The contrast between forcing me to listen to Skepta yesterday to giving me one of the greatest albums of all time the next day is poetic. The majority of the population are more then happy to listen to hit albums where all the songs have standard structure and just fit the bill of being a good song. And I am no stranger to it, Appetite for Destruction and Hybrid Theory are 2 albums where there is just constant good rock songs that fit a formula and are both in my top 10 of all time. But albums like this are where music peaks. Shoegaze had been around for a short amount of time by this point still finding its footing before this album came around and laid down the image for everyone. I genuinely believe that Kevin Shields is one of, if not the greatest guitar player ever. Maybe not in a traditional manner but this album is carried how mesmerising the sounds he makes with that thing are and when you just sit down and listen to this album it is just one of the greatest feelings. It wasn't just on the album too, MBV's live events are some of the most unique ever and although many would hate listening to a wall of noise before every gig it created a one of a kind experience for people, in such a huge industry to do what they did is incredible. I do think it is the face of Shoegaze even if it isn't my favourite album they are all so close up there. The genre is art, there is just something so beautiful about the noise that is hard to explain to anyone and I just have to except not everyone will like it. People will always complain that not every song hits like a single, but for me an amazing album needs these slow atmospheric down parts for the high points to really hit, anyone listening to this will experience it when "when you sleep" comes in it is just so incredible. And rock snobs love Pink Floyd but The Dark Side of the Moon only has maybe 3 proper songs and it is considering one of the best albums of all time (rightfully so) because of how amazing those high points are, you don't get those without the build up. Shoegaze will forever be my favourite genre and I hope that Slowdive, Have a Nice Life and Cocteau Twins are on here because they all influenced and changed music perception in it's own right and if Skepta can be on here then they better be. Stand out songs: When You Sleep What You Want Soon

My college teacher always swore by this being her favourite of all time and although I wouldn't have rated it always this highly I must admit it has always been a go to for me. I wasn't always a fan of the way he sang but they have warmed on me and change through time. I also think the mix is great one of the most pleasing soft mixes I an think of it helps when you can hear it properly through headphones etc but something about it is nice and soft. I said it before with Jeff Buckley that this is a hard genre to pull off and I think this is great, it may not hit the heights for me as Jeff Buckley does but it is up there. A strong 4/5. Stand Out Songs; Between the Bars Cupid's Trick Ballad of Big Nothing

When I saw this was another late 60’s folk rock album I was a little disappointed because I didn’t think I was in the mood. However from the start this felt like quite a fun album and I ended up really enjoying. The mix although strange was great and I love high notes on bass and it was super prominent in the mix. Although there were points it felt a little bland I would focus more on the calm instrumental and it would make up for the poorer songwriting. Only other real negative was the ending, great albums need a well written ending and it is a shame this didn’t have that but still didn’t completely kill it. Going to give it a generous 4/5 because it was a great first listen. Stand Out Songs: Christine’s Tunes My Uncle Hot Burrito #1

3/5

2/5, good album about a 5/10 but there are better Soul albums

5/5 Great album, for 1 hour long it doesn't ever feel boring or out of place. Each song fits each song works and sounds great the whole way through. A good opener and a fitting closer is so missed on so many albums, but they work so well here. My 3 Key songs - Tumbling Dice, Sweet Virginia, All Down The Line

Probably harsh and may grow on me but not a great first listen

Lead singer is the guy from black flag who are definitely a lot more successful. Still a lot of fun and intense for 15 minutes. Up there with Dead Kennedy's 4/5. Stand Out Songs: Wasted, Paid Vacation, Live Fast Die Young (Definitely one of my favourite punk songs)

Fun album with some great songs, love What's Golden but I did already know it. Like a lot of rap albums especially west coast it probably went on a little too long. Torn between 3 or 4 out of 5 as I gave it 7.3/10 on spreadsheet but I did really enjoy it I just think it was missing more stand out moments for a 1 hour album. Stand out songs, What's Golden, Thin Line, High Fidelity.

Again another album I feel I should like more but it doesn’t feel new or special to me. Just a well rounded band with some classics. Stand out songs : It’s the end of the world as we know it The one I love Welcome to the occupation

Amazing album I love it. Sadly I could never give it 5 stars but it’s just such a nice simple album about simple problems done really well. Stand out songs: Connection Car Song Blue

Rush are hit or miss form me. I can see why a certain group love them and as a drummer I should too. But this could make no sense but it doesnt stand out to me so much. I imagine it would in 1976 but I would rather put on an Iron Maiden album then this one. I have no idea why you would make that first song all 1 instead of 7 normal ones. It feels like they made an ep, chucked it on the first half but forgot to change them to individual tracks then needed to make it a bit longer to be an LP. Although I do like the second half it would've been better to do a similar thing throughout. Also what is up with old songs and fade outs. Was it that hard to finish a song, let alone not have a fade out at the end of the album? I gave it 7/10 but to be harsh it will be 3/5 on here. Stand Out Songs: The Twilight Zone Lessons Something For Nothing

Actually really enjoyed it, fun Rock/Jazz type and one of the bands who made the Woodstock 69 lineup. I don't feel it caught my attention enough though and is probably another 7/10. There are lots of covers/songs written by other artists which although not bad does dock some points. I don't know much about the genre though so whether I find better albums I am not sure but I feel 3/5 is fair. Stand out songs: Smiling Phases Spinning Wheel You've Made Me So Very Happy

Absolutely loved it, starting really like a lot of this kind of genre and these are no exception if not better. Love the early shoegaze like sound as well. Will certainly listen more and it may grow even more but it is hard to get a 5 so it will be 4 for now. Stand out songs: Wasn't Born to Follow Tribal Gathering Dolphins Smile

I normally like like weird. I mean most people tell me I love weird music. But not this. I do not know what is appealing about this, I normally like this sound in fact it is one of my favourites but it is like he just tried to butcher it at every chance. His voice is awful just because it's British doesn't make it good. The constant use of what I can assume is a voice changing thing going wa wa wa is dreadful. This came out the same year Kraftwerk released Autobahn and I feel bad for any English people who had to do with this Avant-Garde instead of Kraftwerk. This is one of the highest rated albums on RYM and usually I liken myself to these people and often agree but I just can't here. Going to have to be 1 star for the bad mood it put me in.

It was good and I love this genre but I think it could have been better. The beats are great and they are passionate I just don't think enough songs really hit. Still fun but other then the message and time period I don't feel it is special. Solid 3/5. Stand out songs: Welcome to the Terrordome Burn Hollywood Burn War at 33 1/3

Can't believe I had never really listened until now. It is the 6th highest album on rym and I have always been meaning to. It is so highly regarded for good reason though I did love it and would much rather play it over other albums from this era. I think it would be one of my favourites if it wasn't for the utter waste of time moonchild was. It doesn't kill the vibe or need skipping it just does nothing for me. But for an album that came out in 1969 it is amazing. All in all still has to be 5 stars. Stand out songs: 21st Century Schizoid Man Epitaph The Court of the Crimson King

I think I just like music too much. This is all just really really good music and I could easily just give this 5 stars and maybe I should but it maybe lacks a little more then what I have heard from others. But on replayability I would listen to this a lot I think, a good vinyl. Going to leave it at 4/5 but would maybe increase in future. Stand Out Songs: Everyone Knows This Is Nowhere Down By The River The Loosing End

Another incredible album and a high 4 star. Just great music, and it is nice to hear a females vocals for once. It fits this style so well. It isn't country but like a lot of music it has that twang. How did we go from this style being one of the most popular to people hating country and folk I will never know. Brilliant, another one I will listen to on repeat until I wish I rated it 5. Stand out songs: I Feel The Earth Move It's Too Late Smackwater Jack

It is a great album, but I think compared to other radiohead albums I still think they weren't at their peak. It's still great a solid 4/5. Stand Out Songs: High and Dry Just Black Star

Very happy with this. Doubt I would have listened to it if it was not on here but I am glad I have. This is an genre I have not really explored but think I would love some of these and maybe I am bias because it's one of the first I am hearing. It is a name I only recognise from their work with Hope Sandoval but that would be on their next album. I am surprised they are on this list, although it was cool hearing Iggy Pop on Aisha, and they have worked with loads of top artist from JAMC and Liam Gallagher. Clearly have some strong connections. Although I enjoyed it there is only so many stars I can give it. Maybe if the next album comes on with Hope Sandoval vocals it will get more :) 3/5. *Edit* Just going through their wikipedia these guys have worked with so many huge artists, can't believe I had never gave them a listen. **Edit** Just finished the second album, and I love it that one is definitely 4 stars. Doubt it will be on this list though. Stand Out Songs: Dirge Aisha Alladin's Story

I feel like this is something I should like more. I appreciate the meaning behind it and people say it is a really powerful record but it just does not do that for me. It is still cool and there is no denying he is one of, if not the greatest songwriter of all time. This just didn’t blow me away like I was hoping. Just 3 stars. Stand Out Songs: Working Class Hero Isolation Love

I love the doors, influenced a lot of my favourite bands. However I had never listened to this album. It was okay it wasn’t my favourite just felt like it failed to reach as many heights as the first 2 albums. Doesn’t mean I still don’t love it, I hate rating everything a 4 but I just can’t rate it lower. Standout Songs: Roadhouse Blues You Make Me Real Maggie M’Gill

I am not really sure why this is on the list. It doesn't particularly seem popular or genre defining. This also reflects in the music, it is good, nothing makes me want to turn it off or skip (except for the song about a "little girl"). I did like it in fact I thought some songs were pretty good. But to be harsh in comparison to other albums on the list I think 2/5 is fair. Just a middle of the road 5/10. Stand out songs: Kicks There She Goes Get It On

I actually really thought I was going to love this album. George Michael songs you here are just such classics. Unfortunately this album fell into my pop album nightmares. The best song first and then just some honestly forgettable or slightly lyrically annoying songs. I enjoy this sort of music to an extent but these songs just dragged. Feels really harsh because there is no doubt he has created some of the best songs of this era/genre. But this album just was not it for me. A harsh 2/5. I couldn't even pick a 3rd Stand out song: Faith Look At Your Hands Quick side note hand to mouth sounded very very similar to The Offsprings "Come Out and Play". Obviously this came first I just could not get it out my head.

I absolutely loved this, this kind of genre is just such a nice listen. It is such a lovely break from the standard type of song by song album and felt like a full experience. Although it isn't necessary I love when albums are made with the flow in mind. It is great having the best pop song ever sat next to the second best pop song ever, but if the context doesn't continue then it just makes the album feel plastic and completely made up. Stuff like this is great, I often got lost on what song I am listening too, I couldn't keep up, but I love that. I still can't give it 5 although it is close. I think it going to be really tough to give something 5 stars on a first listen, especially in a genre I don't know much about. Another grower for sure, a possible vinyl perhaps but a safe 4/5 for this rating. Stand out "songs": A Different Feeling Electricity Frontier Psychiatrist Side note: Portishead came on after the album finished so I decided to give their album a listen and now I realise I really love this genre. Brilliant stuff

Finally an album that really fits my style. This album has been on my radar for a long time now and I never got round to it yet so I am so happy it is on the list. I may not understand the lyrics but you honestly don't need to it is just executed perfectly. I mean everyone loves Cocteau Twins and they just speak gibberish in half their songs. For such a small country Iceland seems to excel at so much that it does and music is no exception it is fascinating how successful globally some of the artist become. This certainly won't be the only Icelandic 5 star when Bjork finally comes up :) Can't express the love I had for this, big smile throughout. I think the factor I made sure to use my headphones for this does factor in. You can miss a lot of work the artist put in if they don't have your full attention. This goes straight to the top 5/5 Stand out songs: Svefn-g-englar Flugufrelsarinn Ný batterí

If you gave me a compilation of Muse's best songs I would happily listen to it. But not the albums, something about them just really gets on my nerves and I struggle to listen to them. They do this whole space sounding stuff but for some reason it just feels so cheap to me. I could just be being a snob but I would never go running to listen to Muse album. Still not terrible just 2/5. Stand out songs: Supermassive Black Hole Knights of Cydonia

Another album I wanted to like but just can not do it. There are some highlights like finding the title track isn't just sung by Peter Griffin after a Red Bull. But most of the album just really drags and it isn't what I would listen to Madonna for. This is apparently her highest rated album amongst music critics but not for me. It isn't bad enough for a 1 star but I can't give it more then 2 as I never see myself going back to this. Stand out songs Ray of Light Nothing Really Matters Frozen

Quite a refreshing listen. I enjoy this music although I could not listen to it all day and I do also feel if I was to listen to this music I would listen to something a little softer. The loud brass and the sharp vocals can sometimes be a little much but considering how old it is I think it is great people can still listen to this music. All in all a nice listen that can sit comfortably in a 3/5 slot. I also feel I was maybe a little harsh on Solomon Burke but I don't know much about this music other then some of the greats (Ray Charles included) so it is hard to tell what my go to would be. Always hard to rate after 1 listen. Stand out songs: Let the Good Times Roll You Won't Let Me Go Come Rain or Come Shine

A classic and simple indie album. Obviously take me out is the highlight but it is just a standard fun indie album. I don't think it is really special but I have listened to this album a long time now so clearly does the right thing. In the upper middle of the road just a nice 3/5. Stand Out Songs: Take Me Out The Dark of the Matinée This Fire

I do love XTC but I had never heard this album. Probably because it is not available on streaming services. Weird none of their work post 92 is on there. XTC are one of the spearheads of post-punk music, one of my favourite genres, but after a while they started to make more art pop almost type music and it is just not as good for me. I enjoy a lot about this album it just never reaches any high points, there is nothing fun. It doesn't bore me it just does not excite me like their 1979 album does. I think they had a lot of potential and with making plans for Nigel being such a hit I thought they would stick with that kind of music. Clearly other people love it as it is highly rated but just a bit in the middle for me. Standard 3/5. Stand out songs: Easter Theatre Your Dictionary The Last Balloon

I have never been bothered to listen to the xx. I hear their songs every now and then and Romy is quite popular in her own right but nothing makes me want to go and hear their discography. I feel this album just felt like that, a few songs I knew along with some pretty standard indie/dream-pop type songs. I love the sound they are going for I just don't think they execute it very well. Maybe it is because The xx are English that I hear their name more but I just can't get on board. Also you know there is a problem when the best and most popular song on the album is the instrumental intro, it is great but that doesn't excuse the rest of the album. Although because of the atmosphere I wouldn't be apposed to hearing it again I just think for where it sits compared to their competition I can only give it 2/5. Stand Out Songs: Intro Crystalised Islands

A different kind of album, and I must say I really enjoyed it. From what I have read this is an adaptation of a classical music piece but I did not know this piece and I felt it still sounded like it's own thing. I can see people feel a bit iffy some really like it some don't like that it isn't their piece but I don't mind that. I can especially imagine the people who knew what they were in for seeing this in concert really enjoying it. I listened to it on my walk to and back from Tesco's and it ended right as I walked back up to the front door. Coincidence or did I just become one with the music? Just kidding I don't believe in that but it did make me extremely happy waltzing up to the door to the end of Nut Rocker, which I did know but I don't know why or if it is even their song I am assuming not but it was a great encore and ending. I am a bit stuck on what rating to give it, I was not keeping up with which songs were where as it was obviously one big experience but I can't tell if I am just not seeing the faults. I do wish he had sung more he had quite a fitting voice and it really made for some good moments. I am going to give it a 3, I think the fact it is live but recorded and put out as if it was it's own album is just a thing I haven't seen much of and was a great find. I can't tell if I would be wanting to listen again which is why I can't give it a 4 but maybe I will listen to some more of their work and see if it compares. All being said it was a pretty perfect listen for my walk. I would say there are no stand out songs but actually I noticed some points I was actually checking what was on because I was really enjoying it so I will list those songs even if it was a snippet. Blues Variation The Curse of Baba Yaga (Maybe if I remember right) The Great Gates of Kiev

This was nice. I don't particularly see anything special with it but these albums aren't bad in fact it is something I would happily listen to again I just don't think much stood out. There were a few parts where I thought they were just trying to be Jazzy for the sake of it but I guess they somewhat added to the album they just weren't as impressive as I have heard from other bands. All being said I loved the sound they are going for, it felt soft but upbeat enough to still be fun. Because I don't feel it stood out massively I think 3 is fine but probably the upper part of 3 and could be one I go back to. Stand out songs Darkness, Darkness Beautiful Quicksand

I loved "The Notorious Byrd Brothers" when it came up on this list so I was quite happy to see this one come up. However unfortunately this just was not it for me. I liked the last one because it seemed like a nice take on psych rock which almost sounded a little like early shoegaze in parts. But this one just feels a little like a simple pop song compilation with a few quirky bits to keep the psych rock label. That wouldn't be bad if they were great pop songs but not many really stuck out to me they were just alright, and it doesn't help the fact that the best song and the song that relates to the album title "My Back Pages" is actually just a cover to a Bob Dylan song? I don't mind that they use songwriters, Carole King wrote a few songs for them too and that is okay, but the title track being a cover not just written for them but someone else's song, permission or not, does not feel like a good characteristic for an album. I sound harsh but I still enjoyed the sound just not enough, 1 star would be too harsh so 2 is fine. Stand out songs: Have You Seen Her Face Renaissance Fair My Back Pages Edit* So I looked up the ratings on rym and people love this album. What am I missing? I haven't seen many good points only ones I disagree with but it is all subjective I guess. No one has changed my mind.

I absolutely adore this album. Everything from the atmosphere, the songwriting the production it is just so incredible for it's time and only taking about a week to record. It influenced so many of my favourite bands and you can see why. It just has so much feeling and is a proper album I don't know how to explain it but clearly people agree. Not much more to say just really really good. I could pick every song for standout songs but for the influence of the album I will pick the coolest 3. Stand Out Songs: Break On Through Light My Fire The End

I do love madness but they seem to be very much a singles band. I don’t really hear much about the albums and probably rightfully so. I think the genre had so much potential and I really love a lot of bands especially Madness and The Specials. But it has always been songs or compilations. I just feel the album was kind of a nice start that just smoothed out, then bam here is our house listen to this amazing song we can make, back to just smooth music. It isn’t bad it is just nothing special so I think it sits pretty much in the middle. I still love the sound I think it’s super cool and I would listen to it I just wish they went all out on some of the songs. 3/5 is still very good. And even though it is 3/5 there was only 2 songs that really stuck out. Stand Out Songs: Tomorrows (Just another day) Our House

Love Eminem, and I grew up to a lot of his music so I had already listened to this album. I am not really too sure how to rate it, I think for a first album it is super impressive I mean his story is so impressive and he has proven himself. My only issue is I am not a huge fan of the really weird voices and lyrics, sometimes it can be good but most the time it is just a little bit much. I mean I certainly can not relate to the lyrics and some of them are pretty weird although I think that is the point. I think the album really does what it is aiming to do and is great but in relation to some of his later work and what I would rather listen to I think the upper end of 3/5 is good. Stand Out Songs: My Name Is Role Model Rock Bottom

I have been waiting for this. Jazz. 2 genres people pick out, the classic "I'd listen to anything except country and jazz". I love country, but I have never really tried Jazz only in small doses and while I would say it isn't a genre that I am going to be raving about I strangely really enjoy it. Now I have heard of Dave Brubeck and this is some pretty stereotypical Jazz. But it is on this list for a reason. Maybe I got the album at the right time as I have been listening to lots of jazz lobby music, or more modern iterations of dark jazz like Portishead but this genuinely was really nice. I think it would be a go to and I would listen to it again if I was in the mood. I am just not sure how often I really would want to. I actually listened to this album while playing Cod Zombies and there was something bliss about going through rounds of zombies while jamming to this calm Jazz compared to the usual heavy music. It is just fun and intriguing genuinely to hear the time signatures and different ways to play the instruments. I don't know if other people rate this, maybe because it is generic Jazz it is not as admired but it is on the list so someone must like it. I am actually worries that this could be as good as Jazz gets and I will like the genre more but realise I rated this low. So I am going to be rash, maybe I wouldn't listen to it more then some more standard genres and albums. But in relation to a genre I am not particularly fond of, this is exactly what I would listen to it for, and for that reason I am giving it a 4. I also love that I really do have some stand out songs, I think I already knew Take Five and clearly for good reason but there were others. Stand Out Songs: Strange Meadow Lark Take Five Kathy's Waltz

I don't know how to feel about this. I really like the instrumental behind the album, sometimes it is a little much but it fits in with a lot of my favourite stuff from the late 80's. I just did not feel it hit the heights I was expecting it too although it did really pick up towards the end. I mean I listened to it twice to make sure how I felt but I am still stuck. The vocals are strange, I have heard other voices like it and love them and some similar that I hate. It is just kind of there being carried by the instruments. I may have to listen to it again but I think that a 3 is fair because I would not rate it below 50% on my spreadsheet and I could find myself listening to it again. Stand Out Songs: Riddle of the Eighties Time With You Some Things Edit* Can't believe I did not make the connection, this is the bassist/vocals and drummer's project after Minutemen disbanded. No wonder I recognised it, Double Nickels on the Dime is such a classic Post-Punk album and it explains why I enjoyed the instruments, especially bass on this album. But it clear they started to head in a more indie/rock direction like a lot of bands at the time and I would definitely rather listen to Minutemen, but a cool project either way. If this is on the list I assume minutemen will be too.

I have no idea why this is on here. Was this list made by an English person, is this really considered an album you must hear or even influential. I mean this came out in 2016 Grime had been around a long time before this and started to die off to my knowledge shortly after. There would have been a time where I listened to That's Not Me but not a full album. I just can't deal with it the lyrics the beats it all is just not my thing at all I was really tempted to just skip this but I decided to try it. Lyrics about crime, although I can not relate and usually dislike it, I can not be hypocritical. Mobb Deep The Infamous is a top 10 album for me but that is down to the delivery and the beats. I also despise lyrics about shagging women, I mean he doesn't do it much but it was there a few songs and it is just an instant turn off. I am no warrior saying it is wrong there are women who rap about it aswell but I do not want to hear about the ungodly things he wants to do to someone it just is not what I want to hear in a song. I appreciate a lot of people loved this album especially in the uk and maybe the list is trying to reach out to every genre, but you would never hear me choosing to listen to this. Stand out songs: Shutdown That's Not Me

The contrast between forcing me to listen to Skepta yesterday to giving me one of the greatest albums of all time the next day is poetic. The majority of the population are more then happy to listen to hit albums where all the songs have standard structure and just fit the bill of being a good song. And I am no stranger to it, Appetite for Destruction and Hybrid Theory are 2 albums where there is just constant good rock songs that fit a formula and are both in my top 10 of all time. But albums like this are where music peaks. Shoegaze had been around for a short amount of time by this point still finding its footing before this album came around and laid down the image for everyone. I genuinely believe that Kevin Shields is one of, if not the greatest guitar player ever. Maybe not in a traditional manner but this album is carried how mesmerising the sounds he makes with that thing are and when you just sit down and listen to this album it is just one of the greatest feelings. It wasn't just on the album too, MBV's live events are some of the most unique ever and although many would hate listening to a wall of noise before every gig it created a one of a kind experience for people, in such a huge industry to do what they did is incredible. I do think it is the face of Shoegaze even if it isn't my favourite album they are all so close up there. The genre is art, there is just something so beautiful about the noise that is hard to explain to anyone and I just have to except not everyone will like it. People will always complain that not every song hits like a single, but for me an amazing album needs these slow atmospheric down parts for the high points to really hit, anyone listening to this will experience it when "when you sleep" comes in it is just so incredible. And rock snobs love Pink Floyd but The Dark Side of the Moon only has maybe 3 proper songs and it is considering one of the best albums of all time (rightfully so) because of how amazing those high points are, you don't get those without the build up. Shoegaze will forever be my favourite genre and I hope that Slowdive, Have a Nice Life and Cocteau Twins are on here because they all influenced and changed music perception in it's own right and if Skepta can be on here then they better be. Stand out songs: When You Sleep What You Want Soon

We're on fire now, another on of my favourites of all time. Singer-Songwriter albums can be really hard to pull off but are by far some of the best albums when done right. Jeff Buckley was always going to be a star, his dad was a huge artist and song-writer so it was clearly in the family. This album came together so perfectly, the instruments are so unique to me and I do not know who played them or any information on the recording but it just assists his voice so well. A voice which is just brilliant, one of my favourite male vocalists which I normally struggle to really like male vocalists compared to female. This is one of the exceptions it is just so brilliant and it is a clear example of how someone can really produce a great album with the backing of a big label. He struggle a lot with living up to the success and from what I know the album was quite slept on when it came out, it is such a shame he never got to see huge success definitely one of the biggest losses of talent. I actually showed this album to a friend at college and it is probably now his favourite album always playing it always mentioning. We even played Forget Her at the college gig the album was such a big part of college and I still love it. I think a lot of these songs would have been really big in the 2000's like "last goodbye", and I think that stands why it took more time to get popular. I do have it currently as my 21st favourite albums, singer-songwriter is one genre where I don't feel there is much space for dead space. Hallelujah is definitely an overplayed song but this is it's best rendition and I think it works perfectly. The only 2 songs I am not hugely fond of are Lilac Wine and Corpus Christi Carol. Replace the latter with Forget Her, which somehow didn't make the official release, and you have a Top 10 album. Stand Out Songs Grace Lover, You Should've Come Over Dream Brother

Honestly I feel bad but I have never been a huge Pet Shop Boys Fan. I absolutely love this genre and they have some of the best songs but I just do not enjoy his voice and I also think a lot of the songs could be done better.I love the overall sound and they do the instrumentals great but they are just one group I can't get on with compare to others. A decent listen but not a go to one so just 3 stars. Stand Out Songs: What Have I Done to Deserve This? It's a Sin Heart

Albums like this are one my favourite things about this list. There is a very low chance I would have ever listened to this otherwise and I am not sure how long it would have took me to start listening to Bossa nova. That being said it doesn't mean I love these albums. It is an easy listen an interesting listen but it is not a great album. Another thing where I would rather just listen to a Bossa nova playlist instead of the 12 songs on this album. Some of the songs stand out but come the end of the album you realise that is mainly sounds the same and I would rather have heard just the best ones. I think it is a nice album and I don;t enjoy rating these albums low but I just don't think it has held up in time. The production is not too clear and from I know of Bossa nova this isn't exactly anything ground breaking so although it is a nice easy listen it isn't an ideal album. Fell bad but it is only 2/5. Stand out songs: Stay Beach Samba Dia Dos Rosas

East Coat Rap is so clear to me in the 90's. Yes the West Coast had NWA and Tupac but even he was from New York. I just think whoever was producing those beats in New York was just absolutely on fire it is some of my favourite music to listen to. Although Biggie isn't my favourite he truly does have a unique voice which partnered up with the right beat can make some classics as evidence. This album is really really good especially at certain points and there are some brilliant songs on the album, but I can't be hypocritical. Some of my favourite rappers from the time usually just rap about how good they are at rapping or about how good they are killing people (not that these are needed at all) and Biggie does both of these. But for the same reasons I disliked some of Skepta I do struggle with this. Something about hearing how Biggie talks about women, especially considering his size, it is really off putting. Songs like Juicy are incredible it has a nice beat that can almost distract you from what he is talking about and what you do notice are funny or just well done. But the songs that aren't blended with a great beat are rough and you struggle to like him as a person. Thankfully he is quite self observant and it is interesting hearing the situations these people are in especially after finding out what happens to him. I think overall 90's hip hop was great, they really did care about the albums and this is no exception. Although I would love to give some of the less popular songs some recognition my stand out songs are pretty generic. 4/5 Stand Out Songs: Gimme the Loot Juicy Big Poppa

How on earth does this man always sound like he is 70 haha. I have always heard him throughout my life but never felt compelled to listen to his discography. He is undoubtedly an iconic artist and has some great hits but he is just another one I struggle to listen to lots of. I did have higher hopes for this album, it is good musically but it is just almost annoying and was actually a harder listen then expected. I feel the whole album is really carried by the title track and Maggie May and the rest I just was not enjoying. Part of me wanted to be nice and respect that it is a classic but I think it just caught me on an off day. Nan would not be proud of me but it has to be 2 stars :0 Stand out songs: Every Picture Tells a Story Maggie May

Nan would be having a field day. Yesterday Rod Stewart and today Simply Red. I have heard a lot of Simply Red but never an album, in fact I did not know he released music so early as most songs I like are early 90's. I was already quite excited because I love this genre. I get it is basically pop but I just love the enthuses on the bass and how each part is played it is so nice and groovy. There is a huge amount of classics from it, however I think artists started to fall back on it and sort of burn it out. I kind of had that with this album, the 3 good songs were really great but the rest felt a little like it blended into one. From the classics I know (including Holding Back the Years) I was constantly hoping for more from each song. Overall it was a great sound but kinda fell off as an album but a great debut nonetheless. 3/5 Stand Out Songs: Come to My Aid, Money's Too Tight Holding Back the Years

I had to listen to this album 3 or 4 times before I really I had it. Kept weaving in and out of focus because I wasn't listening to it in the right setting. It is a good genre when you know the album but trying to listen the first time was hard. These albums are hard to rate because they are quiet enough you have to pay attention but so bare-bones it is hard. Not my go to music either but it can be really nice, needle of death is probably one of my new favourite songs from this project I though it was great. The rest was alright but I just don't think I would ever really go to listen to it. From what I have seen it is really high rated and quite influential but it's just not my kind of music. I feel terrible rating it a 2 but I struggle to do more. There were lots of guitar interludes but I have no idea if they are impressive but I did like the sound of Alice's Wonderland and Angie. Angie seems to be another really popular one and it is a great outro but I couldn't put it as standout because it is just instrumental and there are other good songs that I can list. Stand Out Songs: I Have No Time Needle of Death Dreams of Love

Another album I hear a lot about but had never heard until now. I was sort of worried after the first 2 songs, her voice just really wasn't clicking with me but luckily it started to soften and I began really enjoying it. It is the sort of album you can really focus on the vocals which I am not normally good at so it did something right to get me to do that. It is also super impressive everything was solely done by her, just such a nice added touch to know. I still don't think it was completely my thing but I can see why many but it up there with some of the greats and maybe I will need to listen to it a few more times which I may do. 4/5 Stand Out Songs: Carey River A Case of You

I have listened to this album before but I really did not remember it and I’m not going to lie it is not what I expected exactly. That wasn’t exactly a good thing either I was expecting the a few more impressive songs then I heard. I mean it has one of the best and most popular songs from the 80’s on it and previously some super songs but they almost felt like they were trying to be what other bands at the time were. None of it really made sense, everything just sounded like it was made separately and chucked together. The actual ideas are cool different time signatures are nice to listen to but the songs often fell flat to me. It is still a really good era and sound but from what I expected I was not hugely impressed. If it wasn’t for a really good middle section it would be lower but I can’t give it less then a 3. Stand Out Songs: Synchronicity II Every Breath You Take King of Pain

There is starting to become a lot of these albums I am hearing. It isn't necessarily a bad thing but I am just becoming a little numb to me to feel special. It would be okay if it was my favourite genre but it isn't particularly it is nice occasionally but it is nothing fancy for me. I had already heard of this and I recognised some songs but I have no idea where I would've heard it I know it is Neil Young but that's as far as I know. Overall I don't have much else to say it was good, not great and not bad just a nice album. Stand Out Songs Mr Soul Expecting to Fly Bluebird

Was slightly not looking forward to this as I have heard the other big album riot the last time I tried this 1001 albums and I really didn't enjoy but that was years ago. Maybe I am more open minded or this album is just more my thing but I quite enjoyed it. They were still able to get some great points across along with some really nice songs I would listen to, especially every day people which I think I did recognise. I think my only nitpick is that some of the non standard songs went on too long. Especially the 13 minute instrumental which is unnecessary but not bad because it still sounds good just pretty pointless. Still much better but not a go to genre still for me so although I know lots of people love it and it is important music it is only a 3 because it didn't blow me away. Not that it ruins their point but I couldn't believe how good the quality was I was expecting a rougher record. Stand out songs: Stand! Sing a simple song Everyday People

My college teacher always swore by this being her favourite of all time and although I wouldn't have rated it always this highly I must admit it has always been a go to for me. I wasn't always a fan of the way he sang but they have warmed on me and change through time. I also think the mix is great one of the most pleasing soft mixes I an think of it helps when you can hear it properly through headphones etc but something about it is nice and soft. I said it before with Jeff Buckley that this is a hard genre to pull off and I think this is great, it may not hit the heights for me as Jeff Buckley does but it is up there. A strong 4/5. Stand Out Songs; Between the Bars Cupid's Trick Ballad of Big Nothing

One of the best dad rock albums I love this. One of the best openers and constant bangers there on. I really have not listened to much of this genre really since I grew up but I am going to have to back through it all because it is really. It has a clear plan and it succeeds at doing that there is not much more to say. It gets a really high rating but on here I juts can't give it a 5. 5's are going to be exclusive for albums from 9.5-10/10 and although this falls shorts it doesn't mean I don't think it is great. Stand out songs: More Than a Feeling Peace of Mind Something About You

Definitely not my go to Elton John style. I don't dislike it is just not very exciting. I really am not a fan when an album starts with by far the best song and just gets worse and worse as it goes on and this was definitely the case here. Not much to say really I like the odd Piano Rock piece but after a while it can feel tedious. Still a legend with a great catalogue but wouldn't be my choice. 3/5 Stand out songs: Tiny Dancer Genuinely couldn't pick any other stand out songs the rest just felt forgettable and more background noise-ish

Don’t know what was in the air but Americans really started to sound very distinctive in the 90’s. Some super dorky American bands like weezer etc started to pop up. Green day are no exception I’ve always felt a little off about them because they are just so American and kind of cringey. I can’t deny they are good at what they do but I just hear so much of them and it gets a little annoying. People at college especially who only know these mainstream songs really got on my nerves playing the same songs. Still I can’t deny it was fun to listen to even if it felt like it dragged on a bit I still enjoyed it. And that last something was prime weezer that was super cringey, terrible to end on. Nothing special to me not my favourite pop punk but still bearable . 3/5 Stand out songs: Longview Basket case When I come around

Going into this I knew how highly praised Miles Davis is so I was very excited. Then I heard the first song and saw the run time for the album and I was severely less excited. I would love to speak to someone who really enjoys this and try and understand what they mean. This being said I did start to enjoy it more as it went on but I just don't understand it how it even comes together. I mean a 27 minute song it has to just be improvisation right. Maybe it is some of the most impressive music I have heard or it is just winging it and calling it Jazz who knows. I mean I can definitely see why Jazz gets a bad name since this is some of the most popular from the genre and it genuinely just confusing. There were some great parts and I never felt like turning it off, but I just can not see myself willingly putting this record on and I can't give it a high rating. It has however made me slightly excited to hear his other, more acclaimed albums in hope something will resonate with me. Best songs with Stand out Moments: Bitches Brew Spanish Key Miles Runs the Voodoo Down

Whew that was tough. Art pop is such an interesting genre and albums are either really likeable or just awful (to yourself) some of my favourite albums are art pop and they are usually rated highly because it is super difficult to produce a good art pop album. This album is no stranger it is top 75 albums on rym. But I did not feel that at all, like Robert Wyatt this was just super difficult for me. I really need someone to explain what is so good about it I mean are they just pity points for him really it isn't even like it reminds people of his old music. I thought his voice was poor, half the songs were just annoying and I felt no flow at all. Clearly critics disagree with me but not an album I will go back to, I'll just stick to the hits. There was one stand out ish song which redeemed it slightly but doesn't save the 1 star. Stand Out Song: Lazarus

Think I may have been a little generous before with the last Ray Charles album because it is nice music but it really just isn't for me. It is sweet how caring these artists were for their partners but hearing the same concept over and over again does get really tiring. Just nothing about it that makes me really want to listen to it even if it is nice it is just not hitting with me. I may have to review the other one again but this one felt slower so maybe that's why I am more negative but it's only a 2 for me. Stand Out Songs: You Don't Know Me Just a Little Lovin' I can't Stop Loving You

Feel like I am being really negative with some of these but I can't help it. Another one I have really not enjoyed sitting through. I get the importance of it and why it is on here but that does not make it good 20+ years later, especially to a non American. I mean hearing this doesn't exactly fill me with much hope anyway. I know he can make great music but this was not it. It was just 15 patriotic soft rock songs that felt like they went on forever. I am (hopefully) never going to sit through it again and struggled to enjoy it. Also it was all very easy, he had the perfect scenario where people were begging for him to release it and they'd have loved it whatever so he took no risks and it is all super boring because of that. Also not to mention his accent? What is happening it kept changing and to be honest none of the vocals sounded great anyway especially the strange country twang on a few. Another 1 star. Stand out Songs (although not great much better then the rest): Waitin' on a Sunny Day Countin' on a Miracle The Rising

An actually enjoyable Jazz album. Still don't think I understand the genre at all but this was a lot better then the Miles Davis album we got. There is a lot more focus on the drums here and although not a fan of brass some of it is actually really good. I just don't understand why it has to be so chaotic. There would be moments that I was really getting into and then suddenly some other random noise is in the mix and just switches everything up. Although I enjoyed it I still need to know what makes people love it. That being said I did really like this and it could really be something I would chuck on every now and then especially when I don't want to listen to any vocals. Was stuck between a 3 or a 4 but since this is the best I have heard of the genre and therefor quite re-playable I'll give it a 4. Still not a Jazz geek and would not like to be one. Part 2 was particularly nice to me so that can be the Stand Out Moment

That was surprisingly really really good. I knew about this album being on here because I always see people saying they are dreading it or that they might skip it so thought this was going to be harder then it is. I also thought that the fact there was so many songs it was going to be either cheesy or really simple formatted songs and it was neither. For better or for worse most songs sounded different and although there were some songs that could've done with not being on here (I Shatter), most of it was great. I usually listen to music while working and this was almost perfect I didn't have to look at my spotify once I just could listen to it and do all my work and it was a great soundtrack. Loved the vocals the guy sounded like late 70's early 80's Jangle Pop like the Monochrome set. Don't feel there was enough of the girl but when she was in it was very good. No song blew me away and I actually think the fact it was so long saved it because if this was just 10 or so songs it would feel quite lacklusterd and not as special as it is. I feel like of they had decided to be a bit more standard and make 5 or so proper pop indie hits that carried the down parts this would be amazing. Also no idea why the weirder slower songs are at the end when lots of people would want to give up that disappointed me slightly. But overall was really fun I can see myself putting it on again and I could write so much more but I feel nerdy enough writing this much. Good 4/5. Stand Out Songs, hard to limit to 3: I Don't Want to Get Over You I Think I Need a New Heart Sweet-Lovin' Man All in the first half sadly, second half had some contenders but whether it was fatigue or not they didn't stick out as much

Always loved a lot of Johnny cash songs but never listened to much from this later era, which seems almost more critically acclaimed. He does have a great distinctive voice and is an icon of country however I’m not sure I enjoyed this album as much as I wanted. I’m not entirely sure if their is a special point to this album but there was a lot of covers which just didn’t sit with me. Overall I enjoyed it his voice is great but it didn’t feel special, except the first 2 songs they were great. Hopefully I get some of his earlier stuff and can rate that instead. Just a 3/5 though. Stand Out Songs: The Man Comes Around Hurt I Hung My Head

When I saw this was another late 60’s folk rock album I was a little disappointed because I didn’t think I was in the mood. However from the start this felt like quite a fun album and I ended up really enjoying. The mix although strange was great and I love high notes on bass and it was super prominent in the mix. Although there were points it felt a little bland I would focus more on the calm instrumental and it would make up for the poorer songwriting. Only other real negative was the ending, great albums need a well written ending and it is a shame this didn’t have that but still didn’t completely kill it. Going to give it a generous 4/5 because it was a great first listen. Stand Out Songs: Christine’s Tunes My Uncle Hot Burrito #1

Slightly disappointed with this one. I have been quite enjoying this genre recently and finding new albums and Fatboy Slim was on the radar. He has some great songs and I do love his sound but this album just did not do it for me. Started really song but it did the sin of just constantly going downhill and just did not resonate with me like other albums. Also 10th and Crenshaw was awful just very annoying and served no purpose. I would have loved to have just ended the album after the first 5 to be honest. Not terrible music but no more then a 2 unfortunately. Stand Out Songs: Song for Lindy Santa Cruz Going Out of My Head

By far my favourite discovery of recent is trip hop. There is just something so brilliant about this genre and Portishead really do master this sound. Especially this dark jazz type which I wish I could find more of. Not many albums stick with me so hard as this did especially with knowing very little about the artist (which makes me feel like I have been living under a rock) but something about this album made me feel like I was missing something. I have listened to so much of this now and it is up there with one of my favourites of all time