post-punk comes across very sharp and slightly shrill at times. The A side does have some catchy moments which were enjoyable to listen to. Top tracks: Back of Love, My White Devil
Arctic Monkeys
5/5
Probably one of the best debut albums I've ever heard. Starts and ends incredibly strong, with some unfortunately weaker filler in the middle. The drumming in particular on the album is phenomenal, and really aides in keeping every song engaging and easy to dance to. Top tracks: The View From The Afternoon, Mardy Bum, When The Sun Goes Down, A Certain Romance
The The
4/5
A very effectively catchy album. I usually don't care much for synth pop or new wave, but this album has such a unique sound that I felt captivated the whole listen. Not every song lands for me, but this was definitely a fascinating and eye-opening listen. Top tracks: I've Been Waiting For Tomorrow, This is the Day, Uncertain Smile,
The Zombies
2/5
I found this album very polarizing. It has great opening and closing tracks that are interesting and unique. But everything in the middle just felt like more discount-Beatles, and had all the inferiority that comes with that tag. Obviously a product of its time, but I wish more psychedelic rock groups of the era sounded less like the Beatles, and found their own sound. Top tracks: Care of Cell 44, Time of the Season
R.E.M.
1/5
I really expected to like this album a lot more than I did. I feel like it's not really pop or rock, so it sits in this almost uncanny valley between the two genres. Every song has a moment or two that I enjoyed, but the songs themselves feel jarring and musically uncomfortable in my opinion. Not a very pleasant listen
Nina Simone
5/5
Powerful, emotional, and almost an earthy rawness are the best ways to describe this album. The restraint in the vocal performance really highlights the gravity of each song. And each song has moving and thought-provoking lyrics that really made this an all around excellent listen. Truly profound. Top tracks: Four Women, Lilac Wine, Wild Is The Wind
The B-52's
1/5
Such an unappealing album. From it's annoying sound to the screeching vocals and goofy lyrics, this could not have been more of a miss for me. I'm not the biggest fan of catchy music, but this is an extreme that just dies not work for me at all
The Doors
5/5
A very mature and soulful sound, borderline vulnerable and heartfelt at times. Catchy and suave, each song has something unique to bring to an album that is bursting with bluesy energy, and tender ballads. Very well-rounded and engaging. Top tracks: Roadhouse Blues, Peace Frog, Blue Sunday
John Coltrane
5/5
An excellent showcase of musicianship. Each song toes a delicate line between chaotic and calming so eloquently. And I actually think each track gets stronger than the last. A great album to sit and listen to, to appreciate music
Afrika Bambaataa
2/5
I feel really conflicted about this album. Each song has a really strong base beat, but the quality of the songs themselves come down to how well that beat is riffed on. Some songs are really successful, others end up boring and repetitive, especially with the longer song times. The B-side is much better in my opinion. All in all solid, but not something I think I'd come back to. Top tracks: Looking for the Perfect Beat, Who You Funkin' With?, They Made A Mistake
Goldie
1/5
Frankly embarrassing that someone could turn the same drum beat and occasional bassey sound effect into 2 hours worth of "music". Unoriginal, boring, and not worth anyone's time. The only "timeless" aspect of this album is that there will always be people who eat up anything record companies try to pass off
ABBA
4/5
Fun and inoffensive. Nice easy listening that could be played or listened to almost anywhere. Feels both dated and timeless at the same time almost. Overall solid. Top tracks: Dancing Queen; Knowing Me, Knowing You; Money, Money, Money
Suzanne Vega
2/5
Perfectly fine and decent. A little derivative, but a standard folk album. Some inconsistent quality from song to song, but nothing too bad. Top tracks: Marlene On The Wall, Small Blue Thing, The Queen And The Soldier
KISS
3/5
A Kiss album through and through. Arena rock and songs that all kind of sound the same, but still manage to be fun. Certainly feels dated by modern standards, but a fun and decent listen overall. Top tracks: Detroit Rock City, Shout It Out, Beth
The Teardrop Explodes
1/5
Very goofy and dated. Also frustratingly borderline discordant at times. Not a very appealing listen, and a lot of the songs overstay their welcome far too long. Nothing really positive to say, and largely forgettable.
Bob Dylan
4/5
Folksy, entertaining, witty, emotional. There's no denying that each song on this album is tells a story that hits all of these points with its lyrics, and manages to also be equally engaging musically. But I can't get past the fact that about half of the songs are brought down by Dylan's grating singing. The best songs are the ones where it works, the worst ones are where it doesn't. Unfortunately another album of his that would be perfect if it had someone else singing. Top tracks: It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry; Ballad of a Thin Man; Desolation Row
Neneh Cherry
1/5
Goofy, amateurish and uninspired. Asinine lyrics that sound like what some put of touch executive thinks sounds like music for teens. Very dated, and aged poorly
Jimmy Smith
4/5
Nice easy listening smooth jazz. Nothing mind blowing or captivating, but does it's job well. Great for background music or relaxing. Simple and effective
The Killers
5/5
A nice balance of fun and edge that helps it stand out as a pop-rock album. Every song brings an energy that can be danced to or listened to. Some truly iconic songs from my childhood. Top tracks: Mr. Brightside, All These Things That I've Done, Everything Will Be Alright
Marvin Gaye
4/5
A fun blend of sexy and heartfelt. I've never listened to much soul music, but this was a really great listen. I do feel the album suffers from a small amount of bloat, which is unfortunate given the shorter runtime, but an easy listen from start to finish. Top tracks: Let's Get It On, Come Get To This, Just To Keep You Satisfied
Taylor Swift
3/5
While I won't pretend like Taylor Swift isn't talented or catchy, I do think overrated and a little derivative are fair criticisms. Hard to listen to an entire album of relationship/breakup songs without it getting a little repetitive, especially when some of the lyrics are just goofy. I also think it's hard when every song has the same basic drum beat and tempo, makes them a lot more interchangeable. Still fun to listen to the songs in small doses, but a full album is a bit much. Top tracks: Blank Space, All You Had To Do Was Stay, Clean
Beatles
5/5
In my opinion, one of the more polarizing Beatles albums. Every song definitely elicits strong emotions from me that range from "love it" to "hate it". And even though nit every song connected with me, I appreciate the variety and intricacy thay is present. No two songs sound alike, and I love that about this album. If it were uo to me, the best songs would be 2x as long, and the weaker songs wouldn't be present. But then it wouldn't be Revolver. Top tracks: Taxman; I'm Only Sleeping; Here, There And Everywhere, For No One
Yes
5/5
Such a good album. Wonderfully complex but still accessible, each song brings its own proggy flavor to the album to keep it fresh and engaging. My only wish would be that Starship Trooper was twice as long because it's so good, but oh well. Top tracks: Yours Is No Disgrace, Starship Trooper, I've Seen All Good People
Happy Mondays
3/5
The album starts off really strong and promising, then unfortunately makes a weird and unappealing turn in it's middle tracks. It ends on a higher note, but overall nothing incredibly remarkable. The most popular songs are really good, and the rest of the album ranges from forgettable to bad. Top tracks: Kinky Afro, Step On, Holiday
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
1/5
This album feels dated even for when it was released. Every song felt overtuned and was unappealing to listen to. Some catchy moments, but nothing in my opinion that stood out as good other than fleeting riffs. Chiefly derivative and uninspired
Guns N' Roses
4/5
A ballsy and unapologetic hard rock whirlwind. Every song has a punishing energy that you can't help but headbang to. But I do think there's almost too much testosterone on this album, and it would have been even better if there was a song that wasn't about sex or girls. But a really fun listen regardless. Top tracks: Welcome To The Jungle, Nightrain, Sweet Child O' Mine
Miles Davis
5/5
The definition of "organized chaos". This album will not he for everyone; improv free form jazz fusion is definitely an acquired taste. But I can't help but appreciate the musicianship from each of the performers. It really feels like a look inside the mind of a musical genius just pouring melodies out onto an album. An absolute masterpiece
Pink Floyd
5/5
A haunting and beautiful album. Got me through some very hard times in a long-distance relationship. Masterful composition, provoking lyrics and imagery. One of the best and most complete albums ever produced.
Mercury Rev
2/5
This was a very bizarre listen for me. I thought the first 2/3 of the album was incoherent and aimless, very airy and discordant. But then I got to the final third, which I thought brought an unexpected and eerie maturity and gravity that almost made me wonder if I was listening to an entirely different album. There are exactly 3 songs worth listening to on this album, but those songs are frankly excellent in my opinion. Top tracks: Goddess On A Hiway, The Funny Bird, Pick Up If You're There
The Offspring
4/5
One of the pinnacles of angsty teenager edge that bring back lots of memories of high school. The album does start to taper off towards the end, the last third does feel tacked on and more forgettable. But this is a very fun listen that captures a raw energy coming of age in a crazy world. Top tracks: Come Out And Play, Self Esteem, It'll Be a Long Time
Christine and the Queens
3/5
A pleasantly surprising album. A nice modern take on 80s synth pop that didn't feel cheesy or over produced. Not something I'd actively seek out, but a good and entertaining listen. Top tracks: Comme Si, The Walker, Goya Soda
Deep Purple
4/5
Fun, heavy, and very entertaining. Though there's something about this album that is lacking in energy from their previous albums. Excellent on it's own, but simply feels watered down and less original. But still very good regardless. Top tracks: Pictures of Home, Smoke on the Water, Lazy
Blur
2/5
I'm almost tempted to give this album an "incomplete," because I feel like I just don't 'get it'. It feels very born out of 90s British culture, with lyrics reflecting sentiment of the time that I just won't be able to connect to. It was an entertaining enough listen, but definitely had way too many filler tracks that bog down the good ones. All in all not bad, but I don't think I'll ever be able to appreciate this album as much as I could. Top Tracks: Parklife, To the End, Clover Over Dover
Muddy Waters
2/5
I really wanted to like this album. But it's hard for me to get into an album when every song has the same pattern and musical development aside from tempo changes. Blues songs are great when by themselves, but start to turn into a slog when everything starts to sound the same. Underwhelming overall. Top tracks: Manish Boy, Crosseyed Cat
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
2/5
I really wanted to like the album a lot more than I did. I don't know why it didn't connect with me; I appreciate the stripped-down nature of the songs, and the lyrical subject matter is introspective and relatable. But something about the vocal performance and production is what turned me off. It feels shaky and uneven, and none of the dual-tracked songs are successful. All in all a huge missed opportunity, with some solid moments in between. Top tracks: I See A Darkness, Song For The New Brees
Everything But The Girl
2/5
Inoffensive and not terribly interesting. Some cool moments, and it was nice to hear some drum and bass that actually has a vocalist. But I feel everything that's drum and bass all sounds exactly the same to me, and is not that pleasant to listen to. Still this was better than most I've heard so far. Top tracks: Flipside, Walking Wounded (Omni Trio Remix)
The Police
3/5
A really solid listen that I don't think connected with me as much as I would have liked. Credit where it's due, the musicianship and song variety are excellent, especially the drumming. So this is definitely an interesting album. But unfortunately that led for me to an overall inconsistent album with definite highs and lows. Top tracks: Message In A Bottle, Regatta De Blanc, Contact
Joni Mitchell
4/5
A subtley beautiful album that deserves a second listen. I feel like I missed the point of the A side on my first listen, and I didn't start to connect with the songs until the end of the A side. B side is excellent and heartfelt, with some truly sublime bass playing as well. This definitely feels like an album that takes a bit to click, but once it does is amazing. Top tracks: Hejira, Song for Sharon, Refugee of the Roads
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
One of the ultimate musical experiences. Hendrix rightly gets the majority of credit since this is his band, but the bass and drums are their own peak performances as well. A masterpiece of an album with no filler or skippable tracks. Excellence in a word
Crosby, Stills & Nash
5/5
Sweet, heartfelt, and easy to listen to. A great mix of folksy songs for every mood. I definitely felt Nash's songs were a bit weaker, but still great to listen to. An all around great album. Top tracks: Suite: Judy Blue Eyes, Guinnevere, Helplessly Hoping
Spacemen 3
1/5
Boring and droning. Somehow combines the monotony of EDM with rock music. Nothing noteworthy, and entirely skippable
Frank Sinatra
5/5
A great melancholy journey of unrequited love. Some of the songs did start to blend together, and I definitely feel like the album could have been shorter and more concise to really hone itself. But all in all a relaxing and reflective listen that tugs at heart strings. Top tracks: In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning, What Is This Thing Called Love, I'll Be Around
Todd Rundgren
5/5
Definitely the most pleasantly surprising album I've heard so far. I didn't expect it to have so much musical depth - it's catchy, rocking, heartfelt, goofy, and well done. I wasn't the biggest fan of the live D side, but there's more than enough here for someone to enjoy something. A great and very entertaining listen that kept me engaged the whole time
The Beach Boys
3/5
Solid easy listening, definitely recognized a few songs from radio play. Inoffensive and decent, pretty standard 60s pop rock. Definitely has some stronger songs, but I would say at least a third of the album is forgettable. Top tracks: Wouldn't It Be Nice; God Only Knows; Caroline, No
Manic Street Preachers
4/5
Definitely an album that I warmed up to as it went on. I actually found the most popular songs to be a bit repetitive and uninteresting, but a lot of the lesser known songs have a lot of charm and catchy brit-pop to keep me listening even if they didn't always connect. A pleasant surprise. Top tracks: Enola/Alone, Small Black Flowers That Grow In The Sky, No Surface All Feeling
Carole King
5/5
I had no idea one album produced so many recognizable songs. A truly great folk album with a little bit of everything. Every song brings something unique to the album either through the music or lyrics. Just an all-around excellent listen with no weak spots or skippable songs.
Ramones
1/5
I'm honestly speechless in a way. I don't know how this album became as influential as is did. 30 mins of unintelligible vocals and the same under-produced chord progression. I didn't think I was going to like this album because I'm not a big punk fan, but this was still worse than I could have thought. Blitzkrieg Bop is still fun enough though
Django Django
1/5
Uninteresting and uninspired. Felt like I was listening to an album entirely composed of advertisement or background video game music. The better moments came when the group tried to play actual melodies, but the reliance on EDM-esque droning beats really made this a bad album in my opinion
4/5
After having listened to and not really enjoying Parklife, I went into this album with lower expectations. But I have to say this pleasantly surprised me. It took a few tracks to click, but once it did I found myself enjoying every song that came on. Definitely a more digestible and fun britpop album. Top tracks: Star Shaped, Oily Water, Resigned
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
I did not expect to like this album as much as I did. Almost reminded me of very contemporary Broadway show tunes. Vivid and captivating lyrics as well. My only minor gripe is the second album feels weaker than the first, but still an all-around good listen
Stevie Wonder
5/5
An absolutely incredible album. I don't think I've listened to a double album without a weak spot like this before. Every song has soul, energy, and is fun to listen to. Each song brings something unique to the album, and there isn't a wasted second on this longer record. A master's masterpiece
The Pretty Things
2/5
Wasn't particularly invested in this album. I didn't connect with the story being told at all. It feels disingenuous to call this a "rock opera" - it's just a concept album, and a rather flat one at that. Some decent moments, but nothing that noteworthy. Top tracks: Death, Loneliest Person
Ryan Adams
4/5
A very tender and heartfelt album. Nice blend of softer ballads and some country rock flair. Some of the songs I felt had a little too much going on particularly with the harmonica, but I feel like I would have enjoyed it more if I just liked country music more. All in all pretty good. Top tracks: Oh My Sweet Carolina, Bartering Lines, Sweet Lil' Gal (23rd/1st)
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Soulful, introspective, and really powerful. I feel like the album would have benefitted from one additional song to round it out, but overall a really interesting listen. The bass lines in particular carried a lot of the songs and kept me engaged. Top tracks: Billy Jack, Hard Times, Love to the People
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
I feel very conflicted about this album. It definitely had moments of excellence, but is really hampered by inconsistent song quality and very shaky production on most of the songs. Dark and brooding proto nu-metal is mixed with tinny and shrill production that only leaves me slightly disappointed this wasn't better. Top tracks: Monitor, Night Shift
The Charlatans
2/5
Pretty generic and unremarkable. The instrumental tracks were at least interesting and explored some neat musical ideas, but they're very hidden in an album that doesn't have much else to say with it's songs. About what I expected. Top tracks: Area 51, Rob's Theme
Malcolm McLaren
1/5
This felt like a barely-connected string of hip hop ramblings, world music, and a radio show? Not even sure I'd call it eclectic, just confusing and honestly pretty bad.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
A really surprising album considering my prior nonexistent exposure to Fleetwood Mac. I didn't expect this album to rock as much as it did, on top of having the slower ballads I expected. The album kept me engaged throughout its runtime and did not overstay any welcomes. An excellent and well rounded record. Top tracks: Dreams, Don't Stop, The Chain
Alice Cooper
3/5
Not bad; I definitely wonder if a lot of the shock value and "hard rock" effect this album had when it was released has been distilled, since it was a lot tamer than I expected. Some solid rock songs songs, and nice use of brass instruments as well. Overall a decent listen. Top tracks: Hello Hooray, Billion Dollar Babies, No More Mr. Nice Guy
Gil Scott-Heron
5/5
An excellent blend of spoken word and jazz that mixed thought-provoking and vivid lyrics with a wide spectrum of sound from relaxing to upbeat. What's really sad, is that the messages of this album could easily be repeated today and ring just as true. Top tracks: Peace Go With You, Brother; The Bottle; Song For Bobby Smith; H2O Gate Blues
The Who
5/5
Absolutely shredding intensity and energy. The album is unrelenting in raw force, yet still accessible and not overwhelming. I also have to highlight what might have been the greatest rhythm section performance I've ever heard, truly masterful drumming and bass playing. Incredible album
De La Soul
3/5
Chaotic, wild, and pretty funny. Not every track lands for me (and I'm not at all a fan of 50 second filler tracks), but there is something here that is wildly creative. Clever lyrics and catchy enough beats make this album pretty solid, just wish there was less excess. Top tracks: Ghetto Thang, Eye Know, Potholes in My Lawn
Girls Against Boys
3/5
Despite being remarkably simple, I have a lot of thoughts about this album. On one hand the simplistic groovy songs work really well, but on the other they definitely drag on for way too long without any changes. This album could have been cut in half (or some songs combined) to streamline it and make it more accessible. But there is something about the sludgier sound that scratches an alternative itch for me. Top tracks: Rockets Are Red, Satin Down, Learned It
System Of A Down
5/5
Ball-busting ass-blasting energy. Unapologetically loud and in your face, this album captures angst and chaos in such a unique way. And yet it also manages to seamlessly carry weight and more somber depth as well. Such an incredible album for when you're just mad. Impossible to not head bang to
Nirvana
4/5
Amazing how a band known for their aggressive and heavy songs is able to go acoustic and soft, and have it be just as good. I wish the setlist had more Nirvana songs and less covers, because I don't feel like all of the covers land as well as they could. Still a great listen, and a great overall performance. Top tracks: Come As You Are, The Man Who Sold The World, Dumb
Pink Floyd
5/5
One of the best concept albums ever. Gripping melodic hooks, powerful lyrics, and a timeless message that feels just as relevant today as it was almost 50 years ago. Personal hells are horrible things, and this album perfectly captures the grief, anger, and repressed emotion that comes with that hell
Dire Straits
4/5
Really pleasant and subtley complex album. The guitar work is so light, but so technical and intricate. A real pleasure to listen to. I definitely feel like this album has only a few excellent tracks and the rest of the album is only decent, but it's a very accessible and mellow listen. Top tracks: Down To The Waterline, Sultans Of Swing, Wild West End
Boston
5/5
An absolute joy to listen to. Though the opener is the big hit everyone knows, the rest of the album is just as good and so criminally underrated. Such a nice blend of proggy complexity with a radio-friendly dance feel. The biggest thing for me too is how fresh and modern it sounds. Truly trailblazing and captivating
Orange Juice
2/5
I want to give this album credit for being wildly creative and diverse in its sound - this is much more unique than a standard new-wave/post-punk album. But it just didn't connect with me as much as I would have liked. Definitely some good moments, but I'm just not a fan of this kind of music. Top tracks: Turn Away, I Can't Help Myself
Roxy Music
5/5
Judging this album based off the art, I thought this was going to be garbage. But this might be one of the most unexpected pleasant surprises I've come across in this project. I absolutely love the sound quality and production, and each song is so unique and different making this a very eclectic and accessible album. An excellent listen. Top tracks: The Thrill Of It All, Out Of The Blue, Casanova
The Afghan Whigs
1/5
Pretty boring and formulaic. Maybe it didn't connect with me because I haven't gone through a breakup in a very long time, but I just found myself waiting for each song to be over. I think it's particularly damning when the songs I enjoyed the most were the songs that did not feature the lead singer, because his grating and whiny voice really drags down what is otherwise a generic alternative album. Top tracks: My Curse
Led Zeppelin
5/5
I think this might be the best Led Zeppelin album in their discography. Over an hour of absolutely killer songs. Magical guitar melodies, pounding drums, mesmerizing bass lines, and iconic vocal performances. One of the best albums ever released, period. Captures such a wide range of styles and sounds while maintaining an iconic proto-metal style. The best from one of the best to ever do it
Fatboy Slim
2/5
Not much to say other than this is an EDM album, which of course means way too many songs that are way too long and sound exactly the same. Not the most egregious example of boring monotony, but entirely skippable in my opinion outside of a few decent moments. Top tracks: Santa Cruz, The Weekend Starts Here
U2
4/5
An overall enjoyable listen, but I kept finding myself waiting for a "wow" moment that never really came. Good enough and catchy songs, but honestly a little derivative and formulaic as an early 90s alt rock album. Not bad by any means, but definitely missing a signature moment to put this over the top for me. Top tracks: One, The Fly, Mysterious Ways
Sam Cooke
4/5
Very fun and some infectious energy. Cooke's presence could be felt on every track, and I couldn't help but smile, dance, and sing along as he encouraged the crowd in the performance. I did feel a lot of the songs felt too similar at times, but this is a great listen and dance album that doesn't overstay it's welcome. Top tracks: Chain Gang, Medley: It's All Right, Bring It on Home to Me
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
Fun and poppy. Definitely appreciated the brass and woodwind incorporation as well, helped this album stand out a bit more and made it feel less dated. Unfortunately I do feel like a lot of the songs are very similar as they would be on any album, and there isn't enough that's wholly interesting to me to make me want to come back for more. Top tracks: Tell Me When My Light Turns Green; Love, Pt. 1 (Poem); There There My Dear
Tito Puente
5/5
A wildly fun and entertaining listen. I'm amazed how mambo can sound so similar from song to song, yet convey such distinct emotions. Songs for dancing, reflecting, and everything in between make this such a fun album to get lost in. Would love to go to a club and hear it performed live. Top tracks: Hong Kong Mambo, Mambo Gozon, Agua Limpia Todo
Meat Loaf
2/5
If I could use one word to describe this album, it would be corny. Some more words would be incredibly dated. Maybe this had a bigger impact when it was released, but 45 mins of pop-rock ballads with varying degrees of innuendo got old for me very fast. Some definite fun moments that are limited to the opening tracks on both sides of the record. Top tracks: Bat Out of Hell, Two Out of Three Ain't Bad
Dr. Dre
5/5
This album was a joy to listen to. Edgy, in your face, and unapologetic. Fun and catchy beats with aggressive lyrics keep each song fresh and different. A few songs that I'd consider throwaways, but when the intro and outro are just as good as the rest of the album, you know it's excellent
James Brown
4/5
Fun, loud, and very raucous. The songs were all very fun, but I found myself getting a little bored in the longer medleys. All in all a good short listen. Top tracks: I'll Go Crazy, Try Me, Think
Dire Straits
4/5
A pleasantly surprising album brimming with fresh ideas and maturity. A laid-back but respectful tone with energy bursts thrown in make this a very enjoyable listen. This album sounds so modern; I'd believe it came out in 2020. Top tracks: So Far Away, Money for Nothing, Brothers In Arms
Radiohead
5/5
Somber, reflective, and dark but not excessively so. This album always makes me feel a little sad every time I hear it, and in the best way. The songs are great at getting right to your emotions, and the lyrics are easy to empathize with. A very emotionally sophisticated album that also isn't afraid to rock out a little either. Top tracks: High And Dry, Fake Plastic Trees, (Nice Dream), Spirit Street (Fade Out)
LCD Soundsystem
2/5
Not bad, but just not an album I was ever able to get into. Surprisingly fresh and more song-oriented than some other electronic-esque albums, but still falls into droning 7+ minute songs with no real reason to go on that long. Some decent songs that are less electronic. Top tracks: North American Scum; New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down
The Mothers Of Invention
3/5
In one word, this album is absolutely bizarre. A wid blend of parody, chaos, and social commentary make this an intriguing listen, but not a very enjoyable one. Fun as a gimmick, but nothing I'd ever come back to. Top tracks: How Could I Be Such A Fool; Help, I'm A Rock; The Return Of The Son Of Monster Magnet
Mike Oldfield
4/5
Honestly a bit disappointing. I was very excited to hear this album being a fan of prog rock and The Exorcist. And while the spectacle does come through, some parts started to drag and felt repetitive in Part I. Still a great listen, but not the masterpiece I was expecting. Part II was much better in my opinion, keeping things moving and engaging without dragging
The Cars
3/5
Fun, poppy, and a little gimmicky. A few standout tracks, but a lot of skippable songs on an already shorter album. Wouldn't hate this as an EP with maybe 3 or 4 songs, but it's not great when a shorter album feels bloated with throwaway tracks. Highs are solid, lows are low. Top tracks: Good Times Roll, Just What I Needed, Moving in Stereo
Grant Lee Buffalo
1/5
One of the worst albums I've heard in this project. There's nothing interesting happening lyrically or musically. Whiny and airy vocals and generic folksy songs that are so inoffensive they're almost offensive to the idea that this is an album you should hear before you die (as the project stipulates). Completely skippable and uninteresting
Black Sabbath
5/5
This is a very diverse and mature album. A dark and foreboding sound with a lot of lighter surrounding elements, and even a decent amount of swing make this an excellent album to listen to, head bang to, or reflect to. No skippable songs, and everything has a reason for being there. A complete masterpiece
Arcade Fire
4/5
What an absolute pleasant surprise. This album did an excellent job of conveying suburbia nostalgia and melancholy in a way that was relatable but not cringeworthy. Lots of fun an interesting songs throughout, but I do feel like it could have been better with fewer songs since the middle does drag a bit. Overall a very enjoyable and engaging listen. Top tracks: The Suburbs, Ready to Start, Wasted Hours, We Used to Wait
Incubus
5/5
Maybe the most late 90s/early 2000s hard rock album ever. Punchy riffs, emotional and angry lyrics, but also some funky and proggy elements to keep it fresh and interesting. And so much fun to dance to. A top-tier fun album. Top tracks: Privilege, Drive, Battlestar Scralatchtica
Throbbing Gristle
2/5
This feels like an album that was deliberately designed to make people uncomfortable, and to question what exactly constitutes "music". While not an good listen by any means, I respect the artistry that went into making a statement like this that almost resists interpretation or enjoyment. Surprisingly some almost "songs" aren't that bad either in isolation. Top tracks: AB/7A, E-Coli
Tom Tom Club
2/5
Not terribly interesting, rather weird and quirky. As a big fan of 80s King Crimson, it's fun to see where Adrian Belew got a lot of musical ideas from that come through on their albums. He's also the best part of this album in my opinion. Do have to give some respect to the Genius of Love riff, which I never knew came from this album. Largely forgettable, but a neat little peak into inspiration for other musicians. Top tracks: Wordy Rappinghood, L'elephant
Public Enemy
3/5
Honestly a little disappointing. A bit artsier and abstract than I would have thought, but I don't really think any of it lands for me. Individual songs are great, but a lot of the album does feel like filler. Still some powerful lyrics and fun beats, plus one of the most iconic songs ever. Too tracks: Brothers Gonna Work It Out, Welcome To The Terrordome, Fight The Power
The Clash
2/5
Not bad, but nothing I feel particularly blown away by. But I'm not a big fan of punk to begin with, so that fact that I found this inoffensive means it's probably pretty good to a more neutral listener. Concise without being grating or shrieky. Top tracks: Janie Jones, London's Burning
George Michael
1/5
In one word - corny. In another - artificial. This album feels like it was made for the sole purpose of being as generic and marketable as possible, without really saying anything. It feels sappy and disingenuous as an album, and only exists to make money off catchy pop tunes. Not at all a fan
Big Brother & The Holding Company
4/5
A really fun bluesy album with electric songs. I'm not sure why the producers thought to add crowd noise to each song, but I do feel like it takes away from the album in multiple ways - the studio songs feel distorted and unclear, and the one live song feels less impactful. Despite my issues with the production, the songs (and more specifically Janis Joplin), kick absolute ass and are a joy to listen to. Top tracks: Combination of the Two, Piece of My Heart, Ball and Chain
Dead Kennedys
5/5
A really surprisingly good album. I don't like most punk at all, but there's something about this album that had me so engaged the whole album. Blazing speed and pointed lyrics keep the album entertaining and thought provoking. And even though it's not on this album it bears repeating: Nazi Punks, FUCK OFF
Daft Punk
3/5
Solid background music for doing other tasks, not super fun to sit and listen to. But that's the case for all EDM in my opinion. Not horrible by any means, but the droning beats get very boring very fast if you actually take a second to listen to the music. Which I prefer to do. Top tracks: Phoenix, Teachers, Burnin'
Black Flag
2/5
Certainly one of the angrier albums I've heard in this project. There are good bones on this album, a solid foundation. But some of the songs border on incoherence and really detract from the songs that are a bit more fleshed out and actually decent. Punk is slowly growing on me, but this isn't quite it. Top tracks: Rise Above, Damaged I
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Not a bad listen by any means. Interesting somber synth blend that manages to be catchy and also melancholy. Some of the songs feel repetitive for an already shorter album, but a nice listen for background noise. Almost felt like a movie soundtrack. Top tracks: Cherry-coloured Funk, Iceblink Luck, Fifty-fifty Clown
Blondie
1/5
Outside of two wildly overplayed songs, not much to enjoy on this album. Unremarkable and generic, and honestly a bit grating to listen to. Wouldn't recommend
PJ Harvey
1/5
Uninteresting, grating, and airy. Nothing I found remotely enjoyable or engaging. Completely skippable
Dusty Springfield
2/5
Honestly pretty unremarkable and underwhelming. Every song sounds almost exactly the same, and that gets old on what's already a really short album. A very pleasant listen, but doesn't really do anything for me outside of one really excellent and engaging song. Top tracks: The Windmills of Your Mind
George Michael
3/5
A really strange album. On one hand, all the biggest songs are so corny and artificial that I barely got through listening to them. But some the B side has some actually excellent songs that are interesting and not just hammed-up over-the-top relationship songs. Definitely some hidden gems, if you can stomach the very plastic "hits". Top tracks: Hard Day, Hand to Mouth, Kissing a Fool
Ice Cube
4/5
Wild, creative, and offensive as hell. Some of the lyrics are remarkably fucked up, but Ice Cube has such a flow and creative mind that the things he's saying are just incredible. The album is brought down by a fair bit of filler, which is a shame because it's really excellent otherwise. Top tracks: The Nigga Ya Love To Hate, AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted, Once Upon A Time In The Projects
Common
5/5
Arguably the coolest rap album I've ever heard. Such a soothing and satisfying listen. Has a very modern sound that was fresh and engaging throughout. No weak spots either. Top tracks: The Corner, GO!, The Food
Black Sabbath
5/5
One of the best albums ever released. Has a little bit of everything: doom metal, rock, instrumental, killer parts from all members. I don't think there's a weak spot anywhere to be found, and that's while it's one of the most iconic albums ever. The hits are incredible, and the lesser known tracks are just as enjoyable
The Sonics
3/5
This might be the most "blink and you miss it" album of the entire project. It doesn't help that a lot of the songs sound exactly the same, and the singers screaming on every track gets old really fast in my opinion. Still some good catchy songs, and I definitely see how this was an influential record to so many musicians. I'm just glad others have improved on this formula. Top tracks: Have Love Will Travel, Psycho, Strychnine
Peter Frampton
3/5
A solid pop rock listen. Pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this album, certainly was not expecting to. One too many ballads for a live album in my opinion. I do also find it funny that my favorite songs were all from the same original studio album, so maybe I should give that a listen next. Top tracks: Show Me The Way; Baby, I Love Your Way; (I'll Give You) Money
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
Powerful, profound, pointed and provocative. An incredible blend of fantastic lyrics with wild melodies and beats to make every song matter, both to the album and to the listener. Unmatched in creativity. Top tracks: Wesley's Theory, Alright, Hood Politics, The Blacker The Berry, Mortal Man
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
A solid and pleasantly surprising album. Always appreciate deeper or double/meaning lyrics, and there are definitely some fun and catchy beats and melodies that keep the album moving. Not something I'd play on a whim since I'm just not a big pop fan, but solid all-around. Top tracks: Shopping, It's a Sin, I Want to Wake Up
Belle & Sebastian
4/5
This was a really nice and cathartic listen. Good melancholy songs with soft vocals that are very soothing. The album took a little to get going, and I was afraid that it would veer into whiny and airy territory after the first few tracks. But it's a really solid listen once the songs settle in. Top tracks: Like Dylan in the Movies, The Fox in the Snow, If You're Feeling Sinister
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
This album did not work for me at all. Incredibly pretentious "musicality" that amounts to spoken word over synth pseudo-melodies that sound pretty, but don't actually do or say anything. Maybe this would've worked better as an instrumental album, because I can't stand the Leonard Cohen-esque sing-speak poetry style of lyrical delivery. Complete fail of an album
3/5
I feel a little conflicted about this album. The longer more instrumental tracks were fun and engaging, but I didn't connect with the shorter tracks as much as I would have liked to. A solid world music listen, but not something I'd probably come back to. Top tracks: City, Country, City; Four Cornered Room; The World Is A Ghetto
Jeru The Damaja
5/5
One of the best rap albums I've never heard of before. On top of the songs having excellent and diverse flows, the production is especially excellent with its driving simplicity. So many albums have a tendency to be over produced, but this is the definition of "keep it simple stupid" and let the rapping do the talking. Top tracks: You Can't Stop The Prophet, Ain't The Devil Happy, My Mind Spray, Come Clean
Japan
2/5
Started out solid, but definitely felt repetitive by the end. Pretty much every song went one for twice as long as it should have - the songs were interesting to start but never really felt like they built anywhere. Inoffensive, but not something I'd come back to. Top tracks: Quiet Life, All Tomorrow's Parties
Stan Getz
5/5
A wonderfully relaxing album. Super easy listen, with very satisfying vocals. And killer saxophone work. A joy to sit back and listen to
Sparks
2/5
A really bizarre listen. Songs will move between goofy to catchy to wild to incomprehensible in the span of 20 seconds, multiple times. While I respect the creativity that went into the album, it doesn't really work for me. Some of the songs do stand out, but this almost feels like circus music to me. Top tracks: Here In Heaven; Hasta Manana, Monsieur
Grateful Dead
4/5
A really fun vibe session that ends on a bit of an overstayed note. The songs were a lot of fun to listen to - I've heard the Dead were a huge improv group, but this album was some truly excellent musical chemistry. I do think the last 8 minutes could have been left off, but there is something neat about making a song from feedback.
The Hives
3/5
I liked this album a lot more than I expected to. For some reason the punk style with a grungier sound and a tad under blinding speed works better than I would have thought. Some songs still have the trappings of sounding like just noise, but there is more to like on this album than to not. Top tracks: Hate To Say I Told You So; Die, Alright!; A.K.A. I-D-I-O-T
Rage Against The Machine
5/5
An all-time album of angst, anger, and rebellion. Excellent songs that are engaging and driving, but also diverse enough to not get stale. And I have to mention one of the best lines in any song ever - "Fuck you, I won't do what you tell me." Top tracks: Bombtrack, Killing In The Name, Know Your Enemy, Township Rebellion
Boards of Canada
3/5
This album definitely ran the gauntlet for my and my opinions on electronic music. On one hand, I love that this album has a share of lofi shorter tracks that are just easy to listen to and don't overstay their welcome. On the other hand, some of the tracks are so repetitive and go on for way too long, though not ad egregiously as other electronic music albums. All in all not too bad. Top tracks: Sixtyten, Roygbiv, Pete Standing Alone
Bob Dylan
4/5
A very "tale of two halves" album. I really did not connect with the A side at all, I don't think Dylan's style works at all in a band setting. But the acoustic B side was absolutely excellent. Just makes me wish the whole album was folksy-er. Top tracks: Mr. Tambourine Man; It's Alright, Ma; It's All Over Now, Baby Blue
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Not much to say other than this was a really fun listen. Heartfelt, upbeat, and groovy. Leave it to a Canadian to get me to like country a little more. Top tracks: Round & Round, Down By the River, The Losing End
Iron Butterfly
1/5
Really disappointed with this album. Terrible mix that desperately needs a remaster. I usually love side-long tracks, but this album doesnt really have much to say. Corny lyrics and a dated sound also really hamper the album. Nothing really positive to say.
Sonic Youth
1/5
Really felt like the definition of a half-baked album. Every track would start out decent, and then devolve into discordant noise. Strange and unappealing
Radiohead
5/5
One of the best albums ever released. Such a great encapsulation of melancholy and raw emotion without being gratuitous or over indulgent. And some equally great alt rock and experimental moments as well. One of my favorite albums growing up, a masterpiece. Top tracks: Everything In Its Right Place, How To Disappear Completely, Idioteque
Prince
2/5
This album is fine, kinda goofy and fun in a slightly dated way. But it does not need to be a double LP at all. None of these songs need to be longer than 6 minutes, and the ones that don't know when to end go on for absolutely no reason. Maybe I'd like it more if it was more streamlined, but I also don't get why this was so popular when it came out.
Booker T. & The MG's
3/5
I definitely feel conflicted about this album. The original songs are fun and groovy, but I'm not sure most of the cover songs work on this album with the instrumentation present. Covering vocals with a baseball organ was certainly a choice, and I wish there were more original songs instead of underdone covers. Top tracks: Green Onions, Mo' Onions, Comin' Home Baby
UB40
3/5
A solid easy listen. The tracks all kind of blend together as one mega song. Nothing particularly noteworthy, an easy reggae listen with chill beats and vibes
The Doors
4/5
Excellent album. Driving and ballsy songs that still maintain a level of brevity and fun. The B side is definitely weaker, but the ending more than makes up for it. Overall very enjoyable. Top tracks: The Changeling, L.A. Woman, Riders on the Storm
Depeche Mode
5/5
A fantastic blend of electronica and rock with a nice darker sound. Somehow the songs work for dancing and listening, a rare feat in my experience with electronic music. Highly creative and a well-worth listen. Top tracks: Personal Jesus, Enjoy the Silence, Policy of Truth
Adele
5/5
One of the most striking and powerful albums I've ever listened to. Such raw yet subdued emotions, and a range from soaring highs to crushing lows. An absolute joy to listen to. No weak spots or songs either, just a top tier album
Dennis Wilson
3/5
This was a weird album for me. I though it had really solid and compelling songs with a lot of unique elements, but also a lot of what felt like filler tracks that didn't do anything. Would have been much better as an EP, too much fat on an already shorter album. Top tracks: River Song, Dreamer, Farewell My Friend
The Specials
1/5
Boring and uninteresting. Felt derivative, and was also poorly mixed. I admit I'm not a big reggae fan, but there are better examples in the genre than this album
Manu Chao
4/5
A fun an energetic celebration of so many cultures and genres. Not something I'd normally think to put on, but a really entertaining listen. I also have incredible respect and admiration for Manu's production and song diversity. Plus anyone who can sing in multiple languages on the same album is really cool. A solid listen
The Stranglers
4/5
Pleasantly surprised with this album. I haven't been much of a fan of punk or new wave by themselves, but this album brings the genres together in a fun and unexpected way. The album threads a really interesting needle, utilizing the strengths of the two genres to mitigate the flaws. Not a masterpiece, but very good. Top tracks: Hanging Around, Peaches, Down in the Sewer
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
Such a fantastic album. I think it's incredibly rare to have an album with a 1+hour runtime with no weak spots or throwaway tracks. An excellent diverse set of songs that are heavy, reflective, relaxing, sad, and everything in between. Will definitely be coming back to this one
The Adverts
4/5
Pleasantly surprised with this album. It sounds remarkably fresh and like proto-pop-punk without being obnoxious or corny. The production is raw, which can be endearing but jarring to hear drum fills that are just out of time. It feels like an album made by young people, for young people. And has the fun and energy to match. Top tracks: Newboys, Drowning Men, On Wheels
2/5
This was a really unorthodox listen. The songs are very intricate and layered with overlapping looped voices which is cool, but I feel like it turns into a gimmick by the third song. The album itself is unique, but the songs are all too similar which just makes for a mixed listen that veers into almost overwhelming and unappealing at worst, and kind of corny at best. Top tracks: River of Orchids, Greenman
John Lee Hooker
5/5
What a refreshing take on blues. I find I can only listen to blues in short bursts because it starts to get naturally repetitive, but the guest appearances on each song keep things varied and interesting. The guitar work from both John Lee Hooker and others is particularly excellent. The solo tracks strike a different tone, but it's a nice change of pace from the rest if the album. Overall very entertaining
Eminem
5/5
What a wild ride. Insane lyrics that are goofy and very demented, but there's a real hurt and pain coming through that just show how creative Eminem is. Even the interludes bring something to the albums with humorous breaks in intensity. The shock value probably turns people off, but there is a real mastery present which makes this album excellent instead of gratuitous. Every word and note is present for a reason, and I absolutely love it
Hawkwind
4/5
This was an odd and interesting listen to say the least. When everything clicked in the music, there were some truly killer songs and moments that I'd argue would rival any other contemporary prog performance. The space stuff was a little goofy, a little too goofy at times, and does take away from what is otherwise a stellar album. Also could definitely use a remaster since the recording is less than optimal
Pentangle
2/5
I wanted to like this album a lot more than I did. I really didn't connect with the traditional covers or the original songs. I appreciate the performances and could certainly hear this playing in a pub somewhere, but just not for me
The Stone Roses
5/5
This album was an absolute joy to listen to. Very much reminded me of later Incubus - chill songs that are catchy and and rocking. There's something to be said for an album that's just fun to put on and get lost in. An all around blast
Butthole Surfers
3/5
Definitely one of the strangest albums I've listened to. But it's almost good? It threads a very weird needle of incomprehensible, uncomfortable, and also engaging to listen to that I wouldn't have thought possible. Not sure if it's something I'd come back to, but definitely worth a listen. Top tracks: Human Cannonball, Graveyard (Pt. 2), 22 Going On 23
Randy Newman
4/5
A really soothing and mellow listen. A bit surprised by the lyrics, but they do make sense since Newman is capturing the essence of being southern. A nice mix of somber songs with serious topics. I do love that this record predates his Pixar albums by 20+ years, but still sounds just like them. Top tracks: Marie, Mr. President (Have Pity on the Working Man), Louisiana 1927
The Pogues
2/5
I wish I liked this album more than I did. I feel the passion and folksy authenticity behind the songs, but I just did not connect with it at all. If you love Irish folk music you'll love this album, I unfortunately don't and didn't. Wouldn't hate listening to a few individual songs, but the album is a bit much. Top tracks: A Pair of Brown Eyes, Dirty Old Town
Arcade Fire
2/5
Very underwhelming and lackluster. Definitely some solid moments, but most of the tracks lack an edge or interesting quality. The album never really evolves beyond indie quirky, and just feels underdone and almost grating at times. Decent, but not worth coming back to. Top tracks: Ocean of Noise, Windowsill
Supergrass
5/5
Such a fun album. A very entertaining and unique take on brit-pop, which I'm also not very keen on. Refreshing and surprising complexity on each song. One of the better uses of additional brass/orchestral music as well. Each song radiates a passion from the band that is very evident, and very satisfying
The Jam
4/5
Admittedly I don't know much about mod culture or its revival, but I know this is a good album. A nice blend of blistering speed, relaxed complexity, and ranging emotional lyrics. I definitely felt like the B side was noticeably weaker, but an all around solid rocking listen. Top tracks: Mr. Clean, English Rose, Down In The Tube Station At Midnight
Radiohead
4/5
This is a tougher album to rank for me. On one hand, Radiohead continues their streak of putting out excellent and captivating albums as they always do. But this one didn't grip me like their previous releases. It did feel a little bloated, and only 2 songs really blew me away instead of a majority. So still a fantastic album, but below standard for Radiohead. Top tracks: 2 + 2 = 5; There, There; Myxomatosis
3/5
This is an album that's in desperate need of a remaster. I feel like the songs are so much better than the recordings on the album, the production sounds so tinny and muddy that it's very hard to fully appreciate the songs. Despite the awful production the songs are mostly great, but this is an album that is handicapped until it's remastered. Top tracks: Starman, Suffragette City, Rock 'n' Roll Suicide
Various Artists
3/5
Fun performances of classic Christmas songs. Not much else to say - if you like Christmas music you'll like this album, if you don't you won't.
Madonna
4/5
I thought this album was a very soothing and sophisticated album. I really enjoyed the more experimental songs, and the pop songs were more interesting than one would expect in a pop album. The poppier songs were definitely a tier below, but the album as a whole was a solid listen. Top tracks: Diamond World/Substitution for Love, Shanti/Ashtangi, Mer Girl
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
Solid easy listening. Nothing particularly stood out, but everything blended together nicely for a relaxing 40 minute listen.
Hot Chip
3/5
Definitely better than your average synth-pop album, but very inconsistent from song to song. When a song leans more into the "synth," it's much better than the songs that are more "pop." Overall a solid listen. Top tracks: Motion Sickness, Look At Where We Are, Night And Day
Wu-Tang Clan
3/5
Was honestly a bit disappointed with this album. Having never listened to Wu-Tang Clan previously and only knowing about the whole shaolin/supergroup bit culturally, I expected to like this a bit more than I did. Maybe I can't appreciate it as much because I didn't grow up around it, but a lot of the beats and flow of the songs come off as kind of corny and dated. The second half of the album is notably stronger, but never goes beyond decent. Top tracks: Method Man, Protect Ya Neck, Wu-Tang: 7th Chamber Part II (Conclusion)
Beck
5/5
A very mature album, and very unexpected from the guy who made "Loser." Excellent use of soothing melodies and deep lyrics to make this a pleasure to listen to. Probably the best chamber-pop album I've ever heard, no weak spots or skippable tracks either.
Jurassic 5
5/5
Probably one of the best rap albums I've never heard of before. This album is brimming with the kind of rap beats that I love most, with excellent flow and lyrics to make this one of my favorites. Even the interludes are fun and add to the album (as much as I wish they weren't there). Absolutely a blast to listen to
Robbie Williams
4/5
Reminds me most of an English George Michael. The tracks are either incredible, or forgettable. No bad songs, but definitely an album buoyed by the singles. But those singles are some of the catchiest and head-bopping songs I've ever heard, so all in all very good. Top tracks: Lazy Days, Angels, Let Me Entertain You
Burning Spear
2/5
Standard reggae with a heavier focus on liberation lyrics. I thought it was a fine, easy listen like all reggae is. But nothing about this album connected with me in a deeper way, so it felt more forgettable than I would have hoped
DJ Shadow
2/5
Decent lofi beats and melodies. Very contemporary sounding which is nice. But the tracks drone on for way too long - if each track was maybe 2-3 mins instead of 6+ this album would be a lot better. The interludes are also largely uninteresting and slightly jarring. Top tracks: What Doea Your Soul Look Like Pt. 1 & Pt. 4
Talking Heads
4/5
Definitely eccentric, and not for everyone. I feel like the songs either clicked immediately for me, or just came and went without any second thought. But the songs that did click are quirky, catchy, a little manic, and tie a bunch of sounds together in a way that almost shouldn't work, but still does. Top tracks: I Zimbra, Memories Can't Wait, Air
Doves
5/5
Very chill and solid. Feels like something you'd want to listen to around a campfire surrounded by friends, just has a very homey and comforting feel which works very well. All around a good listen, and nothing negative to say
Jorge Ben Jor
2/5
I thought I was going to like this album a lot more than I did. The first song is fun, catchy, and has so much energy that it sets a great tone for the album. But no other song manages to capture that essence, and the rest of the album comes across as skippable and almost annoying with the overuse of sound effects and enhancers. An album that would greatly benefit from "less is more"
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
Potentially one of the best albums of all time. Such an enjoyable journey through every song, a great mix of heavy, somber, and everything in between. A great encapsulation of 'melancholy', and engaging throughout the entire runtime
The Boo Radleys
1/5
Grating, janky, and very unappealing. Strikes such an awkward tone and sound that is very hard to enjoy. Unfortunately not much nice to say
Jack White
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. I've always found White Stripes to be hit or miss for me, but it's nice to see how creative Jack White can be in his own element. The songs that were made to be singles are fine enough, but this album really shines with its less popular tracks. Top tracks: Blunderbuss, Hypocritical Kiss, Weep Themselves to Sleep
Tears For Fears
5/5
An absolutely fantastic album. Something about the darker and more mature sound is incredibly appealing. Every song is captivating, and I appreciate that the longer runtimes are utilized in a way that let's instrumental breaks shine with fills and solos. So much more than a pop album, and one that should be held in high regard by other pop artists looking for a meaningful sound
King Crimson
5/5
One of the best and most important albums ever released by one of the best and most important bands ever formed. A masterpiece that founded an entire genre of music, and laid the groundwork for so much musical creativity. An all-time classic
Tina Turner
1/5
I really did not connect with this album at all. Generic melodies with a frankly unappealing singing style made the songs come off very grating and hard to listen to at times. Unremarkable at its best, shrill at its worst
The Pogues
1/5
Chaotic and borderline incomprehensible at times. The only thing I could make out was that every song sounded exactly the same, with the same cadence and melody pattern, and the same lack of any appeal.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
Very uneven album. The best songs are the ones where the bass is able to lay down a riff and just sit in a groove for the songs duration. If the song doesn't have that bass line, it's not very good in my opinion. Solid highs, and uninteresting lows. Top tracks: Do It Clean, Monkeys, Rescue
Tricky
2/5
This album has two kinds of songs: esoteric bordering on incomprehensible, or decent. A lot of the songs feel over-produced and reek of "how many effects can we overlay into each song?" The best tracks are more pared down and and actually have a vibe; which is unfortunately a minority of the total songs. Top tracks: Black Steel, Pumpkin, Feed Me
Sabu
2/5
Not bad, but not all that great either. The percussion-only songs got stale half way through the first one, though it did start out neat. The guitar was very enjoyable when it was present. Vocals were either inconsequential or carried a call-and-response for way too long, to the point that it became droning and almost annoying. Overall fine, but very skippable. Top tracks: Rhapsodia Del Maravilloso, Tribilin Cantore
Green Day
4/5
Fun and solid. The punk-ier songs tend to blend together and sound very similar. The best parts of this album are when Green Day move away from the punk sound and actually let the songs breathe and develop. Has enough of both worlds to be great, but not excellent. Top tracks: Basket Case, She, When I Come Around
Lynyrd Skynyrd
4/5
A really fun and surprising listen. Definitely had some dated southern rock twang, but not as cringey as I would have thought from the band that brought you Sweet Home Alabama. Every song is incredibly catchy and full of ear worms, but the more mainstream hits definitely stand above the rest of the album. Top tracks: Tuesday's Gone, Gimmie Three Steps, Free Bird
The Go-Betweens
1/5
Whiny and uninteresting love songs that don't really say much or do much. Entirely skippable and generic
Joni Mitchell
4/5
A really good, but slightly disappointing listen. The songs are all nice and soothing to listen to, until Joni Mitchell hits a register that cuts through in a very jarring way. Definitely detracts from more than a few songs, and brings down what is overall a really good album. And when it's good, it's incredibly good. Top tracks: Little Green, River, A Case of You
Anthrax
4/5
I liked this album a lot more than I thought I would. Thrash has always been a "love-it-or-hate-it" genre for me, and this album is no exception to that. The best parts/songs are the ones that sound the least thrashy, I never understood blast beats and why they have to be in every song. But a good album nonetheless, though I definitely think this solidifies Anthrax as #4 of the Big 4 for me. Top tracks: Caught In A Mosh, Indians, Medley: A.D.I. / The Horror Of It All
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
Overall decent. Obviously everyone knows Come On Eileen, but there are some other solid hidden gems on this album that feel like an English twist on Chicago's sound. Didn't love it, didn't hate it. Wouldn't mind listening to it again, but don't know if I'd seek it out. Top tracks: Let's Make This Precious, Old, Come On Eileen
Underworld
1/5
Bizarre, droning, weird and unappealing. Maybe better in a club where you aren't actually paying attention to the music, but then what's the point of music if not to pay attention to it? Hard pass
Prince
3/5
A tough album for me to rate. On one hand, I have an immense respect for Prince's musical and songwriting ability. And I did enjoy a few of the songs a lot. But his style does not click with me at all. I find it decent at best, and just overall not my thing. I think I would have like the album more if it was just the second record - I didn't like anything at all from the A & B sides. Top tracks: U Got That Look, The Cross, It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Night
M.I.A.
4/5
Really solid album. Found myself bobbing my head along with almost every song, super catchy beats mixed with unapologetic lyrics make for a very fun listen. Not a fan of the skit songs, and some of the middle gets repetitive, but overall a very entertaining listen. Top tracks: Buckly Done Gun, Bingo, 10 Dollar
Sigur Rós
2/5
I don't know if I "got" this album. It was a nice soothing listen, with cool ambient music that was relaxing. But that's all it was for 70 minutes. Nothing else on the album, just the same ambient music without much variance. Which is fine, but not that great or memorable
Elliott Smith
4/5
A really good album that I feel could have been better. The songs range from really catchy and fun, to almost awkward and unfinished. Everything feels about 30 seconds too short, which really hurts the songs that lean into more unconventional chord progressions that never end up resolving. But overall a nice unplugged listen that has a lot of good going on. Top tracks: Between The Bars, No Name No. 5, Angeles
The Chemical Brothers
3/5
Better than I would have expected for an electronic album. I like how each song blends into each other, as I'd the whole album is one big song. But there isn't much variance from track to track, so it does start to get stale by the end. Good for club music or exercising, but boring if you actually want to pay attention to what's going on. Definitely better than more standard EDM, so I do have to give props where they're due.
a-ha
4/5
A very good and surprisingly musically sophisticated album. A-Ha are one of those bands that I feel are written off as one-hit-wonders, but this album is very well-rounded and has some really solid hidden gems that make for a satisfying listen. The only negative thing I can say is none of the songs touch Take on Me, which does make the rest of the album feel like a bit of a letdown after starting so strong. Top tracks: Take on Me, The Sun Always Shines On T.V., Here I Stand and Face the Rain
Kelela
2/5
Honestly surprised this album is one of the 1001 albums to hear before you die. I thought it was fine, but pretty generic R&B that could have been replicated by any genre release of the last 20 years. Didn't really connect with it, but a fine enough listen. Very musically challenging in some spots, and not in a good way. Top tracks: Waitin, LMK
ZZ Top
4/5
Very fun and engaging. Got exactly what I expected in some quality southern blues rock, but a surprising amount of musical diversity from a blues album, which came across excellently. Wasn't blown away by anything, but very enjoyable overall. Top tracks: Waitin' for the Bus, LA Grange, Sheik
Harry Nilsson
3/5
Oddly sounds like a Beatles knock-off album. Standard late 60's/early 70's pop rock with some goofier songs added in. Definitely some solid tracks, but an overall decent to forgettable album. Top tracks: The Moonbeam Song, Without You, Jump Into The Fire
Green Day
5/5
One of the more formative albums of my lifetime. A perfect blend of punk with a more mature sound that makes for an incredibly satisfying listen. Lyrically somehow even more relevant than when it was released 20 years ago. Quality songs throughout, and a pretty decent story as well; the songs work perfectly together and as standalone tracks. Such a joy to kick back and listen to, and no real low points or skippable songs.
Radiohead
5/5
One of the most compelling albums ever written. An excellent blend of complexity, melancholy, introspection, and of course rock all rolled together perfectly in each song. An absolute joy to listen to, and has a unique quality that makes it enjoyable no matter your mood. Nothing but good things to say
Flamin' Groovies
3/5
I enjoyed this album more than I thought I would. There's a palpable joy that comes through each song, as if you can feel the genuine fun the band had making the album. I didn't connect as much with some of the goofier songs, but I did appreciate the passion that went into every track. All in all very solid blues rock. Top tracks: City Lights, Teenage Head, Whiskey Woman
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
3/5
This was a very unique listen. I figured it was going to be unorthodox and musically challenging (which it certainly was, and not in a bad way), but it also had some solid melodic moments that honestly made me want to hear a whole album that was more mainstreamed. I appreciate the boundary pushing, but I just want more excellent simplified music that the group is obviously capable of creating. Top tracks: Penguin Cafe Single, In a Sydney Motel, The Sound of Someone You Love Who's Going Away and It Doesn't Matter
David Bowie
4/5
I feel like this is another Bowie album that was held back by an underwhelming production quality. The songs are catchy and fun, but they didn't click with me as much as I feel it should have. Still a really interesting album with some quality hidden gems in Bowie's catalog. Top tracks: Station to Station, Word on a Wing, Stay
Sex Pistols
4/5
Sex Pistols have always bothered me with their whole "punk" image being "be obnoxious and as immature as possible without actually being 'punk'". Which I still think is true. But damn this album is pretty entertaining. Funnily enough this doesn't even sound like what I'd think of as "punk"; figures they're musically and ideologically posers. But the album is catchy and fun, without falling into the trapping of punk just needing to be as fast as possible. Solid angsty rock album ;) Top tracks: Problems, God Save the Queen, Anarchy in the U.K.
Waylon Jennings
4/5
Very honky tonk, but in a really good and satisfying way. Really enjoyed listening to this album, actually wish iflt was a bit longer because the music is really good. Can feel a bit "samey" at times, but a really easy listen. Top tracks: Honky Tonk Heroes, Black Rose, We Had It All
The Soft Boys
2/5
Some fun and interesting moments, but overall very boring and derivative. The singing was particularly unenjoyable, and I found it rather interesting that the best and most musically engaging song on the album was the instrumenta track. Moments of potential that are never fully realized or explored surrounded by a sound that ranges from bland to unappealing. Top tracks: You'll Have To Go Sideways
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
One of the most fun album I think I've ever listened to. Each song has its own standout moments, and keeps a fun through-line no matter the overall tone of the song. My only complaint is that the songs aren't longer, because I think I could listen to this album for hours. Feels like an essential roadtrip album that can be looped endlessly without ever getting stale. Top tracks: Ramble Tamble, Run Through The Jungle, Who'll Stop The Rain, I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Frank Zappa
5/5
This was a really satisfying listen. So much of the iconic wackiness you'd expect from Frank Zappa, but also surprisingly accessible and direct. No b.s.ing, no wasted time. Just 43 mins of kickass groovy instrumental rock, with some stellar performances from all the musicians on the album. Probably the most accessible inclusions of wind instruments and violin I've ever heard as well
Stereo MC's
1/5
Strange album for me. I didn't hate it, but it got really boring and repetitive by the third track. Sounded very dated; I wouldn't have been surprised if this album was released 5 years earlier than when it was. Skippable and uninteresting
The Slits
1/5
Genuinely one of the worst albums I've ever listened to. Borderline incomprehensible, shrill, and hardly even rhythmically in-time. The CCR cover is honestly insulting, and most of the "songs" barely qualify as such. Might be the first album in this project I contemplated not finishing because of how unappealing it was to listen to
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
A great album with great hits that takes me back to a simpler time. The hits are definite hits, but I was a little surprised that there wasn't much else that interesting on the album. Not like the non-hits are bad, but I don't think there are any hidden gems on this album which is a little disappointing. Overall really good and catchy, with a nice energy. Top tracks: Parallel Universe, Otherside, Californication
Johnny Cash
5/5
What a fantastic listen. Usually I'm not a fan of albums thay almost exclusively contain covers, but the covers on this album could stand alone as their own songs, and some are honestly better than their original versions. Top tracks: Hurt, Personal Jesus, Danny Boy
Beastie Boys
2/5
This was not at all what I would've expected from a Beastie Boys album. I feel like a lot of what I like about Beastie Boys is how they musically develop their songs, with funky and fun production. This album feels much more grounded and ambient in a way that comes across as almost underbaked, which doesn't work in my opinion. I appreciate the different sound and style and there are definitely some classic-sounding BB tracks, but this album on the whole didn't work for me. Top tracks: Root Down, Sabotage
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Classic and catchy swamp rock. A pretty good listen; no "wow" moments or songs, but consistently good throughout. Par for the CCR course. Top tracks: Wrote A Song For Everyone, Cross-Tie Walker, The Night Time Is The Right Time
Ali Farka Touré
4/5
A very cool and relaxing listen. The instrumental work was fantastic and engaging. I wish I spoke the language of the lyrics to understand them, but I didn't think the language barrier was an issue. Honestly the only criticism I have is that the middle of the album started to feel samey, but it was still overall very good. Top tracks: Amandrai, Ai Du, Diaraby
Thelonious Monk
2/5
I found this album disappointing. The instrumentation felt off and poorly balanced at times, and the horns and piano struck a harsh and almost discordant tone at times which made sections of the songs very unappealing. There's still a decent jazz album here, but I was very underwhelmed overall. Top tracks: Pannonica; I Surrender, Dear
Stereolab
2/5
This was an extremely odd listen, and I'm not entirely sure I "got" the album. There were moments where I couldn't wait for songs to end because they droned on endlessly without going anywhere or doing anything, then there were moments in others that really stood out as almost excellent. More bad than good in my opinion, but I wonder what a second listen is needed to more appreciate the musical direction. Top tracks: Olv 26, Monstre Sacre, Motoroller Scalatron
Pulp
1/5
Honestly a pretty standard Brit-pop album. Which is to say nasally, goofy, and not at all interesting. Add in the fact that a lot of the lyrics are honestly uncomfortable and this makes for a pretty terrible listen. Did not enjoy
Led Zeppelin
5/5
One of the best all-around albums ever made. The thing that stands out the most to me about this album is how musically diverse and rich it is. Blues rock, rock n roll, sweeping epics, sweet interludes, and even some pseudo-hip hop driving beat? The rare album that is honestly as good as everyone says it is
The Mars Volta
3/5
I feel very conflicted by this album. On one hand, the musicianship and technicality is off the charts. On the other, I feel like this album has the same trapping that a lot of post-2000 prog rock/metal falls into: this album is not fun. Obviously this album explores a lot of musical ideas, but they feel surface-level. It's a good album to listen to, but I feel like it doesn't "rock" as much as it should, or could based on a few isolated sections of songs. All in all a good listen, but not an entertaining listen. Top tracks: Roulette Dares (The Haunt Of), Eriatarka, Take The Veil Cerpin Taxt
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I feel very conflicted about this album. The first half is very country rock and samey, not bad but forgettable. The second half is some of the best rocking Rolling Stones I've heard. This did not need to be a double album; sides C & D are so much better than A & B. Classic case of less is more, but still all around solid. Top tracks: Ventilator Blues, Let It Loose, Soul Survivor
Run-D.M.C.
5/5
Catchy, rocking, comedic, passionate. An absolute joy of an album to listen to, with great song after great song. A ton of hidden gems on this album as well, and the radio hits are still great if overplayed. Overall fantastic album
Ice T
4/5
This was honestly a really great album that in my opinion has two flaws: there is way too much filler, and it takes too long to get into the best parts of the album. The track list could have been cut in half to make an absolutely incredible gangsta rap album with smart lyrics, killer beats and a pointed overall message. Those are all still there, but it's harder to get to the meat of this album under all the fluff. Top tracks: Bitches 2, Midnight, Body Count, The Tower
Queen
4/5
A really solid album. For how popular Queen is, I was very surprised at how few tracks I knew on this album. Pretty standard Queen, all very good and entertaining. Some of the more fantastical songs lost me a bit but nothing bad to say. Top tracks: Father To Son, The March Of The Black Queen, Deven Seas Of Rhye
Iron Maiden
4/5
A fantastic power metal album that isn't close to the peak of Iron Maiden, and yet is still so excellent and fun. Bruce Dickinson is the best Maiden vocalist, but this is still a very respectable album that shows the band's talent was present from the first track. Top tracks: Prowler, Phantom of the Opera, Transylvania/Strange World
Sonic Youth
1/5
More Sonic Youth, so more of the same - decent 30 second stretches in almost every song, surrounded by discordant and borderline incomprehensible musical garbage. This was better than EVOL, but not by much. Definition of quarter-baked album
Scritti Politti
3/5
Better that I expected it to be. Solid and fun 80's pop dance songs. Nothing groundbreaking, but does what it sets out to do well. Fun overall listen, if little dated. Top tracks: Absolute, A Little Knowledge, Perfect Way
Nick Drake
4/5
A great soothing album to sit back and listen to. Very easy and peaceful folk songs. I feel like the album did lose a bit of steam at the end and would have been better served with fewer tracks, but all in all a very nice listen. Top tracks: Time Has Told Me, River Man, Way To Blue
PJ Harvey
4/5
Very edgy and grungy, with a surprising amount of depth. The bass work in particular stands out as simple but very effective. Some not every song is a hit, but there is a really solid energy that keeps the songs edgy without overdoing it. Top tracks: Victory, Sheela-Na-Gig, Hair
Crowded House
3/5
Decent enough pop rock, easy to listen to and not at all challenging. A few solid radio hits, but a lot of skippable or forgettable tracks. Has a unique charm that made it fun, but nothing overly groundbreaking. The second half of the album is also noticeably weaker than the first half. Top tracks: Fall At Your Feet, Whispers And Moans, Four Seasons In One Day
Pixies
2/5
A really weird and grating listen. A couple of decent tracks sandwiched in-between a lot of punk-adjacent screaming and bloat. Which already isn't great for an album under 35 mins. Top tracks: Gigantic, Where Is My Mind?
Tangerine Dream
2/5
Strange and kind of trippy. Not really sure how to describe it - I had no idea there was electronic music in the 70s? Certainly more interesting than modern EDM. An experience, though I'm not quite sure what kind
Ms. Dynamite
4/5
A really solid listen. Beautiful singing voice and nice flow make this a really enjoyable hip hop hidden gem. I especially personally love the rhythm selection on the songs, I'm a sucker for off-beat/swung percussion parts. Second half starts to get samey but still good overall. Top tracks: Dy-Na-Mi-Tee, Anyway U Want It, It Takes More
Van Morrison
3/5
Decent easy listening jazz rock. Some iconic songs, but there is also a bit of cheesiness that comes through the songs and makes them all start to sound too similar. Alright overall, but nothing particularly groundbreaking. Top tracks: Moondance, Caravan, Into The Mystic
5/5
Such a fun and creative experience. Every song is entertaining, fresh, whimsical, and engaging. Some of my personal all-time favorite Beatles tracks, and plenty of hidden gems. I don't think there's a single boring or skippable track on this album. One of their best overall albums.
Thundercat
5/5
A fantastic trippy R&B/hip hop experience. My favorite parts of Kendrick Lamar's "To Pimp A Butterfly" were the bass tone and production, and this album is a full hour of that. Coupled with some very funny and memorable lyrics, this album is like organized chaos of samples and songs that are a blast to listen to
5/5
I genuinely think that Close To The Edge might be the greatest song ever written. I don't think there's another song that combines four separate prog masterpieces into one mega epic that never drags or gets stale. One of the most satisfying musical payoffs by the end, and that's not even mentioning the grand organ interlude. Side B is also excellent, and manages to not feel tacked on despite Side A being the obvious star
Femi Kuti
5/5
A really fantastic and fun album. Vibrant musical colors and styles throughout each song, with a wide breadth of lyrical topics. A great album to either dance to, or sit and listen to. The longer runtimes for the songs aren't an issue either, as every second is equally engaging. Great listen
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
I was pleasantly surprised by this album. A decent amount of well known/iconic songs that I never would have guessed would have been on the same album/made by the same band. Stylistically a cross between The Beatles and Velvet Underground, which has its moments but I don't think overtakes either in my opinion. A very good album, but not great. Top tracks: Somebody to Love, Embryonic Journey, White Rabbit
Beatles
5/5
Probably one of the greatest albums ever made. So stylistically diverse, and a full gauntlet of emotions. Every time I listen I'm reminded of a new reason to like so many of the songs. A near perfect balance of everything you could want in an album
The Coral
2/5
Not really sure how to rate this one. It wasn't bad, but I definitely feel like it a weirdness that sometimes worked, sometimes didn't woth the pop-punk-esque sound. And I respect the weird, even if it didn't always click. Not bad, but not sure if it's something I'd come back to. Top tracks: Simon Diamond, Wildfire
Faust
3/5
A wonderfully weird album. Definite high moments, but very strange and didn't always connect with me. Still I appreciate the ingenuity and almost whimsy, and there are definitely some fun and engaging songs, but I don't think I liked the album on the whole as much. Top tracks: Jennifer, Giggy Smile, It's A Bit Of A Pain
k.d. lang
3/5
Fun and very western-twangy. Short and sweet too, which makes it a nice quick listen. Decent overall sound, otherwise unremarkable. Top tracks: I Wish I Didn't Love You So, Tears Don't Care Who Cries Them, Honkey Tonk Angels Medley
The Beta Band
2/5
Kinda quirky nerd-rock album. A little goofy and corny, but there is a charm present with this album that I appreciated. Nothing terribly interesting or groundbreaking, but decent. Top tracks: Space, Troubles, Simple
B.B. King
4/5
Love the energy and fun this album captures from the live performance. Even though I'm not the biggest blues fan, this album is a blast to listen to. Even a pretty varied set and sound for a blues show. A great all around listen with smooth energy. Top tracks: Sweet Little Angel; It's My Own Fault; Worry, Worry
Tracy Chapman
4/5
A really mature album, lyrically and musically. Thought-provoking and powerful lyrics overlayed with tender guitar melodies and incredible vocals. First half of the album is nearly perfect, but the second half does start to taper a bit in quality; it's still good, but not great like the first 5 tracks. Top tracks: Fast Car, Behind the Wall, Baby Can I Hold You
Björk
5/5
This was such a unique listen. Poppy, trippy, eerie, and a whole lot of creativity. No weak spots, and every song is so captivating because you have no idea where it's going to do. Very fresh sound and has aged remarkably well
Alice In Chains
5/5
One of my all time favorite albums. Takes me back to high school, and is chock full of angsty energy, but also has a restrained and mature side that really helps the album feel well balanced. Plenty of kickass tracks as well
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
Decent funk album. I'm admittedly not the biggest fan of this kind of music, but I thought the guitar work was very impressive. Nothing too noteworthy, and the songs (especially the instrumental) do overstay their welcome a bit. Some things to like, but largely forgettable for me. Top tracks: I Want to Take You Higher, Sing a Simple Song, Everyday People
Dinosaur Jr.
1/5
Really did not like this album at all. Felt like a Green Day imitation that just kind of felt flat and uninspired, to say nothing of the frankly awful vocals. Maybe some interesting fleeting moments, but not much else going on that's noteworthy.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Felt very conflicted about this album. Though a bit samey the music was excellent in some places, and the lyrics were colorful and vivid. But man Cohen cannot sing at all, and it really does take away from the quality of the album. I think literally anyone else could sing this album and it would be near perfect. Top tracks: The Partisan, The Old Revolution, The Butcher
The Shamen
2/5
A really weird album. Had a nerdy corny charm at best, and got very predictable and boring at worst. A few interesting moments, but would've been much better served as a 20 min EP. Top tracks: Move Any Mountain, Oxygen Restriction
Bert Jansch
3/5
Decent enough folk album. Easy listen, nothing too remarkable or noteworthy. I appreciate the ultra stripped-down sound of just vocals and guitar, has a nice chamber performance feel to it. Top tracks: I Have No Time, Needle of Death, Alice's Wonderland
Belle & Sebastian
2/5
Cute and quirky sound, but not really my taste. Very fresh sound regardless, would not be surprised if this album released today. Very good indie chamber pop album, if you're into that sort of thing. Top tracks: We Rule the School, I Don't Love Anyone
The Associates
1/5
A really bad and discordant album. Bizarre music choices, and some songs sound like the drums aren't even in time? Awful sound and even worse production quality, to say nothing of the shrill and incomprehensible lyrics. Total pass
Deee-Lite
1/5
Boring and weird. Catchy, but not in a satisfying way. Every song feels exactly the same, down to the tempo and drum machine effects with sporratic vocals or other melodies overlayed. Probably good for background music in a club, but not good music.
Kings of Leon
2/5
An okay southern rock album brought down by some of the worst and least appealing vocals I think I've ever heard. The songs themselves range from decent to forgettable, but the vocals are unforgivably bad and grating. Top tracks: Milk, Day Old Blues
Jacques Brel
3/5
Very interesting listen, almost feels incomplete without some sort of visual component, since the poetry being spoken seems to have some physical elements to it. Makes me with I understood French, because all I can say is that this was odd but intriguing. Top tracks: Amsterdam, Tango funèbre, Les timides
Napalm Death
3/5
Really conflicted over this album. The first half is honestly pretty good headbanging metal, with actual developed songs among the grindcore "songs." Second half is complete incoherent garbage. It's a shame that the recording for this album was split up, because this would be a really great album if the first half was carried all the way through. Top tracks: Instinct of Survival, Scum, Siege of Power
Genesis
4/5
Genesis does this thing where they'll come up with some of the greatest and most meticulously crafted music you'll ever hear, and then follow it with uneven and at times downright goofy songs that really start to detract from the greatness. A great album showcasing the highs and lows of 70s prog, warts and all. Top tracks: Dancing with the Moonlit Knight, Firth of Fifth, More Fool Me
Deerhunter
2/5
Okayish indie rock/pop album. A lot of whiny/airy/boring tracks, but a few decent spots make for an okay album. Could definitely have trimmed some fat and made a much better 25 min EP. Top tracks: Desire Lines, Helicopter
The Allman Brothers Band
4/5
A really kick ass live album with some excellent musicianship. Easy to listen to and yet has a fantastic complexity that keeps most of the songs very engaging. Wasn't as into Side 3, and the longer songs definitely overstay their welcome a bit, but an all around great southern rock listen. Top tracks: Statesboro Blues, Done Somebody Wrong, Stormy Monday
Culture Club
3/5
Pretty solid 80s synth pop. This album I feel covers the full breadth of the genre, with the more mainstream hits feeling generic and a bit annoying to listen to, but also having some really driving and engaging lesser known tracks. All around decent listen. Top tracks: Black Money, Miss Me Blind, Victims
Ghostface Killah
3/5
Very inconsistent album. Some really great tracks woth fantastic mid-2000s beats and verse, but a lot of forgettable filler thay does bog the album down. More than a few hidden gems, but a lot of skippable songs. Top tracks: The Champ, R.A.G.U., Clipse of Doom
The Fall
1/5
Not a whole lot to say about this one. British garage punk rock that also felt weirdly devoid of energy and drive. Very boring with songs that go on for way too long
Patti Smith
3/5
Very interesting listen. Had a lot of powerful and engaging moments, and definitely not something I'd usually gravitate towards. But I really appreciated the artistry blended into the album, and there is definite passion behind the songs. Top tracks: Redondo Beach, Free Money, Land
Ozomatli
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Very fun and upbeat Latin-rock that is easy to listen to, and very fresh and varied from song to song. Starts to fall off towards the end of the album, but overall very entertaining. Top tracks: (Who Discovered) America?, Who's To Blame, Saturday Night
Mott The Hoople
1/5
Very sappy and boring album. There's an aimless quality to a lot of the songs, as they don't really go anywhere or do anything beyond what's established in the first few seconds. A lot of sameness throughout as well. Largely skippable
The Young Gods
2/5
Really rough album to listen to. Some decent instrumental work and though largely discordant there are some decent moments. But this is one of the worst vocal performances I've ever heard, and really makes this album unappealing to listen to. Wouldn't hate an instrumental release for this album. Top tracks: Rue des tempêtes, Ville Notre
The Strokes
4/5
Very solid and easy to listen to. Short and sweet with plenty of really good moments to make this a great album to sit with or dance to. No real low spots, but nothing that demands to be listened to. Top tracks: Is This It, The Modern Age, Barely Legal
Amy Winehouse
5/5
Sophisticated, sensual, and fun. An all around great listen with plenty of tracks to either sit back and relax to, or vibe with. Great jazzy performances and absolutely stellar vocals. A great way to spend an hour
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
4/5
Really heavy album, with absolutely zero punches pulled on how brutal life can be. Depressing that the album still feels perfectly relevant as ever. Makes it hard to listen to all the way through though. But a great overall performance and album
Death In Vegas
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Very simple, but reminds me of a proto-lofi sound with great use of distortion and buildup. Definitely feel like some of the songs overstay their welcome and songs with vocals are below the instrumentals, but a really solid listen. Top tracks: Dirge, Aisha, Lever Street
Bob Dylan
3/5
Frustrating listen. There is a great album somewhere in here, with the great lyrics and easy folk melodies keeping everything consistent. But this did not need to be a double album at all. So much of sides 1 & 3 is unremarkable, and that's to say nothing of once again Dylan's vocals getting in the way of what would be a much better record if anyone else was singing. Some definite highlights, but not worth a full listen. Top tracks: I Want You, Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat, Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands
Prince
3/5
Lots of conflicting thoughts about this album. The title track is absolutely incredible and a fantastic song, but so much if the rest of the album feels either derivative, dated, or unappealing. There are definite high points, but so much of this album is skippable in my opinion. But the best parts are absolutely worth your time. Top tracks: Let's Go Crazy, When Doves Cry, Purple Rain
2Pac
5/5
One of the most sophisticated rap albums I've listened to. Engaging, entertaining, reflective, and poignant. No weak spots on a longer album that is full of great songs and seamlessly toes a fine line between mellow and intense in such a satisfying way
Funkadelic
3/5
I wish this album had one other element or something going on besides funk. It's a great funk album, but im just not that interested in a full album's worth of
it. Decent enough, but wish it was a little more musically complex. Top tracks: Groovallegiance, Promentalshitbackwashpsychosis Enema Squad (The Doo Doo Chasers), Into You
N.E.R.D
1/5
Didn't connect with this album at all. Felt like I was waiting for the songs to hit a different gear to keep my interest, but everything felt flat and uninteresting. Especially disappointing after seeing Pharrell Williams was in this group
New York Dolls
1/5
Horrible, obnoxious and extremely derivative. Sounds exactly like an album generated by an AI-bot with 70s glam rock inputs. Hard pass
The Cardigans
3/5
Very unorthodox style to this album. I really did not connect with the first half at all, but the more mellow B side had some really interesting moments. Definitely was not expecting pretty up-front Sabbath influence on this album, but very appreciated. Wasnt in love with the whole thing, but is worth a listen. Top tracks: Step On Me, Lovefool, Iron Man
Moby Grape
4/5
Surprisingly excellent album. I wasn't immediately hooked by the opening few tracks, but there is a level of Beatles mixed with Buffalo Springfield that made this a very compelling listen. Incredibly underrated and nice and short. Top tracks: 8:05; Naked, If I Want To; Sitting by the Window
Michael Jackson
4/5
Very fun album. Plenty of instantly recognizable hits that layer in plenty of complexity for a pop album. A lot of the less well-known tracks do start to feel samey, but a good all-around listen. Top tracks: Bad, Man in the Mirror, Smooth Criminal
The Darkness
2/5
Underwhelming and over indulgent. A very goofy and dated sound with shrieking vocals that sour a lot of songs. The mainstream hits are decent radioplay, but nothing I'd ever come back to. Top tracks: I Believe in a Thing Called Love, Love Is Only a Feeling
Super Furry Animals
2/5
This was an odd listen. Not sure how to describe it; I liked parts of mostly every song, and also disliked parts of mostly every song. I enjoyed the more unique sound of blending rock with lo-fi eldctronica, but the songs go on for way too long and lose themselves in the longer runtimes. Would be much better if it was just more concise
The Flying Burrito Brothers
2/5
Surprisingly eclectic sound for such a short album. Starts with some corny country that evolves into a Chicago-adjacent sound that ends up at almost gospel by the end? Lot of interesting things going on musically, but didn't really connect with me
X-Ray Spex
1/5
Incredibly annoying sound and borderline unintelligible vocal performance. Particularly disappointed with the drums, as there were multiple moments of them just not being correctly in time? Even managed to make a saxophone sound shrieky and unappealing.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Exactly what it says on the tin. If you're into an hour of murder ballads and songs with wild stories then this is for you. I didn't connect with it at all, but I appreciate the effort and care that clearly went into the albun
Earth, Wind & Fire
5/5
Really fantastic listen. Groovy and engaging, with plenty of iconic songs and a few hidden gems. Surprisingly sophisticated arrangements that meld together in the best way. Great album with no real weak spots
Paul Simon
4/5
Entertaining world-pop blend with a great showcase of African music. Does feel a little odd coming from Paul Simon, but a really solid listen with a ton of fun moments. Easy and laid back. Top tracks: Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al, Homeless
The Flaming Lips
3/5
Decent electronic-rock album with some solid moments. Starts to veer into whiny/dorky indie-pop at points which I wasn't super into, but overall decent and unique enough sound to keep my interest. Top tracks: Race for the Prize, The Observer, Feeling Yourself Disintegrate
XTC
2/5
Okayish muzak-style rock pop that is easy and fun to listen to. Vocals are very overbearing, feels like barely any of the songs have space for the music to actually breathe and develop. Simple listen, inoffensive
Calexico
4/5
Surprisingly entertaining and unexpected mix between southern rock and almost proto-lofi? Took a little to get going, but a really well- rounded indie sound that's definitely worth a second listen. Top tracks: Black Heart; Close Behind; Attack El Robot! Attack!
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
2/5
The tough part about blues albums is once you've heard one, you've heard them all. Decent listen with some highlight instrumental parts, but still a blues album through and through
LL Cool J
5/5
One of the best rap albums ive ever listened to. Every song is brimming with great beats and some of the best lyrics and delivery I've heard. A complete masterpiece with no skips or weak spots
Lauryn Hill
5/5
An incredibly sophisticated and enjoyable listen. Beautiful vocals mixed with engaging lyrics and themes showcase how much talent Lauryn Hill brings. One of the best albums I've never heard of before
The Fall
3/5
Simple but effective. The punkier songs were better than I expected, and the album is bookends by two really solid if basic songs. Not something I thought I would've liked, but very solid. Top tracks: Frightened, Futures and Pasts, Music Scene
The Fall
3/5
Interesting listen. Definitely more mainstream than their earlier work, but the vocals don't really mesh well with the more refined rock sound. The best songs are the ones where vocals become more sporadic/spoken and let the more polished instrumental work shine through. Decent overall, much stronger 2nd half. Top tracks: Paranoia Man in a Cheap Shit Room, Service, Past Gone Mad
The Clash
2/5
Honestly incredibly disappointing. Title track is punchy and has such a distinct edge that is completely dropped for the remainder of the album. Was expecting a punkier sound, ended up with pop rock? Killer song, skippable album
Keith Jarrett
5/5
One of the first albums in this project to leave me speechless. Awe-inspiring performance, and learning that it was almost entirely improvised just deepens my appreciation for the recording. Such a diverse soundscape that makes this so much more than a "jazz piano album"
Donovan
3/5
Really interesting album. Didn't really connect with the more flowery or psychedelic folksy songs but the rock-ier songs were really interesting and catchy. Pretty cool sound with heavy use of sitar too. Top tracks: Bert's Blues, Season of the Witch, The Trip
King Crimson
5/5
One of the best records you've never heard of. Admittedly took a few listens to fully click and has some more musically challenging moments, but the payoff is a boundary pushing, entertaining and kick-ass album that set a new standard for rock. A great album to sit with and appreciate that also rewards acute listeners
Mylo
3/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Definitely still has some lower EDM points, but the songs are all reasonably short unlike other electronic albums. A lot of the proto-lofi songs were very easy and relaxing to listen to. Would've been an incredible EP. Top tracks: Valley of the Dolls, Guilty of Love, Paris Four Hundred
Ute Lemper
1/5
Boring and incredibly melodramatic. Uninteresting songs insisting upon themselves makes this an album that feels stuffy and hollow. No real substance, and entirely skippable
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Much softer and reflective sound than some of Wonder's other 70s albums. Still a solid listen, but missing a hook song to tie the whole album together. Feels almost like a compilation of cutting-room floor songs from his other albums of the decade. Still good, but not great. Top tracks: Creepin', It Ain't No Use, They Won't Go When I Go
Marvin Gaye
4/5
A really thoughtful album that has some much going on. Fun and uplifting songs that are easy to relax to. A little too religious for me personally. I also really enjoyed how the album does end on a more serious note, that despite all the positivity there are still bad things happening; helps keep its message grounded. Top tracks: What's Going On, What' Happening Brother, Inner City Blues
Roxy Music
2/5
Glad Dr Frankenfurter was able to take time away from his castle to create a record. Space rock is always going to sound goofy and dated to me, but there are some decent moments throughout (in particular the excellent drumming chops), but still fails to do anything besides being outrageous for the sake of it.
Björk
4/5
Wildly creative and genre-bending. Pretty cool to see that the more eccentric parts of Björk's discography is present from the very beginning. Not all of it landed for me personally, but there is more than enough for everyone to find something they like in here. Top tracks: Human Behavior, Venus As A Boy, Come To Me
Beatles
5/5
Simple, quick and easy. Fun and unvomplicated love songs. B side has less "wow" factor, but an excellent all-around record for both listening to and dancing to. Top tracks: A Hard Day's Night, If I Fell, And I Love Her, Can't Buy Me Love
John Martyn
1/5
As much as I appreciate the attempt at a unique sound, this album felt very paint-by-numbers. Not that interesting or noteworthy beyond an easy to listen to yacht-rock/jazz fusion. Inoffensive but very forgettable
Aimee Mann
3/5
Fairly generic 90s pop rock. Aimee Mann is a fantastic vocalist that feels almost boxed into this album by very generic songs. Would love to hear her cover Bob Dylan or Leonard Cohen, something more sophisticated that she could absolutely do well. Top tracks: Could've Been Anyone, Stupid Thing, I've Had It
Elliott Smith
3/5
Pretty solid indie rock album. Immense respect for Elliot Smith playing pretty much every instrument on the album as well. Solid easy listening, more than a few fairly forgettable songs bloat the runtime a bit. Top tracks: Junk Bond Trailer, Everything Reminds Me Of Her, Happiness/The Gondola Man
The Birthday Party
1/5
Barely qualifies as an "album". Horrendous production and unintelligible songs. Maybe would be better with a remaster, but its just 45 mins of noise
The Stooges
1/5
Boring, derivative, and laughably uninspired. At least it was only about a 30 min listen.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Really interesting listen. A lot of the ambient distortion can get old and boring, but there is an almost comforting quality to it that keeps it intriguing. Not a entertaining listen, but definitely unique. Top tracks: she found you, who sees you, in another way
White Denim
4/5
Really interesting album with a lot of subtle complexity going on. Never would've thought indie and prog would blend together as well as they do, but they make for a really enjoyable experience. Nothing too intense, and a nice easy listen despite the more complex song structures. Top tracks: Back at the Farm, Street Joy, River to Consider
D'Angelo
3/5
Pretty standard fare R&B album. Nothing stands out too much good or bad, just a nice easy listento relax to. Top tracks: Brown Sugar, Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine, Cruisin'
Raekwon
2/5
Pretty underwhelming rap album. Definitely some solid tracks, but weighed down heavily by a lot of bloat and pretty shoddy production. Maybe would be better with a remaster, but a lot of the album is skippable. Easy example of less is more. Top tracks: Incarcerated Scarfaces, Ice Cream, Heaven & Hell
The Libertines
2/5
Didn't really connect with this one. Felt at times like a cross between the worst parts of The Beatles and Arctic Monkeys. Some good moments highlighted by very crisp drumming, but not a lot else going on. Top tracks: What Katie Did, Road to Ruin
Yes
4/5
This album is proof that even the best bands are not immune to underwhelming filler tracks. Which is a shame, because this album easily contains some of Yes' best work, but the solo songs dont really feel as cohesive and do detract from an otherwise incredible album in my opinion. Top tracks: Roundabout, South Side of the Sky, Heart of the Sunrise
Grateful Dead
4/5
Very fun and easy album to listen to, would probably be fantastic for road trips. No real "wow" moments or high points, just good tunes to sit back and enjoy. Feels like a big beautiful musical hug all the way through. Top tracks: Box of Rain, Friend of the Devil, Ripple
Terence Trent D'Arby
2/5
Really wish I connected more with this album. Great vocal performance, but less than interesting songs make a surprising amount of this album forgettable. Good moments, but inconsistent. Top tracks: Dance Little Sister, Who's Loving You
David Bowie
4/5
This was a weird one. Surprisingly little Bowie vocals for one of his albums, but his instrumental work is very interesting. Much more ambient and less structured than you would expect, but definitely worth a listen for how different it is. Top tracks: Speed of Life, Be My Wife, Subterraneans
Kate Bush
1/5
Surprised how much I disliked this album. Felt very unsatisfying, and a lot of songs were lacking any real sound depth or counter-melodies in lower voices. There is also a register that Kate Bush hits at least once a song that I find very grating.
Tortoise
2/5
Really weird listen. Overall decent enougfhfrom track to track, but never really goes anywhere or does anything besides ambient melodies for the full runtime. The 20-minute opener is also the worst song, should not have been included. If you like ambient instrumentals this is a good album, otherwise pass
3/5
It's amazing how the worst part about every Bob Dylan album is Bob Dylan himself. This is a great album with a giant Dylan-sized anchor around its neck; some of his worst and most grating vocals that I've heard. And yet the music is still really good. Makes for a very frustrating listen, as this would easily be a 5/5 if it was just someone else singing. Great performances all around otherwise
Tim Buckley
1/5
Didn't connect with this album at all. Buckley obviously has good vocals, but I was not remotely interested in the flower-power/almost medieval sound of the album.
David Bowie
3/5
Another Bowie album screaming for a remaster, very tinny and hollow overlaying of the different instruments and vocals. Very fun hits, but a lot of skippable tracks. Fun to see Bowie branching into what would become his more iconic style. Top tracks: Changes, Life on Mars?, Queen Bitch
Grizzly Bear
1/5
Struggling to understand why this album is included in this project. Felt unremarkably boring at best, and doesn't have anything else going on to distinguish it from every other generic 2010s indie album. Very surface-level and shallow
The Beach Boys
3/5
Interesting listen. Most of the A side is pretty skippable summer teeny-bob songs, but the B side does have some more mature and intricate moments that help make the album more engaging. Doesn't hurt that the runtime is short and sweet. Top tracks: Help Me, Rhonda; Please Let Me Wonder, In The Back Of My Mind
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Something about Nick Cave just doesn't connect with me at all. The dramatics always feel cheesy, and this album is no different. But there are some more restrained performances that make this album more palatable for me. Still more of the same from The Bad Seeds. Top tracks: I Had A Dream, Joe; Straight to You
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
The thing that gets me the most with Hendrix is how consistently fantastic every song is. There's nothing that's boring, or unimaginative, or lackluster. Everything on this album is crisp and magical. Excellent psychedelic rock
OutKast
5/5
Very rarely does an album justify being a double-LP, let alone two full-length albums itself. And yet I wish there was even more on this album. Fantastically creative, innovative, funny, and heartfelt. Genuinely amazed how well this album has aged. One of the best and most eclectic rap albums I've ever heard.
Brian Eno
5/5
Really pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this album. It's a perfect amount of engaging, weird, experimental, catchy, and everything in between. My only complaint would be that I feel the album really peaks with the first few songs and the B side tapers off progressively more, but a really fascinating and genre-bending listen that I definitely wouldn't have found otherwise. Top tracks: Mea Culpa, Regiment, The Jezebel Spirit
The Auteurs
2/5
Generic and on the whole inoffensive. Some fun moments but not much else to write home about. Decent but highly derivative indie pop-rock sound. Top tracks: Housebreaker, Idiot Brother
Beach House
3/5
Very ethereal and airy/dreamy quality to this album. Felt very soothing and peaceful to listen to. A little uneven and samey from song to song, but decent to close your eyes and listen to on the whole. Top tracks: Silver Soul, Used to Be, Better Times
Sonic Youth
2/5
Better than earlier Sonic Youth albums by a mile, but that really isn't saying much. A couple solid singles but a lot of unpleasant noise tracks that detract from the more mainstream songs. Top tracks: Dirty Boots, Kool Thing
John Prine
4/5
Fun and easy-listening country/folksy twang that has a very friendly and warm tone. Entertaining and heartfelt stories with a lot to enjoy and relate to. Top tracks: Sam Stone, Paradise, Six O'Clock News
Hüsker Dü
2/5
Felt very one-note and samey, which is very frustrating for a double album. In particular I thought the drumming was very sloppy and almost off-beat at certain points. A few solid enough songs, but a lot of forgettable material. Top tracks: Ice Cold Ice, Bed of Nails
Os Mutantes
1/5
Not a lot to say about this album. Less-than-shoddy production and a sound that is at best derivative and at worst unappealing make this album very forgettable. Like discount-Beatles without any charm
Joni Mitchell
5/5
Heartfelt, fun, jazzy, powerful. Such a great blend of engaging and reflective music that really goes well with any mood. And will definitely leave you feeling better after listening. Top tracks: Court and Spark, Help Me, Car on a Hill
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
Springsteen is one of those artists that is always hit or miss for me; thankfully this album is chock full of hits. Zero wasted space on a romping Americana album that really makes you feel like you were born to run at every turn. Great all-around listen. Top tracks: Thunder Road, Born to Run, Jungleland
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Great all-around album with plenty of unique and diverse songs that does a great job of justifying it's longer run-time. I wasn't head-over-heels for every song on the album, but there's more than enough for anyone to enjoy and connect with. Top tracks: Over & Over, Storms, Angel, Brown Eyes
The Replacements
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Feels like quintessential 80s teen garage rock. Some really solid hidden gems, enjoyable hits and a few weirder throw-ins. All around good. Top tracks: Androgynous, Black Diamond, Unsatisfied
TV On The Radio
2/5
Very conflicted listen. There's a lot of elements and fusion that I think work together strongly in theory. But the album in practice just feels very disconnected and has a very harsh production that does not blend the individual parts well at all. Could be better with better production, but there are moments where it does click. Top tracks: Golden Age, DLZ
Donald Fagen
3/5
Very straightforward and easy listen; reminded me of more developed muzak. Nice background music for being productive, but nothing going on thay requires a deeper engagement. Just feel-good lyrics with simple melodies. Top tracks: I.G.Y., New Frontier, The Nightfly
Mj Cole
2/5
Entirely unremarkable house music album. Every song sounds exactly like every other house music song made - same tempo and drum track with boring overlays. At least this album has shorter runtimes for its songs and some interesting vocals. But not much else going on. Top tracks: Crazy Love, Rough Out Here
Talk Talk
4/5
Very interesting, almost prog-pop sound with a lot going on. Has a fresh feel to it, very modern-sounding. Didn't connect as much with the more ambient-heavy songs, but a lot to enjoy here. Top tracks: Life's What You Make It, Living in Another World, Give It Up
fIREHOSE
2/5
Not sure this album knows what it wants to be. Feels like it keeps trying different things in each song and is never really cohesive. Multiple filler tracks on a 30 minute album is also very embarrassing. Some of the songs do work, but they feel more like accidents than a cohesive musical vision. Top tracks: Some Things, Understanding
ABBA
4/5
About what I'd expect from an ABBA album. Really cool songs that inexplicably work really well despite a lot of the weirdness and more out-there elements. Good all around listen, very soothing and fun. Top tracks: Head Over Heels, One Of Us, Slipping Through My Fingers
Janet Jackson
2/5
Very uneven album. Starts off really strong and socially charged, then almost forgets itself and morphs into a very generic pop album; very tonally inconsistent. Also has some of the most egregious filler tracks usage I've ever seen. Definitely needed stronger editing in the studio. Top tracks: Rhythm Nation, State Of The World
Wire
3/5
Interesting album. I really liked more of it than I thought I would, but it really is a 50/50 split on the songs for me. If they were actually developed songs I thought they were great; punky and short I didn't like at all. Could've been a really solid alternative rock EP with all the filler songs removed. Top tracks: Three Girl Rhumba, Ex Lion Tamer, Mannequin
Jeff Beck
2/5
A little disappointed by this album. It's an okay enough blues rock album, but I feel calling it one of the first metal albums is a bit of a stretch, especially considering the other proto-metal albums released around the same time. Fine enough, but unremarkable. Top tracks: Rock My Plimsoul, I Ain't Superstitious
Liz Phair
1/5
Did not connect with this album at all. I kept almost getting into a groove, then something off about the songs would hit and I was left unsatisfied. As if there's one part that's out of tune or sounds wrong in every song. Very unfinished
Everything But The Girl
2/5
Fairly generic/samey soft pop album. Fine enough to listen to in short bursts, but not interesting enough to keep my attention through the whole album. Still a pleasant if boring listen. Top tracks: I Don't Want to Talk About It, The Night I Heard Caruso Sing
Doves
1/5
Very boring and extremely derivative. Sounds like every other early 2000s alt album, except this doesn't have a single noteworthy song or even moment. Just stays at the same 3/10 intensity and never goes anywhere
Scott Walker
3/5
Felt like a strange hybrid between Nick Cave, Chicago, and a Broadway soundtrack. A lot to like on this album, though it didn't always land for me. Very diverse soumdscape that kept the album interesting. Top tracks: The Amorous Humphrey Plugg, Wait Until Dark, Come Next Spring
Super Furry Animals
2/5
The album has a very decided energy to be as quirky as possible. I didn't really connect with it, but some of the more mainstream songs are decent. Solid singles album, but not much else to see. Top tracks: Something 4 the Weekend, If You Don't Want Me to Destroy You
Buck Owens
5/5
Such a fun romp of twangy guitar and easy listening. Nice and short with absolutely no wasted time, every song brings something fresh and enjoyable to the album. Fantastic listen and performances
The Rolling Stones
5/5
An absolutely blast from start to finish. Impossible to not want to jam out to each song, with fantastic blues riffs and driving drums. Some of Jagger's best lyrics and vocal performances really tie everything together. An all-time old school rock classic
Radiohead
5/5
Strikes a great balance between electronics, rock, and just enough weird to keep everything interesting. Not going to be for everyone and will definitely take a few listens to fully click, but is a very unique offering that pushes rock boundaries in a great way. Top tracks: Pyramid Song, I Might Be Wrong, Knives Out, Life In a Glass House
The Beach Boys
4/5
A really unique and relaxing listen. Nice and low-key melodies while still mixing in some summery/teeny bop classic Beach Boys. Much more sophisticated and mature sound. Straightforward and generally unremarkable lyrics, but still fun to put on and close your eyes to. Top tracks: Don't Go Near The Water, Disney Girls (1957), 'Til I Die
Radiohead
5/5
Such a excellent blend of pared-down instrumental work with enough electronica to call back to the older albums. In a word this album is beautiful. An easy album to put on, close your eyes and float away. The almost unplugged sound (for Radiohead at least) almost reminds me of something Jeff Buckley could have put out if he were still alive. A complete masterpiece from start to finish
The Pharcyde
3/5
A decent album with some noticeable shortcomings. Lyrics are fun and funny, but a lot of the flow and backing tracks on songs is very dated and distinctly 90s. Unfortunately not my thing, but there are some strong hidden gems on this album that make a listen worthwhile. Top tracks: Soul Flower (Remix), On The DL, Return Of The B-Boy
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
For an album that is as minimalist as it is, there is so much going on. Incredible word-play and lyrics keep every song engaging. The middle starts to feel samey with a very similar feel and tempo to the songs, but on the whole very entertaining. Top tracks: Excursions, Check the Rhime, What?
The Flaming Lips
2/5
Pretty indifferent to this album. The story didn't particularly interest me, and I'm not a huge fan of the overall ethereal/ambient musical tone. Some of the extended instrumental section were interesting enough, especially as more voices are added to the sound. Decent enough if you're into this kind of music. Top tracks: Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1; Approaching Pavonis Mons by Balloon
Tom Waits
1/5
One of the worst vocal performances relative to the music I think I've ever heard. Not sure what Waits was thinking with very coarse vocals being in direct contrast to the softer music. Sounded like Cookie Monster doing an impression of Bruce Springsteen
Parliament
2/5
Surprisingly boring album for how 'out of this world' this album presents itself. Every song feels like it's in the exact same tempo, and outside of some funky baselines, there's not much else going on here. Top tracks: Handcuffs, Give Up The Funk
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Very much a roulette record - every song is either really solid or uninteligible garble. The distortion and sound balancing is very off in the first half, but the second half has some very strong hidden gems. Would've been a much stronger EP. Top tracks: Feed Me With Your Kiss, Sueisfine, Nothing Much To Lose
Screaming Trees
4/5
One of the better albums I've never heard of. Does a great job of threading the needle where the songs themselves are not super heavy, but don't feel out of place next to other contemporary grunge albums. Felt like the album could've used a song or two that turns the heavy up more, but one of the most disciplined performances in this project. Top tracks: Halo of Ashes, Look At You, Sworn and Broken
The Dictators
2/5
Feels like one of the shallowest albums in this project. Absolutely no nuance or subtley to be found here, and that isn't necessarily a bad thing since the songs themselves are decent enough once you get past the smarmy shock value. Feels like a good album for angsty teens, and can definitely see how this inspired later punk bands. Top tracks: Back to Africa, Weekend
Little Simz
2/5
A little disappointed with this album. Surprisingly suave, I didn't connect with the album as much as i would've liked to. Definitely brings a unique spin to UK rap, but the songs I enjoyed the most were the ones that were harder and punchier. Not bad by any means, but not something I'd come back to. Top tracks: Venom, Pressure
Queens of the Stone Age
3/5
An album with a lot of promise that really starts to fall apart by the end. Each song has the exact same intensity throughout each runtime - there's nothing dynamic or fluid with any of the tracks. Every song starts with a decent to solid hard rock riff, and never goes anywhere else. Maybe would feel less disappointed if each song has a minute or two shaved off their runtime to cut down on the repetitiveness. Top tracks: Regular John, Avon, Mexicola
The Stooges
2/5
Shocked that this album is at least 35% incomprehensible bloat and still has a 36-minute runtime. Surprisingly decent lead single, but not much else worth listening to. Would he a much better EP with all the songs shortened by at least 1-2 mins. Top tracks: Down on the Street, Dirt
Arrested Development
2/5
Disappointed with how boring this album is. There's one intensity level for the entire album, and it just turns into a lull that I didn't find engaging. Certainly different for 90s rap, but not for me unfortunately. Top tracks: Raining Revolution, Dawn Of The Dreads
Ian Dury
1/5
Grating, derivative, and obnoxiously English. Not much to say about the lyrics or stories in the songs because I can barely understand Dury's vocals outside of the excessive vulgarity. Nothing that enjoyable or interesting
Paul McCartney
2/5
Very strange for a McCartney solo album. Surprisingly boring and one-note. Honestly feels like Paul doing his best Brian Eno impression, and that impression being subpar. Some interesting moments but mostly skippable. Top tracks: Momma Miss America, Maybe I'm Amazed
Joe Ely
3/5
An album that is exactly what it says on the tin. I've never been the biggest fan of honky tonk country, but Ely's performance has a genuine energy that makes the songs infectious. Wasn't interested in the "honkier" songs and I wouldn'tmind if the album was even shorter, but there is something fun to enjoy here. Top tracks: Because Of The Wind, Boxcars, Honky Tonk Masquerade
The Roots
5/5
Don't think I've ever heard a hip-hop album quite like this. Wildly creative and boundary-pushing, every song is completely different from the last and still manages to feel coherent. Even manages to use filler tracks in an interesting way. Something for everyone to enjoy. Top tracks: Sacrifice, Break You Off, Water, Rhymes And Ammo
Cat Stevens
2/5
Oddly mixed and very bland. Has some sweeter moments, but largely forgettable and uninteresting. The big hits are decent, but nothing else to see here. Top tracks: Wild World, Father And Son
Def Leppard
5/5
One of the most well-rounded and consistent arena rock albums. It's amazing that slowing to a more deliberate tempo makes such a difference, but the more methodical approach let's you marinate in every song for just long enough to enjoy and move onto the next. Bonus points for some really well-used effects in production as well. All-around great listen. Top tracks: Photograph, Die Hard The Hunter, Rock Of Ages, Comin' Under Fire
Astor Piazzolla
5/5
Magnificent, spellbinding, and alsbolutely electric. One of the most intense performances I've ever heard, and every second is captivating. The songs take such wild twists and turns, but always feel controlled in a very satisfying way. An absolute masterpiece
The Everly Brothers
3/5
Pretty entertaining if a little formulaic. Very samey sound throughout the album, but it is well produced and enjoyable enough. Shorter runtime also helps keep things moving without getting bogged down in repetitiveness. Solid overall listen. Top tracks: Always It's You, Love Hurts, So How Come (No One Loves Me)
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
2/5
Very strange album. Almost felt like an early Frank Zappa impression, but worse in every way. Some decent songs and the shorter runtime helps, but largely forgettable and not noteworthy. Top tracks: I'm Glad, Plastic Factory
The Divine Comedy
1/5
Reminds me of an English Nick Cave mixed with chamber pop; which did not really interest me at all. Has a strange mix of bombast that feels very misplaced. Some okay moments, but not much going on
Soft Machine
4/5
Very interesting album with a lot going on. Dome of the best musicianship I've heard, and there's a nice balance between rock and jazz that keeps the sound edged but not too heavy. The tracks do start to slog a little, and I wouldn't hate 2 or 3 mins shaved off each (especially the final track). Overall great prog jazz record with a lot of intricate and musically rewarding performances
Lupe Fiasco
3/5
Very conflicted about this album. On one hand, this album has some of the most engaging and fun lyrics I've heard on a hip-hop album. On the other, I feel like a lot of the effects and instruments (especially the drums and brass) feel strangely mixed, and almost grate against the songs instead of filling them out as they should. Also a lot of bloat on an album that does not need a longer runtime. Lots to enjoy, but should be better. Top tracks: Kick, Push; The Instrumental, Daydreamin'
Destiny's Child
1/5
Shocked I didn't like this album at all. The music/melodies in the songs are lacking and boring, almost like an afterthought shoved entirely to the background. Equally generic and uninspired lyrics that feel very corporate and lacking real soul. Some okay radio/club singles but a very disappointing album
The Cure
4/5
This is one of those albums that requires a few listens to wrap your head around. After the first half I was uninterested, but the B side has some really intriguing songs that helped reorient my listening and there is a lot to love here. Weak first impression, but a rewarding repeat listen. Top tracks: One Hundred Years, A Strange Day, Cold
Pet Shop Boys
4/5
A fun blend of synth, pop, and house music. Wasn't as interested in the more bubblegum-y and super poppy songs, but there's a really solid fusion of genre and sound that is both engaging and entertaining. Solid to listen to or dance to. Top tracks: Liberation, Dreaming of the Queen, The Theatre
CHVRCHES
3/5
Interesting listen. A lot of the songs start to blend together as the album goes on, but i really enjoyed the production quality. The electronica melodies are infectious and the performances are solid. Wouldn't hate hearing some of the bigger songs on the radio. Top tracks: Gun, Lies, Recover
Heaven 17
1/5
Odd, sporadic and musically hollow. Sounds like two guys screwing around in their garage hitting random effect buttons for 40 mins singing about whatever comes to mind. Hard pass
Chicago
5/5
A masterful blend of rock, jazzy, and pop make this an album anyone can enjoy thoroughly. Some of the best performances and musicianship I've heard on an album as well. Easy to get into with the radio hits, and easy to stay for the longer and more experimental tracks. A near-flawless album
Silver Jews
1/5
Very uninteresting country-pop with goofy lyrics and nasally vocals. Some okay enough moments, but very surprised an album as unremarkable as this made it into the project
Bob Dylan
4/5
One of the most apt album titles, since this album really is just Dylan freewheeling for 50 minutes. Some softer vocals and pretty engaging Vietnam-era lyrics help make this album more palatable than some of his later works. Overall an easy folk listen with some of Dylan's most iconic songs. Top tracks: Blowin' in the Wind; Girl from the North Country; Don't Think Twice, It's All Right
JAY Z
5/5
One of theost sophisticated rap albums I've heard. Killer beats and some really masterful mixing make for a great first listen, and the lyrics are rewarding to dive into on subsequent listens. Pretty varied style between songs keep the album consistently fresh. No real low points or dragging moments, just a very well made record all around
50 Cent
5/5
Unapologetically in your face from the moment it starts. Chock full of some of the best and hardest rap songs of the early 2000s, as well as more than a few hidden gems throughout. Very entertaining listen that feels impossible to not enjoy
Rufus Wainwright
1/5
Very boring and stuffy. Some of the arrangements are okay enough, but Rufus needs to hire a diction coach because his vocals felt very slurred and sloppy. An instrumental version of the album could be more interesting, but honestly not much more
My Bloody Valentine
5/5
Very surprised by this album. The distortion and fuzz effects come through in a very palatable way that does a great job of invoking a strong melancholy feel throughout. There being some even almost mainstream songs also helps balance out the more free form ones, and there's a lot to enjoy regardless of one's predisposition towards shoegaze. A high quality listen
The Triffids
1/5
Very corny and generic. Not much to say or anything going on beyond the surface. Another album I'm very surprised to be included in this project.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
3/5
Decent enough jam rock album. A lot of the middle sections of the longer songs really start to drag and lose my interest, but there are some fun and high energy moments in each of the songs. Definitely feels like an album that gets better with each listen, but a little underwhelming on first pass. Top tracks: Who Do You Love Suite, Cavalry
Big Star
1/5
Some of the poorest production quality and some surprisingly shrill vocals completely turned me off this album. Some of the slower songs sounded pretty enough, but they also get repetitive and boring. Amazing that this is the "quality" of the album after so many releases and re-releases
Caetano Veloso
3/5
Very much a rollercoaster of an album. Definitely has its share of highs and lows both emotionally and musically. Undeniable amounts of energy and passion that you can't help but appreciate keep it fairly entertaining
Elbow
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Has a very gentle quality to its songs that keeps them grounded and heartfelt. Does start to feel a little derivative outside of the singles, but a really solid album overall. Top tracks: The Bones of You, Mirrorball, Friend Of Ours
Ministry
5/5
Dark, punchy, and full of angst. Such a great album to headbang and jam out to. One of the best industrial metal albums ever made. A superb balance of groove and thrash keeps the album fresh and entertaining throughout. Top tracks: N.W.O., Just One Fix, Scare Crow, Psalm 69
Charles Mingus
4/5
Fascinating listen. Some of the most musically complex arrangements I've ever heard. Some of it honestly felt too dense at times. The brass in particular comes through in a very tonally piercing way that makes their highlighted sections less appealing. Definitely feels like an album that requires multiple attentive listens to fully appreciate, but still a lot to love here
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
Very fun blend of pop rock and garage punk. Works very well for radio singles, but starts to grow stale by the end of the album after listening to what feels like the same song pattern for 40 mins. Not bad, but not something I'd clamor to hear again. Top tracks: The Dark Of The Matinée, This Fire, Michael
Van Morrison
1/5
Really tough listen for me. Morrison's belting does not come across at all, and ends up feeling harsh and screechy. Rest of the instrumentation is largely uninteresting, but does have some pretty moments. Would be a lot better if Morrison toned down the intensity in his own performance to match the rest of the lower-key music
Suede
2/5
This album could have absolutely benefitted from some editing on the track list. It starts fairly strong, but there's a lot of uninteresting and unremarkable material that I struggled to connect with. Even when the penultimate track roped me back in, the last track goes right back to the same boring structure with some faux melodrama. Some decent individual songs, but a lot to skip. Top tracks: The Wild Ones, The Asphalt World
Isaac Hayes
4/5
Really fun and cool soul album. Was surprised how laid back so many of the songs were, since my nominal understanding is that Shaft is an action movie. Overall quality listen, but not something I think I'd come back to
The Vines
3/5
Perfectly solid garage rock album. Fun cross between grunge and pop rock that has its share of ups and downs, but manages to remain engaging enjoyable enough. Top tracks: Get Free, In The Jungle, 1969
Minor Threat
5/5
One of the best hardcore punk albums I've listened to. There's a great energy that can be felt in each song, but it never goes too far into chaotic/overstimulating. One of the first punk albums that I actually wish was longer, since every song is very enjoyable
Kings of Leon
1/5
I'm begging Kings of Leon to learn about tempo changes, or a second riff, or a key change. Something to make their songs engaging past the first 20 seconds. To say nothing of one of the most obnoxious and unpleasant vocal performances I've heard. Some bizarre choices for a very unwilling album
Shuggie Otis
2/5
Inoffensive and low-key, but ventured into boring way too frequently. Felt like a string of musical ideas that never really evolve or develop, but solid enough on first pass to be palatable
Brian Eno
1/5
Very disappointed by this album. Felt like a very generic art rock album with a lot of strange and at times audibly grating music choices that made this a very hard listen. Maybe there's something to appreciate more with time, but leaves a very poor first impression
Joni Mitchell
4/5
A very soothing listen. Has a nice balance of bopping melody with a lot of interesting jazz fusion. Some of the more experimental moments/songs don't always land for me, but an overall really enjoyable album. Top tracks: In France They Kiss on Main Street, The Hissing of Summer Lawns, The Boho Dance
Van Halen
3/5
One of the better glam rock/metal albums that I feel is really held back by childish lyrics. It's disappointing that this album has some incredibly intricate instrumental work, and there's nothing to sing about besides girls. I think it's a shame that the title track isn't a full song or there isn't an additional instrumental song; would've really helped the album feel more balanced and well-rounded. Especially with the high level the band is musically operating at. Top tracks: Jump, Panama, Girl Gone Bad
T. Rex
1/5
Tough album to rate. I don't think this is necessarily a bad album, but it is incredibly low-energy and forgettable. The songs amount to a single riff or two stretched over the full runtime, and all feel exactly the same. Not much positive or negative to note, just very underwhelming.
Buzzcocks
2/5
Fairly straightforward brit-pop/punk. Some decent songs and driving beats help keep my attention, but a lot of the riffs sound almost identical between songs, and I found the vocals particularly unpalatable. Shorter runtime is a plus, but nothing overly worth coming back to. Top tracks: No Reply, Autonomy
Fishbone
4/5
Surprisingly heavy and driving for a ska album. Very creative album with plenty of interesting genre-bending moments. Certainly some songs better than others, but a very enjoyable experience. Top tracks: Freddie's Dead, Question of Life, Bonin' In the Boneyard
Nick Drake
3/5
Very mellow and relaxing listen. Despite the short runtime the album does start to get repetitive along the entire B side. Some heartfelt and delicate moments carry through the first half, but I'm left wishing those were drawn out and explored more. Overall decent enough acoustic album. Top tracks: Place to Be, Horn, Things Behind the Sun
Jean-Michel Jarre
4/5
Pretty cool ambient electronica. Not the most captivating thing I've heard, but a pretty steady and enjoyable listen throughout. Big fan of the fact that the album is really one giant song, but doesn't get overly repetitive in a boring way. Worth the full listen
Rufus Wainwright
1/5
For all the bombast that Wainwright included, I found this album remarkably boring. There were a few grabbing moments in songs, but I found myself consistently losing interest. Wholly uninteresting
Peter Gabriel
4/5
A very good album that falls short for me personally due to taste. Peter Gabriel is an excellent songwriter and this album has plenty of good tracks, but I wasn't into how 80s synth-poppy the overall sound was. Could have done with a heavier track or two, but that doesn't take away from how good the album is as a whole. The ballad tracks in particular are very strong. Top tracks: Sledgehammer, Don't Give Up, In Your Eyes
Cowboy Junkies
3/5
Decent country blues album. Very cool vocal performance and unique production background for recording the album. Songs themselves are fine, ranging from soothing to inoffensive and forgettable. Not something I'd come back to, but pleasant enough. Top tracks: Blue Moon Revisited (Song For Elvis), I'm Eo Lonesome I Could Cry, Dreaming My Dreams With You
Machito
4/5
Fantastic jazz album. Captivating instrumentation particularly percussion, and a blazing energy that does not let up throughout the runtime. Personally I could've used a slower tempo song to break up the album a little, but a great listen for those interested in afro-cuban jazz
Slipknot
5/5
Though the extreme intensity of this album will turn people off, it should not be lost that this is a wildly creative album that has shining performances from all 9 members. My biggest critique of Slipknot as a band is they never managed to recapture the uniqueness of this album, as each subsequent release has become more and more pared down, mainstream, and forgettable. This album succeeds in especially showcasing the auxiliary members in ways that make even the lesser known songs highly enjoyable. Plenty to love throughout, and does a fantastic job of capturing unbridled rage in a very engaging way from start to finish
Morrissey
4/5
Very fun listen that has a really solid production quality and mixing that I very much enjoyed. Toes a nice line of both pop and rock that I found very fresh. Personally enjoyed the songs with social commentary more engaging, but an interesting album that isn't bogged down by a more mainstream sound. Top tracks: America Is Not the World, I'm Not Sorry, I Like You
Bobby Womack
3/5
Definitely an album with a much stronger B side. While the A side is certainly fine, I don't feel like there's anything noteworthy until the album takes a slower and more heartfelt turn. Once the bass kicks in and the songs can breathe more, the album becomes much more engaging. Top tracks: Stand Up, If You Think You're Lonely Now, Where Do We Go From Here
Sly & The Family Stone
1/5
Bizarre album that is so unapologetically boring. Amounts to some okayish bassy muzak that is entirely uninteresting. I kept waiting for something engaging to happen, but nothing ever does
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
1/5
A truly baffling album. Goofy production, shallow lyrics, and an honestly terrible vocal performance. A poor and whiny Springsteen "impression" over the most paint-by-numbers songs imaginable
Drive-By Truckers
3/5
A solid album thay really should not have been a double album. The first half is really strong and has a lot of groovy moments with some very insightful lyrics. The second half feels very repetitive and lost my interest, especially in conjunction with the first. Decent listen, much better stopped at the half way point. Top tracks: Days of Graduation, Three Great Alabama Icons, Zip City
Nightmares On Wax
1/5
Okay enough as background noise, but so incredibly boring to sit and listen to. Maybe is more engaging when you're high, but there is so much better music for that too. Entirely skippable
The xx
2/5
Decent 2010's indie electro-pop. Pretty derivative but generally inoffensive. Saves the best parts for the end, and not much else noteworthy throughout. Top tracks: On Hold, I Dare You
Cypress Hill
3/5
Pretty decent west coast rap album. Felt a little musically dated for my taste, but there are more than a few tracks to really enjoy here. Pointed and unapologetic, I feel this album particularly shines most when bringing in Latin influence to it's songs. Top tracks: Pigs, Latin Lingo, Tres Equis
Beastie Boys
4/5
In your face and unapologetically creative. The variety of samples used in the songs were a lot of fun, and the more original songs maintain the same levels of creativity and energy. Only real criticism is a lot of the lyrical delivery is very identical from song to song, but that isn't a huge detractors when the album itself is a very fun listen overall. Top tracks: No Sleep Till Brooklyn, Paul Revere, Brass Monkey
Frank Sinatra
5/5
Fantastic and heartfelt throughout. A wonderful expression of love in so many fun and iconic songs, absolutely something for anyone to enjoy. Some of Sinatra's best work, with great performances from him and his backing band
Joan Armatrading
3/5
Decent soul-folk album that has a lot to like, but also has a tendency to drag a little. It feels like the album starts strong, loses a lot of its energy, then comes back full circle at the end. Overall good, but very inconsistent and could have used with some additional trimming. Top tracks: Down To Zero, Love and Affection, Tall In The Saddle
Oasis
3/5
Not a bad album by any means, but I really don't understand why Oasis is so highly regarded. For me this was a perfectly fine britpop album with some nasally vocals and clean & catchy guitar riffs. Nothing special, but nothing too bad. Top tracks: Supersonic, Cigarette & Alcohol, Married with Children
Queen Latifah
5/5
Hail the Queen indeed. This was such a great and fun listen, even more impressive that Latifah is still a teenager on this record. Has a very fresh sound that keeps it more engaging and less dated than some of its contemporaries. Simple yet effective. Top tracks: Dance for Me, The Pros, Princess of the Possee
Michael Jackson
5/5
A fantastic blending of disco and pop for some truly infectious songs. Impossible to not love some of Jackson's greatest hits, with some very solid lesser known tracks as well. No weak spots on a very complete album. Top tracks: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough, Rock With You, Off The Wall, She's Out of My Life
John Lennon
2/5
Very strange album. Some genuinely moving moments intermixed with raspy screaming that left me feeling jarred and kind of put off by the album. Felt very pretentious with only a surface level of depth, but there are a few songs to enjoy here that aren't as unhinged. Top tracks: Love, Well Well Well
808 State
2/5
Not the worst electronica I've heard. Completely uninterested in the EDM portions of songs, but there were definitely some standout moments that I found much more akin to light dubstep, and much more enjoyable as a result. Top tracks: Pacific 202, Donkey Doctor
Beatles
5/5
My personal favorite Beatles album. There's just something so homey and inviting about the songs, and I love this in-between-eras feel that is reflected throughout. Blending their pop sound with more experimental elements. Criminally underrated with some of their best work
The Divine Comedy
1/5
One od the strangest and least appealing albums I've listened to. Horrid vocals, shoddy production, and some truly baffling arrangement/lyric choices for a "love" album. Only redeeming quality is the shorter runtime. Wholly terrible
Antony and the Johnsons
2/5
Another baroque/chamber pop album that tries way too hard to be different, and ends up sounding like every other airy and shallow album of the genre. Some okay slower songs towards the end, but a lot of faux intensity that feels like it's trying to convince the listener to take it seriously, when it should be focused on just being more serious. Top tracks: Fistful Of Love, Spiraling
Randy Newman
4/5
Emotional, thoughtful, and ever so slightly humorous. A really easy listen with no real weak spots. Lacking a true standout song in my opinion, but a very well-rounded album that is a joy to listen to. Top tracks: Sail Away, Lonely at the Top, God's Song (That's Why I Love Mankind)
Funkadelic
5/5
Delightfully twisted and boundary-pushing, this is more than just a funk rock album. The title track deservedly gets all the praise, but there are more than a few quality hidden gems that reward deeper listening. Definitely something I intend to listen to again and again
Billy Joel
5/5
I always forget how many iconic songs Billy Joel has, and then I come to find out so many of them are one this album?? Even though it wouldn't be the first thing I'd choose to listen to, I can't deny how just damn good this album is. Just an absolute blast to listen to from start to finish, in almost an unexplainable way
Baaba Maal
2/5
Very different from anything my Western-trained ear is accustomed to. Unfortunately I didn't connect with the album as much as I wanted to as a result, but there are some really cool melodic structures and instrumentation that at least keep the album from being boring
Rush
4/5
One my most back-and forth albums with Rush. On one hand, the title track is a blazing epic with a fun story and masterful musicianship. On the other, the B side is noticeably weaker, particularly lyrically. Still a fantastic record, but is more inconsistent than the other contemporary Rush records. Top tracks: 2112, A Passage To Bangkok, Tears
Erykah Badu
3/5
An album that starts off incredibly strong, then doesn't really go anywhere or do anything. I thoroughly enjoyed the first 20 minutes or so, but the album starts to become incredibly repetitive and almost droning. Would've liked it to either be shorter or more musically diverse. Not a bad listen by any means, but could've been a lot better. Top tracks: Penitentiary Philosophy, Didn't Cha Know, Cleva
Gary Numan
2/5
A couple of decent radio hits surrounded by very gimmicky composition. Interesting as a proto-techno/EDM sound, but shows a lot of the same repetitive and uninteresting pitfalls in a lot of places. A few tracks are at least fun to bob along to, but there's a lot of skippable music on this album. Top tracks: Conversation, Cars
Wilco
1/5
Low energy, boring, and downright sloppy at times. Juvenile lyrics with zero substance. Odd mix of ambience and whiny country that does not land for me at all. Would honestly give zero stars if I could
Aphex Twin
2/5
Okay enough techno album that feels just as generic as every other techno album on this list. At least there are some bop-py songs on this album, but when every sing is the same tempo it starts to get so boring. Cool moments, but those moments are fleeting. Top tracks: Ageispolis, Green Calx
The xx
2/5
Pretty low key and forgettable ambient indie pop album. A couple decent radio singles but becomes very boring as a full album. Inoffensive and very plain. Top tracks: Intro, Fantasy
Venom
2/5
An album I feel is more overrated because of its title and album art, especially when compared to contemporary proto-black metal albums. Reads more like an edgy album without much substance (and very poor performances at times), but picks up significantly with the last few tracks. Couple of decent songs, but a lot to skip. Top tracks: Countless Bathory, Don't Burn the Witch
Bebel Gilberto
4/5
Very soothing and relaxing listen. Nothing too crazy going on, but a very nice qell-rounded album that you could easily fall asleep to. Excellent vocal performance as well. All around solid
Paul Simon
3/5
Fairly generic soft pop album with some solid standout moments. Nothing too noteworthy, but a few songs (particularly the title track) do rise above the rest and have a very sentimental quality that makes them more enjoyable on their own. Top tracks: Hearts amd Bones, Think Too Much (b), Cars Are Cars
Pavement
1/5
I genuinely cannot fathom how this album was released. Some of the most amateurish production, basic song structures, and a vocal performance thay is both screechy and airy as if the songs were written for another vocalist for a higher range. Absolutely baffling how this album fails in pretty much every capacity. Zero redeeming qualities
Madonna
3/5
While I appreciate the musical diversity present on this album, it certainly has its share of highs and lows. Also gets stronger as the album goes; each song is better than the last in my opinion. Something for everyone, but not all for me. Top tracks: Don't Tell Me, Paradise (Not for Me), Gone
Dolly Parton
4/5
Very sweet and heartfelt album, with great performances all around. Enjoyable to sit back and listen to. About exactly what you'd expect on an album from any of Parton, Rondstat or Harris
Tom Waits
3/5
A very interesting album that I'm having a hard time rating. I thought the performance was fun and engaging especially once the album gets going towards the end of side 1, but a lot of the meandering felt out of place for a music record. This feels like an album that would have been best to experience in person. Lot to love here, but suffers from inconsistency and parts that don't translate well without a visual component. Top tracks: Eggs And Sausage, Better Off Without A Wife, Nobody
Frank Ocean
3/5
A decent RnB album weighed down by a lot of bloat and unengaging tracks. Would have been a much better EP/shorter album that highlighted the bright spots better. Overall a few excellent tracks, but a lot that is skippable. Top tracks: Pyramids, Lost, Bad Religion
Milton Nascimento
2/5
I feel like I wanted to like this album more than I did; so many of the tracks just blended together into ambient filler. I'm sure this would be more enjoyable with subsequent listens, but on first pass there's a few standout moments with a lot of forgettable parts in between. Top tracks: Clube Da Esquina No2, Os Povos
David Crosby
2/5
An album I wanted to enjoy more than I did. Thought everything was fine, but didn't wow me in the same way that CSNY did on their album, like this was missing essential parts that make it more engaging. Fine enough and very soothing, but nothing compelling me to come back to
3/5
Another album I found surprisingly disappointing. Certainly has its fair share of highs moments, but I found it pretty "okay" for how much star power it brought U2. Really solid radio hits, but a pretty lackluster total package. Top tracks: With Or Without You, Bullet The Blue Sky, One Tree Hill
The Last Shadow Puppets
4/5
Really fun album that while good, lacked greatness. Felt like watered-down Arctic Monkeys (unsurpsisingly), and left me just wanting a punchier sound. Definitely worth a listen, but doesn't surpass the work outside of this supergroup. Top tracks: Standing Next To Me, Calm Like You, My Mistakes Were Made For You
Steely Dan
2/5
Not terrible, but very boring in my opinion. If soft/yacht-esque rock is your thing you'll enjoy, otherwise pretty uninteresting outside of a couple radio hits. Felt like a very "safe" record that doesn't do anything to crazy to maximize general appeal. Top tracks: Kings, Reelin' In The Years
R.E.M.
1/5
Goofy songs structure and comically childish lyrics, with the thinnest level of depth possible. One of the most annoying nasally vocals performances I've ever heard as well. No idea how this band is so popular. Wholly unserious album
Fugazi
4/5
Really kickass proto-grunge/hardcore album that has a lot going for it. Personally I thought the best spots were the least punk-esque, and the band let songs breathe more. Would love a remaster of this album since the production quality gets a bit grating at times. Overall very enjoyable headbanger. Top tracks: Brendan #1, Blueprint, Sieve-Fisted Find
Fred Neil
2/5
I just didn't find this album all that interesting. A couple of nice folk songs, but found myself mostly indifferent to a lot of the material. Lots of cool harmonica use is a nice plus. Top tracks: Faretheewell (Fred's Tune), Everybody's Talkin'
Beck
2/5
Very frustrating album. Almost feels *too* sloppy, even though the offbeat swing is very intentional. Some very bizarre production choices and effects use as well that almost always make the songs significantly more unpleasant to listen to. Some decent hidden hlgems but a lot to skip over. Top tracks: Hotwax, Ramshackle
SZA
3/5
Decent enough and easy to listen to. Nothing too crazy, but a solid neo-R&B/lofi album with all-around good performances. Did drag a little more than a few times, but overall good enough to keep my attention. Top tracks: Go Gina, Broken Clocks, Normal Girl
David Bowie
4/5
This was definitely a tale-of-two-sides album. While the A side was decent if unremarkable (save the title track), the B side had some of Bowie's best hidden gems in my opinion. Dazzling and mesmerizing on the whole second half with Bowie reaching the height of his ability. Very enjoyable overall. Top tracks: Aladdin Sane, The Jean Genie, Lady Grinning Soul
1/5
Pretty unremarkable and boring for such a short album. Each song felt like the exact same 2ish minute jingle, with little difference or depth between them. At least it wasn't too long?
Neil Young
3/5
A little underwhelming for what is considered Young's best album. The A side was remarkably derivative and samey to everything else in his discography. B side was more engaging, but still had filler trappings that left me surprised and let down by the end. Some solid moments, but nothing better than anything else in Young's expansive repertoire. Top tracks: Old Man, The Needle and the Damage Done, Words
The Jam
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Punchy, electric, and not too obnoxious for a mod record. Plenty of catchy hooks and engaging moments throughout that make this a real romp of a listen. Top tracks: Start!, That's Entertainment, Dream Time
Megadeth
5/5
One of the best metal albums ever released. Blazing speed with incredible musicianship and a meaty sound that is unrelenting but not oppressive. Very accessible for casual listening, and plenty of depth to appreciate for repeated plays. A magnum opus for one of the biggest metal bands
Genesis
4/5
There is a pretty excellent album squished between a lot of uninteresting filler. A 40-45 minute record of the best parts of Sides B & C would be much better and more properly curated. The rock opera piece is largely uninteresting and bloats an album that should have left more on the cutting room floor. Top tracks: Back in N.Y.C., Counting Out Time, The Carpet Crawlers
The Monks
2/5
A pretty strange album that certainly shows it's proto-punk age. Would be curious if this album was ever remastered or remixed, since the production is pretty rough. Some interesting things going on and props for almost inventing a new genre, but a rough and raw listen that didn't really hold my attention. Top tracks: I Hate You, Complication
The The
2/5
Neat blending of rock, synth, and big brass. My biggest issue is this is a fine but unremarkable album - I'm not entirely sure why it's included in this project. Couple decent hidden gems but a lot to move on from. Top tracks: Sweet Bird Of Truth, The Mercy Beat
Teenage Fanclub
2/5
Another day, another okay enough British alt rock album that doesn't do much of anything to stand out from the myriad of albums just like it. No idea why this is in the project, largely fine and forgettable. Top tracks: The Comcept, Star Sign
Faith No More
3/5
Solid album held back by a fairly derivative sound and at times a very nasally vocal performance. Wasn't a fan of the popular hits on this album, but there are more than a few hidden gems that lean into some very fun musical creativity in a very satisfying way. Perfectly fine alt metal album. Top tracks: Surprise! You're Dead!, The Real Thing, Woodpecker From Mars
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
4/5
A bit of a weird prog rock album occupying a very specific Time and a Place in music history. The individual performances are fantastic and showcase some true virtuoso-level musicianship (Carl Palmer might be the most criminally underrated drummer of all time), but the sound itself feels so dated that it's harder to appreciate 50 years after it's release. ELP is the one prog band that has aged the least-gracefully with their overall sound. Still an excellent listen (especially the title track), but there's a lot that feels stuck in a very specific era of music that has been entirely left behind. The B side also suffers from some afterthought tracks that pale especially in comparison to the A side. Top tracks: Tarkus, Bitches Crystal, A Time and a Place
Sonic Youth
3/5
A very frustrating album that comes down to my own personal preferences. There are some pretty decent tracks on this album that lean more into an interesting melodic melancholy that made for some quality songs. But so much of the ambient noise comes off as completely unnecessary runtime padding - this absolutely did not need to be a double album. Honestly would have preferred more distortion with the ambience to lean into a proto-shoegaze sound. Sonic Youth's best, and it still leaves some to be desired. Top tracks: Teen Age Riot, Total Trash, Candle
Willie Nelson
5/5
What a fantastic mellow outlaw country album. There's something so captivating about the delicacy of the songs, so pared down yet doing so much emotionally. Feels like the perfect album to put on around a campfire. My only complaint is that I wish it was longer
David Bowie
3/5
Bit of a strange album for Bowie. An iconic song surrounded by okayish single songs and a largely ambient B side. Title track is great and the ambient songs string together nicely for a very dynamic atmosphere, but I almost wish there was one more track that stood out. Feels a little incomplete. You could make a total 5/5 album combining the best moments from Low and Heroes
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
A perfectly fine folk album that doesn't do too much for me. Not unpleasant to listen to, just didn't grab me in the way I might have expected. Surprised there is any bloat on an album under 30 mins. Some good tracks, but nothing groundbreaking. Top tracks: America, Old Friends, Mrs Robinson
Jethro Tull
4/5
Pretty solid folk/prog rock album. Takes a bit to get going but finishes very strong. Definitely preferred the more guitar-oriented songs to the flute/piano-heavy ones, but that's more personal taste than a knock on the album. Won'dring Aloud, Hymn 43, Wind Up
Badly Drawn Boy
2/5
There's a solid EP buried in this album. Way too long with too many songs that are either uninteresting or just downright bad. A few solid bright spots that are very relaxing and/or pleasant, but absolutely needed more song selection editing. Especially for a debut album. Top tracks: The Shining, Once Around the Block, Epitaph
Germs
3/5
Very raw hardcore punk album. Top my surprise I found the middle of the album very enjoyable once the songs stopped feeping the same. Would make for a great 15 minute EP, since a lot of the songs are subpar in my opinion. But when everything is clicking, the intensity is very enjoyable. Top tracks: Manimal, Our Way, The Other Newest One
Youssou N'Dour
4/5
Very fun listen with a lot of unique percussion driving the album. Woupd love to dive more into Sengalese music since it is so different from my western-accustomed ears. Entertaining and interesting
Elastica
3/5
Perfectly fine britpop/rock album. My biggest complaint is the best songs are the ones allowed to breathe - every song that is under 2 mins would totally benefit from being stretched a little more to developed a bit more. Still there are things to like here, but could've been a lot better overall. Top tracks: Connection, S.O.F.T., Never Here
David Holmes
1/5
The most boring use of percussion-heavy music I've ever listened to. I don't hate the idea in theory, but it's so lazily executed that there's nothing to take away from this album. To say nothing of every song having the same tempo and structure
Shack
2/5
More generic samey britpop; at a certain point I question why so many of these albums are included on this project. Nothing bad but nothing noteworthy, sounds exactly like everything else in the genre. Top tracks: Streets Of Kenny, Daniella
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Fun, powerful, and vividly soulful. One of the best offerings by one of the best vocalists of all time. A perfect album to sit back and listen to, or to get up and dance to. Spellbinding vocals and smooth jazzy backing music make this such an enjoyable listen. Top tracks: Chain of Fools, Niki Hoeky, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
Metallica
5/5
A strong thrash metal album that manages to find a nice balance of intensity while maintaining that level consistently through the entire record. Really fun use of tempo/rhythm changes pulling from more more prog styles. Some of Metallica's best work, and more than a few lesser known gems make this a must-listen. Top tracks: Eye of the Beholder, One, Harvester of Sorrow, To Live Is to Die
Echo And The Bunnymen
1/5
Meandering and boring. Has no discernible direction other than being uninteresting. Decent opening track then devolves into an entirely skippable album. Hard pass
The Cramps
1/5
Wholly uninteresting. Playing essentially the same riff for the entire album duration with incoherent shouting, echoey production effects and some boring covers make this a total snoozefest. Barely qualifies as an album
Cocteau Twins
2/5
A lot of strange production and performance decisions make this a very rocky album. Certain songs stand out with very strong use of ambience and pop, others are so wildly unpleasant (particularly the vocals) that I couldn't wait for them to be over. A few tracks worth listening to, but a lot to skip over. Top tracks: Lorelei, Pandora (for Cindy)
Frank Black
3/5
Fun and upbeat but not terribly noteworthy. Something for everyone with a very safe alt rock/pop sound and plenty of fun performances, but lacks a true statement track or moment that would make me want to come back for more. Not bad, but a little long for how little stands out
Turbonegro
4/5
A surprisingly catchy album. Regularly found myself head-banging along and enjoying pretty much every song. Lyrics were a bit childish and crass for my taste, but musically there's a lot to love here. Very good hardcore punk album overall
Christina Aguilera
2/5
A few solid singles, but overall an album that needed much more editing and overall direction. Most of the album is very derivative and does not justify the 70+ minute runtime. You've probably heard the only songs worth hearing on the radio already. Top tracks: Fighter, Infatuation, Beautiful
The Velvet Underground
1/5
Maybe the first post-rock album? Almost sounds like it intentionally resists interpretation, with a lot of freeform and minimal structure. While I appreciate the trailblazing nature, this was not an appealing listen at all. Maybe repeat listens help it click more, but it's almost too musically challenging to really understand on first pass. Comes across as a lot of musical gibberish
Leonard Cohen
3/5
A pretty solid if inconsistent folk record ranging from incredible to abrasive entirely depending on Cohen's vocal performance song to song. Compelling and at times haunting guitar lines with deep lyrics unfortunately overshadowed by very shaky vocals. Would be much better with any other performer. Top tracks: Avalanche, Famous Blue Raincoat
David Bowie
3/5
A pretty good modern Bowie offering. Not my favorite album and slightly inconsistent song to song, but still pieces to enjoy. Again would have benefited from song selection editing. Top tracks: Where Are We Now?, If You Can See Me, I'd Rather Be High
The National
5/5
A pleasantly surprising album that does a great job of blending relaxing indie with a surprising amount of melancholic depth. Highly enjoyable listen with a lot to love, no real weak spots
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
3/5
One of the stranger albums in this project. Bizarre production and composition at times, and yet everything is still pretty catchy. Like an Elvis impersonator in a shoegaze punk band. Very surprised how much I found myself enjoying this album, if very unorthodox. Top tracks: Wail, 2Kindsa Love, Can't Stop
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
Short and sweet pop rock album that is generally fine and inoffensive. Didn't Love everything but nothing was unlistenable and there are a few fun tracks worth listening to. The definition of decent. Top tracks: Breakdown, Fooled Again (I Don't Like It), American Girl
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
1/5
I'm certain there's a cultural piece that I'm missing limiting my potential enjoyment of this album, but it really is not that musically interesting at all. Feels like the same melody and vocalizations for the entire runtime
Fiona Apple
1/5
A really underbaked and boring album. Repeating the same phrase with slightly varying 4/4 backing percussion gets very stale very fast, and the lyrics themselves feel incredibly one-note and shallow. Feels like a very low-effort album for one apparently so personal
Janelle Monáe
2/5
A solid R&B pop album that does a lot well but is way too long to keep attention. Some good moments but bogged down by a lot of forgettable filler that in my opinion detracts from the high points. Top tracks: Neon Valley Street, Say You'll Go
Willie Nelson
5/5
A fantastic album blending delicate jazz and country in an immensely enjoyable way. Excellent blend of slow songs and enough soft energy to make this album very well rounded. Great performances as well
Circle Jerks
3/5
Didn't think it'd be possible to fit 14 songs into 15 total minutes, but here we are. Definitely a mixed bag - some fun punchy punk songs, some that were just 30 seconds of noise. I'll always be an advocate for fleshing out songs more, but not the worst punk album I've heard. Top tracks: I Just Want Some Skank, Beverly Hills, Live Fast Die Young
Dwight Yoakam
2/5
Started out okay enough, ended on a really boring note. Safe and generic country sounding that is fine but boring and not really my speed. Also not a huge fan of anything dixie. Top tracks: I Got You, Buenas Novhes From a Lonely Room
3/5
Very interesting post-rock album that has some things going for it, even if it's a little out there. A lot of the garbled noise and percussion don't 100% land for me, but there is a strange quality that kept me interested. Which is more than I can say for a lot of the more derivative albums in this project. Top tracks: Broken Witch, We Fenced Other Gardens with the Bones of Our Own, Flow My Tears The Spider Said
The Byrds
2/5
This album is in a weird space of Beatles-esque with some covers, lacking a true musical identity. Some very fun hidden gems but on the whole a fairly uninteresting album. At least it doesn't overstay it's welcome. Top tracks: What's Happening?, Captain Soul
Blur
3/5
An uneven album that has some very quality high points, but is very musically inconsistent and I feel struggles to define itself. Doesn't help that the best songs is by far the shortest and feels like an odd inclusion around the rest of the album. Solid but needs more direction. Top tracks: Song 2, Death of a Party, Movin' On
Stephen Stills
3/5
Honestly pretty underwhelming for the primary songwriter behind CSN(Y). Felt very generic and didn't do a whole lot for me. The best tracks included the guest guitarists, which maybe speaks to why CSN(Y) works so well when I find all their solo albums fall short of the mark. Top tracks: Old Times Good Times, Go Back Home, Cherokee
Michael Jackson
5/5
An excellent album with great infectious energy from start to finish. You can't help but dance along to the whole album, and there really isn't any weak point or break in the engagement. Overall stellar. Top tracks: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin', Beat It, Billie Jean, P.Y.T.
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
2/5
Safe and forgettable album with mediocre songs and performances. Not bad, not good. Easy to listen to but nothing worth revisiting. Top tracks: Forest Fire, Are You Ready To Be Heartbroken?
Richard Thompson
4/5
Really interesting low-key country/folk album. Has a very dark and serious undertone surrounded by the cheerier songs throughout the album. Not a perfect offering, but very good. Top tracks: The Calvary Cross, Withered And Died, I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
3/5
A fine album with good energy but never really goes anywhere than where it starts. A little one-note for my taste, but still a punchy leftist romp that isn't bad at all. Top tracks: Ramblin' Rose, Kick Out the Jams, I Want You Right Now
Ice Cube
5/5
Fantastic hip hop album blending wit, commentary, humor and vindictiveness in a way that only Ice Cube can. Lyrically superb and musically diverse; even the filler tracks manage to keep your attention. An all-time great 90s recording. Top tracks: Wicked, The Predator, It Was A Good Day, Check Yo Self