496
Albums Rated
3.58
Average Rating
46%
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593 albums remaining
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2010s
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53
5-Star Albums
1
1-Star Albums
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By Genre
By Decade
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Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ray Of Light | 5 | 2.99 | +2.01 |
| Fuzzy | 5 | 3.01 | +1.99 |
| Smile | 5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
| Le Tigre | 5 | 3.13 | +1.87 |
| Let England Shake | 5 | 3.15 | +1.85 |
| Like A Prayer | 5 | 3.23 | +1.77 |
| Apocalypse 91… The Enemy Strikes Black | 5 | 3.23 | +1.77 |
| I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got | 5 | 3.25 | +1.75 |
| Chirping Crickets | 5 | 3.29 | +1.71 |
| The Soft Bulletin | 5 | 3.29 | +1.71 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Fat Of The Land | 1 | 3.41 | -2.41 |
| Frank | 2 | 3.45 | -1.45 |
| Hot Buttered Soul | 2 | 3.42 | -1.42 |
| This Is Fats Domino | 2 | 3.38 | -1.38 |
| Seventeen Seconds | 2 | 3.38 | -1.38 |
| Since I Left You | 2 | 3.28 | -1.28 |
| A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector | 2 | 3.28 | -1.28 |
| Selected Ambient Works 85-92 | 2 | 3.21 | -1.21 |
| Paranoid | 3 | 4.2 | -1.2 |
| The Visitors | 2 | 3.2 | -1.2 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Bruce Springsteen | 5 | 4.6 |
| Bob Dylan | 4 | 4.75 |
| Madonna | 3 | 4.67 |
| Oasis | 2 | 5 |
| R.E.M. | 2 | 5 |
| Beatles | 6 | 4.17 |
| Radiohead | 4 | 4.25 |
| The Who | 4 | 4.25 |
| Steely Dan | 3 | 4.33 |
| The Smiths | 3 | 4.33 |
| Michael Jackson | 3 | 4.33 |
5-Star Albums (53)
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Popular Reviews
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Wonder's magical album run in the early seventies is kind of amazing, even if the albums have not totally impacted me. In this listen to Talking Book I was mesmerized more than ever. Perhaps I need a multiple listen guideline for these albums. In particular, the interplay of the multiple organs/keys on many tracks. The big 3 tracks here are just top Wonder on any list. I'm close to a 5 here, more of a 4.5 but bumping up for the perfect vibe.
1 likes
Tom Waits
4/5
I don't like Tom Waits' voice, it drives me bonkers but I'll say in the context of an album, it's pretty great. I would put this on again and the songwriting is great!
1 likes
Can
3/5
Wait, this is some high music. I don't hate it, but definitely hits the background music feel for me. Some really cool experimental moments.
1 likes
Neil Young
4/5
Solid album. I have really liked the 2 Young albums even while not being the biggest fan of his voice. Great songwriter, eh?
1 likes
1-Star Albums (1)
All Ratings
Prince
4/5
I think Prince usually puts together albums that have some misses. This is one of the albums I own and I know it front to back. I remember my brother was really into Prince when he was like 7 or 8--this was in the 80s when there were only a few (mostly) filthy albums. Weird. Anyway, it's good!
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Ugh, is this going to make me a Neil Young fan? Probably not fully, but I've always appreciated his songwriting and grungy style. He's also really good to harmonize with--great backing on this whole album.
Beastie Boys
4/5
Classic stuff on here, but I've always thought I could do 3-4 BB songs in a row and that's about it.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Very funky. I've never been a fan of the falsetto, but Curtis makes it work--kind of a proto Prince feel. I could do without the Jesus song
Nas
5/5
Brilliant from start to finish, love how it's economical. A couple more tracks and it would probably get repetitive. The bass hit me right up front and the lyricism is straight from Del and some 80s old schoolers--and a lot of the way these beats are set up are subsequently copied on Deltron 3030 (my #1 hip hop album). Also love the subtle 'Human Nature' (Michael Jackson) sample in the last track.
B.B. King
3/5
Not a big blues fan and while this is really solid, it just doesn't do anything for me. Loved when he sang, I gave her 7 kids, she gave em back!
Queen
3/5
Getting closer to the Queen we know here, but just barely above Queen II. Still not a style I like, but Killer Queen is an all timer!
Beatles
4/5
Look and listen, this is a landmark album and all Beatles albums are 4s and 5s for me. However, this is a collection of some of the more meh songs from them in my mind, She Said, She Said is a standout but the rest (almost all classics) don't really make a dent with me. Would probably go 3.5 here if I could.
Can
3/5
Wait, this is some high music. I don't hate it, but definitely hits the background music feel for me. Some really cool experimental moments.
Bobby Womack
3/5
Definitely not my style, but this is a very smooth album--the last 2 tracks really hit!
Black Sabbath
3/5
Enjoyed this much more than I thought I would--some really iconic music here and Ozzy's voice just rules.
Blondie
4/5
I had never really heard a full Blondie album before and it's a bit what I imagined it would be like. Some cool stuff here and I would totally buy an album and stick it in my collection--and is Heart of Glass one of the best songs ever?
MGMT
4/5
Hypnotically good--I only knew that one single on here that was and is played everywhere, but I love it!
The Police
4/5
Not the biggest Police fan, but this is definitely peak and the second half slaps--I wonder if the record company begged them to make the 2nd half the 1st half! There are not many voices as singular as Sting's.
Dennis Wilson
4/5
I can't believe I've never heard of this album, it's great! Reminds me of solo McCartney. Very ecclectic and changes from song to song.
Venom
3/5
I guess this album is unironic, but I might be wrong. It's like a basic ur-text for other metal. Love the spelling out of sacrifice which I can only assume inspired Fergie. Maybe it's hilarious? Like, the song titles came first? There's no denying the musicianship, even if I never quite got metal--my older brother tried, but I just don't care, this album almost makes me care.
Nirvana
5/5
Iconic
Pixies
3/5
This group should be right in my wheelhouse, but I'm always underwhelmed. Love Kim Deal and even Black Francis' songwriting is very cool. It just doesn't overall gel for me, even though Wave and Here Comes Your Man are top songs for me. Album is like 3 songs too long and is Crackity Jones problematic, or what?
David Bowie
4/5
Interesting that the first Bowie is his biggest transition. From glam superhero to crooner, sort of like he's glamming Elvis. Young Americans the song is an all timer for me, I particularly love how the pronoun of who wants the Young American changes. The rest of the album is nicely funky with amazing backing vocals, but none of the tracks really stick with me away from the album. Even Fame is a bit too basic funk. To me this is a Bowie 3, but any other artist would call this a 4.
Kanye West
3/5
This one never grabbed me like the next few Kanye albums. It also makes me sad to listen to these albums because he has slid so deep into what must be mental illness. I mean, these albums are artistically brilliant, funny, real, and are 180 from where I would've imagined he would end up. Okay, maybe marrying a Kardashian, but everything else?! Nope.
Elis Regina
4/5
Love this, reminds me of Carly Simon. Jazzy, but with cool rhythms.
Kate Bush
4/5
Never the biggest fan of A Deal With God, so I never really explored Kate's music. I love the epic and serious quality of her songwriting, clearly presaging Tori Amos, Fiona Apple, and others. And Dream of Sheep almost brought tears to my eyes. This is almost a 5.
Frank Zappa
3/5
I had a friend who was a huge Zappa fan, but I never quite got there. I think I've listened to Sheik Yerbouti and Joe's Garage and they're fine. My old band used to cover Camarillo Brillo. Before that, I remember the Monkees episode where Zappa plays Mike and Mike plays Zappa--definitely odd. Anyway, this album is a great background listen, or waiting for a film soundtrack--I could see Tarantino using it for something. I think I like it more because Zappa isn't saying weird things and the only singing is from Captain Beefheart (also weird and maybe not necessary). I assume there will be more Zappa to come, so we'll see if my feelings change.
Emmylou Harris
3/5
That Beatles song snuck up on me. I always preferred old Hank Williams country (though still too twangy for me overall). Very solid album that nods to HW and nails the ballads.
Kraftwerk
3/5
Hypnotic, bordering on repetitive but CAN'T STOP LISTENING!
Queen
3/5
Ok, so here's the thing, I don't like this. But the serious dedication is worth a 3 ... would rate 2 if it wasn't tight as hell.
Lorde
3/5
I remember having high hopes for this one after Pure Heroine and being a bit disappointed. Where PH is spare, this album is a bit overdone to the point of sounding the same. This extra listen has helped it in my esteem and Green Light is such a great opener. I wish there was a 3.5.
Beck
4/5
The only Beck album I have ever owned and I wore it out. That said, it's not completely a 5 for me.
Simple Minds
3/5
Honestly, kind of boring. I'll bet if you listened to it 10 times in a row it would be your personal album to gatekeep, but I'm not doing that! However, I again do realize the intricacies of the songwriting and it gets a 3, but would probably be 2.5.
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
I like the way this album experiments and crosses genres--the transitions are really great, but I've never particularly been a fan of the Lamar flow. At times it's brilliant, but too often he does the Shakespeare thing of being profane just for the sake of being shocking and it doesn't quite fit. Apparently that was his original MO, so it's probably the easiest place for him to go, but when he rises above it, he's just more interesting. Would be a 3.5 for me, but I'm going with a solid:
Public Enemy
4/5
The old school beats here are amazing and the album flows nicely. I would pick this up again.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
I just did a Springsteen discography in the last few months and a lot of Bruce fans put this one in their top 5, it might not even get top 10 for me. It's still a
Frank Sinatra
3/5
It's odd how much I enjoy showtunes and crooner style standards when in person, but could completely do without them as listening pleasure. This is lovely background music, but Sinatra's style doesn't grab me. Some amazing orchestrations here, though!
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Fantastic! I did not know a single song off of this album, but it was great!! Could be a 5 someday ...
Le Tigre
5/5
This band is my exact wheelhouse and when I mentioned to my wife I listened to this great band I had never heard-she had heard them! I was very mad. Anyway, even though I've only listened once I already know it would be a 5 someday so I'm cutting to the chase:
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
The most interesting thing about this album is that one of the members disappeared after this one and was officially declared dead sometime in the 2000s. A big mystery. The music is good, but I couldn't name one song or tune. I would put it on as background maybe.
Sigur Rós
3/5
Wow, this is really not my thing. I dig using nontraditional methods for a rock album (I mean, I have Kid A and Amnesiac), but it wasn't until listening to this that I just am not interested. This would be a 2.5 for me, but a 3 based on technical musicianship. I felt like I was watching the end credits for a movie for an hour.
Steely Dan
4/5
This album on 1st listen is very close to a 5 for me. Every song is great and the musicianship is always on another level with SD. I wish I had this on vinyl.
Fairport Convention
4/5
This is fantastic and sent me down a Richard Thompson rabbit hole.
Love
3/5
Fascinating. At turns this guy sounds like Micky Dolenz, then Jim Morrison, then Iggy Pop. There are some good songs, but veers toward the type of psychadelic pop meanderings I am not wholly a fan of.
Lou Reed
4/5
I love the VU, but never really got into Lou Reed solo--maybe his 'hits' that were radio played never grabbed me. This album absolutely grabbed me and somehow I hung on every word. I'm not sure how the math adds up here to Lou Reed being good. He's so weird. But I dig it.
The Cure
3/5
I enjoy a lot of Cure songs, but they all sound similar to me. I can't BELIEVE how long these song intros are. I think you have to be in the right mind space to listen to a full album and I've never been in that mind space.
Prince
4/5
This took me 2 listens to get, even though I love Prince! The album is like a long dance party and that's not necessarily a bad thing, but I've always had a hard time with this many drum machines--(why is HOT THING so long?) particularly when they're this obvious. But this could be his best overall album even though I will definitely rate Purple Rain higher.
Soft Cell
3/5
It's funny that this follows a Prince album on which I bemoaned drum machines. I thought this was interesting, but not sure why it's on this list. Perhaps the inventiveness on creating this entire album on a home recorder? It's basically a demo tape that hit hard, so I get the homegrown thing. Too bad it didn't originally include Where Did Our Love Go as that might have made this more interesting. But, I didn't hate this any more than the Cure album so it might be a 2.5 but I'll go with:
Def Leppard
4/5
This is my middle school soundtrack and while I left behind this style of music, this re-listen gave me chills. It's a 4.5, but not willing to hit 5.
Alice In Chains
4/5
I split from heavy rock like this before ALICE IN CHAINS hit, so I never really subscribed, even though I always liked Them Bones. After actually listening I was kind of blown away. I still don't like the heavy guitar sound, but Cantrell harmonizing with Staley is next level--they sound perfect. I thought it was a studio effect (it kind of is), but watched some live stuff. Still not going to go all AIC army, but VERY solid album. Would be 3.5, but I'm bumping.
Bob Dylan
5/5
I just realized this is the first 'classic' Dylan album (I have Time Out Of Mind and Love and Theft) I have ever heard all the way through which is absolutely bananas. When I was in high school, a friend made me a double cassette personal Dylan collection and I always felt that was satisfactory, so I jumped into this with a lot of anticipation. I was a bit underwhelmed because of it and would probably rate this as 4.5, but the songs I do know are some of the greatest songs ever written, so bumping this to 5 knowing after listening more it would get there.
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
The black hole in my rap listening fell at such an innovative time and I wish I had not changed gears before this era. This is such good shit (even though the machismo always hits wrong for me) and the thing that jumps out are the great references and imagery the group uses. The album gets better as it goes along which is wild! The only knock I have is it still has a foot in old school where it could've taken a giant leap (even though it's a bound and did Wu-Tang save East Coast Hip-Hop?).
The Strokes
4/5
I have always loved the Strokes, including when Last Nite dropped, but didn't get into them until well after this. They (with Interpol/Shins/et al) seem to have kept true rock moving in the aughts while other mainstays were effing around with electronica or being dwarfed by Hip Hop/Pop. I like the feel of this album and their sound is so good and inventive--it was fun to read about their origins. I like their next album more, but probably because it's the only one I own and I WORE IT OUT!
Dirty Projectors
4/5
I'm only not rating this a 5 because I need more time with it--it's sort of absurdist rock (Velvet Underground meets Car Seat Headrest?), twists and turns everywhere. Love the backing harmonies. Really cool discovery!
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
I think this would improve with more listens as it has an early REM feel to it and the sound of it resonates with me, so I'm going 4 here as it's a 3.5 after 1 listen.
Jeff Buckley
3/5
I like a lot of things about this album and it's hard to put a finger on why it's just not for me. It's completely different than anything else out there? Wavering too much between Soul, Rock, and Easy Listening? It's too emo? What I like is the passion behind everything and I assume it's the cover of Hallelujah that really keeps this on the map. Also, his tragic death makes this somewhat of an album of promise unrealized. I really like the song Grace and feel it was a blueprint for one of my favorite singers Jay Clifford of Jump, Little Children.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
Wow, a jazz album I actually own--I think it's just 2--this one is iconic and an easy listen. I would go 4.5 here, but actually knocking it down to 4 due to how my attention span wavers toward the end.
Rush
4/5
Am I going to be a Rush fan? Probably not, but I'm going to go through their catalog for sure. The one issue I can never get past is that I don't like Geddy Lee's voice. I have the same problem with Led Zeppelin, but I was today years old when I found out Peart wrote their lyrics too! That creates another knock on Geddy--although the bass lines are next level. In fact all of the music is off the charts good. Still a:
Lauryn Hill
4/5
I have only heard pieces of this album so it was great to get the full thing--and interesting how much a lesser album we listened to in Kanye's steals from this. The only knock I have on this is how the songs are similar, relying on Lauryn's amazing voice and also flow (I mean who has those skills!) which is pretty much enough, but would love to hear some over the top production with wild samples. Too bad nothing like that ever happened and too bad she noped out of the star life--we could've used her genius.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
3/5
I almost gave this a 2 because I can only take so much of this sameness, but upping to 3 for the song named after my daughter. And no, her name is not Joan or Sealand. The songs on their own are lovely and make me think of Tron or drops in movies that would be dope, but this is too much Mellotron for one sitting!!
5/5
I know this album like the back of my hand and love everything about it. I will say that it's probably best that Liam went bananas as I think his nasally delivery expired after this album and I'm not sure how Noel's songwriting fell off after this--maybe he got bored? But this album and Definitely Maybe are wall to wall perfect.
Thelonious Monk
4/5
The think I like about jazz is I think the improvisational aspect is as close to mapping the creative human mind we have. That said, the music itself (outside of a live setting) doesn't do too much for me besides background music. Although I do love playing it when I write. Monk is exceptional for me because of his eccentric playing style and I really liked a lot of this more than I thought I would. I like to think he's playing with hot dog fingers.
The The
3/5
Very interesting album and had some lovely moments, but didn't really make a dent with me. Electronica just doesn't get me going.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
It took a second listen, but I really dig how effortless this feels. I think this is the key to Hendrix is making the craziest noises with the guitar while making it look like he's barely trying. I feel like Prince had a similar style with his playing. I also appreciate the length of the songs, almost as if they are besides the point--more of a vehicle to try new things.
Frank Ocean
3/5
I actually own this one! But ... I don't really revisit it. It's definitely got some great moments, but overall a bit too samey for my taste.
Earth, Wind & Fire
5/5
Okay, here's the thing--All 'n All and Raise are both better albums by EWF, but since this is the only one of their albums on the list it's a 5. Nothing beats these guys IMO and they took funk/dance to another level, sort of combining the feel of Stevie Wonder with the sound of Parliament Funkadelic. Every album is a party and smooth as hell--also, they're still touring (RIP Mo White). I wouldn't normally suggest this, but putting their Greatest Hits Album on this list would completely make sense and I would recommend anyone enjoying this album go to the albums I mentioned or the Greatest Hits and you're welcome!
Björk
4/5
Love this album, but I had friends who were fanatical about it when it was released. Bjork is like a vocal unicorn. Doesn't quite hit 5 for me because I have to be in the correct mood.
The Slits
3/5
This would normally be something in my wheelhouse and I like the idea of it more than the execution. I'm not a big fan of Reggae tho, so probably why I checked out. Probably awesome to see live!
Linkin Park
3/5
I've never knowingly listened to LP, but I didn't hate this album. It's VERY slick and is like RATM/311/NIN formed an emo band. The songs don't really speak to me, but it was almost like watching an action sequence (these songs could totally score one). Also, super tragic story about the lead singer.
fIREHOSE
4/5
I really like finding albums like this through this list. Maybe that's the point, but there is part of me that wonders how it got on here--seems like an indie or local band feel. If this is on here, where's Head of Femur? Anyway, it's a:
Radiohead
4/5
My guess is that Radiohead were as surprised by this album's success as I am--it sprawls in a way that made me misremember the album would be a long slog but it's a pretty tight 10 songs. It looks like Thom was having writer's block and didn't want to write rock songs anymore putting the group in a weird place. I know this album very well, but it's not my favorite of theirs and I wonder if their work here and on OK Computer led rock down a strange electronic path for a decade or so. The songs here absolutely KILL live!
Beastie Boys
4/5
This album is completely groundbreaking and then they toured with Madonna? Wtf. I still stand by my no more than 3-4 Beastie Boys tracks in a row for me, so albums are tough. I don't need 3 dudes taking turns hollering at me for an hour. Still rips!
Snoop Dogg
4/5
The only reason this isn't a 5 is because I have only listened once through, it's basically a 4.5. The beats are insane! Snoop is so smooth! Loved it.
3/5
I really dug this groovy album.
The Kinks
4/5
Honestly, a big reason I'm on this journey is to have a reason to finally listen to the Kinks. This album is so easy to listen to. It would be a 3.5 for me, but bumping to:
Joy Division
3/5
I'm POSITIVE this resonates with someone, but I am not that person. This kind of goes with my luke warm attitude for sad or emo stuff, similar to The Cure. I appreciate the effort and sound, but this would probably be a 2.5 for me. Giving it a bump to 3 since if I found it at 14 years old it would've been gold.
Nick Drake
3/5
The story of Nick Drake is much more exciting to me than the music, although there is something captivating about his style. Belle and Sebastian, Rufus Wainwright, owe his estate a couple of bucks I would say! I did listen to the album twice and I can't say it made a dent, but I appreciated it.
The Beta Band
4/5
I remembered someone suggesting the Beta Band to me, but it turns out it was the movie High Fidelity. This is a really good album--I went back and listened to some of their other stuff and it was not as good. Too bad this was their last album!
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
I don't think there is anything else like this album--it's complete bangers from beginning to end and sounds different from anything else. Like a bar band with a country songwriter. Plus, the apex of The River, Nebraska, and this album is absurd. This might be a top 10 album ever.
Turbonegro
3/5
Really fun and tight album. Jello Biafra approved, so that checks out. Rating 3, but it's more a 3.5 and maybe over time could move to 4.
Deep Purple
4/5
I'm into it! Particularly hearing Jesus in his natural rock band setting. This would go 3.5 for me, so I'm going 4 due to the technical ridiculousness of these songs. Loved the Rat one. Apparently this is a change of direction for the band after hearing Zeppelin and I actually like it better.
Nick Drake
4/5
This is some really calming stuff and it's clear to see why it was kind of dismissed upon release--it's so subtle.
The Verve
3/5
My take is that Bitter Sweet Symphony is brilliant and I was really excited with the first part of the album. However, as it went on, none of the other songs really landed. I like the feel and tenor of the band more than the songwriting. I'll need to come back to this one as it could raise over time, but it's a:
Pantera
2/5
While I appreciate the technical proficiency of the music, this is not for me. It's my first 2, but I am also fascinated by the unhinged mass shooting that came from the guitar player forming a new band. WILD! This music definitely speaks to people.
Lucinda Williams
4/5
This album is great! I have heard a few of these songs randomly on my local radio station, but did not know where they were from.
Charles Mingus
4/5
I'm not usually into recorded jazz, but this was great!
R.E.M.
5/5
This album is one of my life soundtracks. Stand was my gateway drug into R.E.M. and Green was one of the first albums I bought (and it's not even a top 5 R.E.M. album for me). Their major label debut after inking a multi-million dollar deal with WB, it could be titled Enter the Mandolin. Highlights on this listen: Get Up, You Are The Everything, Hairshirt, and Untitled. Even the least interesting/most cloying track The Wrong Child is so interesting to listen to with the mandolin strum and overlapping lyrics. The stretch from Pageant to Automatic is Stipe at his lyrical best and this album has some BRILLIANT lines.
Electric Light Orchestra
4/5
I have always love Turn to Stone as a radio song, but never had the opportunity to listen to a full album. I like a lot about this and they really have no fear of orchestration. I'm fascinated that Jeff Lynne wrote all of these songs quickly in a burst of inspiration. I'm giving this a 4 because I was caught in a rain storm during the weather part and Mr Blue Sky hit just after the clouds broke. However, overall there is a bit of same-ness to the tracks due to the incessant orchestration.
Aimee Mann
4/5
This album will definitely send me down an Aimee Mann rabbit hole. I suspect I will like some of her other albums more, but this is very solid! I can't believe I've never listened to her before.
3/5
I kind of have the same response to this as The Verve, maybe it's why my interest in Oasis never expanded to more British 90s wave groups. I liked it more upon 2nd listen, but it's a 3.5, going 3 for length.
Amy Winehouse
2/5
I feel like this is only on the list because she only made 2 albums. It's pretty forgettable with some outdated (even at release) notions of masculinity.
The Avalanches
2/5
I'm not sure why I had such a negative reaction to this as the beats are quite nice and it's easy to listen to. But, I found myself not caring and thinking this was either groundbreaking or a wild misuse of sampling. Fun for a dance floor, not so much for listening.
CHVRCHES
3/5
I enjoyed the songwriting more than any other electronica I have listened to and this might be a 3.5, but going with a:
Fleet Foxes
3/5
Lovely music, would pet a fox to it. Now I know where that 'I was following' song came from and it's telling that my Spotify immediately went to a Nick Drake song after the album.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
In relistening to this album, I appreciate the truly unique sound RHCP cultivated. A lot of the lyrics are pretty cringy though and it's really only their hits that have ever made a dent with me. The other overly funk songs tend to gel together for me and make the album a bit of a slog. It's a 4 (maybe 4.5?) because the highs are soooo effin high.
Led Zeppelin
3/5
I've never liked Robert Plant's voice which has always made entry into the Led Zeppelin catalog difficult. I appreciate a lot of their work (Dazed and Confused, Communication Breakdown are great), but this album (while groundbreaking at the time) is an I dunno. Maybe too many covers considering where the band goes? I'm much more interested in the crazy story of the end of The Yardbirds into Zep--WTF, nobody wanted to stay in that band. This one is a 3.5 for me, but trending down to:
The Smiths
4/5
I LOVE The Smiths and I have not heard this album (and I also believe meat is murder, so how have I avoided it!). If no one has heard the group this might be the worst entry. They are a strange band that released a lot of charting non-album singles that were later compiled on albums that are not eligible for this list--even the US version of this originally added How Soon Is Now which is their most recognizable song and I wonder if this inclusion to the 1001 list thinks it's still there. Personally I would've left this one off, but for me it's a 3.5, bumping to a 4 based only on the lyric: "It was dark when I drove the point home.'
Steely Dan
4/5
There are some bands that I just assume never had debut albums--they just exist (like Springsteen). Imagine my surprise that Steely Dan had a legit first album and it's great with lots of hits. Loved it!
Arrested Development
3/5
I had this one on cassette when it first came out! Some real solid and catchy work (Mr Wendel pops in my head a lot!), but I was turned off by the religious stuff. It's impressive that they can sound like a backyard party with music and a bunch of mics (even into their next album which got NO love). The album flows nicely. It's a 3.5 for me, but going with 3 as it still hits my religion cringe meter.
Faust
3/5
Fun and interesting, but a bit repetitive. More of a 3.5, but going to 3.
Elliott Smith
4/5
I really enjoyed this, but it's a very slow burn. Reminds me a lot of Olivia Tremor Control as he sounds like that singer and the slightly off tune sounding guitar is sort of their trademark. A highlight for me is Cupid's Trick. A 3.5 now, but rating 4 as I think it is a grower.
CHIC
3/5
I was excited for this one, but it's actually a bit too same sounding. It's kind of an easy disco that maybe needs more funk or some stronger changes. Le Freak is the only standout and even that is more basic than I remember.
Sabu
3/5
Fun and I enjoyed all of it, but did not really make a dent with me.
Madonna
5/5
For all that I've listened to Madonna, I've never heard a full studio album. This entire album is bangers and I'm sad it's a blindspot. The Prince track is especially great, but Like a Prayer still gives me chills. You know what, it's a:
Roxy Music
3/5
While I appreciate the eclectic nature of what Roxy Music are doing, I expect you would need to immerse in this album for a while. The genre hopping is actually mindblowing, but I can't recall much of what I listened to. I will definitely check out more of their albums, but this is a 3.5 for me--dropping to:
Beastie Boys
4/5
I think this is their best--still find it exhausting to be hollered at by three dudes for an hour, but the beats are 100% dope on this one.
Violent Femmes
4/5
This is so good and hornier than I remember which might actually dock points as it's a bit on the concerning side. GONE DADDY GONE lives in my head rent free probably forever. 4.5 for me, but going:
Lightning Bolt
3/5
Not sure why this transfixed me, but it was very hypnotic and I love the concept of the band. They say you need to see them live, but that sounds exhausting. Probably a 3.5, but dropping for monotony to:
Missy Elliott
4/5
Love this! I've never heard Missy Elliot and knew it was a blind spot, but it's great! Great guests and beats.
Belle & Sebastian
4/5
I really like Belle & Sebastian, but I appreciate their fuller 'Dear Catastrophe Waitress' era more. Still cooks, though! A 3.5. but actually bumping up to 4.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
I think I like AXIS better, but this has more iconic songs on it!
Jimmy Smith
3/5
Almost gave this a 2, but then I listened again--it's tight enough for a 3.5, but going to:
The Undertones
3/5
Again, this is the content I am part of this journey for. Who are these guys? Sounds great! They're a bit obsessed with girls tho. 3.5, but going to 3 for now.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
5/5
I found myself unreasonably angry this morning at the pilot who crashed and robbed us--this dude went up with no visibility when he knew he wasn't cleared to fly blind. Geez, what Buddy would've done--I mean, this cat was 22! These songs are iconic and they totally slap. This is a:
Jungle Brothers
3/5
I really like this, but boy did things level up like right after this! This would be perfect to put on background at a party.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
This was better on 2nd listen as I used on a long bike ride. But I feel the same I did about the Australian group--fun for dance parties and definitely technically amazing, but would probably not just toss on to hear.
Funkadelic
4/5
Love it! It doesn't get much funkier, but they rock out more than I have heard on other albums.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Holy actual ish. I can't believe I've never heard this album. You could remove the artistic creative breakdown songs by Lindsey and still have a brilliant piece of work, but it's those tracks that make it a 5. Christine and Stevie are at their absolute peak here.
Shuggie Otis
3/5
This is really great. I've always been a big fan of Strawberry Letter 23, but never dove into the rest of Shuggie's stuff. This is a 3.5, but going lower as it seems like he padded a bit with short songs to finish a record contract. My guess is the previous albums are more substantial.
Q-Tip
3/5
Does Q-Tip have the market cornered on smooth rap? It's like having a low key conversation with someone. Feels like a 3.5, but going to 3 because the music interrupts the flow sometimes and I can't understand what he's saying. Over time, could climb to 4.
Blur
4/5
This is so British I'm craving Fish and Chips. Other than Girls & Boys, I have no knowledge of the album, but it's very tight. I would 3.5 this, but going 4 for consistency and cultural relevance.
Queen
4/5
I liked this one much more than the previous 2 albums from QUEEN on the list, so it bumps up to 4! Love the theme that carries all the way through and of course, some classic tracks.
Arcade Fire
4/5
Someday this could be a 5 and is a 4.5. Fantastic work and I'm sad I've never heard it b4!
Mj Cole
3/5
This was super listenable and I might put on some tracks for a dance party, but a little forgettable. 3.5, going to
Steve Earle
2/5
I thought these songs were very basic, nothing grabbed my attention but country is not my thing--even though this falls on the rock side mostly.
Radiohead
5/5
This is a 5. One of the greatest albums ever recorded.
Boston
3/5
I was looking forward to this one, but it really seemed slighter than I imagined. Classic arena rock, but was too slick. Maybe if one of the few songs wasn't about being themselves, or that super basic smoking song. Still a 3, just for the rock screaming.
Happy Mondays
3/5
I was surprised by this. Musically it's fascinating... like Duran Duran hired the dude from Television to sing. If the lead singer had ANY other delivery I mightve enjoyed more than a few tracks.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
This is fantastic. I've heard them before, but maybe it was earlier stuff and it didn't grab me. This could someday be a 5, is a 4.5, but rating it 4
Jurassic 5
4/5
This is really cool--seems to touch on a lot of different Hip Hop styles and flows. These guys play off on each other well.
Ramones
5/5
So effing good.
Willie Nelson
3/5
Lovely idea and I can see why the record company was horrified their bad boy of country wanted to do it. Standards are fine, but very background for me.
Traffic
3/5
A couple of really great tracks. Not a big flute fan.
Neil Young
4/5
Solid album. I have really liked the 2 Young albums even while not being the biggest fan of his voice. Great songwriter, eh?
The Cramps
4/5
Until this day I had never heard The Cramps and it is now one of my chief regrets. 4 out of 5.
Radiohead
4/5
I don't know how they do it, but their output after OK Computer just imprints. I haven't listened to this album many times, but I recognize every track. Also, Knives Out just crushes. Rating 4, but it's a 4.5.
Paul McCartney and Wings
5/5
I never realized before, but a lot of McCartney's output is like, puns. Jet with suffragette, 'Helen' Wheels, this creeps up on other albums as well. Weird. I spin this record a lot, it's a:
Frank Sinatra
4/5
I was very lukewarm on the last Sinatra we had to listen to, but this one is great! I guess he was depressed and it led to some brilliant work.
Minor Threat
4/5
I really enjoyed this and can see how it has been a major influence on many groups (90s grunge/punk in particular).
Khaled
3/5
Didn't really do much for me, but his voice is pretty great! A 2.5 for me, but bumping up.
4/5
I really liked this, very funky and for some reason the 13 minute jam held my interest!
ZZ Top
3/5
I assume this is on here because La Grange is used EVERYWERE and is petty dope. The rest of the album is pretty good for Southern Blues--just not my genre.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
4/5
The highs are really high on this one while the songs I have not heard are forgettable. Still a 4.
LTJ Bukem
2/5
Hold music. Pretty and intricate, but still hold music.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
These guys are just so good and consistent. Like listening to a good backyard band.
Blur
4/5
Definitely better than the last Blur album we listened to--this almost gets to 5 for me and might get there eventually. That Song 2 will never die.
Songhoy Blues
3/5
After a couple of listens this is really cool. It's a 3.5, but going to 3 for new-ness, plus blues riffs start sounding the same to me after a while.
Neneh Cherry
4/5
Always loved Buffalo Stance--it's such a strange song, almost impenetrable. Most of this album is like this and the songs are richer the deeper you go. I love Phoney Ladies, Love Ghetto, Outre Risque Locomotive. Solid and I wish I had bought the album back in the day.
Barry Adamson
2/5
This is kind of like that LTJ Bukem album. Feels like a bunch of background music.
Holger Czukay
3/5
Kind of cool, but not something I would ever return to.
The Who
4/5
There have been expanded editions since, but this release being 6 songs and considered one of the greatest liv albums is WILD. I had to look it up and make sure Pete Townshend was the only guitar player--these dudes made NOISE.
Norah Jones
3/5
This is fine. The songs blend together a bit, but are not unpleasant. Sort of an album full of final songs for romcoms.
Talvin Singh
2/5
Doesn't really do anything for me. Cool beats, I guess?
Duke Ellington
4/5
Pretty cool. My picky knit is that it's a live album of just 5 of the songs they did and then they went to the studio to clean it up. The full concert I bet is a 4.5, but this I'm going 4.
Joe Ely
3/5
This is pretty fun for country, gets a bit too close to that god awful modern country for my taste, but still admirable.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
I'm not the biggest EC fan, but like his songwriting. This album is deceptively inventive without any real hits (I had only heard Pump It Up before). Some cool rhythm changes and details here--reminds me of early Springsteen.
The Who
4/5
Found this Album at my local thrift store for 1.25. It totally rips and is a 4.5, almost a 5 but going to 4.
The Electric Prunes
4/5
Had to listen to it twice, but I really dig it.
The Auteurs
4/5
I can't believe I've never heard this. Luke Haines has a kind of Al Stewart/Robyn Hitchcock vibe which is right in my wheel house. I almost ranked this a 5, but it's too soon--it's a 4.5, but going with 4 for now.
Madonna
5/5
I've never heard this album and that is embarrassing. When she goes--this is the album people will point to.
Ray Charles
4/5
This is a fantastic album--to have the foresight to pull a scoffed at genre and open it up to jazz sensibilities is next level. This might be the swingingest country album ever.
ABBA
4/5
I loved just about every moment--their music is very rousing and story based, they should make a musical! They have a knack for choosing just the right transition chord to keep a hook going. Standouts (besides hits) were Knowing Me Knowing You and Tiger (roar).
Grateful Dead
4/5
Iconic St Stephen and Lovelight here, but as with most live stuff--I want more! Is 3.5, but going to 4.
Stereolab
3/5
I dig lots of this--a good mix of cool songwriting and experimental sounds and rhythms. A 3.5, but hitting 3 for being unfamiliar and repetitiveness at times.
Megadeth
4/5
I went in to this listen as someone who scoffs at metal and it doesn't do much for me, even though I was surrounded by it growing up. This album is making me re-think my ways. I still don't like weirdly crunchy guitar, or what feels like performative bad-assery. Howevah, there is so much technical proficiency here that I was able to really appreciate the leads and songs. Still a bit silly at times, but this must be a high point of the genre.
Coldplay
3/5
I think I like their follow up better. This is solid and the songs are good, but it's a bit too same-y and formulaic.
The Pogues
3/5
As tedious as this is to me after about 20 minutes, I recognize how exciting it is and I've always loved Shane's voice. It's like he forgets the lines just before singing and is always a bit behind the rhythm.
808 State
2/5
Fun fact: the longer I listen to Electronica, the angrier I get. 1 song is fine, 2 is not bad, 3 and 4 I forget and by 5 WHY AM I STILL LISTENING?
Cocteau Twins
3/5
This is okay--I enjoy Cocteau Twins, but they don't really make too much of a dent.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
I like The Velvets, but this album has never made an impact for me--it sounds like failing up.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
Here's the thing--I have never enjoyed soprano/falsetto singing and Joni's voice grates on me at times. However, her songwriting is just about perfect and I love when you can revisit a song and find new things. Just the song River makes this a 4 (also love the Jingle Bells ending).
Pixies
4/5
Pro Tip: Don't listen to any album after Joni Mitchell's Blue--take a day off. This album was better for me than Doolittle and my instinct is 4, but is it on par with Blue? IDK ... it's a 3.5 and bumping to 4. Maybe Blue is really a 5 ... it's at least a 4.5 and that makes me feel better.
Metallica
3/5
This is fairly impressive, but I still can't do more than a few songs by Metallica at a time, even with orchestration (which I would've liked more prominent). This is a 3.5 because of One (which rules) and crazy good leads, but going to 3 for monotony and lyrical sadness.
Milton Nascimento
3/5
This is good and intricate, I think I need more time with it as it could be a 4 eventually.
Baaba Maal
3/5
I found this album very relaxing and I would probably throw it on again!
ZZ Top
3/5
Wow, the riffs and top songs here are iconic. Really a groove to the whole album even if it's not really my thing overall.
Lou Reed
4/5
This is great work by Lou, so much more cohesive than White Light and maybe the best thing he did outside of the VU. Docking a point for his always weird misogyny--could've been a 5.
The Doors
3/5
I enjoyed this album more that I thought I would, but it didn't particularly resonate even after a couple of listens. Would be a 3.5, but going to:
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
I like the sound and feel of this album, but after 2 listens it doesn't really stick with me. I'm guessing if someone put this on one side of a long play tape for me with a Smiths album on the other side back in 1989 I would defend it to the death.
Tortoise
3/5
I'm going up to 3 on this one even though it doesn't appeal to me as an album. I checked out the group and live and there is definitely an appeal there.
Oasis
5/5
I remember when I bought this album after it came out. I was poor and made a rule that an album had to have at least 3 songs released that I liked. This and Blue Album were easy buys and I love every track.
Kanye West
5/5
I tried to listen without everything we now know about the person who is Kanye and the album is still a top listen for me. I think I would in all honesty go 4.5 due to perversion that I don't usually like. There is no denying the talent here and looking back, there is another path for this troubled egomaniac where he is beloved instead of reviled. This is a masterpiece.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
This is fine, I like when people cover his songs more than his versions and it was fun to hear his 'youthful' voice which makes the later droning warble understandable. Sort of like Dylan without the hooks or choruses.
Sufjan Stevens
4/5
I listened to this one a couple of times and it's pretty great. The religious stuff is a bit weird, but the overall feel of the album is lovely.
Flamin' Groovies
3/5
I enjoyed the album, but it didn't really stick with me. Probably a 3.5 and going to:
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I've found that I like the idea of The Rolling Stones more than their actual music. Outside of Street Fighting Man (my favorite track of theirs and maybe a top track for me all time) nothing here sticks with me and becomes very repetitive. Like a bar/saloon band riffing while some rando says some shit. Still good, but not resonant.
Meat Loaf
4/5
My mom used to play this album, but it has dawned on me that she only played side 2 as I had never heard the other 4 songs. The album has a Springsteen feel to the songwriting on that side that explodes into theatricality on side 2. Steinman is truly unique and, I guess, so is Meat Loaf. This album is a WILD swing and I kind of like the story of making the album and the attempt more than the songs (which kind of surprised me). It's a 3.5 for me, but going up to 4 for theater kids bringing it to Rock and Roll.
PJ Harvey
5/5
I don't remember how I found this album. I knew of pj, but wasn't a huge fan. I really can't define why the album speaks to me so deeply, but it's so rich and rewarding the more I listen. I think about it randomly, those plucked out notes of the first track popping into my head. It's brilliant and I thought it was a secret pleasure for me. I was shocked it came up here and it's validating.
Fugees
4/5
I listened to this one twice and it's pretty great. I don't think I'm ready to go 5 here yet, but it's a 4.5 for real.
David Bowie
3/5
I enjoy this album, but it suffers from being a bit to electronica for my taste. I'm not sure if it's on this list but I prefer his previous album THE NEXT DAY. It's also up against his oeuvre which is considerable. Giving it a 3, even if it's a 3.5 or a 4 for almost any other artist.
Garbage
4/5
Solid and a fun listen which I'm bumping up to 4 because of, but I can't shake the slick almost over produced quality. The songs kind of pass right by me, very pop heavy.
Guns N' Roses
3/5
How did I avoid ever hearing this entire album? My brother owned it and I am familiar with exactly 5 tracks which are classic and the rest is ... odd. They're really just a bluesy rock bar band with an inventive lead guitarist and some dude screaming while just BARELY staying on key. Kind of a boring album tbh. This is probably why it was overlooked for a year before hitting.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
4/5
I'm a little torn on this one. It's fantastic if not a bit of a Public Enemy offshoot style wise (particularly vocally), but there's a lot here ahead of it's time. I had to double check the release of 1992. The sampling here is very slick and the beats are great. I think the California Uber Alles cover makes this a:
David Ackles
2/5
Interesting, kind of Neil Diamond meets Stephen Schwartz. Intriguing until the religious stuff kicks in and then it becomes a hard pass--Jesus, the bible, and women turning to satan, no thanks!
The Adverts
4/5
This was edging up to 3.5 for me, but the last track pushed it to a 4. So cool, love hearing good albums I had no idea about!
Peter Gabriel
4/5
Probably hits more at a 3.5 for me, but going up to 4 for that Sledgehammer Coda ... chills.
Janelle Monáe
4/5
She has such a great feel for rhythm and the Of Montreal collab almost puts this at 5. It's a 4.5, but going to 4 for a bit of same-ness.
Adele
5/5
Just one of the greatest albums ever--I'm always returning to it on road trips. I think Waiting For You is my actual apex on the album and with all of the other hits here, that is saying something!
The Divine Comedy
3/5
This is fine, but aside from the eccentric and playful nature of the tracks it didn't really move me. Love the Ben Folds cover (haha).
Suede
3/5
I'm not sure if putting this near The Divine Comedy is helping me differentiate between the two. As with Casanova, I liked this album, but it doesn't really stand out with even a couple of listens. There seems to be an attempt by Brit bands to respond to commercial success by becoming more esoteric and intricate. Cool and nice to dig into, probably rewarding multiple listens, but upon initial listens it just sounds like a dude who is a bit obsessed with sex.
John Coltrane
4/5
This album stressed me out a bit and at the end I had the feeling that the sax was trying to give me a lecture. Well, it turns out that was the point. It's wild that music can give you its own interpretation without explicitly telling you. I was at a 3 for this, but I would revisit. Let's make it a:
The Flaming Lips
4/5
I was going to go 4 here, but upon listening for the first time in a bit I was super reminded how brilliant this album is and was going to go 5--like, nothing else sounds like this. In the end I think it's a 4.5 and I'm actually going back to 4 because I think The Soft Bulletin is their apex and I assume it will pop up.
Billie Holiday
3/5
It's nice to hear her later voice and even though it's clearly been through it, it's still Billie. The arrangements are lovely and she adds a lot to the songs, but I'm just not really into standards.
Chicago
4/5
1969? Is this when the 70's sound was created because this feels like the soundtrack to an entire decade. Also, it's not really necessary to directly replicate a live show on an album. I think this is a 3.5, but actually bumping up to 4 for the absolute gall to do this in their 1st album.
Christina Aguilera
3/5
I was close to giving this album a 2, but there are a few good tracks on it and once I let my distaste for vocal embellishments (of which CA is the undisputed champ) go, it was easier to appreciate the big swing this album is. I don't think she ever shook Reflection and Genie fully, but she's trying to do the work. It seems like she needed slightly better songwriters at all times, but that voice is so powerful. I just wish she wouldn't 'oh,oh,oh' after EVERY line.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
Just one of the greatest vocalists of all time at their peak. I think I prefer the two albums on either side of this one, but this is a solid 4
The Isley Brothers
4/5
This one had me in the first half, I ain't gonna lie--but then it got even better! I can't believe I don't know this album, it's fantastic. Almost a 5 for me, but definitely a 4.5. The covers on here are better than the originals and my highlight is You Walk Your Way.
Aerosmith
4/5
Not the biggest Aerosmith fan, but this has most of my favorite tracks from them and the innovation and lead work here is very impressive. Was actually leaning 3 until the last song blew me away.
Isaac Hayes
2/5
There must be better Isaac Hayes albums. This is an okay listen, but didn't really grab me--a bit too repetitive maybe?
Beck
4/5
I have a similar feeling on Beck as with Beastie Boys, especially this earlier stuff. The highs are bonkers high and the mid stuff is pretty mid. It's tough to put together a full album of music that at times is just incomprehensible word salad and strange metaphors--maybe there are too many tracks. As far as a full album I would go 3.5, but Devil's haircut alone bumps it up to 4. I think he gets better after this with Guero (also rated a 4) and Sea Change, but I'm surprised he is never really at a 5 for me.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
4/5
I was kind of on the fence here for the 1st half, but this album is really back loaded. It would be a 3.5, but going with a 4.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
I think I have pointed out earlier that I do not enjoy Robert Plant's voice. Because of that I had never listened to this album and that was a mistake. This is clearly their apex and maybe the apex of rock n roll? I think I would play this album if an alien landed on earth and asked for the best and clearest example of R&R--it's just about perfect and I've only heard it once.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
5/5
Okay, I give up, I'm a Neil Young fan. This is an amazing album and of course it inspired grunge. I can't find anything wrong with it and would go 4.5, but I'm going 5 as it will climb there for me over time.
The Style Council
2/5
Interesting, not my thing
Depeche Mode
3/5
I enjoy Depeche Mode from afar, or the occasional radio track, but they really don't light my candles. This was a fine listen, but still no melted wax.
Van Halen
3/5
Eddie Van Halen is a musical genius (I mean, the middle 8s here are so awesome--when Panama slows down?) and David Lee Roth is, well, not. The highs on this album are really high and the fluff is not great. I'm going 3 here even though Panama has lived rent free in my head since 1984
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Pretty great overall album musically, apparently their first full original album and part of a huge music shift in the Pop Rock timeline with Rubber Soul. Have it at 4.5 for importance, but docking it for the misogyny.
ABBA
2/5
Listen, I really enjoyed this album and honestly the darker themes are fine for me on this Nov 2, 2024 in the US. I'm not sure why it's on here unless EVERY album gets on here--if this was a 2000 albums list sure. There are brilliant albums by obscure artists not on here and ABBA probably has a few ... is this one really necessary for the list? I can't deny the songwriting is lovely, it always is with ABBA, but there is no spark on first listen. I will return to it, but I think it's a 2 on this list. Maybe it caught me at the wrong time.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
2/5
Cool musical arrangements, similar to Chicago. But, I don't much like this sound and the religious stuff bugs me.
The Police
3/5
Not a big Police fan, but this was not bad. I liked a lot of the lyrics and feel of the album. Would be a 3.5, but going 3 as it still doesn't really grab me.
Talking Heads
5/5
No notes. A brilliant album and work of art. Mind and Air are 2 of my favorite songs of all time.
Fats Domino
2/5
Maybe it's just the drag of time, but I don't think this album is essential to hear. There's a nice roll to his stuff, but it is all similar to other groups from the mid-50s. Maybe it was groundbreaking, but I wish there was more variety and length to the songs--I wonder if the songs were freer live ...
The Prodigy
1/5
I just can't with electronic stuff. I listened on YouTube and an ad popped up and I couldn't tell the difference. A bonus point for there being SOME lyrical content, but out of spite I'm giving my first 1 and if I could go back and give the other electronic bs a 1 I would
Beatles
5/5
Lennon vs McCartney. The epic battle for supremacy and the winner is us! I don't know why people argue about Sgt Pepper or Abbey Rd ... this is the greatest Beatles album by FAR. Banger after banger and the album doesn't let up even after 30 songs deep. This might be the greatest album of all time full stop. Can I give 6 stars? I'd give 100.
The Smiths
4/5
This is a 'strange' one for me. I love every minute of it, but it suffers a bit having listened to it after the White Album. I would rate a 4.5 and I think I'm tipping down to 4 over going up to 5. Super tough, it's an awesome album.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
I went back and forth on this one as their honky tonk ramblings don't usually grab me. However, this album is different and it's great all the way through. For the record, I don't think it's as good as Liz Phair's Exile in Guyville. But watching a performance by Phish covering the whole album opened my eyes to how solid it really is. And Happy, Tumbling Dice, and Sweet Virginia are so good. Also love Loving Cup.
Arcade Fire
3/5
I really like this, but it seems like an album that needs tons of listens to hang on. I liked the last album we listened to more, so going 3. But, is this a 1001 must?IDK.
Elastica
4/5
I really like this album and it's exactly why I am doing this project. I have no ties to Elastica, but there are 2 songs off of this that I have heard A LOT and know them quite well and love them (Connection and Car Song). But I would never have been able to tell you who performed those songs. A huge blind spot corrected, thanks 1001. I wonder if this would have been a 5 if I had this album for 30 years ... right now it's a:
Leonard Cohen
3/5
I was luke warm on the last Cohen album, but something about these songs grabs me (although I could do without the mouth harp). I might go 3.5 with time, but a 3 for now. I really liked Lady Midnight.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
2/5
Interesting, but not my thing. Strangely aggressive and at times theatrical, but the feel is off for my taste.
Sister Sledge
4/5
I had the opposite reaction to this one that I did with Chic. No expectations and I loved it. The beats, the voices, the orchestration--the album nails everything I like about disco.
Gorillaz
3/5
Was excited for this one, but it's kind of one note. I prefer Demon Days. Del almost bumps this up to 4, but it's a solid 3 for me. Also, just watched the first Trolls movie and it covers Clint Eastwood which ruined it for me.
Led Zeppelin
3/5
This hit a lot less for me than Physical Graffiti, but Page is so good on these tracks. Plant is still the weak link for me as he seems to ramble and stumble into phrases, almost improv as recording. It dawned on me this time that he had a Janis type of vibe, so his voice is growing on me.
Paul Simon
2/5
Simon's songwriting is so good all of his albums could probably be on here. But I'm guessing he already has a few and this one could go off the list. I liked it, but wouldn't consider it a must listen.
Aphex Twin
2/5
I'm really only going 2 here as Aphex' story is really cool and this is pretty groundbreaking, but I still don't care for hold music.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
3/5
It's wild that I randomly listened to this one last week and it popped up on my 1001 list. That said, it's only OK as Janis was still fighting Big Brother for status in the band. Piece of my Heart is an all-timer tho.
Sex Pistols
4/5
I thought this was going to be an easy 5 for me, but outside of Queen, Anarchy, and Pretty Vacant the rest of the tune sort of washes over me. The guitar sound here is legendary though.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Okay, I'm a Led Zep fan now, does that mean I have to get a Zoso shirt? This album is really good, not quite Physical Graffiti, but good!
Maxwell
2/5
I was into the first couple of songs and the cops song, but then the rest is just the same so it gets a bit boring. Smooth is fine, but all the time?! I looked at the lyrics and they're like basic level smooth talk BS--where's Marvin Gaye when you need him?
Cocteau Twins
3/5
I thought this was fine and liked it about the same as the other album we listened to. I thought I'd be more into their stuff ... oh, well!
David Bowie
4/5
As I mentioned with the Blackstar review, I like this album better as a whole. Upon re-listen, it's still not a 5 but it's damn good. A couple of obvious tunes (Set the World On Fire? Yawn) cut it a bit, but that turn at If You Can See Me into Rather Be High is so good.
Parliament
3/5
Nice and funky, but not particularly substantial. I enjoy the groove, but there's not much beyond that.
The Charlatans
3/5
I would really need to hear this more as it did not make a dent with me, but I liked the overall sound of the band.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
First full Sly album, but I've always loved his stuff--definitely proto Prince. A lot to like on this album, but again the repetition with some of these older jam bands is not enough for me. Probably a 3.5, but going with
Joanna Newsom
4/5
Pretty intense stuff here. I felt vibes of Bjork when she has orchestrated material and it's the rare case of wanting to investigate the lyrical content. Each track is a lovely story shared and I'm not just saying that because I'm impressed that she is Andy Samberg's wife. I would probably revisit this and I am surprised while typing that--upon first listen I was not enthused.
Pulp
4/5
I've been through this album a few times and I really like it--3.5 for me, but going up!
Johnny Cash
4/5
There's something about this you can't quantify. He's so good with the crowd and giving it to the prison industry. His style at this time makes the songs sound a bit too similar, but the standouts make this a 4.
The KLF
3/5
I remember the 3am song when I was in the down end of my hip hop/dance phase. Not bad, good at a party type grooves and more lyrical content than most electronic stuff. The album is a 2.5 for me, but bumping to 3 for the weird vision.
Kacey Musgraves
3/5
Very solid songwriter that I'm largely unfamiliar with, probably because I don't follow country. But this is deceptively country--like how Taylor Swift started as country. Slap a pedal steel guitar on a track and everyone's Hank Williams. I don't buy it, this is pretty far from modern country and it's solid. Would go 3.5, but hanging a 3 on it as it might be a little too easy/simple.
The Psychedelic Furs
2/5
All of these songs sound the same and are a bit aggressive toward women. Not a fan.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
3/5
Felt nice and powerful for big band music. Enjoyed as background.
Metallica
4/5
This is maybe the apex of metal? Metallica deciding to tighten the thrash up and getting a bit more commercial is brilliant and somehow still sounds and feels like Metallica. It's a bit too long, but would probably go 4.5 if possible since there are so many classic hits here that still bang.
The Smiths
5/5
One of the easiest fives I can give. The front half is solid and the the second half is perfection.IMO their best studio album. I've listened to it about a thousand times and would put it on just about any day.
Various Artists
2/5
Lovely versions, but why is this on here?
Gene Clark
3/5
I think this one bears more listens--sort of a Bob Dylan/Jim Croce vibe and that's not a bad thing. I enjoyed the style, but nothing seemed to stick with me.
Alanis Morissette
4/5
I used this listen to figure out why I never liked this album. It falls right into my wheelhouse-aggressive female driven indie rock. But, I suppose it starts with me not liking Alanis' voice when she tries too hard. The cracking high at the end of words just hurts me and she's often out of tune. Lyrically, she alternates between brilliant and cringing bad (that's not lip service? WITAF?). Musically the album is okay, but there are no leads or riffs which hurts it a bit, particularly on the good song Right Through You which ends too soon - maybe a middle 8 or lead would help. Instead we get some of the worst harmonica playing ever put to record. The good is the attitude and importance of the album and You Oughta Know and Ironic are GREAT tracks and the 'last' song Wake Up is quietly awesome. I actively dislike most of the other album singles, aside from some stray good lines here and there. Upon this listen I think my distaste for the album is how crazy big it was, I was already into Liz Phair, Joan Osborne, Belly, and others that were not getting as much attention and are EASILY better than this album. JLP somehow walks the line of indie rock and pop, plus as my wife said, this album hit just right for her as a teenager at the time (although it hits harder for twenty somethings I'm sure). It's not for me per se, but I love the idea of it. I would go 3.5, but after arguing up or down, the album is too important not to be a 4.
Willie Nelson
3/5
I kind of took my time with this one as it's really an interesting listen. I love the storytelling and wish I had heard it as a young songwriter. But, maybe there are too many covers and the songs aren't quite long enough? I DO like how he stuck by the album and fought the record execs to release. Probably more of a 3.5, but going:
Carpenters
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album--the harmonies are amazing and Karen's voice is always so good. For 'Easy Listening' the songs are surprisingly sharp around the edges.
William Orbit
2/5
Lovely background music and actually has some voices!
Scott Walker
3/5
I'm really glad to have heard this album. It's odd and interesting, sort of Cohen-esque with a better singing voice. The Brel songs are great, but the amount of covers kind of hurts the overall album IMO. A 3.5 for me, but dropping to 3 for the cover reliance.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I'm not the biggest fan of the Reggae genre as it always seems to lean on that smashed chord rhythm lending to songs sounding similar. However, the way Marley mixes it up with these songs is pretty great. I had only heard Stir It Up previously, but all of these tracks are smooth and I would definitely pick the album up again.
The White Stripes
5/5
Love this album, easily their best IMO.
Bob Dylan
5/5
I can't believe how good this album is--a lot of my favorite all time tracks and I had never heard in the context of this album. Was surprised to learn it landed with some mixed reviews when released, but those reviews were not correct!
Adele
4/5
I almost did not relisten as I thought of it as decent, but not as good as 21. Whoops, it's almost as amazing and aside from the last 2 tracks (maybe 1) it is rooted in my soul. This is almost a 5 (it does suffer from the great 21) and I would rate a 4.5, but going:
I recently listened through all of U2's catalog and became a (lower tier) fan. That said, even though this one is a return to form, I'm lukewarm on it. The songwriting is really solid for the most part, but a bit boring--maybe too simple?
David Bowie
3/5
Truly this list must have every Bowie album. I like this, but I don't necessarily think it's a must listen.
The Stooges
3/5
Love a lot of Iggy Pop and The Stooges, but I like their first 2 albums over this one. I know the legacy is strong, but the songwriting just isn't as interesting to me.
Primal Scream
2/5
Kind of interesting, but when that electronica kicks in I tune out.
Ananda Shankar
3/5
I enjoyed the feel of this album, but I would've loved more lyrically.
Ghostface Killah
4/5
Really liked this album and I'm sorry I had no previous GK or Wu Tang knowledge previously. The samples are really good and the album is propulsive from beginning to end.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Pretty amazing and iconic with a STRONG finish to the album. Also, love the tracks I had never heard before.
Santana
4/5
Really cool album with different modes of songwriting and sounds. It's amazing that Carlos Santana can be a driving force while only talking with his guitar. I think it would be 3.5 overall, but the riffs and Oye Como Va put this up to:
Brian Eno
3/5
You can hear a lot of the Talking Heads experimental stuff in this as a full blown exploration. Interesting and very cool at times. My love for songs like I Zimbra and Crosseyed and Painless sort of work on my dislike of electronica.
Eagles
3/5
Pretty solid even though it's not really my forte.
The Beau Brummels
3/5
I liked this a lot, but it didn't really stick with me. I enjoy these surprising finds on the list. Would go 3.5, but dropping for not being super memorable.
Fiona Apple
4/5
I became a Fiona Apple fan later and was a bit lukewarm on her stuff in the 90s. I really enjoyed the re-listen and it's a great album--almost a 4.5, but going with a:
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
This is my favorite Bruce album. It capsulizes all of the energy of his songwriting and performance and is solid from beginning to end.
Julian Cope
3/5
Happy to have heard this album--I had only ever heard his song World Shut Your Mouth and it's a cool song. This album is solid pop/rock songwriting and every song is well crafted. But ... there is a bit of a sheen to everything and this album is TOO LONG. I'll probably seek out more of Julian's stuff. Would go 3.5, but docking for length.
Suzanne Vega
3/5
This is good and I enjoyed it, but perhaps a bit over produced (I mean it's mid-eighties, I'm surprised they restrained themselves this much with all of those synths and drum machines around). I always felt like she had a Leonard Cohen vibe to her writing and I've always liked it, but this is good not great.
Thundercat
4/5
I really like the feel and vibe of Thundercat--including how a lot of the songs are relatively quick. The album also flows really well. Would be a 3.5 for me, but bumping for the sick bass he plays.
Joan Armatrading
4/5
I think I had heard 1 Joan Armatrading song previously, so this album is really great to uncover. There is so much texture to her songs, lyrically, rhythmically, and instrumentally. Love and Affection and Tall in the Saddle in particular are 2 tracks that start slow and when they kick in deliver something else. There are also rhythms on a couple of songs that almost predict Talking Heads Fear of Music. I started thinking this was a 3.5, but know it will raise in estimation--sort of like when I listened to Tracy Chapman's Matters of the Heart on a loop one summer job. Going 4, but could it be a 4.5?
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
I didn't like this one as much as Green River. The hits are massive, but the rest seemed like a generic blues bar band.
Queen Latifah
3/5
Here's the thing, this is ground breaking and listening to 19 year old Latifah spit around the time of other OG MC's is amazing. This hold up to all of them. But, it still suffers from the early repetitive malaise of rap where there's a lot of 1st person bravado and not a ton of story. The best track to me is the De La Soul collab with the multiple flow and style changes. 45 is great and as a producer really punches the first couple of tracks with good beats, but as the album wears on it gets a bit thin. Maybe a 3.5 for groundbreaking, but going with a:
Jeff Beck
2/5
This is not really my thing--like watching a bar band.
Björk
4/5
This evolution of Bjork makes so much sense. She thinks about music and vocals differently from most, so why not an almost completely a capella pop album? I feel like her discography is like a dissertation and intellectually I love this album and the big swing it takes. I liked listening to it, but only a few tracks really stood out. I would rate as a 3.5, but bumping up to 4 for the sheer audacity of the project.
Steely Dan
5/5
I own this on vinyl and its one of my favorite go to listens. Every track is meticulous and breezy, probably their apex. On this listen I could only fault it for needing a couple more tracks, but I'm still going with a:
Dr. Dre
4/5
The inventiveness of almost every beat is insane--only someone with a chip on their shoulder could so completely drop the competition. Completely iconic from beginning to end, and introducing Snoop, the album does not let up. The stretch from the opening to G Thang is relentless and when those high pitched notes hit it's like jumping in some cool water on a hot day. If not for the misogyny, this would be a 5. Gotta dock it to 4 though ... it's tough to hear such offensive stuff on the regular.
David Gray
4/5
I have this album ingrained in my soul, but it's actually not my favorite DG album. Sell, Sell, Sell rips and was his last contract album before being dumped. He produced White Ladder on his own (which explains the drum machines, etc, which is not his usual production sound) and I imagine he almost gave up before landing an opening tour with DMB and getting the album to Dave's label where Babylon exploded. I also think A New Day at Midnight is better overall, but this dude can write songs. I saw him live once and it was awesome. I'm not sure if Sell is on this list, but if you are reading this--do yourself a favor and listen to it. This album shouldn't have worked, but every song is solid. I would go 4.5, but marking down for it not being his best IMO.
Ravi Shankar
2/5
I'm sure this is amazing and really technical, but sitar music is similar to electronica for me--just background.
The La's
4/5
Pleasantly surprised by this album and I actually think 'There She Goes' is the weakest track (but easily the catchiest). I'm more fascinated by the journey Lee went on because of his perfectionism--I'm guessing he mostly never did another album out of spite and that no one wanted to work with him again. He's not totally wrong about the album, it certainly seems patchwork at times, but it's still really good. I think I would sit this at 3.5, but bumping up due to it's influence on the BritPop 90s wave.
Miles Davis
3/5
Pretty cool--as with most Jazz, it mostly hits the background music for me, but from the opening I knew this was a bit different with a rock feel. Might go 3.5, but it's a solid:
Pretenders
4/5
Damn this is a good album--I had only heard the major hit and Stop Your Sobbing sounds familiar, but the rest of the album is really solid. I'm at 4.5, but going to 4 and it begs further listens.
Pentangle
3/5
This is not as big a revelation for me as Fairport Convention, but it's still solid.
Madonna
4/5
Not as good as the previous albums we covered here, but I am impressed by these later albums. She has a sense of how new music is working, but layers more into the lyrics than, say, Britney. The song 'Gone' is really great and I liked the other slower one earlier in the album. It almost went to 3 for losing points for American Pie (even though a bonus), I just dislike that interminable song. But, calling it a 3.5 and actually going up to:
The Associates
3/5
This is a deeply interesting album and sounds like little else while sounding exactly like 3 or 4 different groups in a blender. It's a really fun listen, but the lead voice is a bit tough for me overall. I would go 3.5 here, but dropping to 3.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I took a second listen since Reggae is not a style that resonates with me and it really made a difference. I was able to appreciate the social messages throughout the album, even if the rhythm was tedious, the songcraft is good. The religious aspects took me out at times, but he's really using these examples of peace and cooperation throughout the ages--people being kind to people as opposed to trying to convert people. A 3.5 for me, but bumping up.
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
Scenario lives rent free in my brain since this album came out. I'm really impressed how most of this hold up, probably due to a jazzy influence. It's smooth, which is unlike a lot of hip hop at the time. The name dropping of Ralph Tresvant, having Busta on board--it's really great. Maybe a 3.5 for me, but bumping for when Scenario hits at the end.
Bob Dylan
5/5
I love Dylan and had only heard 3 of these songs as I never dove into albums separately. This entire album smokes! The songwriting is ridiculously good and even the weird 60s twang guitar works the few times it's used. Loved every minute. How does he write songs that are 11 minutes long and don't feel too long.
Moby
4/5
Okay, I know I've crapped all over electronic music here but can we agree this is different? Moby has a real feel for not just beats, but songcraft. Reading about the journey he and this album went on was WILD, he almost quit altogether when the album landed with a thud. There's a really good podcast called Heavyweight about the guy who loaned him the recordings that led to a few tracks (including Natural Blues) and how he wanted the CDs back. I might go 4.5 here, just for South Side.
OutKast
5/5
Big Boi vs 3000, 2 solo albums in a deathmatch. Honestly, I think Speakerboxxx slaps more, but Love Below has more hits. I was thinking 4.5, but this is such an epic collection and undertaking that I'm just going to bump it up to 5.
Pink Floyd
4/5
Somehow I have avoided hearing this album in full until now. It's a subtle masterpiece upon first listen. You can hear the care that went into the sessions and I really enjoyed the second listen. It's a bit TOO gentle for me to go 5 here, but absolutely a 4.5.
Talking Heads
4/5
I'm actually torn on this one--I love TH and this album is revered, but the second half really drops off. The first side and up to Once In a Lifetime are epically good, but I like them better on Stop Making Sense. They just have more life live. I think this is a 3.5 for me, but bumping to:
T. Rex
4/5
I think T. Rex was really the height of fun glam--even more so than Bowie (maybe Bowie is serious glam?). Just great riffs and songs. I think Electric Warrior is better, but this album is solid. Not sure if it gets to 4.5 for me, but I love it!
Beatles
4/5
I'm a bit torn on this album. It's certainly iconic--the first Beatles album that is all original and the first where we start getting a sense of Lennon and McCartney as songwriters individually. The classics are great and some of the other songs swing, but this is clearly before they have supreme confidence. I think I would go 3.5, but bumping for relevance.
Paul Weller
3/5
Decent album--I liked a lot of it. Having never heard of him, I went back and checked out the Jam and they weren't bad either--apparently huge in the UK. I don't know if I would ever get back to this, but I'll probably put on the Jam more.
Hugh Masekela
3/5
I enjoyed this album--some very nice arrangements here and particularly liked when there was some funk to it. I might revisit, might be a 3.5 for me but dropping to 3.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
I went in thinking I would be lukewarm on this one, but it's fantastic. I've never been a fan of Mayfield's falsetto, but he doesn't lean on it here and the music is so good--every song is solid. This would be 4.5 for me, maybe someday a 5.
Baaba Maal
3/5
This is pretty cool musically, even if I can't tell what's happening lyrically.
Derek & The Dominos
5/5
I don't know if this is an unpopular opinion, but Layla is the weakest song on this brilliant album. Maybe we all need a Patty to muse us into our artistic cosmos. I don't think Clapton is the best person, but this album is epic from beginning to end and I've only gone 5 for a couple of 1st listens, but this is one of them.
Bebel Gilberto
3/5
I like the feel of this, even not understanding most of the lyrics. I would do a 3.5 here, but dropping for a bit of same-ness in the songs.
Arcade Fire
4/5
Another banger from Arcade Fire. I definitely liked better than Neon Bible and this is probably a 4.5 for me. Going to 4 as the theme of the album seems to repeat itself.
Dire Straits
4/5
About halfway through I was at a 3, but the last couple of songs really pointed out the intricate arrangements on the album. I kind of wish the songs were a touch better, but Sultans of Swing is soooo good, it kind of makes up for it. I think it's a 3.5 for me, but bumping up for the care taken!
Morrissey
3/5
I'm a pretty big Morrissey fan (musically anyway) but sort of perplexed at this album being on here. I guess it has his only official hit, but I checked the list and there's already Your Arsenal, Viva Hate, and You Are The Quarry--none of which I would dispute. But, I like Maladjusted and Southpaw Grammar over this album. It's still good and I like it, but a must listen? I would never think to give it to someone above any of the other 5 albums above.
Michael Jackson
4/5
I'm realizing that when I listened to this album as a kid, it was mostly the back half which is VERY strong. The first half is not super good and the song Bad is pretty dumb--catchy, but dumb. I guess it's more a mission statement song like Born in the USA, but it's pretty cringy. I love every song in the second half and Smooth Criminal is buried? I was prepared to say 3.5 and 3, but seeing as this is the most songwriting MJ had done to this point I'm bumping up to:
Al Green
3/5
Let's Stay Together is such a classic banger and the rest of the album is decent, but beyond Al Green's clearly brilliant voice there wasn't much that grabbed me to get this to a 4.
Elvis Presley
3/5
The importance of the album cannot be downplayed, but its foot in Country is still a bit off putting and a bit boring for me. When you listen to the actual Rock and Roll happening at the time (ex. Little Richard), the feel here is a bit too basic and safe. Plus, Elvis is not a songwriter and I count it against him a bit. I would probably say 2.5, but bumping for iconic status!
The Cure
2/5
Interesting musically, particularly the first part of the album. I feel like R.E.M.'s Murmur is sort of a spiritual cousin, but whereas that album feels lush and inspired, this one feels like an experiment. The vocals are too far away, the drums too teched up almost sounding like a drum machine. I like some darkness, but the mood here is intense.
The Bees
3/5
I'm impressed that this was essentially just 2 musicians DIYing this album and it flows really well. However, it doesn't really stay with me.
The Beach Boys
5/5
1966 is an insane year musically--Sounds of Silence, Frank Zappa, Revolver, Paint It Black--the needle is really moving from good time R&R to introspection. This album is lush and incredibly painstaking in its arrangements, unlike anything BB had done before and it's great! I think personally it's a 4.5 because the SMILE SESSIONS exist and I think that is the complete fulfillment of Brian Wilson's bonkers brain. The harmonies are so good here, the instrumentation is always surprising and interesting, and even though the songs are fairly simple in theme, they are musically complex. I've listened to it 3 times so far and find new things each time.
Bon Jovi
3/5
I'm a little torn on this one. It has some ICONIC songs and while I'm not a fan, they are the soundtrack of some people's lives. However, I hate the keyboards in this hair rock period and Bon Jovi's really suck the life out of the songs. Richie Sambora is friggin amazing and the songs, although the most cliché ridden songs ever written, are catchy and arena rock ready. It probably deserves at least a 3.5, but I'm going with 3 while CONSIDERING going to 4.
Duran Duran
4/5
My wife bought this album for our record player sort of on a whim and it did not disappoint. It's interesting to hear this after Bon Jovi, a band that does not use synthesizer well, and get the max effect from intricate synth/keyboard. Some really good late tracks here--Last Chance on the Stairway is pretty cool. On this listen I was also surprised how good and crafted the lyrics are. When I was younger 7 and the Ragged Tiger was my jam, but this is solid. Almost a 4.5 for me.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
When The Stones are being innovative (Gimme Shelter, You Can't Always Get ... ) I think they're great. When they're being a blues band in the country vein, they fall flat for me. This album seems to lean mostly on the blues and it doesn't quite grab me, see: Beggars Banquet)
The Monks
4/5
The more I listen to this, the more I'm into it. The songs really hit my type of humor and the last couple of songs are surprising--at one point there's a Beach Boys-esque harmony? It might hit a 3.5 for me on first listen, but bumping to:
Jazmine Sullivan
4/5
This is fantastic and reminds me (the feeling anyway) of Liz Phair. Loved it!! Might be a 4.5 for me eventually.
Bee Gees
3/5
I like the Bee Gees, but this album was just ok to me. It seems to bridge their early folk roots and later disco sound. The turns of phrase were really nice at times, but I can only take so much romantic easy listening.
Foo Fighters
4/5
Completely bonkers that he just did this himself. I wonder if he would have gotten up the courage to start sharing these songs with Kurt if he had not died. They kind of sound like Nirvana songs, but don't 'feel' like Nirvana songs. It's hard to get past the first 4 brilliant tracks and hear the rest of the album as inferior because they are just that good. The rest of the album doesn't quite meet those tracks, but is still a fun listen. I think shaving a couple of tracks off might have helped--there are a couple that sound similar to other songs on the album.
Judas Priest
4/5
After a pretty unforgettable track in Rapid Fire I thought this one would be a disappointment. My brother was a huge metal head and I definitely recognized the singles when the album kicked in. The rest of the tracks are really good and I was happy to be surprised. Solid 4.
Common
4/5
I knew nothing about this album going in and about 3 songs in was very impressed, thinking it sounded like The Blueprint. Then Ye showed up. He's really ruined music enjoyment due to the Nazi love. I'm sure Common hates it, but I can't think of anything else. Kanye made this album what it is, but I still have to credit Common on the positive feel. I might not revisit and it's not as good as The Blueprint, but it's good all the way through.
The Go-Betweens
4/5
Completely off my radar, but this was really great! The songwriting held me from beginning to end and the story of the band is interesting too. I listened to it twice.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
Son of a Preacher Man is so iconic and really enjoyed the other sons. It's wild that this fell flat on release and needed years to grow in estimation. It's good!
Yes
3/5
Technically this album is pretty cool and when the funky bass kicked in on the first track I was like, let's go. Not too long after that, I wanted to actually go. Heart of the Sunrise is a cool track I guess, but I kept thinking of my daughter's criticism of 'I no like this.' Almost went with a 2, but I think I would go 2.5 and bumping up to 3 for the technical proficiency and imagination it takes to put these songs together.
Depeche Mode
4/5
As I have noted, electronica is not really my thing, but there's something about DM. I think the songwriting they start with is solid and this album was their huge breakout (whether they wanted it or not)--probably MTVs fault as I remember Enjoy the Silence ALWAYS ON. Three stone cold classics on this album and the rest is pretty listenable. I was leaning 3.5 until Policy of Truth hit and have to go:
Moby Grape
3/5
I really liked the album, especially the 2nd listen. You can really hear the San Francisco psychedelic sound--in the guitar leads especially. The band is fascinating to read about as well, a truly bizarre journey. I think it's more of a 3.5 for me and actually dropping to 3 as I did not retain any of the songs the next day.
Gram Parsons
3/5
The gem of this album is Emmylou Harris and it sucks she didn't get the title recognition. Gram Parsons was definitely onto something with country in a more rock format. This doesn't quite get as close for me as, say, Wilco, but it's still a good listen. Might be 3.5 for me.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
I surprisingly enjoyed this album. I'm usually pretty tough on electronic music, but this has some solid songwriting behind it. I think it would take more listens, but I'm at a 3.5 and pushing down as I can only really remember a couple of tracks.
De La Soul
4/5
I had this one on tape! I was a big Me Myself and I fan, so the album never really became a regular for me as the track is buried. Relistening it's so good, so many creative samples and completely new ideas. It was one of the last hip hop albums I ever owned as there seemed to be a split between dance hip-hop and 'serious' hip-hop, and I veered into indie rock.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
I think I like the previous album better, but there's something about Michael Kiwanuka that feels very eternal and classic. It's just a good vibe. I would probably go 3.5, but bumping.
Beatles
3/5
Pretty solid (of course) and the covers are good versions. Some of the originals are pretty forgettable. I would go 3.5--when it came out it was a 10, dropping for being a bit basic these days.
Neil Young
3/5
So, this is the first Neil Young that I question it's addition to the list. It's fine, but not super memorable and a bit boring. Maybe it'll take another listen, but it's a 2.5 for me--bumping as maybe I need more time with it.
Ice Cube
4/5
I'm always thrown by how much Ice Cube sounds like Play from Kid N Play. This album is incendiary on many fronts and time has kind of made the music seem old school even though it was a breakthrough at the time. Kept me engaged throughout, even with the casual sexism--the track with Yo-Yo helps a little. I would go 3.5 on it, but bumping for relevance.
The Stone Roses
4/5
Pretty cool album and I can't believe it came out pre 1990. After one listen I put it at 3.5, but I think this could eventually hit 4 for me.
Fela Kuti
4/5
This album has such a great groove to it, definitely political resentment driving the urgency. Crazy that these songs, or any music could cause political and military action. It's a 3.5 for me but bumping for relevance.
Peter Gabriel
3/5
This is good, but didn't really grab me overall. I think I would go 3.5, but dropping as I don't know if I would pick up again.
Hole
4/5
Loved the 2 singles that came out of this, but never had the album. It smokes--with more time might get to 4.5 for me.
The Sonics
4/5
This is wild and just the sort of random album this list is great for. I can see how this influenced The Stooges and on--truly ahead of their time. Might get to 4.5 for me.
The Killers
4/5
I was never the biggest fan when this came out, mostly due to Flowers' voice. I just read that it might be a vocal effect to blame, but he hollers a lot, leaning on the echo. But on this listen, the songs are pretty solid and I like the album. Maybe a bit over produced, but it is certainly of the era and the singles have etched their way into my brain since it was released.
Pearl Jam
5/5
So cool to revisit this album I WORE OUT in the 90s. There is no let up and I preferred it to Nirvana at the time--although I might have swung the other way since. Perfect album, no notes.
Big Star
3/5
I really like the songs on this album and it sounds great, but I can't overlook the low-key religious lyrics that pop up at times. Almost went 4, but dropping to 3 as it's just off putting to me.
Fever Ray
3/5
Very cool album--I like the songwriting. Like Bjork, it can get a bit monotonous (although it's not really anything like Bjork). Now's The Only Time I Know is a highlight. Would probably get to 3.5 with time.
LL Cool J
4/5
This has to be the Apex of old school, right? Or maybe a bridge from old to new? It's fairly simple sampling, with some inventive beats here and there. Around The Way Girl is a top track for me and I still know almost all of the words to Mama Said Knock You Out. Plus, I was a huge House Party fan and To Da Break Of Dawn was there too. Consistently fun and great album--4.5 for me, going to 4 only because of some filler.
Miles Davis
4/5
I have definitely heard pieces of this album in many places and I think it's really easy to listen to an exceeds my fairly low expectations. Recorded jazz is not my favorite, but this one held me for the most part. Would probably go 3.5 personally, but bumping for importance--an importance you can actually feel throughout the work.
Jack White
4/5
I'm pretty unfamiliar with Jack White's solo output, so it was cool to hear this. I've always loved The White Stripes and while this doesn't hit as high as some of those albums, this one has some great moments. Honestly, I'm usually drawn to deeper tracks with his work than the singles, so I dug the 2nd half more. Still a 4 for me!
The Who
5/5
The sheer magnitude of what Townshend is trying for here is quite amazing. This could be one of the greatest achievements of all time--without this album, do we have JCS? The Wall? The album is a surprisingly good listen and I remember Pinball Wizard as a kid who loved arcades being my Who introduction. The movie and musical are not bad either.
Ray Price
3/5
I was kind of expecting hot garbage especially after the initial opening which is WEIRD. But, the songs have a nice feel and the album is a throwback to honky tonk before country got super twangy and then morphed into modern country which IS hot garbage. A young Willie Nelson on this makes it even cooler?
Ice T
4/5
I had only heard a couple of these tracks, but I really like the way he puts together the presentation of the songs--it makes sense that he went to acting. I enjoyed most of the album and would probably go 3.5 personally, but bumping for presentation.
Johnny Cash
3/5
I've always liked the idea of this more than the execution. Of the covers, only Personal Jesus really pops and that's because of the guitar part. The rest, I'd rather hear the original versions. Speaking of originals, those are actually the highlights for me.
Keith Jarrett
3/5
The story behind this concert is amazing, the piano was broken, it was at the Opera House at 11pm, he was dog tired and it almost was cancelled. Very enjoyable listen, but a bit thin?
Billy Joel
5/5
The last 2 songs are fine, but the rest of the album is just classic after classic--Joel was in the pocket for sure. My dad had this one and I was very fond of it, reminds me of drives in the car when that whistling starts for The Stranger--which is a weird song!
Beatles
5/5
Very familiar with the album ,so I went a little deeper on information and I still can't get over how wild it is that they disintegrated within the course of a year or so and that they were able to muster amicability to actually complete this one. John bringing Yoko to the studio in a convalescent bed is bonkers. Also, the solos in The End are so cool, Ringo on drums and then 3 lead lines played in succession by Paul, George, and John. A crazy goodbye, but makes sense. A top album for me, but I still put White Album a bit higher.
Gotan Project
3/5
This was fine to listen to. Didn't really grab my attention.
Johnny Cash
5/5
I've listened to this one a couple of times and it's so damned charming. I always think the twangy guitars and similarity of the songs will cause my attention to wander, but it always holds me. Plus the iconic status of the album gets it to the top for me. Personally it's probably a 4.5
Cream
3/5
Honestly, I don't think I'm as in to psychedelic music as I thought I was at 17. This maybe hits 3.5 for me, but it's super muddy. Clapton's better at straight blues.
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
It took me to the 2nd half for this to really land, but really solid back half. I think personally it's a 3.5 for me, but boosting.
Orange Juice
3/5
I liked a lot of this album, but I like the weird story of the band even more. I did recognize Rip It Up, but do not remember ever hearing of this band and of course that popular song by Edwyn that came out in the 90s was decent. I like his unique voice, but the songwriting never seems to get over the hump.
Germs
3/5
The opening riffs to these songs really caught my attention and were really great. But the vocals kind of pushed me away ... and the drumming had some issues. Sometimes I like the idea of a band more than the actual recordings. Probably thrashed live tho.
Patti Smith
5/5
My most recent vinyl purchase and it's an amazing album. There really isn't anything like Patti Smith and this sound. I paid more attention to side 2 on this listen and it's just mesmerizing.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
I could probably listen to Aretha sing the phone book. This album is solid from beginning to end and feels like you could needle drop anywhere and slap it in a movie or TV show.
Tori Amos
4/5
I remember when this album dropped and it was unlike anything. I bought it immediately, but it was a bit esoteric for my taste at the time and it hit the back burner. Reading more about how she sees music in color makes A LOT of sense. Her songs are not very straightforward, but are very rewarding with multiple listens--I think she will one day be up there with the Dylan's and Springsteen's of the world, but she'll need to be discovered over and over again. That said, I think Under The Pink and Boys For Pele are true 5's. This one is amazing, but it's like a blueprint ... probably a 4.5 for me, dropping to 4 out of respect for the next 2 albums. Also, I went down a rabbit hole and Y Kant Tori Read is an 80s timecapsule, but it's still some great Tori stuff!
The Roots
3/5
Enjoyed the samples and interludes, but the flow itself did not do much for me. Liked it, didn't love it ...
Shivkumar Sharma
3/5
Not necessarily something I would seek out, but I definitely felt some stress melt away while listening. Probably a 2.5 for me, but bumping for importance.
U2
5/5
U2 are a band I have more respect for recently, but we definitely had this album growing up. The highs are really some of their best work, even if they got weird for a bit after this. I like a few of their albums better overall, so this is probably a 4.5 for me but I'm bumping due to importance.
Michael Jackson
4/5
So many great moments on this album and it's got one foot in the 70s and one toward Thriller. It gets a bit weaker as it goes on, but still hits.
Lambchop
4/5
Pretty cool album, most of the songs are not super catchy but they are intricate--first class songwriting. I think I need more time with this one, but on first listen it's a 3.5 for me. Bumping as it's probably a grower.
Taylor Swift
4/5
I really like a lot of this, but I have the same issue with this as most of her albums. The songs start all sounding the same and blend together. I might get to 4.5, but the engineering/producing keeps it at 4.
Brian Wilson
5/5
This is probably not a coincidence that this posts the day after he dies. The project he worked on for a large portion of his life and it's really great. Maybe not in need of the tweaking and dedication he put on it, but from beginning to end it's a really good listen and always surprising and interesting.
Solomon Burke
4/5
Never heard of him, but it's great! Like a melding of Sam Cooke and Smokey Robinson. Spotify played one song over and it was Everybody Needs Somebody, covered famously by The Blues Brothers.
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
So smooth and I've never heard the album, only Can I Kick It which is a great track but the rest is fantastic. Sort of what I wanted Arrested Development to be. This hits a 4.5 for me and might go up eventually, but going for:
Ash
4/5
I have never heard of this and it's great! Very catchy songs and music, nothing too heavy. It's only knock is that late 90s production sameness to the guitars/bass. But, they've also thrown in cool harmonies, samples, and kind of psychedelic sounds here and there. Unexpected.
Pixies
4/5
The more I listen to the album the more it grows on me, particularly the non singles. I wish I would have been on this group when I was younger as this might be a 5 ... it's around a 4.5 for me, but dropping for now.
Digital Underground
4/5
This one surprised me--I did not know DU beyond Humpty a character that turned me off the group. But, the group overall is rooted and funk and this is some high level old school (kind of transitioning to Tribe Called Quest - type sound with standard MC rhymes). I think my only knock is the length of the songs when they just start repeating. I'm sad I didn't get into them when they were FRESH!
R.E.M.
5/5
Honestly, one of the most powerful and lyrically introspective albums ever. A left turn when the world was grunging that is better than their previous huge hit album. Probably the last great 1st to last song album they recorded.
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Wonder's magical album run in the early seventies is kind of amazing, even if the albums have not totally impacted me. In this listen to Talking Book I was mesmerized more than ever. Perhaps I need a multiple listen guideline for these albums. In particular, the interplay of the multiple organs/keys on many tracks. The big 3 tracks here are just top Wonder on any list. I'm close to a 5 here, more of a 4.5 but bumping up for the perfect vibe.
Soul II Soul
2/5
Club Classics is an appropriate title as it feels like someone messing around as a DJ. Pretty cool beats and the bass work is really good. But this collection is super basic and the iconic Back To Life is not even on the original release in the single version everyone knows. When that song hit the world lit on fire. It's so good, but it's not here except as an acapella song.
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
Pretty cool, not really into listening to salsa but I liked it--would prefer dancing to it.
The Fall
3/5
This is normally the type of stuff that I really like, but this was just kind of boring to me. Cool for a few songs.
Dusty Springfield
4/5
Classic songs, great voice. Really good listen from beginning to end. Maybe a 4.5 and only knocking for not being a songwriter.
Sam Cooke
3/5
Cool live album and was definitely a great night.
Bill Callahan
4/5
Hypnotic and lyrically both complex and simple. Loved it and will seek out more of his stuff.
Bob Dylan
4/5
Such a great album and one of the few I own by Dylan. Listening to it after all of this time it seems a bit slighter than I remember, but it's still solid.
Fatboy Slim
2/5
Fun beats, but you couldn't pay me to care
The Band
4/5
Really solid album and fun to listen to. It's not really my style, but it held my attention. I only really know the Band from The Last Waltz, so it was cool to listen to a full album. Probably more of a 3.5 for me, but bumping.
Coldplay
5/5
The first 6 tracks are fantastic and for that alone the album is a 4.5 for me. I'm bumping to 5 ... is that crazy? This is an all timer for me and one of the greatest albums ever? I guess? Such an easy listen even if the last 2 tracks are a bit limp.
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
This is the weirdest album I think we've listened to. It hits about 4 different rock genres and I was expecting more psychedelia and definitely more Grace Slick. The 2 hits are so iconic I thought the rest of the songs would be similar and they are not. Hard to judge, but I liked it. Probably 3.5 for me, but bumping.
Grizzly Bear
3/5
I like the feel of this album, but after 2 listens it simply did not stick with me. Probably a 2.5 if I'm honest.
The Blue Nile
2/5
This did not do anything for me.
Deep Purple
3/5
At turns I disliked and enjoyed the album. The lyrics are at times insanely bad, but the hooks are there. The jams are pretty cool--I think they made the right choice recording the album live(ish) even at the expense of having clean takes or having precise timing. Maybe gets to 3.5, but dropping as I probably would not buy the album.
Nick Drake
3/5
Similarly to Bryter Later, I think I like the story of this album than the actual songs. Bringing just a guitar into a studio after hours because another group had it booked and banging this out in 2 nights is wild. Then bringing the masters personally to the record company and leaving them at reception. I like it, but would need a lot more time with it. Probably a 3.5 for me, but dropping.
Small Faces
3/5
I didn't not enjoy this album. It's very odd and tonally all over the place. I don't think I liked enough to return to it, but it was a fun listen.
Supergrass
4/5
Never heard them outside of the Alright song which is not super indicative of their sound and is too bad. I would not have imagined this was the band who released that song and I'm glad because this album is great!
Frank Black
4/5
This one took me a couple of listens and it's actually a very impressive solo album. I've always liked the FB style and he always puts cool intricate details in every song--none of them feel tacked on. I still think 5 or 6 songs could be jettisoned here, but probably from the middle. The start and end are very strong. Going 4, but could get to 4.5 for me.
T. Rex
5/5
I knew this album inside and out over a decade ago when I 'found' it for myself. In this listen it's banger after banger and I totally forgot Bang A Gong was on this one which was a cool moment! When Rip Off started I was like, ok, here's the first kind of rough one and I checked the songlist to find it's the final track, haha. It might be a 4.5 for me as I totally wore it out but I'm rating over the last Rex album for a bump to 5!
The Who
4/5
I'm on the fence with this one. Parts of this album are like a rock mission statement, parts like a Rolling Stones blues album, and parts like a standard mid-sixties generic rock album. But Townsend's guitar work is at times revolutionary (even if the endings of songs repeat) and the drums are Animal-style bonkers for the time period. It's maybe a straight line from this to bands that furthered both punk and heavy metal which makes it important. Probably a 3.5 for me, but bumping.
John Martyn
3/5
This is good and I enjoyed listening to it, but it didn't really grab me. Very inventive effects give this a unique sound.
Black Sabbath
4/5
Surprised by this one. I'm not really a metal fan, but this is really the blueprint and I'm glad to hear Ozzy didn't really like the term Heavy Metal. He just considered it rock and I agree. It is heavier, but the basics are there and at times you can really hear the blues influence when you slow down the riffs.
Living Colour
4/5
This was a strange listen. Loved Cult and Glamour Boys, as well as Open Letter--the Talking Heads cover was awesome and the last 2 songs very cool social commentary. The 2nd and 3rd songs are absolutely terrible and I'm not sure why they are not tucked into the back of the album, but after 15 minutes of listening I was at a 2. The album picked up for sure and I ended up at about 3.5 and I'm bumping for relevance, but man those songs are bad and the thrash/hair metal sound they have is so off putting. Reid smokes on guitar, but if it's all thrashy sounding what's the point? Also, some of Glover's lyrics are ROUGH, haha.
Terence Trent D'Arby
4/5
I'm sorry I never heard this album in full as it's a really good time. The tone of the singles probably pushed me away, but I've always liked those songs. I would pick up on vinyl for sure.
Gillian Welch
3/5
Tough one for me. The songwriting is TOP TIER and loved just about everything. EXCEPT the God/Savior/Heaven stuff. Just a real turn off for me and mostly unnecessary for the songs. Those songs push this to 3.5 for me, but dropping.
Butthole Surfers
3/5
This was fine, but I imagine they've had better output. Kind of a 2.5 for me, but bumping because I liked what I heard. Probably wouldn't return to it though.
The Byrds
3/5
Just this side of country from a Wilco album and it's not really my thing, but it's good for what it is. A 2.5 for me, but bumping for significance.
Tom Waits
4/5
I don't like Tom Waits' voice, it drives me bonkers but I'll say in the context of an album, it's pretty great. I would put this on again and the songwriting is great!
Christina Aguilera
2/5
Started rough, kind of faux tribute to genres and a cringy track about soul singers. Improved for a few songs and then the circus side? Weirdly sensual songs that feel off. The songs sound decent, if not a bit simple, and her voice is so great. But she sounds the same in every song and I wish a future remaster would remove everytime she starts a song with oh yeah, or ohhhh, or whoa whoa. It sucks and once you notice it all the time it's hilarious. Like if a singer is warming up, I just need the lyrics, not the mi, mi, mis.
Lenny Kravitz
3/5
Always cool,but i was worried about his voice when he was straining and not hitting the notes.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Pretty cool for 1988, but didn't leave much of an impression--even twice through. Probably a 2.5 for me, but bumping
Grant Lee Buffalo
5/5
I can't believe there's a glb album on here. If this one's on the list, are they all on here? It's great but it's my least favorite, haha.
Einstürzende Neubauten
3/5
Interesting rhythms in here--almost went 2 as I wouldn't pick up again. But the effort is pretty cool.
Michael Jackson
5/5
Listen, MJ is a complex figure. But, this might be the greatest album of all time.
The Undertones
4/5
Awesome! Maybe a bit too simple to get to 5, but might be 4.5 for me right now.
Tim Buckley
3/5
I was surprised by this one. It started a bit bombastic, but settled in. Solid songs.
Sparks
4/5
Love Sparks, but the sameness of their songs begins to wear on me with a whole album. That said, the songs are ALWAYS interesting. Going with 4, but it's probably closer to 4.5 for me.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
So classic, but I wouldn't call it timeless. I love it, but it sounds dusty? Does that make sense? TIL Jerry Garcia is the slide on Teach and that makes a TON of sense. I think I'd still go 4.5, but dropping because it's never a go to ...
The Last Shadow Puppets
4/5
Pretty great--cinematic and worth a revisit. 4 for now, but could rise ...
Weather Report
3/5
Pretty cool, but sort of becomes background for me. I would call this a 2.5, but bumping because I've heard some of this before and it's iconic.
Jethro Tull
3/5
Not really my thing, but it's good. I liked a lot of the songwriting.
George Michael
3/5
I admire the attempt to get more serious with the songwriting, but only a few of these tracks are not boring. Freedom 90 is such a good song I'm boosting to 3, but this is a 2 or 2.5 for me.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
I admire many things about this album. The songwriting is good, the approach was really cool, and the sound is a nice return to form. But, the songs, they are too long and a little boring. I don't really care about them and they kind of fall away for me.
Beth Orton
3/5
I like the feel of the album, but I went through it twice without it making a dent. Willing to try again, though.
N.W.A.
3/5
Unlike AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted, this one is still solidly in Old School and sounds a bit dated. The beats are simple and sometimes inventive, but the drum pad is tiring. Also unlike AMW, the sexism/misogyny is not casual, it's the running theme. I get it's groundbreaking, but it's also super cringe now. Would be a 2.5 for me, but bumping for relevance.
The Flaming Lips
5/5
I know every beat of this album intimately. Complete masterpiece.
Spiritualized
4/5
I enjoyed it, but after a while it occurred to me that it's basically an album full of closing songs. A bit redundant after a while, probably 3.5 for me but bumping. Would and will listen again!
Nina Simone
4/5
There's nothing like her voice and this album is mesmerizing. Going 4 because I've never heard it, but could get up to 5 someday.
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
3/5
Cool if too long album. As it goes on you can hear how it might have influenced groups like Of Montreal. A 3 for me right now, but bears further listens.
X-Ray Spex
3/5
I thought I would like this more, but it didn't really hit with me. Sounds good, might throw on in the background, or maybe it needs another listen to crack it?
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
Probably be a 4 if I still got high, but a pretty solid 3. I would probably pick up a cheap vinyl of it.
Sinead O'Connor
5/5
I played this album out because it's one of the best ever recorded. Nothing Compares is like my 5th favorite song on the album. If you've never seen her do Emperor live, go to YouTube
Incredible Bongo Band
4/5
Tempted to give this a 5, it's so good and crazy influential. I have to go 4, but it's probably a 4.5 for me right now.
The Teardrop Explodes
4/5
Pretty great and never heard it! Will definitely return to it, but just about a 4.5 from first listen.
Hawkwind
4/5
The only knock on this is it gets a bit tedious, but the music is really great. Love the riffs and jams. Pretty sure I got high just listening to it.
The Triffids
3/5
I admire the songwriting here as it's unlike anything I've heard. Somewhere between Fairport Convention and Post-Punk rock. I would pick up an album, but there's nothing super catchy here. Probably more of a grower.
Portishead
3/5
I like the feel of this, but it's definitely not my go to. I remember when the album came out and it didn't really excite me then either. I can appreciate the influence though.
Klaxons
4/5
Yes! Albums like this are why I'm doing this. Love it. Going 4 for now, but it's a 4.5 for me, maybe eventually 5.
Sade
4/5
Yeah, this is great. I always loved Smooth Operator, but this is the first full listen and Sade delivers. Will return to it and it might be at a 4.5 for me.
Kelela
4/5
Really into this--sounds great and she has a fantastic voice. Interesting getting this next to Sade. I think I'm at a 3.5 but bumping.
Beatles
4/5
I went into the album pretty sure of a 5, but in this listen the theme of misogyny that runs through many songs (ending with the cringy Run for your Life) is tough. There are tender moments as well and the songwriting is now fully formed. An important album, but not quite a 5--might actually be a 3.5 for me now.
Goldfrapp
3/5
Strange album, sounds like a bunch of silent movie theme songs. It doesn't really grab me, but I dig the experimental feel. Still, it would be a 2.5 for me probably. Bumping.
Elvis Costello
4/5
I love these songs, but still struggle with Elvis' vocals--they've never really done it for me. Still, might be a 4.5
The War On Drugs
4/5
The songs on this are really solid and have really good groove. I think this is a 3.5 for me only because of the ethereal keys in the back. It kind of overpowers the songs and makes them all sound similar. Still, bumping because it's so good it overcomes this.
Van Morrison
4/5
Not a big fan personally, but there's no denying his influence--particularly this album which is about as close to jazz as you can get with folk rock. A really good listen and probably warrants multiple listens.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Gets off to a pretty hot start, but for me it gets a bit same-y. I've never been a huge fan of Sinatra's conversational singing, but it's used well here. Might pick this one up at a thrift store.
Sepultura
3/5
Really not my thing, but mostly because of the vocals and incessant drive. But, the drums are like art and there are some really good tempo changes. It's clear this is top tier, but still a 3 for me.
Alice Cooper
4/5
Trended 3.5 for me and was considering dropping to 3, but I'm actually going to bump to 4. It's just a really enjoyable listen. More glam than metal at this point.
Eminem
4/5
Wow, a lot of this doesn't age well. But I have always liked the style and beats of this first album. There's no denying it's impact and the first 2 songs are iconic. I think it's a straight 4.
Brian Eno
4/5
Not sure what I was expecting, but some really cool songs here. It must have sounded wild when it first came out--it feels a decade too early. You can sense the seeds of Talking Heads (obvs), but also Robyn Hitchcock and Radiohead at times. Probably a 3.5 for me but bumping.
Kate Bush
4/5
I don't know if I'll ever dive into this album again, but i admire the big swing. If nothing else it's always interesting and subverting expectations. I would say the same about this as Eno. Probably a 3.5, but bumping.
Screaming Trees
4/5
Really great, and I can't believe I never got into them--such a nice mix of rock and psychedelic. Might rise, but a solid 4 for now.
Doves
3/5
Took me quite a few songs to get into this as the first tracks seem more like instrumentals with occasional vocals. When the songs kicked in it helped, but it didn't really grab me. Still a good listen.
TLC
4/5
Even as someone who had moved away from R&B and Hip Hop when this came out, I still recognized how good the singles were. If nothing else, the theme and production values are strong--the vibes are great, even if the non-single songs themselves are a bit forgettable. Overall, it's more of a 3 for me, but bumping for importance.
Leftfield
3/5
I give a lot of crap to electronica, but honestly this one got me moving and there is just enough vocal work to keep things interesting. I liked it--might be a 3.5.
Robert Wyatt
2/5
Very interesting, but I'm not fully an Eno person. And now that we have Blackstar, this is not necessarily worth a listen.
Cowboy Junkies
3/5
Not really my vibe, but the Sweet Jane cover is iconic. Probably a 2.5 for me, but bumping.
GZA
3/5
This album is relentless--the beats just hammer you track after track and I really think that's it's strength. I also like GZA's flow, but I think I need a few more listens. Currently a 3.5 for me, but bumping down for content.
Queens of the Stone Age
3/5
Seems to start strong, but then nothing stayed with me. Might need another listen, but probably a 2.5 for me out of the gate. Bumping tho.
3/5
A really fun album, not one I would listen to regularly but maybe as a dance party option? Not a big fan of the vocals, but the music and particularly the rhythms are fantastic and very unique.
Kraftwerk
3/5
Mesmerizing and repetitive, but I kinda liked it? Maybe even a 3.5.
TV On The Radio
4/5
Ok, this is great! There's a little overproduction at times, but the musicianship makes up for it. Solid 4 and I look forward to hearing more.
New Order
3/5
Not terrible, but every song sounds the same to me--kind of like The Cure. Probably a 2.5 for me, but bumping.
Pere Ubu
4/5
Very cool album, I like how it feels influenced by a lot of stuff but also it's own thing.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Im not not into this, but Cohen doesn't really excite me. Covers of his songs always slap tho.
Solange
3/5
I like this album, but mostly for how it flows. But I have similar issues with Solange as with the last album I had, L Cohen, it just doesn't excite me. A bit too minimalist. Sometimes I just want a boring old pop song.
Dolly Parton
4/5
So great to hear these voices and after the album played on spotify I got some of Trio II and it also sounded great. I'd put it on again for sure.
Roxy Music
4/5
I enjoyed the feel of this album, but I think it will take a few listens to sink in. A 3.5 for now, but bumping.
Dinosaur Jr.
4/5
I had to listen to this one twice as it's so raw, but what impressed me to do so was that it came out in 1987 when I was listening to hair bands (but was also when R.E.M.s Document came out). The gall to be heavy with almost folk songwriting (see Neil Young) pretty much led straight to the grunge and 90s rock explosion. I really get a Foo Fighters vibe at times and Nirvana's Bleach at others. I like the album, but it's a bit too hard at times and songs don't particularly stick with me. Probably a 3.5 for me now, but bumping for importance.
Boards of Canada
2/5
Okay, another album of electronica. Like out of the corner of my eye if I slap on a track I groove on it for a bit, but once I get to 3-4 in a row I get bored. The inventiveness of this saves it to a 2.5, but I can't go above 2 for the album.
The Louvin Brothers
4/5
Pretty great--I recently rewatched O Brother Where Art Thou and this style is solidly in that camp. This is good country before the pop sensibilities. A bit monotonous, haha.
Motörhead
2/5
I actually have the same gripe about this as electronica. One song or two, great! It really rocks. A whole album gets monotonous. The concert was probably cool though.
Steve Winwood
4/5
Pretty cool album, I always thought While You See A Chance just appeared on radio dj desks to be mixed in forever. It is shocking that he did all of this album himself. A 3.5 for me, but bumping for respect.
Radiohead
4/5
Really great album--I'm always surprised when a song pops up that I did not know was on a specific album, which always happens to me with Radiohead. Honestly, this might be their 3rd or 4th best. It kind of lags in the middle, but each song seems to have a right turn or shift that is rewarding.
Public Enemy
5/5
This album is relentless and normally the same vibe gets tired to me, but I think this must be some apex of old school. How can this not be a 5
Wilco
4/5
I really like this album, but it suffers from bloat and doesn't get to the highs of AM or YHF for me.
John Lee Hooker
4/5
Solid from beginning to end--I think it's throwback nature in the last tracks gets me to a 4.
AC/DC
5/5
Wait. All of these songs were on the SAME ALBUM?! Talk about in the pocket. 5 Stars ... essential. I can't believe it took me until now to hear the Creedence parallels.
The Clash
4/5
Not a big Clash fan, even though they seem to line up with my sensibilities. I would say this is a 4, but might be a 3.5 for me.
Blue Cheer
2/5
This is okay, but seems to not know what it wants to be. Was this really influential?
Hüsker Dü
3/5
I like Bob Mould after Husker Du better, but this is solid. Again, like most double albums it might be too much of a good thing which knock it down to a 3.5 for me. Dropping for repetitive feel.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
Classic. No notes!
Eminem
4/5
Everything about this is perfect--except when it's deeply misogynist and gay bashing. He even makes fun of himself for being terrible and seems to try and have it both ways. Perhaps he is creating terrible characters and claiming it's just a song, but this LP in particular is supposed to be him and it's very cringy. When he has other things to say the album is much better--Stan is maybe a top 5 rap track--I'm just not interested in his feuding with Kim, or Xtina, or NSYNC. That said, he is still unparalleled as a lyricist and the album slaps. A 3.5 for me, but bumping for critical acceptance.
Neil Young
4/5
Picked up this LP for a dollar recently. Not one of my favorites at this point, but still really great.
Bad Brains
4/5
Not like many groups I have heard outside of Faith No More and Living Colour. Pretty cool outside of the crunchy power chords and metal leads. A 3.5 for me, but bumping.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Very solid Springsteen with a return of the E Street band. A bit over produced for my taste and it's not a stone cold classic like many of the other old albums, but the songs are really good. The singles from this album kind of put me off, so I didn't hear it in full until a couple of years ago. Late to the whole Bruce party honestly. Might be a 3.5 for me, but bumping.
G. Love & Special Sauce
3/5
Never heard this, but so many bands when I was in a band in the mid nineties adopted a sound like this. I have to acknowledge it's ingenuity while admitting it's not my thing. Probably 2.5 for me, but bumping.
The The
3/5
I think a lot of my interest in a group revolves around the vocalist/lyricist. This guy doesn't really hold up for me and the songs don't pop. 2.5 for me, but bumping.
Fred Neil
3/5
Very listenable album and I had no idea that he wrote Everybody's Talkin. Always cool to discover folk rock songwriters from the Cafe Wha scene that got completely overshadowed by Dylan. He's no Dylan, but he's good.
Suede
4/5
This one needs more listens, but it definitely caught my attention. Odd that I missed this album, but I think it dropped when I was in after high school music limbo for new music. Right now it's 3.5 for me but bumping.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
I love Siouxsie and the Banshees and recently went through the discography. I remember this one being on the radar as their benchmark album, but it was kind of low for me when next to their oeuvre. Still starts very strong and the riffs and guitar work are stellar. I appreciate music that tries to do something different while staying within the boundaries of genre. There's something mystical about the songwriting. That said, the album gets a bit bogged down at the end. This would be a 3.5 for me, but dropping as I think their best work is elsewhere.
Cheap Trick
2/5
Wow, I'm kind of impressed at how little this speaks to me.
The Cardigans
4/5
I really like this--Lovefool is obviously the stand out, but there's nothing like this out there (in the 90s anyway). Needs more listens, but it's a solid 4 right now.
System Of A Down
4/5
I was surprisingly impressed with this. There are some great moments and while the genre still does not grab me--there's something different here. Started as a surprised 3 and ended up a more surprised 4.
Fugazi
4/5
Two in a row I was kind of dreading listening to and this one also rips. I'm not sure what I expected, but it's not much different from Nirvana honestly. This is just before alt rock got much harder and I wonder if they were a tad early.
Mekons
3/5
Good, but doesn't really grab me. Interested to hear more of their stuff.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
3/5
I don't think weird 60's psychedelic stuff is my thing. It's fine, but as much as I love later 80s versions (Robyn Hitchcock, etc). This and Zappa, etc don't quite get me there.
Genesis
4/5
This is the craziest, most ambitious music I have heard that actually kind of succeeds. Then I read the plot and it's absolutely stupid. Probably why no one has ever picked it up and tried to interpret it for the stage (or maybe someone has?). The music and songs are all really interesting and flow nicely--it's too bad Gabriel quit right after it, but I think he and the rest of Genesis profited.