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 So out of date it’s hard for me to relate.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
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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
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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
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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 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
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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
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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
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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
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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 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