Dec 20 2023
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Young Americans
David Bowie
2
Dec 21 2023
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Hounds Of Love
Kate Bush
Kate is Running Up That Hill but got very sleepy with Sheep’s and Under the Ice. So really start strong and downhill from there. (1.5*s)
2
Dec 22 2023
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Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
Very solid album, other than Fantom. Didn’t know 80s heavy metal was still so listenable. L added Home Sweet Home to her liked songs playlist. (2.8*s)
3
Dec 26 2023
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The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
Oh, that’s pleasant. His M-in-ence gives a great job here! A lot of variety, rhythms, moods, and positions. Drug Ballad is the best rap on the album, followed by The Way I Am (how does he not mention green eggs and ham somewhere in this one?) Who Knew he likes to suck dick so much that he raps eloquently about it in more than half the songs. Sounds like it sucks to be The Real Slim Shady… Makes the list because he’ll say any (negative) thing about anyone / everyone and because it’s good. Didn’t really like it, but unfortunately can’t rate it any lower than
(4.4*s)
4
Dec 27 2023
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Goodbye And Hello
Tim Buckley
Now that art (unfortunately for us.) Tim was a poet and a minstrel. A variety of sounds, especially in the background, which would have been better if on Xtasy while listening. (1.5*s)
1
Dec 28 2023
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In The Wee Small Hours
Frank Sinatra
Slow. Very slow. And a bit sad, too. This is music to put you to sleep in the wee small hours of the night (or anytime really.) So out of date it’s hard for me to relate. (1,7-*s)
2
Dec 29 2023
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Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Wilco
1st song: annoying noise
2nd song: feeling a bit Beckish
3rd song: moaning in his sleep
4th song: better than the War on Drugs (although almost anything es better than that.)
5th song: Jesus, that’s a good song
6th song: can’t tell if he’s asleep or drunk, but just write a song about burning a flag (any flag) in protest and make the 1001 list
Balance of album: feeling a bit Beckish again.
Overall: liked it (2.5*s)
3
Jan 01 2024
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Remain In Light
Talking Heads
Good news from TVLKINGHEVDS
Had not heard this one in its entirety before, the album is weird good. Liked all songs except Overload. Can’t beat Once in a Lifetime. You may (often) ask yourself; how did I get here? The cover art always seemed to me to be a nod the cover of Let It Be. Team rating (2.8*s)
3
Jan 02 2024
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Blur
Blur
Blur Blur. Listening was kind of blurry, the song seemed very similar. Best song was.Nowhere Fast. Nothing really stands out. (1.9*s)
2
Jan 03 2024
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Let's Stay Together
Al Green
Let’s Stay Together with Al’s rich, soulful voice that sounds like it could have been recorded 5 years ago. Holding up real well 50 years later. Smooth and very listenable. (2.9*s)
3
Jan 04 2024
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The White Album
Beatles
I remember this album, Uncle Randy had it shortly after it came out. It’s actually better than I remember, a lot of good songs, a few great songs, some you can’t listen to, Side 4 only got played once, and a bit too long. Always liked Rocky Racoon and Birthday the most. Rev 9 is more noise than song, pure filler. White Album at (3.5*s)
3
Jan 05 2024
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A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Coldplay
Kinda one sound for all songs except Whisper. Good coffee house listening, better get the espresso though or you’ll be asleep. (2.1*s) <— sleepy ones.
2
Jan 08 2024
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Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
Tusk = on the 1001 long album list.
Over & Over - OK (slow starter)
The Ledge - bit twangy
Think About Me - OK
Save Me a Place - Filler
Sara - good
What Makes You Think - OK
Storms - boring Filler
That’s All for Everyone - Filler
Not That Funny - Filler
Sisters of the Moon - OK
Angel - Filler
That’s Enough for Me - Truly (bit twangy, but album is running too long)
Brown Eyes - boring Filler
Never Make Me Cry - ditto
I Know I’m Not Wrong - Truly (not wrong about this album)
Honey Hi - Filler
Beautiful Child - Filler
Walk a Thin Line - twangy Filler
Tusk - must be the reason this too long album made the 1001 list. (Is it that weird, disconnected drum solo or the farting tuba?)
Never Forget - Truly don’t think we’ll forget how they mailed this one in; too long, not that good. These guys have way better (1.5*s)
1
Jan 09 2024
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Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club
The album transported me to a different time and place, one very different than my current place in the universe. I enjoyed the change. (2.8*s)
3
Jan 10 2024
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Faust IV
Faust
Who knew the Deutschers had such a sense of humor? This is an amazing album for 1973 and 50 years later! Lots of subtle electronic effects in the background. Giggy Smile (best song) is bouncy, weird, and even includes some bad jazz. Jennifer is lame (very, very, very, very repetitive). Will check out more Faust (2.9*s)
3
Jan 11 2024
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Bummed
Happy Mondays
I didn’t not like it. Couldn’t pick out a best song as they all sounded pretty similar. (maybe Rave On?) No standouts, no filler; seemed pretty middle of the road. Not sure why it made the 1001 list. Comes in at (2.5*s)
3
Jan 12 2024
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Here's Little Richard
Little Richard
Little Richard rips it up on this one. True old school rock and roll, great piano, lots of screams, simple repetitive lyrics. Doesn’t hold up to time very well (2.6*s)
3
Jan 15 2024
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Songs In The Key Of Life
Stevie Wonder
Never was much of a Stevie fan and was a bit worried when I saw this album was an hour and 45 minutes. I remember the album and cover, but never listened to the whole thing since it came out in ‘76. This time around, I figured it would be another from the 1001 really lonnng albums list. Not the case! It’s stacked with enough good songs that flow so I was surprised when it ended. Contusion, Sir Duke, and I Wish (best song) seem like an incredible threefer from a greatest hits album. Also, didn’t realize Stevie was an OG til I heard Pastime Paradise. This album works start to finish.
(4.4*s)
4
Jan 16 2024
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Ragged Glory
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Vintage NY, good listen. Enjoyed the long jams. Farmer John and Mother Earth should have gotten lost in the woods (and left off the album - both are just artsy filler for the panel.) Album would have been even better if it was 9 minutes shorter. (2.9*s)
3
Jan 17 2024
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Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
Surprised to find out she’s a Brit with the name Dusty Springfield and an album titled Dusty In Memphis. Love the album name, points for that. Just figured she was a Georgia (or TN) girl based on Son Of A Preacher Man (best song) so kudos on the disguised voice. The rest of the album sounds like it’s from a 60s variety show with some gospel stirred into the background, not bad - just kinda dated. No need to listen again or seek out her other albums (2.2*s)
2
Jan 18 2024
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John Barleycorn Must Die
Traffic
Short and Sweet! Strong start but fades a bit. I remember listening to this album as a teen (Uncle Randy had a copy) and always liked Side A more than B. The minstrel sounding John Barleycorn, the temperance movement, and changing the US legal drinking age from 18 to 21 were topics at the time. (They did eventually take away our right to legally consume alcohol until we turned 21). That said, it’s time for a beer and to give this one (2.7*s)
3
Jan 19 2024
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Blue Lines
Massive Attack
Massive Attack? Trip-hop? Never heard of ‘em, but liked it a lot. The group’s name and album cover led us to think it was gonna be heavy metal. One of the best things (so far) about the 1001 list is exposure to new music, and this time it worked! Songs with female vocals were the best, but all good, no fillers. Enjoyed this album enough to listen to it again, so (3.2*s)
3
Jan 22 2024
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From Elvis In Memphis
Elvis Presley
For the fist time we can recall on any album, side B is significantly better than side A. We actually remember a couple of the songs from the radio; In the Ghetto and Suspicious Minds got some play into the 70s. Listening to a complete Elvis album from start to finish brought L back to her childhood. This was the first time J ever listened to an Elvis album. That said: (2.2*s)
2
Jan 23 2024
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Everything Must Go
Manic Street Preachers
Like the sound, a little pedestrian. Title cut and A Design for Life are the best songs. There aren’t any songs that you would want to skip or can’t listen to, so that’s a plus. Couldn’t figure out Small Black Flowers That Grow In The Sky…
(2.9*s)
3
Jan 24 2024
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Supa Dupa Fly
Missy Elliott
This girl is waaaay too far up her own ass. Ya got one good song; Pass da Blunt. Other than that, it’s an hour of Missy on Missy and how supadupafly her CRAPpin is. Won’t be listening to anything from her again.
Mout. (0.7*s)
1
Jan 25 2024
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Wild Wood
Paul Weller
This album is well crafted. First four songs are excellent , rest of the album very good. He’s got a great voice and guitar. Already had Wild Wood on my playlist so was somewhat familiar with Weller and will be adding other songs from his repertoire .
(3.9*s)
4
Jan 26 2024
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Talking Book
Stevie Wonder
Superstition, which was huge when it dropped (ha-ha) in 1972, carries the album. It’s still good, the rest of the album, meh. (1.9*s)
2
Jan 29 2024
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On The Beach
Neil Young
“Though your confidence may be shattered, it doesn’t matter.”
Musta been a rough patch for him. This is true NY pluckin’ (and crooning) from the down in the dumps (soul?) Kinda bummed by the end of the experience, but The Man can connect and tell a tale, sad as it may be. I really don’t want to like this album (too melancholy) but damn it’s good.
Please bring a smile to my eyes… Walk On (3.9*s)
4
Jan 30 2024
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Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Ray Charles
More like Modern Sounds in Big Band. Kept thinking this album is gonna get better, didn’t happen. I guess ya had to be there 60+ years ago when the sound was modern, it now sounds really dated. Comes in near the top of the 1001 too long albums list, though. Best song is Hey, Good Lookin’ because it sounds nothing like the other songs on the album. Wanted to like the album more, but no matter how historic I can’t rate it above (1.2*s)
1
Jan 31 2024
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Hysteria
Def Leppard
More of a “Deaf” Lep fan after listening to the album than beforehand. Great threefer with Animal, Love Bites, & Pour Some Sugar On Me. Simple beats and base lines, but songs started sounding similar by the end of the album (which ran a little long and got annoying.) L already had Pour Some Sugar on her liked songs playlist. I’m not adding any Def songs to mine or exploring any further. Overall, liked it (2.8*s)
3
Feb 01 2024
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Roots
Sepultura
Nothing enjoyable about that experience. Jesco and Itsari are the only listenable songs, the rest of the album is noise with Satan on unintelligible lead vocals. Definitely near the top of the 1001 too long album list.
(0.4*s)
1
Feb 02 2024
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Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
Evidently, we’re not old enough to like jazz yet. That was an hour and eight minutes of one song. (There are actually three songs on the album twice, which leads us to think there aren’t enough good jazz songs so they had to repeat a few of them.) The album is good background music during martinis and dinner at a classy restaurant. The drinks and dinner brought it up to (1.2*s)
1
Feb 05 2024
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Sticky Fingers
The Rolling Stones
We’ll always have a sweet spot for this album. Wild Horses - BHS ‘78 class song. Childhood living IS easy to do. Brown Sugar played heavily at high school parties throughout the 70s, one classmate with the mover like Jagger (long before that was a thing) doing imitations. Yeh, ya probably had to be there (and be drunk.) Bitch is still kick ass rock . Zipper cover was cool for a while, then just broke. (2.9*s)
3
Feb 06 2024
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69 Love Songs
The Magnetic Fields
69 Love Songs is one love song too many. The song that should have been omitted is Love Is Like Jazz, but ya can’t really have an album about love songs titled 68 Love Songs so ya might as well leave it in. It’s just a bad song, or bad jazz, or both. Overall, I like the album and the concept. A Chicken With It’s Head Cut Off, Let’s Pretend We’re Bunny Rabbits, and Papa Was a Rodeo are among the better songs. Album runs a little long for one listening session, no kidding. (2.2*s)
2
Feb 07 2024
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Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
Baerm, chica, chic; smooth as silk. Only knew of Issac because of Theme from Shaft, good to hear some of his other work. The setup for Phoenix is too long, other than that its all good (2.5*s)
3
Feb 08 2024
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Spy Vs. Spy: The Music Of Ornette Coleman
John Zorn
That was painful from start to finish. JZ’s Spy vs Spy is squeaky, out of tune sax over bombastic drums and fast paced bass; it’s more like noise with musical instruments than songs. I thought I heard music on two (possibly three) occasions but it devolved into noise with musical instruments very quickly each time. I didn’t think running could get much worse, then I went running while listening to this album. It was significantly worse than usual. Trashjazz in at
(0.8*s)
1
Feb 09 2024
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Deja Vu
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Despite the album title and release date over 50 years ago, we haven’t heard this one before. Different band members writing and taking lead gives the album a variety sounds and songs. Eight of the ten songs are well known classics making it seem like a greatest hits collection. Teach Your Children and Almost Cut My Hair are the stars, but all the songs are good and the album flow is smooth. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience!
(3.6*s)
4
Feb 12 2024
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Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
Respect for Otis. Although hard not to put out a good album with that many cover songs. Guess it turns out he’s more than a one hit wonder. (3.1*s)
3
Feb 13 2024
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Country Life
Roxy Music
This was not A Really Good Time. Side B was weak (other than Prairie Rose). Not filler, felt like this album was a sound track without the movie. It just got too dramatic and weird without the (nonexistent) video visuals. Again, they have better (1.5*s)
2
Feb 14 2024
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Back to Basics
Christina Aguilera
That’s a lot of Christina, actually that’s too much Christina. Too many background tracks of her own voice on many of the songs. The album certainly is diverse, but she sounds defensive throughout. What could save her from herself? Answer: Less is more. Shorter album, fewer crescendos. Overall (2.1*s)
2
Feb 15 2024
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Low-Life
New Order
Very Cure-ish. An enjoyable experience. Both surprised that we didn’t know this band better back in the 80s. No real standout songs and didn’t recognize any of them. (2.2*s)
2
Feb 16 2024
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25
Adele
All good, but no standouts. Songs got too long, too melancholy, and too similar as the album progressed. Needed to break it up a bit with some upbeat sound. 25 should have been much more fun and exciting! (2.6*s)
3
Feb 19 2024
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Electric Warrior
T. Rex
Dirty, sweet, and still banging that gong over 50 years later. Enjoyable listen.
Mean while I’m still thinking… (2.9*s)
3
Feb 20 2024
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Da Capo
Love
Didn’t Love it. Needed more schrooms, man. (1.2*s)
1
Feb 21 2024
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Black Metal
Venom
Laehlll - Get Me Out of Hell. Wait, didn’t I just hear this song?
That took a lot of energy (to listen to, never mind make). An hour+ of the same thrashing song about hell and Satan. Didn’t like it, will avoid Venom in music and real life. (0.4*s)
1
Feb 22 2024
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Timeless
Goldie
Timeless? Seemed more like Endless. It took me the first eight songs (72 minutes on an elliptical) to finally figure out electronica. It’s the new and improved version of “tune-up” jazz for the neXt generation. Wow, these songs are long and repetitive, rep, rep, rep, rep, repetitive, repetitive… (2.1*s)
2
Feb 23 2024
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Van Halen
Van Halen
Liking Van Halen more now than back when the album came out, but still only a take it or leave it fan. (I hafta admit they would get the poker stick on occasion.) This album has huge hits that still hold up and no fillers. Enjoyed the listen, this is a really solid freshman effort (3.3*s)
3
Feb 26 2024
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Beggars Banquet
The Rolling Stones
My memory of the album was a bit better than the re-listen from 1976. Remember all the songs. L’s first time of ever listening to this album, absolutely a Stones fan to this to this day! Sympathy still great 55 years later. (2.6*s)
3
Mar 01 2024
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Rock 'N Soul
Solomon Burke
The album is from before our time. Many songs sound similar with a bit too much Gospel background. A few songs were fillers. Glad to have listened, don’t need to hear it again. Doesn’t hold up to time. 1.8*s
2
Mar 04 2024
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Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
OutKast
STUPID. Like a three ring circus mashed with a fun house of mirrors. Way too long, Oh Yeah one good song. Manic - just all over the place. Did you see the midget on a unicycle? That was a difficult 2 hrs 15 minutes… (0.7*s)
1
Mar 05 2024
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The Stranger
Billy Joel
A trip down memory lane. The lyrics are clever and the music is crafty. Each song stands on its own, and the album spins an overall story that works from start to finish. Fun to listen in its entirety after so many years. Those sweet, romantic teenage nights: album was great back then and still is. (3.75*s)
4
Mar 06 2024
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Night Life
Ray Price
It’s like one sleepy, sleepy 37 minute long country western song. Did make us feel like we were plodding through a dusty desert on horseback. But who wants to do that? (0.8*s)
1
Mar 07 2024
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Here Are the Sonics
The Sonics
Minimum of three “screams” per song. Best song was Strychnine (L was thinking about taking some and screaming by the end of the album.) Too many cover songs. Was that kazoo heard on a couple of songs? Or just out of tune instruments? Either way, it gets (0.3*s)
1
Mar 08 2024
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Mr. Tambourine Man
The Byrds
If folk rock was America’s answer to the British Invasion, let’s all just be happy that we won the Revolutionary War. Seemed like the music of 60s flower children just trying to be one with nature. (1.4*s)
1
Mar 11 2024
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Either Or
Elliott Smith
Either/Or as in either skip it or don’t listen to it. A bit bland, lucky for us it’s only 36 minutes long. Either snooze through it or poker stick. (0.8*)
1
Mar 12 2024
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Head Hunters
Herbie Hancock
Sounds like we’re on a good, late night jam session at Jes & Jon’s with some bad, tune-up jazz blended together. Also has a menagerie of sounds on a couple of numbers. (1.9*s)
2
Mar 13 2024
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Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
This album is a good selection for the 1001 list. Didn’t know anything about and had never heard any Brazilian music. Enjoyed listening, it lost a little not being able to understand the lyrics, was a bit too long and weak at the finish. Overall a commendable effort. (2.3*s)
2
Mar 14 2024
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Blue
Joni Mitchell
Joni’s a true, hippie poet. (Can’t go wrong with a little acid, booze, and ass - I guess.) Seems like she’s stream of consciousness singing; many of the songs sound like she’s making them up as she goes along and are about what ever thought pops into her mind as she sings. She does have a pure voice, great for coffee house background music. Every song was new to us, as in neither of us remember any of the songs from the radio back in the 70s. The album had to have gotten some airtime, just nothing memorable. Not surprised the album made the 1001 list, but still puzzled as to why it comes in among the best albums ever made. Open for explanations. Enjoyed it (2.8*s)
3
Mar 15 2024
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1984
Van Halen
First time we’ve ever listened to a VH album from beginning to end. Good album; starts strong and has some memorable hits. Last two songs on B side were a weak finish which brought it down a bit. (2.4*s)
2
Mar 18 2024
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Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
Some true hits and some definite filler. Overall rather melancholy. It was a time, it was. The three good songs couldn’t carry the album. L wanted to turn it off, J grew up listening to this duo so knew most of the songs. These guys have better albums, with an “s”. Team rating comes in at (1.4*s)
2
Mar 19 2024
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1999
Prince
Starts out like the New Year’s Eve party of the century! Little Red Corvette drives the crowd Delirious, great 80s dance vibe. But then the songs get too long. Don’t wanna be on the dance floor for that same 8 minute beat. B side is weak, but hits carry the album. Revolutionary vision in 1982. (2.6*s)
3
Mar 20 2024
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Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
One of them boys shure can play the git-fiddle! (And for a long time, too.) Or was that the dobro? Disc 2 much better than disc one. Even the Beverly Hillbillies thought the album would be better as just one disc. It seems like one of the criteria to got on the 1001 list is to make an album that is just essay too long. (1.6*s)
2
Mar 21 2024
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Better Living Through Chemistry
Fatboy Slim
Boing, Zip, Buzz, Schlap, (with an occasional Squeak) over good techno drum beats. I listened to this while running and it worked. High energy, extremely repetitive, and fun. (Not sure how people listened / danced to these eight minute songs back in the day - musta been the drugs.) 303 is the best song in my opinion, but a still a bit lame compared to other electronica I’ve been exposed to (and liked). No need to listen again or download any songs. Loretta OUT —> this list is “1001 Albums to make you die before your time .” That said; (1.6*s)
2
Mar 22 2024
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Paranoid
Black Sabbath
Not horrible.
Pretty much used the same formula for the drums and base line of most songs. Rat Salad and Fairies Wear Boots song titles are more creative than the actual songs. (1.9*s)
2
Mar 25 2024
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Bossanova
Pixies
Pixies are Happening. Album gets better as it progresses; starts with thrashy songs about wierd ex-girlfriends and peaks at Hang Wire. Liked it. (2.7*s)
3
Mar 26 2024
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This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
Music from before my time. All songs very similar and out of date. Good jazz piano by The Fat Man (2.3*s)
2
Mar 27 2024
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Astral Weeks
Van Morrison
This one is a true sleeper, but not in the good, unknown way. It will literally put you to sleep. Later Van’s song writing and voice are so much more lively, richer, and just in general better that we’re really questioning if the 1001 list was put together by length of album or picking the worst album by the artist. He has way better. This one (1.9*s)
2
Mar 28 2024
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Djam Leelii
Baaba Maal
Liked it (except one song.) Would have liked it even more if I could have understood the lyrics. Never would’ve heard of this without the 1001 list, it worked again. (2.3*s)
2
Mar 29 2024
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Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
Thankful this one is in the rear view mirror, it was a tough 48 minutes. This album is some really, really, old country music with each song stranger than the one before. What’s with Knoxville Girl? Won’t be listening to these tragic songs again (0.6*s)
1
Apr 01 2024
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Grace
Jeff Buckley
Yep - this album is a true hidden gem. Pure voice, wide range, and great diversity in sound and songs. Liked Grace, Eternal Life, and Forget Her best, but all good. Added Forget Her to my play list. Will check more of his songs (4.2*s)
4
Apr 02 2024
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Music From Big Pink
The Band
The general public (and critics) got caught up in the hype of the time, Dylan’s backup band, and the fact that these guys went out and rented a Big Pink house in the woods of upstate New York. IFor some unknown reason that sent this very SLOOOWW album over the top at the time. One good song ,The Wait (get it,) the rest of the album is literally folksy background music. I remember this album in the early 70s and it was long and boring then; hasn’t changed in 50 years. Over hyped then and still is. (2.0*s)
2
Apr 03 2024
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The Dreaming
Kate Bush
Did you ever wake up and find yourself completely naked except for a blindfold, duct taped to a metal folding chair, with your hands tied behind your back? There are questions, adrenaline, and dread. This album has that and more. It is dark and fantastically dramatic. I listened with my eyes closed; the show was filled with torchlit tunnels, a dragon’s lair, beings made from mud coming to life, cauldrons, an occasional searchlight, and fangs.
I’d love to see the live production, broadway musical, or Circ de Soliel show (if available.) The Dreaming is the best song, but it is sinister. This album may be a creature that escaped from Pandora’s box; it’s out, it’s disturbing, and it can’t be put back in. Kate must have been having nightmares when she put this project together. Well done, but not my type of art. (2.9*s)
3
Apr 04 2024
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Truth And Soul
Fishbone
Fishbone goes a Mighty Long Way. The 1001 List scores again. Love the band name, album name, and diversity of the songs. All tracks good except Subliminal Fascism, and to go from Pouring Rain to Deep Inside shows their range. Album got a little political with the last four songs. Enjoyable. Solid. (3.6*s)
4
Apr 05 2024
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Merriweather Post Pavilion
Animal Collective
Fast paced, upbeat rhythm with lots of cool electronic sound effects in the background make this album great listening for any Daily (exercise) Routine. Summertime Clothes is the best song, liked it all. Nuff said, nuff said, nuff said, nuff said, nuff said (2.5*s)
3
Apr 08 2024
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Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
Hey Ladies, that’s one fun ride! Crafty and clever, liked it from start to finish. I think I heard more than one guest appearance by The Pest… (3.6*s)
4
Apr 09 2024
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The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
No spark from Arcade Fire on this album. It improved as it progressed, but no hit songs - kinda soft (2.2*s)
2
Apr 10 2024
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
the spiders Harry. That was fun. Side B better than A. L heard this album (more than once at a friend’s house) growing up, I had only heard the hits on the radio, never from start to finish. Always wondered how good the album was because ya heard so much about it back in the day. Never liked Coconut (but Uncle Eric did, although the only way to hear it back then was to own the vinyl or on the radio) and that song got a lot of play. Truly glad to have finally heard this album in its entirety. Jump into the Fire is a great, deep cut, throw back that I remember (haven’t heard in over 40 years) and evidently still like. At some point I will go looking for Nielson’s greatest hits to see what else I’ve forgotten about. (2.7*s)
3
Apr 11 2024
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Make Yourself
Incubus
Choppy, very choppy album. Liked two songs; Drive (good), and Battlestar (weird). Felt like the lead singer and the rest of the band were yelling at me for most of the album. Was glad when it was over. (1.5*s)
1
Apr 12 2024
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
Not going to become a vegetarian anytime soon. Lead song Beetlebum and Song 2 are good, the rest of the album weak; seems like the songs were written by someone with a very depressing childhood. (1.9*s)
2
Apr 15 2024
View Album
good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
good album, m.A.A.d. city! Kendrick and his homies killed it on this one. All songs really good (except the overdone, showtuney Compton - I get the concept, the song just isn’t good).
Love his lyrics. Ie; sleep is the cousin of death.
… din’t make me skeptical, but not enough to stop me from getting a nut… <— that’s clever. Listened to the album twice (that’s a first) in its entirety. Who knew you could mix rap and violins (<— that’s not a spell check correction for violence either.)
Smooth rap (4.2*s)
4
Apr 16 2024
View Album
Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
Don’t Stop and Rock With You still great songs - side A is significantly better than the sleepy side B. Was MJ wearin’ Vans in 1979? (2.6*s)
3
Apr 17 2024
View Album
Justified
Justin Timberlake
Had to do a double check to make sure we weren’t accidentally listening to a Janet Jackson album. JT musta been hugely influenced by her and MJ. And this was a couple years before the wardrobe malfunction… Soft pop (2.1*s)
2
Apr 18 2024
View Album
Casanova
The Divine Comedy
(Pinkies out) Really not my cup of tea. Becoming More Like Alfie is the best song, but the whole album is a bit too Benny Hillish for me (1.0*s)
1
Apr 19 2024
View Album
Signing Off
UB40
Aay mon. I’m familiar with reefer madness in the early 80s - but wasn’t aware of UB40 til the collaboration on I Got Lou Babe (which put them on the radio and the map.) Incidentally, best song on the album is Reefer Madness. A lot of the songs are political in nature and similar in sound. I get why the album made the list and liked it well enough. How can you go wrong with reggae? (2.6*s)
3
Apr 22 2024
View Album
Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
Liked everything about it (except the name of the band). The War On Drugs was a stupid idea back in the 80s and it’s nearly as bad for a band name. But the album is solid, all songs listenable, no fillers. Red Eyes and Eyes To The Wind are stand outs. Echoing guitar riffs and lyrics are catchy. Will look into more of their offering.
(3.2*s)
3
Apr 23 2024
View Album
Aqualung
Jethro Tull
Enjoyed this listen! Starts strong, then fades and the songs get similar. Definitely liked Disc 1 better. We listened on my b-day so there were a few (phone call) interruptions which may have enhanced the experience. In the shuffling madness this rates (3.3*s)
3
Apr 24 2024
View Album
They Were Wrong, So We Drowned
Liars
That was rough, but made it through. Noise rock - not for me.
(0.9*s)
1
Apr 25 2024
View Album
Fuzzy
Grant Lee Buffalo
Never heard of GLB back in the 90s, and now we know why. Not that good. The Hook is the best song, again not that good. America Yawning is more like it as this album in a snoozer (1.6*s)
2
Apr 26 2024
View Album
Psychocandy
The Jesus And Mary Chain
Something’s Wrong (with the sound board.) Or maybe this is an album for the audibly impaired? Every song but one (Sowing Seeds) has massive background noise of jet engine, buzz saw, or really loud feedback over simple beats and lyrics making the album difficult to enjoy. The experience would have been much better if someone, anyone, just told the lead singer to not bring the microphone so close to the speakers (1.1*s)
1
Apr 29 2024
View Album
Sign 'O' The Times
Prince
Didn’t think there was much new from Prince on this album other than Housequake (best song on the album.) I like the idea of If I Was Your Girlfriend. It’s Gonna Be A Beautiful Night is weird, catchy, and brought me right back to the castle scene in WoOz. Somehow the album didn’t run too long. Don’t remember it from ‘87 and we were listening to Prince at the time. Don’t know anyone that owned the vinyl back then so it wasn’t one of his bigger albums. Maybe made the 1001 long album list? (2.7*s)
3
Apr 30 2024
View Album
The Genius Of Ray Charles
Ray Charles
Didn’t realize Ray’s (early) albums were so big band sound. Kinda slow, too. Songs are very similar, no standouts. His voice is rich, but the sound is out of date and not for me. (1.4*s)
1
May 01 2024
View Album
Live At The Witch Trials
The Fall
Good debut album. Too frantic (and too long) for me. Best song is Music Scene. Lead Brit git does a good job with clear annunciation on the vocal track. I imagine these guys aren’t that popular in Germany based on the subject matter of a few songs.
Not on this album, but they do a punked up cover of The Kinks’ Victoria that’s decent.
Never been a huge fan of punk, Witch Trials comes in at (2.5*s)
2
May 02 2024
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Led Zeppelin III
Led Zeppelin
Musta been ahead of its time because it’s better now than it was in the 70s. This album is tucked in between II and IV so didn’t get much play at our house (other than Immigrant Song - we would play that one frequently.) Who’s listening to III when ya can listen to IV? We did love the Huusker -Du cover (which may in fact be why this album makes the 1001 list.) Solid album with a lot of variety in songs (3.6*s)
4
May 03 2024
View Album
OK Computer
Radiohead
Moody, very moody. And a bit sad. But also very good. I don’t want to like this album, the lead singer moans a lot, is whiney and annoying. No Surprises (best song on the disc) is a perfect example. Agree that this one makes the 1001 must hear list (3.8*s)
4
May 06 2024
View Album
I Should Coco
Supergrass
Jaunty album! Simple beats with a lot of energy. Favorite is Alright, followed by Caught By the Fuzz, Time, all songs are catchy, all songs are good. Musta been great to see them live back in the 90s. Somehow never heard of Supergrass, but they put together a great debut album - solid (4.0*s)
4
May 07 2024
View Album
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John
Hey kids, what a start! Disc 1 Side A is smash hits, all legendary songs. Side B still really strong. Disc 2 Side C not that good. We weren’t familiar with the songs and realized that we never really listened to this side. Strong finish on D with Saturday Night and Harmony. Uncle Danny had this album, sides A and D got a lot of play. Hour sixteen didn’t seem too long, in fact the album was over before we wanted it to be.
(3.9*)
4
May 08 2024
View Album
Oar
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
Depressing. And very close to the top of the 1001 too long album list. Best song is Fountain (because it’s less than half a minute long.) Glad when this one ended - won’t be back.(0.6*s)
1
May 09 2024
View Album
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Beatles
Innovative! We had this album shortly after it was released and there was absolutely nothing like it back then. It got a lot of play at our house and everybody enjoyed it (including parents.) Well, other than George’s intro of the sitar to the world via Within You Without You (worst song on the album but no real way to skip). Great background effects throughout the album and no pauses between songs also set it apart. Lucy In The Sky paints some fantastic imagery but Being For The Benefit of Mr Kite was my favorite song on the album back then (age 7 or 8 at the time.) Now it’s Ringo singing With A Little Help From My Friends (although When I’m 64 strikes a chord this year.) A cool (and busy) cover. For some unknown reason my older brothers and I always enjoyed that WC Fields was in the crowd. The album doesn’t hold up as well as I was hoping but still comes in strong at (3.5*s)
4
May 10 2024
View Album
I See A Darkness
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
I See A Darkness is melancholy, slow, and folksy. And sometimes off key. I didn’t not like it (1.4*s)
1
May 13 2024
View Album
If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears
The Mamas & The Papas
That was the goofy 60s. CA Dreamin’ and Monday Monday are OK songs (remember them well from back in the day) and have listenable harmonies. Every other day, every other day I’m listening to something else.
(2.4*s)
2
May 14 2024
View Album
Who's Next
The Who
I believe we’ve listened to the gold standard of albums here (because I can’t think of one that’s better right now.) The album is stacked: all songs excellent, lead guitar great, vocals great, bass great, drums excellent, synthesizers amazing (laser show when ya saw it live was very cool at the time.) Have listened to this album in it’s entirety within the last three years so knew what to expect and it once again delivered! Had a copy of it at 4Ex and wore it out, had the CD in Haverhill and it saw frequent play, have it on my spotify playlist and still love the songs when they come up. For the first time a difference in ratings must be noted as they’re pretty far apart. L=3.8*s J=
(5.0*s)
5
May 15 2024
View Album
Bert Jansch
Bert Jansch
Melancholy. Picked up a bit of a sad, English, Woody Guthrie vibe. Courting Blurs is the best song. Liked the album well enough to rate it a (2.6*s)
3
May 16 2024
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Buffalo Springfield Again
Buffalo Springfield
Great start, great finish, and pretty solid through the (short) middle. Always liked Broken Arrow for some reason, maybe the unusual transitions, circus snippet, clarinet solo that evolves into a piano solo that fades into a heartbeat finish. This album comes in at (3.8*s)
4
May 17 2024
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The Scream
Siouxsie And The Banshees
Never knew Siouxsie was English, thought the band was from the southwest. Always liked their sound. Best song is Hong Kong Garden due to the unique xylophone arrangement. Album is a worthy freshman effort (3.1*s)
3
May 20 2024
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Blunderbuss
Jack White
Sounds like Jack has had some damaged, painful relationships. I’m Shakin’ is the best song but all songs are good, no filler. This is a well put together album (3.9*s)
4
May 21 2024
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You've Come a Long Way Baby
Fatboy Slim
Check it out now, this album is not bad. In fact, it’s pretty good. Other than In Heaven, that song sucks. All songs are very repetitive and run long. Album comes in at (2.3*s)
2
May 22 2024
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Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Great 70s guitar on this album. Strong start, peaks with Killer Queen (best song) then fades. Can do without Bring Back That Leroy Brown. Comes in at (3.4*s)
3
May 23 2024
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Floodland
Sisters Of Mercy
Rather dark, echoey and futuristic, but good. Has a Midnight Oil vibe. Best song is This Corrosion. Liked the sound and the album (2.7*s)
3
May 24 2024
View Album
3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of...
Arrested Development
That is quite the debut! Heard some zucka, zucka and didn’t mind it. Best song is Mr. Wendal but all songs are good and the album works start to finish. Definitely worthy of the 1001 list.
(3.4*s)
3
May 27 2024
View Album
Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
Panic In Detroit and Jean Genie are the songs remembered from when the album came out. They’re also the best songs on the album. He’s got some out of tune piano on a few songs, but it’s covered well with creative lyrics. We like (not love) Aladdin Sane (2.7*s)
3
May 28 2024
View Album
Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand
Great debut album. Darts Of Pleasure leads the way, all songs are good. I like the sound (3.8*s)
4
May 29 2024
View Album
It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy
Don’t, don’t, don’t believe the hype. This is a (0.7*s) album. Almost every song has an incredibly annoying, constant high pitched beep or squeak in the background making it difficult to listen to. There are only two good songs; Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos & Security Of The First World. Yo, the rest of the dog shit you can put on your toast.
1
May 30 2024
View Album
Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
Starts out strong, gradually fades until the songs become filler by the end of the album. Worthy effort, comes in at (2.4*s)
2
May 31 2024
View Album
Crossing the Red Sea With the Adverts
The Adverts
All songs sound very similar. It’s an OK sound for 70s punk and one, maybe two songs. After that it just gets tiring. Can’t even pick a best song because they’re all about the same. (2.1*s)
2
Jun 03 2024
View Album
Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
So I decided what I’m gonna do now. I’m gonna give Zep IV a (4.8*s) L rates it at (4.0*s)
We had the album at 4Ex back in the early 70s, Side A got moderate play for Black Dog and Stairway. On this listen, I think the B Side is stronger. The entire album holds up, all songs are hits. At this point I still think this is Zeppelin’s best album, but time will tell as I know we’ll be listening to more of them before this journey through the 1001 list is complete…
5
Jun 04 2024
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More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
Dave is weird. There was nothing like this in the 70s, that gets you on the 1001 list. There’s still nothing quite like this 45 years later, that also gets you on the 1001 list. Album has a great 3fer finish. And they just get better, way better as time goes by and they mature. Ya either like em or ya don’t. I like em a lot (3.1*s)
3
Jun 05 2024
View Album
High Violet
The National
Delicate album. Professionally put together by legit musicians. Best song is Bloodbuzz Ohio, but all songs are good. Liked The Nationals enough to listen to some of their other work.
(3.1*s)
3
Jun 06 2024
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Henry's Dream
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Henry had a bad dream. Angry ballads are the theme, John Finn’s Wife being the best of ‘em. Please let me know why this album made the 1001 list, liked it enough to rate it at
(2.3*s)
2
Jun 07 2024
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Dance Mania
Tito Puente
Cha, cha, cha baila music. Dance Mania is trumpet heavy salsa throughout. Best number is (xylophone) Hong Kong Mambo because there’s no trumpet and it’s different from the other songs. Enjoyed the listen during an elliptical session, album comes in at (2.2*s)
2
Jun 10 2024
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Disintegration
The Cure
A master work of dark blue hopelessness and pain. The tempo, tone, and overall message are depressing. Other than that, it’s enjoyable. Lovesong is the only one I remember from when the album came out and it’s the best song of the album. Sadly, only (3.3*s) for this effort. Nice work boys!
3
Jun 11 2024
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Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The Smashing Pumpkins
Surprisingly enough, I have listened to the lengthy MCatIS in its entirety before. Borrowed it from the public library and listened in one sitting; main memories are that the album is way too long, kinda angry, and very screechy.
This time through was not as rough; still way too long but Side A and F are actually good. The middle 2/3s of the album are nearly unlistenable filler with many very similar screeching songs. Length of the album puts this at the top of the 1001 too long album list, and has it come in at (3.1*s)
3
Jun 12 2024
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Sweet Baby James
James Taylor
Some good folk songs, some fluff, but all easy listening. I believe this is the album that put (the original) JT on the map. Fire and Rain got radio play through the 70s because it’s the best song on the album which rates a solid (2.9*s)
3
Jun 13 2024
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Seventh Tree
Goldfrapp
Goldfrapp is On The Road To Somewhere good. Liked their sound a lot, great female vocals over mellow electronica and soft background sounds. Caravan Girl is the best song on the album but all songs are better than good. Will check out some of their other discs. Liked this one (3.8*s)
4
Jun 14 2024
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Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
The futuristic sound of the starship revving up blended with the dystopian lyrics make for an interesting album. I like each individual song better than the album as a whole. Knights of Cydonia and Starlight come across as the best songs. Wanted to like this album more than I did. (3.3*s)
3
Jun 17 2024
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Power In Numbers
Jurassic 5
J5, never heard of ‘em. Don’t mistake ‘em for some corny ass crew though, they’re actually good. All songs listenable, some fun, some funny, some political. Album rates (3.8*s)
4
Jun 18 2024
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Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
Still over rated after all these years. Huge album when it came out, but we never caught the fever. It does have some smash hits; Glory Days, Dancing In the Dark, I’m On Fire. Title song Born in the USA is not good and it appears three times with different lyrics. The album is better now than it was in the 80s but still rates (2.7*s)
3
Jun 19 2024
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Palo Congo
Sabu
Lots of high energy congo / bongo drums, primitive guitar, very repetitive, simple Latino lyrics. Not bad during an elliptical workout, would be a lot better at a late evening party with extra hot salsa and plenty of tequila! Liked it enough to rate it (1.957*s)
2
Jun 20 2024
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Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Blurry guitar (which I imagine is why this album is on the 1001 list) didn’t work for me. With Blues Explosion in the band name, I expected so much more. Bit of a let down. (1.996*s)
2
Jun 21 2024
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Take Me Apart
Kelela
Decent vocals over light, soaring, underwater, clicking electronica. Well crafted debut album, Kelela. The songs all sound very similar, so similar that there was difficulty telling the difference between one and the next. But I like the sound, will check out more of her work. Sade’s little sister come in at (3.3*s)
3
Jun 24 2024
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The Clash
The Clash
That’s some good, angry, head bashin, old school punk. Slashing guitar, banging drums, and fast paced screaming vocals. Don’t remember any of these songs as stand outs, (songs are all pretty similar) but all identifiable as The Clash. Strong finish with Police & Thieves, 48 Hours, and Garageland. Great debut effort, like it more now than in 77.
(3.8*s)
4
Jun 25 2024
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Elephant
The White Stripes
I had a brain that felt like pancake batter. Great imagery with the lyrics throughout the entire album (and currently very accurate as I board yet another flight…) All songs are good, zero filler. Side B kills it. Album comes in at (4.3*s)
4
Jun 26 2024
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Maxinquaye
Tricky
The most mellow trip hop electronics I’ve heard to date and I like the sound. Good move by Tticky using a female vocalist, she makes the album! Great debut effort (3.4*s)
3
Jun 27 2024
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Mask
Bauhaus
Singing from the shadows in the corner of a dank tomb created great vocal effects. The most mellow trip hop electronica heard to date and I liked the sound. (2.8*s)
3
Jun 28 2024
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Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes
That’s quite the way to arrive on the scene - excellent debut! Side A hits got radio play through the 80s so very familiar with them. Album starts very strong then fades and gets a bit whiny. Prove My Love is the best song on Side B and I never heard it before this listen.
This will go down on your permanent record (3.9*s)
4
Jul 01 2024
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Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
Jimi slay guitar! Debut or greatest hit album? Nine of the songs were hits that got radio play through the 80s. Fire and Stone Free still rock, Third Stone should have been left on the cutting room floor. The man was a poet that can wield an ax. That’s what I’m talkin bout (4.3*s)
4
Jul 02 2024
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Morrison Hotel
The Doors
Peacefrog and Roadhouse Blues still holdin up after 50+ years, but I believe it’s Ship Of Fools that gets this album on the 1001 list. Short and sweet listen, great bluesy sound with a lot of range. I remember 1970 but never remember a time when hotel rooms rented from $2.50 per night. Solid (3.9*s)
4
Jul 03 2024
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The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
Bravo! From frantic to mellow with much in between. Heavy on the xylophone, sawing violin, and accordion makes the album sound dated. Nuevo Tango is the best track. Many of the numbers would work well as the soundtrack for high energy cartoons. Liked it enough to rate the album at (2.7*s)
3
Jul 04 2024
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Pictures At An Exhibition
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
It’s all about the synthesizer. This is a good live album if you like synth, don’t listen if ya don’t like synth. Best number is the final song on the album; Nutrocker (which was used as the Boston Bruin’s theme song for couple of decades.) Pictures At an Exhibition had a strong finish which brought it up to a (2.6*s)
3
Jul 05 2024
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Killing Joke
Killing Joke
Not familiar with Killing Joke or any of their songs. Liked the punk with futuristic background effect. The lyrics were simple and repetitive. Bloodsport (instrumental) was the best song but there are other good ones. Album cover photo and the fact that the album was self produced the way the band wanted it might be why this one made the 1001 list. Liked it enough to give it (2.7*s) Keep the Change, change, change, echo…
3
Jul 08 2024
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Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
That’s some good vintage Steely. Strong start, strong finish. Reelin’ In The Years carries the B Side. Never listened to the album in its entirety until now, great debut! Will listen again, they’ll have at least one more that makes the list. Easy (3.2*s)
3
Jul 09 2024
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Graceland
Paul Simon
This album was politically controversial when released. Apartheid was in the news, the South African music vibe was new to the States. Never heard the entire album til 1001, but knew it would show up, and rightfully so. The album has a wide variety of sounds, some totally different styles, and some good songs. Crazy Love Vol II is the best song, Homeless could have been left off the album. L felt the vocals were all too much like he’s talking or reading and very similar - rated the album at (1.8*s). Difference of opinions here, Simon is a songwriter with some good ideas and many, many folk hits. (I hope Garfunkel has an album that makes the list.) For J, Graceland comes in at a strong (2.9*s)
3
Jul 10 2024
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The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway
Genesis
Without that key Wikihint about Rael and his real long, strange journey this album would have been even more challenging to enjoy. I like Genesis, but this one didn’t work for me. Some of the songs are too long, the album is too long - but I’m not sure cutting out songs makes it any better. Generously (2.5*s)
2
Jul 11 2024
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Moondance
Van Morrison
Fifty years later, this album is still a fantastic listen from start to finish! We’ve listened to it many, many times over the years so know every song well. L’s rating: best album so far (3.9*s)
J’s rating: Flawless (5.0*s)
5
Jul 12 2024
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Good Old Boys
Randy Newman
Political showtunes by early Newman. Not really a style I like but the messages of the songs carried them. Naked Man is the best tune on the album. The rest of it just OK for me. I see why it made the 1001 list (Rednecks+) but comes in at (2.3*s)
2
Jul 15 2024
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Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
Jimmy puts out some funky jazz that you can actually listen to without thinking it’s just an instrument tuning session. Back At The Chicken Shack is a successful kickoff, album fades with each successive song - but still good. Liked it well enough to check out some of Jimmy’s other albums. (3.1*s)
3
Jul 16 2024
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The Bends
Radiohead
Great threefer opens the album! High and Dry is the best song, but all of ‘em are very good or better. This is a well put together album, I’m becoming a Radiohead fan and likely will listen to The Bends in its entirety again.
(4.6*s)
5
Jul 17 2024
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Bluesbreakers
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
Killer guitar on Hideaway and Steppin’ Out (both of which I remember from back in the day.) These sre the twos best songs, but all good. Some good blues harmonica throughout, too. But the album didn’t hold up as well as I was hoping, (2.7*s)
3
Jul 18 2024
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Reggatta De Blanc
The Police
Yep - remember when it dropped. Four of the songs were radio hits (although I never really liked Walking On The Moon). Great variety in sound and styles, we all liked that slightly reggae vibe and these guys were on the rise. Bring On The Night is still the best song on the album, but all good. The subject matter of On Any Other Day helps this album make the 1001 list. Enjoyable listen, already know a lot of their other early albums. (3.2*s)
3
Jul 19 2024
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Locust Abortion Technician
Butthole Surfers
Hey, with a name like Butthole Surfers it’s hard to take the band seriously. The songs Hay, The O-men, Kuntz are perfect examples. But the album is a fun, frantic, rollercoaster ride through a three ring circus with Sweettooth as the ring leader - so respect for that. U.S.S.A. is political enough to garner a listen from the 1001 creators, and with the weirdness and variety of moods, songs, and sounds this album is a definite entry. Still can’t take’em seriously. (2.9*s)
3
Jul 22 2024
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Nevermind
Nirvana
My memory of Nevermind in the early 90s (other than the cover) is that the vocals were mumbled and nearly unintelligible, not so with the remastered version. Either way, it’s a great album. A Side is major hit strong, B Side fades to the last (worst) Endless, Nameless song.
I knew everyone is gay, but I did forget that God is gay. And unfortunately, Kurt did have a gun…
(4.6*s)
5
Jul 23 2024
View Album
Tommy
The Who
Had the vinyl in the early 70s and listened frequently, especially sides 3 and 4. The analysis and dissection of the album was also an assignment in 9th grade music listening class. (Yes, it was the 70s and yes, you got credits for listening to Tommy.) Haven’t listened to this in its entirety in about 30 years, but it held up well! Good story, great imagery, great music, and a couple of big hits made for an amazing hour and quarter journey. Still like it enough to do a start to finish listen again in another 20 years or so… Listening to you I get the music. (4.4*s)
4
Jul 24 2024
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Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
That’s angry 70s punk alright - rotten and viscous. Better now than it was back then, but still rotten and viscous, and still overrated. Album title, God Save The Queen, and Johnny’s sneer got this one on the list. This album got the Brits up in a twist when it dropped, not as much over here. (2.4*s)
2
Jul 25 2024
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Dookie
Green Day
That’s 90s angst punk alright. Better now than when it came out. Three smash hits (and the cover art) carry the album. Glad I took the time to listen to them whine. Extra .1 for being American brings dookie in at (2.9*s)
3
Jul 26 2024
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Rust In Peace
Megadeth
Man, that guy can play guitar! Thrash metal isn’t a favorite, but this album is listenable. Strong finish with Dawn Patrol (best song) and Rust Never Sleeps. Liked it enough to give it (2.6*s)
2
Jul 29 2024
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Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
Yo Jay - Break. Zuka, zuka. Just listen while I’m dissin - dis rap smells like crap and you pissin me off. I’ve listened to worse so not that horrible. Simple, juvenile lyrics over heavy bass drums and a lot of finger lickin.
Ya makin me illin’ homes (1.7*s)
2
Jul 30 2024
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Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
Have mercy, dem good ol’ Texas boys have put up a great blues rock album with mild religious undertones. Turning muddy water into wine on the way to New Orleans, Master of Sparks was God, and prayers on bended knee give ya the idea. God Almighty, I might be mistaken but I think this one comes in at (4.3*s)
4
Jul 31 2024
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E.V.O.L.
Sonic Youth
Very goth with lots of bells. A well put together album, but no need to explore further at this point. (2,4*s)
2
Aug 01 2024
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Ladies And Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space
Spiritualized
All songs very similar and too long. In fact, this album makes the 1001 too long album list. I’d like to pick a fav or worst song, but they’re all pretty much the same. Heard some musical instruments being used to make noise which I still don’t enjoy (2.0*s)
2
Aug 02 2024
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Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
Mellow sax over light piano and the snare with brushes make for perfect background dinner music (and not much else.) Songs are pretty similar and dated - Getz/Gilberto comes in at (2.4*s)
2
Aug 05 2024
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The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
Never had the opportunity to listen to this album in its entirety before now. It’s another one of those you’ve heard of and heard about from waaay back. Although with this album you always heard “don’t waste your time - it’s not that good.” I enjoyed the experience (and wasn’t even drunk, stoned, or trippin’ on heroin.) Didn’t really get many of the songs and that might be why. Album has a strong Dylan vibe; Run Run Run is the best song, the cut European Son could be cut and the album would be improved. I’m not sure why it got such a bad rap, comes in at (3.1*s) for me. I plan to listen to it again front to back when I have the time…(Let’s see if that ever happens)
3
Aug 06 2024
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Appetite For Destruction
Guns N' Roses
Not a huge fan of GnR, but that’s a kickass debut. Sweet Child O Mine (best song) still holds up and the album would have been even better if they ended it on this one. (3.4*s)
3
Aug 07 2024
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Me Against The World
2Pac
Heavy In The Game awlright. The album is 25 minutes too long because he’s using nearly the same beat, lyrics, and message on every track; best ones are the ones with guest appearances by RR and Dramacydal. Even thugs get lonely, he’s 4 cans short of a 6Pac. (1.7*s)
2
Aug 08 2024
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Parklife
Blur
Not sure what we’re missing. The album is just OK, nothing great. Best song is Lot 105 to end the album. (2.8*s)
3
Aug 09 2024
View Album
Moss Side Story
Barry Adamson
A young dame, mid 20s, from The Wrong Side Of The Tracks gets caught up with a local crime ring. During a heist gone bad, a wealthy couple is killed, but who’s to blame? Dame is brought in (Round Up The Usual Suspects) by a handsome cop who is just doing his job but believes she is innocent. She is convicted and sent away to The Big House where she falls in love with a fellow (Suck On The Honey Of Love) inmate. One night, while feeling sorry for herself (Everything Happens To Me) the handsome cop (Swinging Detective) breaks her out of jail. During their narrow escape they are discovered. A car chase ensues, ending with (Auto Destruction) a horrific crash where she is ejected from the vehicle shortly before it explodes; we can’t be sure what happens to the handsome cop but it doesn’t look good. She is rushed to Intensive Care where they barely save her life but she lapses into a coma. While in the coma, she has spiritual dreams and visions of a higher power. After she wakes up two years later, she’s a different person; much wiser. She looks in the mirror to see she has a scar from above the corner of her right eye, down her cheek, across the center of her mouth to the lower side of her left jaw. She feels lucky to be alive and that this prominent scar somehow makes her even more beautiful than before (The Most Beautiful Girl In The World)
She feels Free At Last, but the suspense continues (Alfred Hitchcock Presents) when her prison lover returns! They go out to the local malt shop to split a Chocolate Milkshake and discuss the future. The handsome cop (Man With The Golden Gun) arrives on the scene with the intent to whisk Dame away. The listener is left hanging and has to decide if she goes with her prison lover OR the handsome cop…
Rated R (remarkable 3.9*s)
4
Aug 12 2024
View Album
Is This It
The Strokes
A couple of big hits and nine strong standards. Simple base lines and drum beats build a solid foundation, slinging guitar riffs and gritty vocals layered over make for a good combination and impressive debut album. Is This It? I’m saying it is. Rates (3.7*s)
4
Aug 13 2024
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Oracular Spectacular
MGMT
Never heard of MGMT, but recognized Electric Feel instantly. Like their sound and the entire album worked for me. Will listen to more of their music in the future. OrSpec comes in at
(3.7*s)
4
Aug 14 2024
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New Forms
Roni Size
Too long. (The album and the songs.) Most of the songs on New Forms have six beat electronic base lines with simple harmonies and very repetitive lyrics. (OK, that’s electronica). Share The Fall, Washing (sic) Windows, and Beatbox make for a tolerable threefer. My take aways: too long, very repetitive, but 1001 list worthy. Comes in at (2.4*s)
2
Aug 15 2024
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The Fat Of The Land
The Prodigy
Ohmm. Lots of things (spaceships?) flying around, light saber noises, and other futuristic sound effects. Repetitive but good, great high tempo exercise music. Liked The Fat of the Land a lot. Have already checked out more Prodigy. This is dangerous, but I’m rankin the album in at (3.9*s)
4
Aug 16 2024
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John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band
John Lennon
Familiar with the album from back in the day - everyone was following the individual Beatles closely after they ended it. Yoko (unjustifiably) was blamed for the breakup of the Beatles and this looked liked her riding on Lennon’s coattails. The album is just “OK” - I think everyone expected more when it came out and was a little disappointed with his debut. All the songs seem like leftovers cut as not worthy of being Beatles songs. I like the message but can only go as high as (2.4*s). Plastic Ono is 1001 list worthy, but he has better.
2
Aug 19 2024
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Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
It’s Amy - nuff said. With a voice like that of an old soul Back To Black weaves a sad tale that is a must listen. L rates (4.5*s)
J can’t disagree, solid (4.5*s)
5
Aug 20 2024
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What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
Here’s What’s Going On; it’s the sleepiest way to increase public awareness of any topic. I’ve heard a few of these songs for decades and wasn’t aware of any message other than Marvin’s got a mellow groove. Maybe you had to listen to the entire album to get the message, which didn’t happen until now. 1001 list works again! This one comes in at (3.5*s)
3
Aug 21 2024
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Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby
Terence Trent D'Arby
Male Sade (which is a good thing.) The whole album has a smooth vibe, liked it, will check out more (3.4*s)
3
Aug 22 2024
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times… Good Times Bad Times; what a great start to the debut album of a soon to be legendary band.
Was too young to be paying attention to R&R when Zep I dropped, but know the album. Some smash hits, some filler. Better now than through the 70s and 80s, but we’re still Dazed And Confused. Solid (4.0*s)
Incidentally, they get better.
4
Aug 23 2024
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Ambient 1/Music For Airports
Brian Eno
Hey Brian, love the concept! The negative space in 1/1 would truly calm a frenzied traveler in a 1978 airport. (We remember ‘78 and airports at the time, they sucked. As humans, we have learned and gotten better about airports since then.) 1/2 not as neutral but still works. The B side gets less ambient and a bit too churchy. We’ve never heard any of this music at an airport (or any where else for that matter) but it is calming and would be appropriate during meditation, massage, or reiki. General consensus: original idea that is well thought out (1.8*s)
2
Aug 26 2024
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The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
We are the draft beer preservation society, and even after consuming mass quantities this album is not that good. Granted, there is a lot of variety and different song styles, most are light hearted. The songs are better stand alones than as an album. People Take Pictures Of Each Other was ahead of its time (and a bit silly) like much of Davies work. The Kinks will make The 1001 list a couple more times, this one comes in at
(2.4*s)
2
Aug 27 2024
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Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Natty Dread be some good, old school reggae, mon. Don’t remember this album when it came out, Bob didn’t go mainstream for another few years. Only hit off this album was No Woman No Cry, but all songs are jaunty. Enjoyed a short Jamaican vacation with this listen. (3.4*s)
3
Aug 28 2024
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KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
Kiwanuka crushes it. This album is great easy listening, contemporary with a bit of a Seal vibe. Both give it a (3.75*s)
4
Aug 29 2024
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Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Like two weird albums in one! Nature Boy is the best song, Fable Of The Brown Ape might just be the weirdest song on the 1001 list so far. (The Lyre Of Orpheus similar but not quiet as weird…) It ran a little long for me, but I had to check out a couple of songs twice (2.5*s)
2
Aug 30 2024
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Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
We know this album and the lyrics to all four songs, it’s a sing-a-long from start to finish. Fun listen. Both give it (4.3*s)
4
Sep 02 2024
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At San Quentin
Johnny Cash
Got some classics here; Walk The Line, Boy Named Sue, and Folsom Prison Blues sound about the same live as the studio versions. $36 for picking flowers in the middle of the night was likely a D&D pickup (all depends on how you look at it.) singing for a prison is going to get you on the 1001 list , this dated disc comes in at (2.2*s)
2
Sep 03 2024
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
The song Proud Mary was so big back in the day that this alone gets your album on the 1001 list. Bayou Country is good, CCR has better, we’ll be listening to them again before we’re done. (2.9*s)
3
Sep 04 2024
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Dog Man Star
Suede
Starts strong, runs by long. And gets weaker and slower as it goes. Got so dramatic through the middle that I thought I was listening to a musical at a small theater in the round. (This did make the album more enjoyable.) Swayed - God Nam Rats comes in at (3.3*s) Liked the feel of Suede enough to check out more of their wares.
3
Sep 05 2024
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Gorillaz
Gorillaz
Gorillas got one kick-ass debutt with Gorillaz! Clint leads the way, butt great variety and sense of humor throughout. That they’re virtual / animated makes em even more fun.
J = (4.3*s) L = meh (2.7*s)
3
Sep 06 2024
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My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts
Brian Eno
Very, very interesting. And very international.
Interesting in that the songs are very similar and yet so different. International as in Deep Forest visits the Middle East and goes electronica with spirits and ghosts. I give it a
(2.8*s)
3
Sep 09 2024
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Doolittle
Pixies
Here Comes Your Monkey Gone To Heaven are the best songs on the album, but they’re all good. A little dark maybe, but good.
(3.3*s)
3
Sep 10 2024
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With The Beatles
Beatles
An easy listen, we had the US versions Meet The Beatles and Beatle’s 2nd Album at 4Ex so knew all the songs. The cover also became a classic over time. A fun 35 minute experience that brought back memories of the 60s. Still good, but not great (3.4*s)
3
Sep 11 2024
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The Slim Shady LP
Eminem
Zika, Zika, starts out strong then fades to similarity. My Name Is, Guilty Conscience, and Brain Damage make for a clever and comical threefer. Then it’s all ass kissin, dick suckin, and I don’t give a fuck. Cum On Everybody is best rap on the album (3.9*s)
4
Sep 12 2024
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Rocks
Aerosmith
We remember Rocks, starts out strong - then fades. Back In The Saddle was huge, Last Child is the best cut on the album. The album is good, not great. Not sure it’s 1001 list worthy (2.3*s)
2
Sep 13 2024
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Live / Dead
Grateful Dead
You had to be there live, I wasn’t. That was about an hour of five or six stoners tuning their instruments and singing off key. Or maybe the drugs in 69 were just so strong that any noise (including Feedback)sounded like music. Rough one (1.6*s)
2
Sep 16 2024
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Kid A
Radiohead
Wow, a lot going on here! Mellow, new age, electronica vibe. Optimistic is the best cut. Kid A is good for late night headphone listening, although I still find lead voice a bit whiny. Despite that, it’s a solid (4.4+s)
4
Sep 17 2024
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Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
Debut album of early rock n roll from The King is an automatic for the 1001 must hear list. Loved the contrast between rock songs like Blue Suede Shoes and typical 50s schmaltz I Love You Because. Never heard most of these songs before, some so early they don’t really sound like Elvis (2.8*s)
3
Sep 18 2024
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Pyromania
Def Leppard
Not sure this is a must hear before ya die album… Photograph and Foolin’ were (overplayed) hits that really aren’t that good. Rest of the album is mediocre. Pyromania does not light a fire for me
(2.4*s)
2
Sep 19 2024
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Dig Me Out
Sleater-Kinney
Early S-K like angry, young Indigo Girls. Liked the energy and feminism angle, felt like they were singing out of their range on all songs except Little Babies (which is the best song on the album.) They get better (2.7*s)
3
Sep 20 2024
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Elastica
Elastica
That’s a strong debut, B side is stacked. All-Nighter and Waking Up make a great back-to-back twofer. I do remember Connection when it came out. Elastica, very Blondie-esque, comes in at (3.7*s)
4
Sep 23 2024
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Physical Graffiti
Led Zeppelin
The smash hits in a row threefer of Houses Of The Holy, Trampled Under Foot, and Kashmir gets Physical Graffiti on the 1001 list. The rest of the doesn’t compare. Better now then when it came out. We’ll be listening to Zep again before the list is completed (3.9*s)
4
Sep 24 2024
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If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
Never erd of The Pogues, album off to a great start. Turkish Song of the Damned caught me and turned to be the best song on the album. OK through the (lengthy) middle. After a while all Irish music sounds similar, but they finished strong with Sketches of Spain and South Australia. It was a little weird having the Christmas song Fairytale of New York pop up after some rockin’ Irish jigs and then bouncing to a Bond-like theme song, but it shows their variety. Overall, comes in at (2.8*s)
3
Sep 25 2024
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Ten
Pearl Jam
This is a great album, but actually not as good as my memory of it… This seems strange to me as so far my memories of the albums up to this point are generally better than the re-listens. Maybe the four hits (Black included) on Ten have carried it on in my mind through the years? Not sure, but either way it rates (4.4*s) I always thought it was titled Ten because it had 10 songs. Turns out there’s 11. Feel free to explain.
One other minor point; I don’t think I’ve ever heard a Pearl Jam song that is not off this album. Also explain that…
(One album wonders?)
4
Sep 26 2024
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Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret
Soft Cell
Surprised to see this one make the 1001 list. Until I listened to it again 40 years later! Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret is weird, long, upbeat, and SAD (which is quite difficult to do.) Most of the songs are upbeat but about depressing subjects. The synth base line runs thru the album, one of the members is great on the horn, incredible licorice stick on a couple of songs and sax on others. Bedsitter and Chips On My Shoulder are unknown sleepers and the best songs on the album; but sad. “I’m making a stand while I sit on my ass.” That’s good! Tainted Love and Where Did Our Love Go were truly over played, but the other songs were too weird and too long for radio play at the time. This album is list worthy as there was nothing like it in ‘81. You can really go to Hell if you give me the Soft Sell
(4.3*s)
4
Sep 27 2024
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BEYONCÉ
Beyoncé
Home is where the heart is, then she came home and farted.
OK, some of the lyrics are catchy, butt she’s too up on herself. Beyonk (PLATINUM - styled in ALL CAPS) breaks down quickly and becomes difficult to listen to. The songs get so similar that it’s hard to discern one from the next. Until she brings in N Minaj, then it actually gets significantly worse.
I started out thinking “pretty good”, as each song passed I was thinking “not that bad”, by the middle of the album I’m at “not horrible”, by the time it ended an hour and a half later I was at “that was not a good experience, in fact - that sucked”. Way too long, near the top of the 1001 too long album list. Even without Minaj the highest I can go is (2.3*s) and she just brings it down from there.
2
Sep 30 2024
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Come Away With Me
Norah Jones
Don’t Know Why I Didn’t Come Away With Turn Me On (threefer) and 2002 album of the year gets you on the 1001 list. This album makes me want to go out for a high end dinner at a classy cocktail lounge and listen to Nora’s smooth, schmaltzy voice. Even a coffee house will do
(4.4*s)
4
Oct 01 2024
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Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
Pure voice over a bit of jazz piano is always good. The album gets verrrrrrryyy slow down the end. I remember my parents listening to Nina Simone through the early 70s, this album doesn’t hold up to time, comes in at (2.4*s) for me.
2
Oct 02 2024
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Survivor
Destiny's Child
DC Survivor with early Beyonk as the lead comes in low 2s. The first nine songs are very similar, have lame-repetitive lyrics, and just aren’t good. Nasty Girl is a perfect bad example. The album improves a little from Happy Face on, but is still not good. Here’s to hoping she doesn’t make the 1001 list or the too long album list again (2.4*s).
2
Oct 03 2024
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Cafe Bleu
The Style Council
Style Council remembered as kinda upbeat smooth jazz with a modern electronic twist. They got some play on the soft rock station with My Ever Changing Moods and You’re The Best Thing. Best song is Dropping Bombs On The Whitehouse (the title of which may have gotten them on the 1001 list.) Totally forgot about this band, but enjoyed the listen (3.3*s)
3
Oct 04 2024
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Peter Gabriel 3
Peter Gabriel
Great mid-album threefer with And Through The Wire, Games Without Frontiers, and Not One Of Us. But it’s the politics of Family Snapshot, Games Without Frontiers, and Biko that get PG3 on the 1001 list. Well, that and it’s just a good, innovative album. Not listening again, but it’s still a solid (4.0*s)
4
Oct 07 2024
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Birth Of The Cool
Miles Davis
My memories of Miles in 1957 are non-existent. I can’t (or don’t want to) imagine a world where big band, jazz, and country are the main music genres. This album with all that trumpet seemed too much like big band to be Birth of the Cool, I did hear some cool tuba though. Actually, good musicianship throughout (2.9*s)
3
Oct 08 2024
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Live At The Regal
B.B. King
BB’s ringing guitar signifies the blues, his gravelly voice just adds to the vibe. You can hear the influence he had on the likes of Clapton and Stevie Ray. Sounds like a great night out, it was an easy listen. Comes in at (4.2*s) for J. Not as easy or enjoyable for L at (1.5*s)
3
Oct 09 2024
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Black Monk Time
The Monks
Just weird enough to make the 1001 list. Never heard of or anything by The Monks, but they have a great 60s sound. Boys Are Boys and Space Age lead the way on this jaunty ride through the bazaar. Liked it enough to give it a (2.8*s)
3
Oct 10 2024
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Fishscale
Ghostface Killah
Ghostface Killah got a sense of humor. And a legit album! Shakey Dog is great, the rest of the album is good. Fades a bit and songs get similar by the end, but not bad. Enjoyed the experience. (3.1*s)
3
Oct 11 2024
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Time (The Revelator)
Gillian Welch
That there’s some sleepy picking’ an a strummin’ over thin but pleasant voiced Dixie storytellin’. Red Clay Halo sums it up nicely! Feel like I went to a show at the Grand Ol’ Oprey.
(3.1*s) for Gillian’ Time.
3
Oct 14 2024
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(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
Q:? A: Need a little time to wake up, wake up. This is a well crafted album from start to finish. T’was great when it dropped, still is. Five of the songs are well known hits, and the rest of the songs are good. Own this one on CD, but haven’t listened to the entire album in a very long time. There’s no filler on this album, all good. Comes in at
(4.3*s)
4
Oct 15 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
The Red Headed Stranger sure can spin a yarn! The album itself is a little sleepy, but despite the fact that it’s country you can still listen to it. Best song is the instrumental Down Yonder when Willie goes into a dance and doubles on kazoo. He also plays some great ragtime piano. Interested in seeing the movie sometime if anyone else is in. (3.8*s)
4
Oct 16 2024
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Arise
Sepultura
Devil Retch on unintelligible lead vocals again. This band is only worthy of one entry on the 1001 too long album list. First time you hear them is a shock, this time I want my hour back (0.5*s)
1
Oct 17 2024
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The Modern Dance
Pere Ubu
Modern Dance is a strange album with a lot of weird background noises behind every song. Chinese Radiation has a lot of crowd noise with a somber ending. Real World is fun. Sentimental Journey = breaking empty 40s in a back alley. Overall, the album is a little too weird for me, but not a bad 70s debut effort. Definitely some musical instruments being used to create noise. (3.3*s)
3
Oct 18 2024
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Tanto Tempo
Bebel Gilberto
Great save by Suba! Evidently bossa nova sounds smoother and more schmaltzy in Portuguese than Spanish or English. Has that Girl From Ipanema sound throughout - liked Tanto Tiempo start to finish.
(3.2*)
3
Oct 21 2024
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Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
A fun and fluffy album as juniors in high school at age 17 and an enjoyable listen this time through about 45 years later. Fleetwood was big before Rumours, they were huge afterwards due to the several hits off the album. Nine of the eleven song got radio play at the time which makes it close to a greatest hits album. You Make Loving Fun, Loretta! The album comes in at
(4.2*s)
4
Oct 22 2024
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Jagged Little Pill
Alanis Morissette
Alanis missed the “No Whining” rule. Other than MaryJane (best song) the album is a one hour whine fest about her broken relationships. Many well known hits, but it just sounds like she’s straining her voice and whining on every song. I’ve got one hand in my pocket and the other one is pinching my nose closed.
(3.5*s)
3
Oct 23 2024
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Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
Play that funky music, loud! Got a hint of Jimi and War throughout, but especially on Super Stupid (best song.) Funky & psychedelic = an apropos band name. Someone please explain why Mother Earth is pregnant for the third time. Good effort by the funksters (3.9*s)
4
Oct 24 2024
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At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
The prison tour continues… Didn’t we hear this already? All songs similar, and this album is very similar to the previous listen from SQ although not as good. (2.0*s)
2
Oct 25 2024
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Bitte Orca
Dirty Projectors
Experimental is the euphemism for tuning up throughout the album. Sounded like some stream of consciousness singing. Was hoping for more with a song titled Temecula Sunrise, all a bit disconnected but a good one time listen. I saw colors with Orca, Bride, Two Doves, and Temec Sunrise.
(2.4*s)
2
Oct 28 2024
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Stardust
Willie Nelson
Stardust is slow sing-songy covers of popular country songs. Bound to be a commercial success, not sure that makes it worthy the 1001 must hear before ya die list. But here it is. To me, this is like Willie put out a Christmas album. Everyone is familiar with the songs and he’s a popular musician so it’s gonna sell. This one looses points for lack of originality. It’s not a bad album, but it’s country.
(1.9*s)
2
Oct 29 2024
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Out Of The Blue
Electric Light Orchestra
ELO had a distinct and unique sound, nothing else like it in the 70s. Strong start with Turn To Start, It’s Over, and Sweet Talkin’ Woman. Just heard Mr Blue Sky on the radio - always liked that one. Standing In The Rain was an unknown gem on this listen. Album runs a little long and songs become similar, but all good. Comes in at (2.9*s)
3
Oct 30 2024
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Diamond Life
Sade
Put your hands together for Sade! Diamond Life is a killer debut; well thought out and executed. We had this album on CD shortly after it came out so know it well. Her rich, smooth voice over jazzy sax makes for a memorable listen.
L - sweet as Cherry Pie (5.0*s)
J - Stronger Than Pride (4.8*s)
5
Oct 31 2024
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Konnichiwa
Skepta
Great start to Konnichiwa, and strong finish! I was skeptical of Skepta before listening because I don’t really enjoy rap. It’s more tolerable with a Brit accent and xylophone or accordion. (2.8*s)
3
Nov 01 2024
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Ellington at Newport
Duke Ellington
Still not old enough for jazz. I agree that Sir Duke has to be included in the 1001 list once (maybe more) but this one was a bit squeaky (and long) for me. Diminuendo In Blue is the best song despite being 14 minutes long. Broke this album into three separate fitness sessions and that seemed to work. But it’s still dated jazz (2.4*s)
2
Nov 04 2024
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Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Stevie hit it out of the park again with Innervision. Never heard this in its entirety before but was familiar with seven out of nine songs because they got radio playback in the early / mid 70s. Living For The City, Golden Lady, and Higher Ground are the meat of the album, but it’s all good. Didn’t realize I was a Wonder fan. Strong (4.5*s)
5
Nov 05 2024
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The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
Live albums always seem to have a little easier time making the 1001 list. This was a good Sunday morning, Keith can play the piano. Part IV was most enjoyable. (2.9*s)
3
Nov 06 2024
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Lady In Satin
Billie Holiday
The Lady In Satin smokes more than a little too much. This album is one song that’s an hour and five minutes (too) long. That it was released post-humorous must be why it made the 1001 too long album list. A couple of the songs are on the album three times, sheesh. Not good (1.4*s)
1
Nov 07 2024
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Solid Air
John Martyn
Folksy stoner slurs his way through a very good album. Noted the length before listening (and that it was the same album twice) so broke it into two sessions. Enjoyed the first session; good guitar work and interesting lyrics. Liked the alt version (second listen) even more - but that was maybe because I was familiar with the songs. May You Never is the song I liked the most; upbeat. Overall, Solid Air is a little slow and a little long. Don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much if one time through - comes in at (3.8*s)
4
Nov 08 2024
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Punishing Kiss
Ute Lemper
The aptly titled Punishing Kiss is macabre and overly melodramatic, was hoping for so much more. The Case Continues (best song) sounded like it was taken straight out of an old detective movie, so that was cool. Much of the rest seemed like Broadway show tunes. Incredible guest appearances on the album, but I really didn’t get much from them. (2.5*s)
2
Nov 11 2024
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Ágætis Byrjun
Sigur Rós
Grandiose. And plenty of nature sounds; wind, waves, volcanic roaring, jet engines, and space shuttle take-offs. New age ghost rock sound, glad I listened. (2.7*s)
3
Nov 12 2024
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Guero
Beck
I do wanna listen to that new Yanni cassette (Oh wait, already own it on CD.) Wow, (OK, he called us out on that one) the Beckster is on top of his game and hittin’ it outta the park with Guero. E-Pro, Girl, Hell Yes, and Scarecrow (best song) can not be beaten. All songs perfect up to Earthquake Weather (not a bad song, just a rough transition.) Little rough at Broken Drum (get it now that I know the back story) and the album finishes very strong. Go It Alone launches this album to (4.9*s) Please enjoy.
5
Nov 13 2024
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The Next Day
David Bowie
The Next Day is the comeback album of the decade! (Maybe the heart attack got him rethinking). No hits here, but listenable Bowie. I’d Rather Be High and Boss Of Me string a decent two in a row. The last two songs are the dramatic Bowie and a bit much, album would have been better without ‘em. (2.8*s) for Davy.
3
Nov 14 2024
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Sea Change
Beck
Sea Change by sad, mellow Beck showing his incredible range. I borrowed this CD from the A’dale library shortly after it was released. Not at all what I expected, but liked it a lot. (I think more back then than this time around). First three songs get the album off to a strong start, but it fades from there. Songs become similar and depressing. Good album to fall asleep by…
L = (1.5*s)
J = (2.6*s)
Ave = (2.1*s)
2
Nov 15 2024
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Illmatic
Nas
Yeah, yeah, say what, zukka, zukka. Got it all in here! Felt there was a heavy m’n’m influence and a solid base line on each track. The World Is Yours and Halftime top the album. The rest seemed like typical thug rap to me. Sounds like nasty Nas is a clever intellectual bisexual. Know what I’m sayin’. (2.8*s)
3
Nov 18 2024
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Abbey Road
Beatles
It’s 55 years later, and Abby Road is still top notch. Whole album is fantastic, but the B Side is one reason why we must still listen to albums. From Here Comes The Sun through The End is just a wild joy ride. And it’s a better listen as a compilation than individual, stand alone songs. Nice little bonus kicker with Her Majesty (first secret song?) Weak link is Silverhammer. nanny always loved Octopus’s Garden. The whole album brought back fond memories of a bus ride through the German countryside! There’s still something in the way she moves…
L = (3.0*s) J = (4.8*s)
4
Nov 19 2024
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Blackstar
David Bowie
Very kind of David to leave us such a parting gift! And incredible that at age 69 he could still put together an album this good. Starts out a little slow and weird with Black Star (album would be better without this song, but then what would the album title be?) The album peaks at Girl Loves Me. Fantastic finish with Dollar Days and I Can’t Give Everything Away (which sounds like the words of a dying man). He truly went out with class.
(4.4*s) Black ones, that is.
4
Nov 20 2024
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James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
Lots of energy (and screeching) from The Apollo. Live albums seem to have an easier time making the 1001 list and this one’s a good example. I think this album does a good job capturing the 1963 event which is likely why it made the list. And James didn’t change his sound much over the years. The time in prison slowed his career, kinda never heard from him once he went in. He’s better in small doses, I give Live At The Apollo (2.5*s)
2
Nov 21 2024
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Kings Of The Wild Frontier
Adam & The Ants
Using music as their banner, AntA put together a jaunty little second album. I remember Ant Music and Ants Invasion being played on a radio throughout the early 80s. Strong start with Dog Eat Dog (best song), all songs good. Had to laugh with some of the lyrics in Don’t Be Square. Ie: Death wears white socks. You might not like it now but you will!
(3.7*s)
4
Nov 22 2024
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Two Dancers
Wild Beasts
Overly dramatic, yodelesque vocals with strange lyrics over really good music. We Still Got The Taste Dancing On Our Tongues is the peak of the album, catchy and not too weird. Two Dancers and This Is Out Lot are good followers, then it gets dramatic and weird again with Underbelly. Going, going, gone (2.7*s)
3
Nov 25 2024
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Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Arctic Monkeys
Another good debut album makes the 1001 list! This one’s high energy Brit punk from the 2000s. All good, but I liked Fake Tales Of San Francisco best. Hey, hey we’re Artic Monkees (3.2*s)
3
Nov 26 2024
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Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
Lust For Life is a kickback to 70s garage rock from the American Bowie. Strong start, holds its own all the way through. Enjoyed the old school listen (3.3*s) with the +0.1 for being American.
3
Nov 27 2024
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Fun House
The Stooges
Always thought of The Stooges as Iggy Pop’s backing band. Fun House is more great 70s rock. I don’t remember any specific songs from this album, but I remember that raw, garage sound! All songs good except LA Blues, that one’s a skipper. Album comes in at (3.4*s)
3
Nov 28 2024
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Ocean Rain
Echo And The Bunnymen
EatB had an identifiable sound from the guitar, orchestra in the background, and lead singer’s voice. Prior to the internet, rumor was that the orchestra was just a sound machine (named Echo).
Ocean Rain is an enjoyable listen; great start with Silver, Nocturnal Me, and Crystal Days. Could do without the clangy, choppy Thorn Of Crowns. Back on track with Killing Moon (best song) and Seven Seas. Weak finish but overall a good album. (3.5*s)
3
Nov 29 2024
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Penthouse And Pavement
Heaven 17
Quite juvenile. Early 80s synth pop with weak lyrics and political undertones. I think Let’s All Make A Bomb (hard to believe this is the best song) is what got Penthouse And Pavement on the 1001 list. (2.4*s)
2
Dec 02 2024
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Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
Strong start, very slow and a bit sleepy though the middle, picked it up again for the finish. Man On The Moon (best cut) got some play on 90s radio. Everybody Hurts gets you on the 1001 list. R.E.M has better (2.8*s) from both.
3
Dec 03 2024
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Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
Seventeen Seconds is kinda slow with many similar sounding songs, all having that identifiable Cure (bass guitar, lead vocals, and moody emo) sound. (3.1*s) The Cure gets better.
3
Dec 04 2024
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The Coral
The Coral
Never heard of The Coral, but seems like they’re good enough that maybe I should have. A lot of severe tempo transitions in the middle of their songs and lead vocals make them sound very much like The Doors. Liked all songs except Skeleton Key. The Coral comes in at (4.2*s)
4
Dec 05 2024
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Greetings From L.A.
Tim Buckley
Actually, Pet Shop Boys, actually is a really good album. It’s A Sin with its up tempo synsonic base beat and catchy lyrics is the best song, followed by the equally rhythmic Heart. S-h-o-p-p-i-n-g is missable, but the rest of the songs are listenable. Album flows well enough to go (3.6*s)
4
Dec 06 2024
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Actually
Pet Shop Boys
Groovy. And kinky, with a bit of sexual dysfunction. Timmy got on top of this one. Great keyboards and bongos over raspy vocals and sketchy lyrics. Afraid to ask about the monkey rub. (3.5*s)
3
Dec 09 2024
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Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
Good grief, Foo Fighters is a kick butt debut from Foo Fighters. Always thought Kurt was the songwriter and mastermind of Nirvana, not so sure anymore. Dave put together an epic album here! Great driving beats, guitar, and variety, all songs are good except Weenie Beenie (an annoying skipper) with Big Me at the top of the list. Will listen to this one again (4.3*s)
4
Dec 10 2024
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All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
To start off: we had All Things Must Pass on vinyl at 4Ex in the early 70s. What we have just listened to on Spotify is not that album. (And a good thing, too.)
This was George’s first album after the Beatles and as you now know, the world was watching and listening. He only got a song or two on each Beatles album so had a lot of material that hadn’t been released yet. The vinyl was three discs; Disc 1 blew people away and is similar to the new Spotify version. Disc 2 was OK (listenable) but why would you listen to it since Disc 1 was better. Disc 3 was not listenable. You heard it one time and never wanted to hear it again, it was that bad. It was “You want your 45 minutes back” bad.
The album was rumored to have been the second most selling triple album of all time behind Bing Crosby’s Christmas Album, but there was never any way to confirm that back then so everyone just went with it. I always like Apple Scruffs best (for all that it was about) although Plug Me In (which was not on the original) is now the top cut. The “new” 2014 remaster is a little repetitive, but significantly better than the original, so thank George for that. As to the cover - we just figured George is turning into an oversized, reclusive gnome. Album is still a bit long (3.3*s)
3
Dec 11 2024
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Trans Europe Express
Kraftwerk
Very, very repetitive and not that good. And Europe Endless Endless. Songs and album too long and repetitive. (1.7*s)
2
Dec 12 2024
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Groovin'
The Young Rascals
Groovey (on a Sunday afternoon.) This one hit wonder band has three solid hits off this album. Did not know You Better Run was a YR original and is the best song. A Place In The Sun typifies the mood and feel of the Summer of love.
L = (2.8*s)
J = (3.3*s)
3
Dec 13 2024
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Another Music In A Different Kitchen
Buzzcocks
Buzzcocks sound very similar to what I imagine Chipmunk Punks would sound like. Did not enjoy this album as it seemed a bit amateurish throughout. (1.3*s)
1
Dec 16 2024
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Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
Hmmm. Liked it although a bit more churchy and biblical than I would have thought from an indie band. (I guess that was a result of the church they purchased and the title of the album.) Also, never considered an indie band with orchestration behind them. Antichrist Television Blues was well crafted. (Not sure why the title is in parentheses.) Neon Bible comes in at (3.5*s)
3
Dec 17 2024
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The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
Freewheelin’ got some true classics here. Strummin’ and a pickin’ off to a great start. Eventually his harp and voice win you over. The political message of Blowin’ In The Wind and Masters Of War had a huge impact with the younger (hippie) generation and all those anti ‘Nam. Best song is Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right.
L = (1.7*s) for Blowin’ In The Wind only. Rest of the album is tough to listen to.
J = (3.4*s) we’ll be listening to at least one more from Mr Zimmerman…
3