Apr 14 2024
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Bryter Layter
Nick Drake
Listened on a day when April felt like summer. Went for a walk. The leaves have come out all at once and I read by the river with the sounds from the sports field in the back. The petals are falling from the blossom already. It felt like I was listening to someone else's music they'd have in their living room, upbeat and jazzy :)) exactly the vibes I wanted
5
Apr 14 2024
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If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
I knew my dad would be happy I listened to this. Plus a surprise from the Christmas song!! Listened to this on a Sunday afternoon while I made some clay things and I had a good time :)
4
Apr 15 2024
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Slippery When Wet
Bon Jovi
This album makes me think of Rosie :) perfect to dance and lip sync to on a Monday morning so it feels like the week could be fun after all. Melodramatic, campy and had a wonderful time 10/10
5
Apr 16 2024
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Odessey And Oracle
The Zombies
Vibey listen for a Monday afternoon when I don't really want to work. I feel more inspired to make/write/play something after listening, though. It may be new to me, but it sounds familiar and comforting, especially the first song which is probably my favourite
4
Apr 17 2024
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KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
It's a very rainy afternoon but it doesn't feel like it with this playing. I'm going to be wondering for a while about what that sound is at the start of Hard to Say Goodbye, though. Realising I recognised the first song was a nice start, and the last one sounded light before I even saw the title :)
5
Apr 18 2024
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
Interesting listen while I went to the shop :)
3
Apr 19 2024
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Stardust
Willie Nelson
Thank you willie nelson for being a cutie and keeping me company while I read my old stories. I'll try to walk on the sunny side of the street <3
5
Apr 20 2024
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Toys In The Attic
Aerosmith
I should have listened to this sooner, it was better than I expected and I had a fun workout with this playing
5
Apr 21 2024
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To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
Wow. Put this on to make some crafts on a Saturday night but by the end I was only staring at the lyrics and couldn't look away.
5
Apr 22 2024
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São Paulo Confessions
Suba
the funkiest I've ever felt while cleaning the kitchen. I really got into the groove :D
5
Apr 23 2024
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Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
glad I got this as my album on a stressful and all-too-cold day
4
Apr 24 2024
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Ramones
Ramones
I feel that it's fitting I stayed up late to listen to this while thinking about Spike. lmao
4
Apr 25 2024
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Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge
Mudhoney
started a reluctant wednesday with this and really enjoyed it. hell yes to never being too professional
5
Apr 26 2024
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Yeezus
Kanye West
Never thought I would take Kanye West shopping. Two songs in I worried if I was being too harsh on him, but turns out that's because they were the only good ones. A dog looked at me like it knew what I was listening to when I'm In It was on... the shame I felt
3
Apr 27 2024
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The College Dropout
Kanye West
"I don't know about sex but I bet I could count the change in your purse very fast." After yesterday the world clearly decided to prove to me Kanye West is actually good. Packed up and cooked listening to this (didn't need a repeat dog incident) but I actually had a bop, and a laugh. Idk how much persecution he's getting for talking about Jesus in America tho
4
Apr 28 2024
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Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
Great album for eating brownies and chilling, with the odd moment you stop to think 'wow, this is really good' and have a bop :))
4
Apr 29 2024
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Homework
Daft Punk
Nothing like the feeling of being in a French 90s club but while totally sober and building lego. Decent and I can understand it being influential but the experience would probably be much better on drugs
4
Apr 30 2024
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Eagles
Eagles
Perfect for a sunny Monday morning. It's someone else's music, but familiar :))
4
May 01 2024
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...And Justice For All
Metallica
So happy to listen to this lying on the sofa doing nothing
5
May 02 2024
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Ogden's Nut Gone Flake
Small Faces
Listened on a hot Wednesday morning and it fits perfectly. Had some fun showing my friends videos of the mods and rockers fights too. I'm glad I got to hear this, had never heard of them before
4
May 03 2024
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Good Old Boys
Randy Newman
it is too hot and this is a weird album lol. chill until you listen too hard
(nb from today I'm changing ratings. I was being too nice and the albums I gave 3 before today were awful and worthy of 1 star. This is just mid)
3
May 04 2024
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Either Or
Elliott Smith
Tired Friday morning and it's finally started raining. Considering that, it's a very fitting album. Nothing much to do today and this is hardly motivating me haha, it's chill and 'melancholic' as spotify says. I think the lyrics are interesting but it's hard to make them out without reading them so uhhh does it count? Sounds like something my dad would have in the car
4
May 05 2024
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Electric Prunes
The Electric Prunes
Listened to this on the way to the zoo and everything is making me feel like an excited kid. Really interesting first song. Fuck it, 5 stars
5
May 06 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Gingers triumphing over blondes, we love to see it😂
Listened at the start of my trip home from Lucas', so the song about sleeping \"all alone\" was a bit depressing. But the train journeys are before sundown these days and I saw plenty of rabbits from the window seat :)) similarly, the album ended on a hopeful note. I enjoyed it, but I mainly think it's because I'm being charmed by this guy lol. He's adorable
4
May 07 2024
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Master Of Puppets
Metallica
metal shirt: on, vegetable aisle: slayed. something to groove to, and discovered some bangers that are forgotten compared with the title track but legtimately go hard. amazing album, no notes
5
May 08 2024
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3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
ANOTHER 'omg I know this song' moment! more than one, in fact! a lot of these songs are the kind that, done by anyone else, I would probably be bored. but there I was, fully dancing over my pot of rice. 10 stars
5
May 09 2024
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Private Dancer
Tina Turner
seems like spotify doesn't like this album (one song unavailable and only one with lyrics) but I sure do! the cover of Help was okay, but it's one of those songs I can't unhear the one I know! Anyway, having the power ballads on to workout seemed like a good idea, but then it got slow hahaha. had a good time w Tina nonetheless x
4
May 10 2024
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Snivilisation
Orbital
the squishy sounds at the end of Forever made me shrivel inside out, but I was vibing for the rest of the time. Quality Seconds are probably the most quality seconds of the whole thing
3
May 11 2024
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Oracular Spectacular
MGMT
I mean... it's fine. Packed with 'oh I know that song', but I didn't feel so jubilant as I normally do because, well, it's 'Kids'. I don't really get the hype or why it's important? They sound like twenty one pilots would if they had to write each song in 10 minutes. But their spotify about tells me that makes me 'objectively wrong', so.
2
May 12 2024
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Lazer Guided Melodies
Spiritualized
A vibe for making pancakes, and then a welcome cool down after the energy of eurovision haha
3
May 13 2024
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Tonight's The Night
Neil Young
Listened on the train back after a day doing not much at the beach
3
May 14 2024
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Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
it's a tiring and hot Monday and all I've heard of Nick Cave is Red Right Hand. I wasn't enthusiastic for a whole album of that (I like the song, but it takes the right mindset, long and creepy as it is). But this whole thing was wonderful, interesting songs back to back, and surprised me from the first note of Get Ready For Love. And I did - get ready, and fall in love. Slightly reminds me of something my dad might play in the car, in the best possible way. Vampire-y and joyfully so. I'm just genuinely suprised by how much I like this one
Oh and the 'wow I know this one' moment came right at the end! A first for that I think
5
May 15 2024
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The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
Not much on today and this album didn't prompt me to get going either. Bigmouth Strikes again has an oddly tiktok-y nightcore voice going on which was entertaining. I enjoyed it but not as much as Adam would approve of oops
3
May 16 2024
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(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
I had a bit of a sigh of dread when I got this, but I did have a little sing to the ones everyone knows! even after hearing every American play them at UK festivals I've publicly renounced them ig lol. But there must be some associations there because it rained all day and yet it feels quite sunny relaxing to this alone in the evening.
That said, the most interesting songs were the first two (or four, if you were hearing the famous ones for the first time). She's Electric sounded a bit like they just gave up and got out the rhyming dictionary. The title track was good but droned into the same by the end. Mostly a vibey album for me
4
May 17 2024
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Bug
Dinosaur Jr.
Really nice noisy album for waiting for my parents to arrive
5
May 18 2024
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Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading
Amazing album and perfect to try and delay some recital nerves with a good boogie. Parents enjoyed too :)) discovered some lovely songs I didn't know before although I obviously know the big love and affection
5
May 19 2024
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Blue
Joni Mitchell
The first day to properly relaxxxx and this was a nice listen, like someone else's music while Lucas slept on the couch
3
May 20 2024
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Locust Abortion Technician
Butthole Surfers
Well. They sure are insane! I think it would be a terrible idea to listen to this if you're not sober lmao. I am well aware that there are albums of similar quality that I would rate lower but turns out this is just my kind of noise... but just enough of it. As a short album, it works. Super experimental, really interesting and just... so, so strange
5
May 21 2024
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The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
I liked this album. Rock that was the right side of refreshing, until it took a detour into coldplay territory, and then mixed that with the culture club (Half Light I & II I believe). But it recovered itself again into a hazy, vibey album that is interesting if you want to listen closer as well. perfect for such a deadbeat monday
4
May 22 2024
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Ctrl
SZA
A gorgeous, heartfelt, feminine album I never would have listened to otherwise. Thank you albumfest
4
May 23 2024
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Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
I really don't know how to feel about this because it's important, and at the same time uplifting and fun but musically I'm just not on board. I'm glad I listened to it but I don't think I will return to it
3
May 24 2024
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Modern Life Is Rubbish
Blur
I already know I like Blur, casually. I wondered if this would put them to the test. 2 hours of it... was actually quite nice! Put on a miniskirt to slay the supermarket and feel like a mod. It got really good at Resigned (I can see where ghost ship came from) and Popscene, but mostly a decent, groovy album. Peach and Bone Bag were the pits, but it's not all drab towards the end, with some solid and experimental songs both before ending with some blaring Bri'ish tunes
4
May 25 2024
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Marquee Moon
Television
and the top lyric award goes to 'my hands are like gloves' and 'my eyes are like telescopes'! unbelieveably, these are from two separate songs
low 4- I'm enjoying the guitar too much for a 3 but also.. what??
4
May 26 2024
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Viva Hate
Morrissey
I actually liked it more than the Smiths. It sounded less like what I expected (more of the ah-hah-haaaah Morrissey cliche) and was a great listen to unwind after a weekend of outdoors, picnics and socialising. Some interesting sounds and surprising lyrics ('please die', anyone?) in a general car music vibe which felt comforting but still fresh
4
May 27 2024
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Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
I like it. I liked today, out for lunch in a cafe in a hidden corner, and sitting by the river in the sunny afternoon with Lucas. this fit well will the long and chill evening which capped off a long and gloriously unproductive week. I just don't really get why this album's on this list. it feels good, and polished, yet kind of... default. but, then I guess that's why
4
May 28 2024
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good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
If Kendrick can't right a wrong until he writes it down, I'm glad to be honest. Another incredible album of him exorcising a whole lot, and I think it might be even better than the last one. Once again got me glued to the lyrics, all so so interesting with twists in points of view which all point back to him in the end. I'm just in awe. I think my love for this man's music might be the best thing to come from the entire albumfest
5
May 29 2024
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Kala
M.I.A.
this album is so insanely hype that it got a bit old. I never knew I could quite have my fill of bangers like this. but I like the sound, it's like a forbidden concentrate of 2007 juice that I only got watered down versions of back then. and hella bri'ish🤘
3
May 30 2024
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That's The Way Of The World
Earth, Wind & Fire
After the monologue in All About Love it's clear to me that Earth, Wind & Fire know exactly what they're doing when they make such fun and uplifting music. It felt really special. All in all great fun with some truly epic falsetto
5
May 31 2024
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At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
I had an amazing time listening to this. walked past my very own guitarist busking ouside ah too :) but damn how does it sound so clean?! it's live!? so many later live recordings sound so grainy but wow. it was just so fun to hear these guys pure jamming, impressive musicianship. also shout out to the honkytonk organ and harmonica players lmao legends
5
Jun 01 2024
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American Idiot
Green Day
what can I even say. it's American Idiot
5
Jun 02 2024
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It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy
I like it more than last time! The beats feel slightly less cartoony, although I'm sure that was a me problem to begin with! Probably the fact Public Enemy's music was watered down by so many and reduced to stereotypical boombox music shows how influential they were.. and how the mainstream tried to suppress their message..? I need to look into this! Again, maybe I'm also acclimatising to their sound myself. Defo down for partying for my right to fight, I did have a bop on this album. Plus the delivery of the title line was roll-credits worthy for sure
4
Jun 03 2024
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Safe As Milk
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
this is built for more than background music and I might have to come back to it. but even tired, this is interesting and fun to listen to :)
5
Jun 04 2024
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Blunderbuss
Jack White
Played Minecraft for the first time today, and the surprises didn't end there! By Love Interrupted the was sounding like how I expected going in and stayed more that vein, but still a fun and interesting listen. But the opening tracks really broke me in with a start! Bright guitar and unique songwriting. It seems I agree with spotify consensus based on play count, because Sixteen Saltines is DEFINITELY my favourite
4
Jun 05 2024
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Vento De Maio
Elis Regina
This album made me feel like I was in someone's grandma's house while I worked out, in the best way. There was that Mario Kart ass moment in O Trem Azul but so much cool stuff going on. Just great music
4
Jun 06 2024
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Sound Affects
The Jam
it's a good day and it's only go up. nice album
4
Jun 07 2024
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
I probably would have given this five stars even if I liked it less simply because of the word Chooglin'. But as it is, it slaps so I have a clean conscience. Perfect crowning on a day of recitals :))
5
Jun 08 2024
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Paul Simon
Paul Simon
My mum's car music. No thanks
2
Jun 09 2024
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Mr. Tambourine Man
The Byrds
Hey, I know this! Started just as expected, and became happily less so. I prefer when they turn sultry and minor. Funnily enough I also prefer a lot of the alternate versions. Don't Doubt Yourself, Babe was a cute encouraging song even tho it has hardly any plays compared with many others, but it was very welcome :))
3
Jun 10 2024
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Tuesday Night Music Club
Sheryl Crow
Bonus points because the first song got me singing along already. Other than that it's pretty fun but just not my style
2
Jun 11 2024
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Hot Fuss
The Killers
*inhales*
SOMEBODY TOLD ME
was no one going to tell me the other killers songs are actually good too? I should have listened to this sooner
5
Jun 12 2024
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Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
I'm seeing the appeal! I really got into it from 400 years, and then I was vibing out with my homemade strawberry milk
4
Jun 13 2024
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Headquarters
The Monkees
I blew this one off to have the most social couple of days of my life but... it's the monkees. I got through a few and it sounds how I knew they would, an odd nostalgia
4
Jun 15 2024
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Blue Lines
Massive Attack
sexy hip hop, a whole range of voices and really interesting songwriting. a surprise five for me
5
Jun 16 2024
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The Renaissance
Q-Tip
My weekend my start late but it sure started in style!! Super solid album, detailed, creative and fun! Nothing like my usual tunes but I can't score it anything less than perfection tbh
5
Jun 17 2024
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The Bends
Radiohead
I wanted so bad to roast Radiohead. Unfortunately, it's ok. Street Spirit (Fade Out) is the best one, but in general I think their more active songs are better. There were definitely points where it put me in mind of an awkward car ride, and wondered why someone would put Muse in a blender, strain it and only keep the soggy parts. But that's just me looking for creative insults, and I honestly can't give it less than 4 overall lol
4
Jun 18 2024
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The Clash
The Clash
yup. that sure is the clash
3
Jun 19 2024
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The Atomic Mr Basie
Count Basie & His Orchestra
Just a really good album. Made me forget how grey it is outside and have a good boogie
5
Jun 20 2024
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Infected
The The
From the off this is not what I expected. way more glam than I thought there would be, and it's definitely for the best! honestly a riveting listen
5
Jun 21 2024
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The Who Sell Out
The Who
the ending twist of Odorono got a proper chuckle out of me. it's kind of a hilarious concept, though I'm not sure if they're going anywhere deep with it. nothing wrong with just having fun though. The coca cola chant has no business being so funny but catchy. I actually really liked a lot of the tunes too
I blew this album off yesterday to watch the jazz gigs, and now I'm enjoying it on a very tired morning with no plans, which I feel kind of suits the radio station vibes haha
4
Jun 22 2024
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The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
just some stonking good jazz. it's jazz week at uni and I listened to this staring out the window at the very determined rain. it's 1pm and practically dark with clouds. today's album generation knew exactly the wavelength. I didn't want to stop listening, and I'm definitely adding this to the regular rotation! a revelation
5
Jun 23 2024
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Manassas
Stephen Stills
listening to this at 8am on a Saturday with the windows open. It definitely got me up and into work. Early tracks were nice tho it started feeling like it didn't need to go on quite so long until Move Around and The Love Gangster rolled around. Right Now is also a highlight and The Treasure was an impressive ride, in fact it generally ended well after the middle lull
4
Jun 24 2024
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Street Signs
Ozomatli
I mean, it is a bop, but is it just the 2 tracks on spotify?
4
Jun 25 2024
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Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
Thunderingly funky and also experimental. Upbeat listen for a sunny train ride up north
4
Jun 26 2024
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Dr. Octagonecologyst
Dr. Octagon
"oh shit, there's a horse in the hospital!" wins today's lyricism prize
Straight in with a porn track on a Wednesday morning, great (Wednesday because I reunited with Lucas and missed 2 albums in a row oops). honestly, while it's not likely to make a repeat appearance in my spotify, I did enjoy the listen. Very solid sound, and interesting to say the least. Why and how did someone even think of this, but equally, why not? Kind of hypnotisingly weird
4
Jun 27 2024
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Suicide
Suicide
The first track had me convinced. Unusually, the impression didn't last. For an album with such a provocative name and image, it's kinda... nothingy. Seems like they recorded one the beat of them rattling a shopping trolley and called it a day. The principal emotion quickly became discomfort after Girl - this generator seems to read my mind so often but this time, please, I'm begging it to stop with the sex nosie albums for a bit
2
Jun 28 2024
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Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
What a great surprise this album is. It feels like something from the 80s somehow. H>A>K made me check the date, though. An interesting listen for a way too hot day so I was happy to stay in one spot in front of the fan and take it in :)
5
Jun 29 2024
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1989
Taylor Swift
I was enjoying myself far too much for my liking. The imaginary scenarios were flying by the end of this, on a train ride full of newly colourful June flowers :))
I'll easily admit that the main reason I groan at Taylor Swift's name isn't because I hate her or her music - I feel fine about her. It's just that with her now astronomical reach, maybe only real lovers can keep up the enthusiasm. The same happened to me back with Ed Sheeran and One Direction already. But these are all classics. I never understood those who were mad at her leaving country behind. This is pop, and she does it well. Musically and lyrically not much for me to think about, but it still works irresistably. Probably my least favourite of the slew of songs named 'Bad Blood' from this time though - she really rhymed 'blood' with 'cut'?
4
Jun 30 2024
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In The Court Of The Crimson King
King Crimson
Visionary. This hardly feels like a 60s album, it's at least 3 decades ahead of its time and totally unique. I'm mainly hearing the jazz above anything else. When I think hard enough, it does have a glitzy blur of psychedelia to the slightly twisted fantasy world it paints. I do hate the album art but it goes perfectly with the music haha. All in all super imaginative
5
Jul 01 2024
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More Specials
The Specials
hey, it's the radio song! not huge on the album either way, but I enjoyed the joy with which they sang 'it's all a load of bollocks!'
2
Jul 02 2024
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The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
unexpected 'I know this one' with Model. a vibe for playing in the background but I need more drugs if I'm going to really get into this haha. can definitely see how it's influential
4
Jul 03 2024
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Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)
Eurythmics
YEEEEEES
This is what pop should do! Only one I got a bit sick of the singular verse thing was Jennifer - she sounds resplendent but that didn't help after 5 minutes of it
4
Jul 04 2024
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Giant Steps
The Boo Radleys
Super unique listen. They use that voice filter I hate that sounds like it goes through a fan and the breathing is all too prominent, but even that felt arty, particularly in The White Noise Revisited. When they asked me 'what's that noise, do you remember?', I half felt as though I did. The nostalgia is infused into every moment, while at once being innovative and futuristic too. It mostly sounds too 70s for its actual date but I hardly mind, I just really enjoyed listening!
5
Jul 05 2024
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Dig Your Own Hole
The Chemical Brothers
I think maybe the first electronic album I've had that develops and changes during the songs! I guess I've been on early stuff, but I love this giving me some more interest to listen to. And that funky ass bass on track 1 !!!! From around It Doesn't Matter, parts of it do start to sound like the end of the party where you sober up and get bored/feel how tired you are, but still enough changes going on. Interesting and enjoyable listen for an average Thursday morning, which can definitely not be said for every edm album
4
Jul 08 2024
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Pills 'n' Thrills And Bellyaches
Happy Mondays
Dead on the floor tired but this is a lot of fun
5
Jul 09 2024
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Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
\"up in your bitch is where you might find me\" wins today lmao. Fun but solid beats with some actually dark lyrical sections. I'm kinda addicted to his delivery - he may be a big meme but he can rap! just like him, it's not too serious but it is just a solid, catchy listen. plus some classic 'I know this' tunes. a few too many wet sounds tho TT
thank you snoop
4
Jul 10 2024
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Chris
Christine and the Queens
well. this album cover is HOT. the music, on the other hand.... it does succeed in making a certain vibe, which is nice enough, but for me the spacious mixing and light, electronic sound aren't my taste when I had hoped for more to chew on when I was given this album. I will say that the lyrics are much more interesting. I most like the songs that take the electronic sound into something darker like What Must a Woman Do. In the end, I kinda prefer the French version!
2
Jul 11 2024
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Wild Gift
X
Fun stuff! Flying back today and this gave me the adventurous spirit
4
Jul 14 2024
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Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
welllll I like the famous Fleetwood Mac songs. Alas, I will remain a basic bitch
it's super sunny and it's ok as a backdrop for seeing my hometown in its full glory but it feels like not much more than the backdrop to me unfortunately. I got into the vibes of What Makes You Think You're The One at some point, as well as Sisters of the Moon, but I doubt I'll be coming back
2
Jul 15 2024
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Bat Out Of Hell
Meat Loaf
The most gloriously campy, deliciously melodramatic album. Give me all the piano glisses!!! These hearty ballads are just so much fun
4
Jul 19 2024
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Songs From A Room
Leonard Cohen
Simple and very earnest. What a storyteller
3
Jul 20 2024
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People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm
A Tribe Called Quest
The little outros actually got me super hyped just by hearing the enthusiasm. A good 'eyyyy' goes a long way! Today's winner is the 'yo, what's wrong with snails?' panning like crazy between my ears haha. I am also confused, am I being told a fairy tale about STDs??
I think I'm having fun but it's bizarre. Bonita Applebum seems to be a man trying to proposition a lady in a board room of friends who keep agreeing with him.. the random sitar isn't even the weirdest sample in there. you know the one I'm on about... WHO came up with Ham & Eggs?!? idk if it's brilliant or stupid. just yelling 'bridge! whOOO'
General vibe for me is bemused and ocassionally delighted in the chaos
3
Jul 21 2024
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The Rising
Bruce Springsteen
Track 2 already sounds way too christian help - last one confirms christian ughh. Unfortunately, I'm inclined to agree with him when he sings 'I am the nothing man'. What is it with singers sparing me the trouble of finding good lines to roast them? I was also counting on a miracle to save this album (someone stop me...), and when Worlds Apart got into it, I finally felt something!! I guess I tuned in eventually (probably out of necessity), but I'm sorry Bruce, it does nOt need to be this long
1
Jul 22 2024
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Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A.
THIS is where that 'exprEss yourself' comes from?!?!?!!
'movin' like a tortoise full of rigor mortis' is the winner of the lyricism prize today!!
ok so I know this turned heads. and I can see why! it starts off great and still relevant today (sad yet brilliant). most still hold up except I Ain't Tha 1 which felt sooo much longer than it was and wasn't quite the flex it may have been back then..? Nice that we got Something 2 dance 2 in the middle!
4
Jul 23 2024
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Hunky Dory
David Bowie
Did the killers take inspiration from Queen Bitch for Mr Brightside??! Was it a reference all this time?!
I was glad to get this since I really don't know Bowie as well as I should. It's hard to describe the feeling of the album, especially mixed with the day walking around my hometown in the sun. At first it wasn't quite as bold as I expected, somehow, but I realised it was still totally unique. I can't imagine anyone else doing this.
4
Jul 24 2024
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The Sensual World
Kate Bush
I would have never have thought of pairing jaunty folk instuments with, well, the sensual world. But I'm not Kate Bush
Better than I expected even from her tbh! Heads We're Dancing was a revelation. I didn't think we'd get such a BEAT! Rocket's Tail was bloody gorgeous. She's just a real visionary and it shows here, throughout. She seems more purposeful this album than the one I had to study
But I did in fact get called out by the spending my evenings with the computer like a friend line...
5
Jul 25 2024
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Rain Dogs
Tom Waits
Unexpected, atmospheric and vivid, this album painted a sultry, smoky world I have never come across in music before. The orchestration is wonderful, like the songs are made from the city itself. Great moody vibe after a long walk getting lost in the drizzly hills :))
We had a detour for some ballads, which were solid, but the return for the title track and the screeching Midtown was what I craved. The wild, unique side of Waits is what really has me captivated
5
Jul 26 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
It's quite hard to rate something you know very well by osmosis. This album is everywhere. The anticipation of the start of Money for Nothing is rivalled nowhere else. I like the rest, but not something I'll return to for more than kitchen songs
3
Jul 27 2024
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Eliminator
ZZ Top
It may be an album about 69ing and eating Chinese takeaway but there wasn't a second of this I didn't enjoy!! For a morning painting the back door I frankly don't care how shallow it is. I had a blast
5
Jul 28 2024
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A Northern Soul
The Verve
Some of it feels bland, but sOME of it👀👀Tracks 3 through 6 were a wonderful journey of noise! Excellent ending too. Also, 'living is for other men' was such a raw line for me
4
Jul 29 2024
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Siembra
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
tons of fun, especially the first track. even brought the sun with it!!
4
Jul 30 2024
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Imagine
John Lennon
Thoroughly mid. Some vaguely groovy beginnings that go on the same until you're bored. The mixing is also too scrambly for me. I do enjoy the fact Oh Yoko is 4 mins 20 long tho
3
Jul 31 2024
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Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand
I didn't expect to be giving the teenage soundtrack a 5 but... fuck it. Tasty tasty songwriting. There is something very moreish about franz ferdinand. A song about cheating on someone has no business being so much fun. Props to the hi-hat, you were isntrumental (ha) to the vibe
5
Aug 01 2024
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American Pie
Don McLean
Never before has an album cover suited an album less. I expected bruce springsteen so when I turned it on I was like oh... THIS american pie
Great storytelling, pleasing songs even if it's not my usual thing. Walked in the dales today and this was a refreshing album either side
5
Aug 02 2024
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Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
Unique experience for sure. She does love her edgy strumming...
I guess this is as 'raw and aggressive' as a singer songwriter is going to get, and it was a very interesting listen. Listened either side of a beach day, maybe more tired than is ideal to take in all of the lyrics haha. But the sextet especially surprised me. Still has a fresh and forward-thinking sound in 2024 so not too shabby. Plus I got to learn about this intriguing artist
4
Aug 03 2024
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Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
Going to see my old teacher and listening to somewhere else's music. I always expect more edge from the stones but they do be rolling. I got into it!!
4
Aug 04 2024
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Illmatic
Nas
Solid groovy album that deserves a relisten. But also worked in the background to wind down from a day in the dales and barbecuing. Perfect late-night vibes
5
Aug 05 2024
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Crooked Rain Crooked Rain
Pavement
Went in with zero exepctations and ended up with this funky indie - there was even a moment of jazz for a sec there. It feels right for my return to the grey skies and streets up north. Now, as the last track aptly says, I need to sleep :)
4
Aug 06 2024
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Pink Moon
Nick Drake
Nick Drake is just transportational
5
Aug 07 2024
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Daydream Nation
Sonic Youth
Why is it that every time I don't expect to love an album (based on no evidence), I get hit with a banger!! Much harder edge than I expected so bonus points!! Songs kept topping previous ones for my new favourite. Not sure which won out in the end between Total Trash and Candle. A) The Wonder would be up there too if they hadn't used a rubber chicken in the drumset (?)
Also I enjoyed that the guy sang 'it's total trash' as my train went past a car scrapyard
5
Aug 08 2024
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Green Onions
Booker T. & The MG's
It's difficult to listen to this without finding a mix of mario kart and elevator music even tho it predates both!! We enjoyed nonetheless on the way to get pancakes
3
Aug 09 2024
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Amnesiac
Radiohead
Astonishingly unexpected from Radiohead. Loooved it, really creative and unusual songwriting that got me really lost in a sound I wouldn't normally be fussed about. I will say it was better when out for a walk than walking around and around the store trying to find something they apparently don't have lmao, that became a bit disorienting. But I'm not going to take that out on the rating because it's not Radiohead's fault but the shops. And ofc the rating goes rocketing up again because they have a clarinet tootling around in the last track! I am really blown away by this album
5
Aug 10 2024
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Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
Solid and oddly comforting album? Layla is definitely the best track
4
Aug 11 2024
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Murder Ballads
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Only Nick Cave would make the most disturbing album of stories like these and then try to comfort you at the end by telling you 'death is not the end'. I don't feel better, surprisingly. But I did enjoy the fucked up rest of the album😅
4
Aug 12 2024
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Talking With the Taxman About Poetry
Billy Bragg
Enjoyed it more than expected! Also lovely to hear a proper Bri'ish accent belting away considering I just left the place. Thanks Billy Bragg for keeping the homesickness away a bit longer
4
Aug 13 2024
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Physical Graffiti
Led Zeppelin
Definitely enjoyed the first disc more. The second disc is solid, classic Zeppelin feeling, but the first is just more out there and feels fleshed out. I got lost in the art and found myself back on earth trawling through the blues again afterwards. Still a good sound for unpacking and getting back into term :))
4
Aug 14 2024
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Dog Man Star
Suede
This is going to stay as my playlist for when I want to pretend I'm in the Bronze. It's sweltering today but at least my listening was cool B) I do not want to step foot outside again today, but this album took me on enough of a journey. Amazing opening, and what a soundworld just dripping with that 90s feeling. I've never heard of them before and I'm shocked after such an immersive album. Can't wait to listen again
5
Aug 15 2024
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Me Against The World
2Pac
Might be the most blisteringly honest rap album I've had so far. A window into a life so completely different from mine and yet he makes you understand. Solid songs but the lyrics were the most dazzling part. Not sure how to describe my experience listening to this - a very complex album for me. Glad I heard it
4
Sep 04 2024
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Groovin'
The Young Rascals
It was, in fact, groovin'. I don't think I've ever heard the devastating line 'I don't love you anymore' delivered with such cheeriness. Solid songwriting and enjoyable the whole time, though lacking somewhat of a star quality for me, especially for '67
4
Sep 05 2024
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Throwing Muses
Throwing Muses
I actually liked disc 2 better with the vocals front and centre of the mix. Bronze-y enough vibes with some great angry girl screaming which I loved. several standout songs including Doghouse. When it wasn't that good it turned into standard alt noise but I definitely enjoyed listening overall and glad I stuck it out to the casette mixes
4
Sep 06 2024
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Don't Come Home A Drinkin' (With Lovin' On Your Mind)
Loretta Lynn
Bit of a hard one to rate because I really can't see why anyone would listen to it today... I'm sorry😭 But like, she's right! And I hope she leaves him! But the guitar does sound like Spongebob
2
Sep 07 2024
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Coat Of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
Exactly what I expected Dolly Parton to sing to me. Well, the plot twist with her mum and the travelling man aside, maybe! Sweet, wise, enjoyable. Thanks Dolly
3
Sep 08 2024
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What's That Noise?
Coldcut
Well, there definitely were some moments that made me wonder what, in fact, that noise was. Very experimental but I thoroughly enjoyed it, the perfect thing to keep the vibes up as I collapse after work but not too stressful despite its eccentricity. Just very engrossing music, a journey into sound or whatever that guy was saying holds very true! Plus a super wholesome youtube comment section, so that's always a bonus :)
5
Sep 10 2024
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Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
good wholesome Buddy Holly. it just reminds me of good times, feels like a friend is singing to you
4
Sep 11 2024
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Haunted Dancehall
The Sabres Of Paradise
The moment this started, I realised my assumptions were way off. It took me a few songs thinking 'oh my god and this goes on for how long?!?' before I could find anything in there. Probably one of the more difficult albums to ease myself into, but once I acclimatised there were a few great tracks. Definitely interesting use of sounds. More than I bargained for, for sure, some parts more worth it than others. But it helped me wear out a bolder outfit I've been wanting to, and at least it wasn't too hard to zone out of the sci-fi ones that I didn't gel with!
3
Sep 12 2024
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The Coral
The Coral
Bloody loved it
5
Sep 13 2024
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Brutal Youth
Elvis Costello
Some of this was better than expected! His grittier songs were great, loved most of those though I wish the guitars were more raw and present in the mix. Great songwriting there, and his voice really suits it too! Then I really struggled through the wishy washiness around track 6 & 7 especially. Gave me the vibes of Billy Joel's more noncommittal songs (the Italian Restaurant one, oh my god). Luckily that didn't last right the way to the end. Basically, a mixed bag
3
Sep 14 2024
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My Generation
The Who
Oh, it's that My Generation! Pretty short but solid tunes the whole way (so it's impressive how long they managed to make the album), and I don't think there was one I didn't like bar the random 'party mixture'. However I am dying to know what is going on in It's Not True ?? Such weird lies! Especially loved the weirder part a bit after halfway through, but it tailed off towards the end. Got me through a solid chunk of the working day!
4
Sep 15 2024
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
I was impressed! And for the Beatles, that says something! Beyond the ones I knew, they are ALL great songs! Why do I like the last song despite it being so terrifying lmao
I am still yet to figure out why that keyboard break exists in In My Life, though... not even in a bad way, just baffled - any insights welcome :)
5
Sep 16 2024
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Signing Off
UB40
A strangely calming accompaniment to a very stressful outing. I got into it! Brought down by Madam Medusa, a 12 minute song which really did not need to be that long
4
Sep 17 2024
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Moon Safari
Air
So THESE are the guys to blame for 'low-tempo'?!?! Where's the time machine so I can go back and make sure lofi beats never existed😭 I had hope for about 10 seconds at the start of this when a fun bass kicked in and I thought it would be an intro and turn into rock... how wrong I was. Nothing clawed back anywhere near those first, innocent seconds. Funky at times, just not my thing.
1
Sep 18 2024
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Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
Finally some good feckin noise!! Great stuff, I needed some guitars to cleanse my ears :D
5
Sep 19 2024
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Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Lots of fun with raw and unique delivery. Next was the one that made me look up and pay attention the most. Definitely something to sink your teeth into
5
Sep 20 2024
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Rocks
Aerosmith
Back in the saddle isn't the best aerosmith song, but it's the best one here. I like them, but I expected more
3
Sep 21 2024
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The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Finally tidied my room to this
4
Sep 22 2024
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Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
Really creative songwriting and a great early autumn vibefest. Had to listen to it again because the music in the supermarket was too loud and I wasn't even mad. Danced along in the kitchen, though I did cry a bit from jealousy :(( I want mY house to have every convenience!
5
Sep 24 2024
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Young Americans
David Bowie
Some I knew, the others way funkier than I expected!! Autumn arrived at once today and I cycled around and went to practise listening to this. Finished it off dancing in my room. Love how gritty his voice can be!
4
Sep 25 2024
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Legalize It
Peter Tosh
Enjoyed listening to this, something very different for me, while sewing up a jacket :) interesting to hear some of the darker notes of reggae!
4
Sep 26 2024
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Trans Europe Express
Kraftwerk
Maybe the reason it was bearable was because I went out on an early-autumn mission to the market with this as my accompaniment. Not built for purely listening (imo). Some interesting sounds and loops which drew me in, but other times it felt lacking for its simplicity. I can see how influential they are, and I actually didn't dislike listening to it like I thought I might
3
Sep 27 2024
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London Calling
The Clash
Not what I expected - somehow more jolly! the energy of title track doesn't carry through the whole album, but they were fun songs
3
Sep 29 2024
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Surf's Up
The Beach Boys
what. THE FUCK??!? Firstly, I should have known this wasn't the Beach Boys I expected with the album cover being so angsty. This is the Dark Beach Boys from an alternate timeline. The mood gets pretty melancholy (though still not sure if it's quite mythical enough to warrant the minotaur (?) on the front)... but the fucking tree song. Oh my god. How many drugs were they taking. That was downright concerning
I still enjoyed it. Favourite moment the random Darth Vader horn call in Surf's Up lol. Least favourite moment the 'child child child' moment in Surf's Up...
4
Sep 30 2024
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Buenas Noches From A Lonely Room
Dwight Yoakam
First song: awww, so sweet
The rest: I'll kill you for cheating on me, I wanna die, betrayal, literal death... oh, and I love Jesus
3
Oct 01 2024
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Superfly
Curtis Mayfield
A very enthusiastic five stars!! This was such a satisfying, complete-sounding album. Everything about it hit just right. Such detail, thoughtful storytelling, amazing vibes and very skilled singer, arrangement and musicians. I even had the 'hey, I know this... I think' with Freddie's Dead. I am so glad this album was what I started my day with. Made me feel like a person on the hardly-light first morning of October.
5
Oct 02 2024
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If I Could Only Remember My Name
David Crosby
Way more experimental than I expected, mostly for better... We'll pretend What are Their Names just never happened x
4
Oct 03 2024
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Fromohio
fIREHOSE
Lovely alternative stuff. On the first listen I knew I really enjoyed it, but had to go back to remind myself. The kind of thing that can be really interesting to focus on or equally nice background listening. Great riffs every time. Makes me wanna see a live show
5
Oct 04 2024
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Definitely Maybe
Oasis
Maybe I've been too harsh on these guys. Being British and having everyone sing the big 2 oasis songs at me has poisoned my mind, it seems. I actually enjoyed it! They do have a unique sound, something bright and polished with an edge. Very solid
4
Oct 05 2024
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What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
Iconic album I've heard much about, didn't disappoint
5
Oct 06 2024
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Elastica
Elastica
Yes to everything here. The October songs are HITTING so far
5
Oct 07 2024
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Copper Blue
Sugar
This site determined to give me grungey vibes the whole way through October at this rate, and I am not opposed!! The opening tracks helped me imagine I was in some coming of age movie credits instead of just sitting at a desk at work
5
Oct 08 2024
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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
Loved having more than just a series of songs for the train ride to start my week - we got an interesting concept too! Had me turning up the volume to hear those classroom scenes, the atmosphere was great. A genre I'm totally at sea with and yet I can tell the songwriting is brilliant. Thoughtful lyrics and lovely voice to listen to
5
Oct 09 2024
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Feast of Wire
Calexico
Chill and experimental at the same time. Lots of interesting stuff, balanced with a dose of boring
4
Oct 10 2024
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John Barleycorn Must Die
Traffic
Lovely long-ranging songs that didn't wear themselves out. Good for winding down a day
4
Oct 11 2024
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Broken English
Marianne Faithfull
A raw darkness and honesty struck me the most about this album. Somehow scathing and lush at once, she draws out a delicious Nick Cave-style tension in the songs. Not too demanding but there's depth there if you want it
5
Oct 12 2024
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
A really full-sounding album. I liked the songwriting but the standout is the immersive colour of the sound they create. I thought I knew the White Winter Hymnal because of the Pentatonix, but much prefer the original, much less bland! Charming soundtrack to painting a little pumpkin haha
5
Oct 13 2024
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Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age
Bloody banger after banger!!! Way more adventurous than I thought even they might go, and it worked! I've hardly listened to them before - I guess I was scared that their distinctive edgy sound I heard in the few songs I came across would be a fluke, and I'd be let down. Literally the opposite! THIS SLAPPED. 5++++ STARS
5
Oct 14 2024
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The Notorious Byrd Brothers
The Byrds
It was super bizarre hearing the last track with recordings of them fighting and swearing at each other in the studio when the album was so tame? It was interesting enough but not a stand out for me, but the last track brought it down unfortunately. Though I suppose most bands probably have fights that don't make it to the album, I didn't enjoy listening to them argue and that level of passion didn't translate to the songs, which were fine and that's about it
2
Oct 16 2024
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Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
FUCK YOU I WON'T DO WHAT YOU TELL ME
5
Oct 17 2024
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The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
Interesting beats but not quite as immersive as some other hip hop I've had so far, though I am the furthest you could possibly be from an expert on this genre! I enjoyed the flow and vibes for sure
3
Oct 18 2024
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The Genius Of Ray Charles
Ray Charles
already knew Am I Blue (thanks Hozier), but the others were obviously instant jazz classics too. several felt similar with that heartsick crooning, but his delivery kind of made up for the cliches. plus they probably only became cliches after (or because of) him anyway. made my sister's birthday card listening to this, thanks Ray
3
Oct 30 2024
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Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
The Robots feature!! More of what I loved from the first Tom Waits album, though I didn't feel the sparser ones so much. Probably just take longer to digest. I think I'm just incapable of not being drawn into his music, and my favourite might actually be the last track. Unexpectedly beautiful after everything that came before
5
Oct 31 2024
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
I enjoyed feeling like a coming-of-age movie protagonist on this totally grey-skied Halloween eve. The Smiths vibe always has that jolly melancholy. Bass had no business going to hard in Barbarism Begins at Home too.
I'm not going vegan for Morrissey tho. Last track was the worst one by miles.
4
Nov 01 2024
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Frank
Amy Winehouse
Gorgeous singing, an effect ruined by such mean-spirited songs
3
Nov 02 2024
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Tommy
The Who
he sure plays a mean pinball
Decent album to make me feel slightly more alive the day after a party and horrendous amount of sleep!
4
Nov 03 2024
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The Hissing Of Summer Lawns
Joni Mitchell
I enjoyed it more than I expected. Easy to listen to, one last taste like early summer when it's November here
4
Nov 04 2024
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Konnichiwa
Skepta
5 stars except for Ladies Hit Squad which is just completely not my sound. Skepta (+Wiley and JME who were here too!) was one of my ipod shuffle artists back in the day, so if there's any rap music I speak the language of, this has to be the closest. I don't even mind about the lack of variation in topics because his lyrics are consistently fun and catchy anyway. Fireman Sam reference!? Shutting down the Shoreditch car park straight out of PE!? Fire.
4
Nov 06 2024
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Vulgar Display Of Power
Pantera
Absolute corker of an album. Difficult not to add every single one of these tracks to my playlist (not sure I didn't, actually). Plus, listening to this with lingering mosh pit injuries feels appropriate. I'm just sad I'll never get to listen to Walk for the first time again. Untouchable song
5
Nov 07 2024
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Pacific Ocean Blue
Dennis Wilson
Took a look at this and thought "HOW long??" - but actually it worked really well as a whole experience. The Dark Beach Boys continues to be one of the main new discoveries from albumfest. Really well-structured, a rewarding listen
5
Nov 08 2024
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Quiet Life
Japan
A band and album completely new to me, and the sound is intriguing. Dare I say neoclassical? Some tracks really drew me in, and I enjoyed the sound overall, though I doubt it will be the most memorable listen of my albumfest. Biggest criticism from me is that Tomorrow's Parties had no need of being made even longer.
4
Nov 09 2024
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Brothers
The Black Keys
bopppps all around!! Felt perfect for opening up the jazz building too! Will definitely listen again
5
Nov 10 2024
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Destroyer
KISS
It sure is KISS. The one with the oddly festive, not-even-veiled innuendo! Fun, just not outstanding to me
4
Nov 11 2024
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S&M
Metallica
The live experience brought straight to me! I cycled past a screaming child (on the beat!) at the climax of Outlaw Torn and felt very musically fitting. Usually roll my eyes at having to listen to recorded live shows, but maybe I shouldn't be too hasty. Some incredible moments and reworked well - now, where can I get into the Metallica orchestra?
5
Nov 12 2024
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Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme
Simon & Garfunkel
Not what I would choose to listen to, but well written songs, each with a clearly carefully chosen character. And an epicly disturbing end to the album. What weird men
4
Nov 14 2024
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I See You
The xx
Not for me. This album felt like it took itself too seriously, but was fairly bland and directionless. End of the last track was alright
2
Nov 15 2024
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Grace
Jeff Buckley
The soulful and interesting singing was the standout here by far. Somgs which could have been dull but for his VOICE!! The musical choices and contrast were really daring and artful. I was especially surprised by the heaviness of Eternal Life after the christmas carol one. Definitely worth my time
5
Nov 17 2024
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The Real Thing
Faith No More
Wow. All the styles, all executed well. Before this, I was confused about these guys because I heard they were heavy, but it didn't seem they fit in. My confusion turns out to be just correct haha, that's the way these guys are. They can damn well do heavy, but the other stuff is deliciously wacky mixed in
Is it possible to give a million fucking stars just to the Woodpecker from Mars?? So many moments in this album blew my mind. They even improved on Black Sabbath!!
5