May 01 2024
View Album
Amnesiac
Radiohead
This is such a great album, and probably my favorite from them. Pyramid Song takes the cake.
5
May 02 2024
View Album
1984
Van Halen
4
May 06 2024
View Album
Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
I guess I never really listened to Cohen, save a couple of "hits." First time listening to this one.
This is a very somber album. I love the song writing. He is clearly a great lyricist and story teller. It is mood music, for sure.
3
May 07 2024
View Album
Hunky Dory
David Bowie
This one is a classic. Bowie's catalog has something for everyone, and it's too hard to pick a favorite. Hunky Dory fits perfectly in the time in which it was released, 1971. Such a great year for music.
4
May 08 2024
View Album
Raw Power
The Stooges
I've heard the first track before, but I've never sat through a listen for the whole album. The album name is perfect for how this sounds. Definitely Raw. Definitely ahead of its time.
4
May 09 2024
View Album
Kilimanjaro
The Teardrop Explodes
I am ashamed to admit I have never heard of this band before. I'm glad it was on the list, because I DIG it! I will now scold my sister for not introducing me to this band when I was younger. When I Dream had me in a trance, and Reward shot me out of a cannon. I love the horns. Great album that will get more plays from me in the future.
4
May 10 2024
View Album
The Dark Side Of The Moon
Pink Floyd
Classic Pink Floyd. I didn't listen to this one until the mid nineties. It holds a special place in the annals of music history, and I appreciate its influence. I have to be in a mood to vibe the whole album start to finish. My favorite is US and Them.
4
May 13 2024
View Album
Channel Orange
Frank Ocean
I've heard the name Frank Ocean, but I've never listened. I see he has quite the following. The first four songs weren't grabbing me, they seemed uninspiring. I started really noticing the vocal talent on Sweet Life. Super Rich Kids is cool, good melody, and I like Earl Sweatshirt. Wait... I have heard Crack Rock before. I like Crack Rock, the song and drug.
3
May 14 2024
View Album
Strangeways, Here We Come
The Smiths
This is a Smiths album. I like the earlier albums better, but this one's not bad. All their albums do the same for me. Stop Me if You Think You've Heard This One Before is my favorite.
3
May 15 2024
View Album
Kimono My House
Sparks
I have heard the name "Sparks" before, but never listened to an album. I hear their influence in many newer groups: Of Montreal, MGMT, Animal Collective, etc. This album is fun, and I'll be giving the rest of their catalog a listen. Equator is my favorite on this one, at least after the first listen..
3
May 16 2024
View Album
3 Feet High and Rising
De La Soul
This one brings me feelings of nostalgia. At the time, my brother listened to gangster rap, like NWA, Too Short, Ice-T, and the like. My sister listened to mostly metal music, but some 2 Live Crew, JJ Fad, and other party type groups. While I liked all that other stuff my siblings forced me to listen to, I really feel like De La Soul and groups like them spoke to me. I had this cassette, and played it regularly. Late 80's early 90's conscious hip hop holds a special place in my memory, and De La Soul were are the start of that journey. Buddy is a favorite on this one.
3
May 17 2024
View Album
Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
Well, I now know where Jimmie's Chicken Shack got their name. This album sounds like the music on Super NES' Side Pocket billiards game. It's mellow elevator jazz. Fancy eatery background music. I get into moods for this type of music, so I'll give some other albums a listen. Jesus, he has many-a-album!
3
May 20 2024
View Album
Urban Hymns
The Verve
I had to start on track 2, because I couldn't listen to track 1 another time in my life. I think I heard it every 5 minutes on the radio back in the day. These guys are good enough musicians to make the type of music on this album, which is to say uninspiring, basic shit. The fellas play their instruments well, but the singer's voice makes me want to stop listening. This has been done before by better bands. It's like a watered down U2, or Oasis, who were a watered down Beatles. The production is okay, but I'm annoyed sitting through this one. These guys got paid, so mission accomplished, I guess. I was hoping that Velvet Morning would be a cover of Some Velvet Morning by Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazelwood, but I was let down one more time. It was just another song. If I were forced to pick a favorite, I would give a nod to Neon Wilderness, probably because it doesn't sound like the rest of the songs.
1
May 21 2024
View Album
The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
Hey look, another The Smiths album! No need to repeat what I have already said about them. There is a Light That Never Goes Out is my favorite on this one. I look forward to listening to the rest of their albums in the coming weeks, lol.
3
May 22 2024
View Album
Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba
Interesting album. I'm not familiar with any music from South Africa, so this is new to me. Well, Mbube sounds familiar, so I guess I am familiar, lol. I get a Harry Belafonte vibe on The Naughty Little Flea, my favorite on here. Miriam has a good voice, but I probably won't be playing this one again. Glad I listened, though.
2
May 23 2024
View Album
Broken English
Marianne Faithfull
This is another new one for me. I like the music on here, but not a huge fan of the raspy voice. I'll give the rest of her albums a listen. Guilt is my favorite.
2
May 24 2024
View Album
Led Zeppelin III
Led Zeppelin
Immigrant Song is a great start to the album. Such a banger, and my favorite. I love the music on Friends, but his voice doesn't go well with it. There's a heavy Blues element on this album, particularly on Since I've Been Loving You. Mars Volta has drawn influence from this one, no doubt. There's bluegrass and country on this album, too. Extremely diverse record. My favorite record from them is Houses of the Holy followed by Physical Graffiti, but this one ranks III for me.
4
May 27 2024
View Album
Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
This one is special. There are albums that transport you to a place and time, and this is one for me. I've spent countless hours alone in my room at 13 and 14 listening this. This album is what I needed at the time to get me through loneliness. The funny thing is I'm not a huge fan of any of their songs after Pisces Iscariot (which are just b-sides from this one.) Soma brings me to tears. Such a roller-coaster of emotions on that song. It's definitely my favorite. Brilliant album start to finish.
5
May 28 2024
View Album
Green Onions
Booker T. & The MG's
When I first saw the album name I got excited. I use green onions in almost every meal. They are a versitle food. This album makes me want to smoke a doobie and cut a rug. I bet they influenced The Braves' organ player, and probably all baseball organ players. My favorite tune is You Can't Sit Down. I sit down all day at work, so the prospect of me not being able to sit down is wonderful!
2
May 29 2024
View Album
Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
Talk about nostalgia... I remember the first time I heard Freedom. It was late night, MTV, probably 1AM. I was 12 years old. That video shook me awake. I credit this album's lyrics with opening my eyes to the lies of government. It really kick started my skepticism and questioning of what we were taught in history class. Thankfully, I read some economics books and didn't turn into a communist. For the music, this was an interesting album. I hadn't heard anything like it. I loved the odd, jazzy guitar and hard-core breakdowns and groovy, rhythms. Zack's anger went well with the music. I stopped listening to them after Evil Empire. I guess they lost that feeling with me. Great album, though. One of the greats of the early 90's. Hard to pick a favorite. I like Wake Up the best, maybe..
4
May 30 2024
View Album
Sound of Silver
LCD Soundsystem
This is a good LCD Soundsystem album. I like their stuff, but none of it blows me away. I usually get into a mood occasionally to listen to one of their albums. My favorite thing that James Murphy has been apart of was the Tim Heidecker movie, The Comedy. North American Scum is my favorite on here.
3
May 31 2024
View Album
Surfer Rosa
Pixies
I was never a huge Pixies listener. I heard the song on Fight Club, and I have listened to Doolittle, but that was about it. I enjoyed this album, and actually streamed their first one after this (I liked it better). I can definitely recognize their influence in several bands throughout the 90's. This album is unique for when it came out, and I can see why they are considered pioneers. Certainly not an album I would put on repeat, but I liked it. Vamos was my favorite.
3
Jun 03 2024
View Album
Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
Not my favorite album from them (Check Your Head is my favorite). It still has some of the fun, party style of Licensed to I'll, but this one is more mature. Shadrach is my favorite.
3
Jun 04 2024
View Album
Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots
The Flaming Lips
I've never owned a Flaming Lips album, but I've always liked what I've heard from them. I definitely like some of the groups they've influenced. This album is good. It doesn't grab me by the ears and kick me in the crotch, but it's worthy of a listen every now and again. I am impressed with the size of their catalog, and I will be giving it all a listen. All We Have is Now is a favorite on here.
3
Jun 05 2024
View Album
McCartney
Paul McCartney
It's the Beatles without the rest of the Beatles. McCartney puts together great melodies and is a very talented musician, so this was pleasant to listen to. I'm a big Billy Joel fan, and I can hear a bit of what influenced him on this album, particularly on his Cold Spring Harbor debut which came out a year after this in 1971 (and is a better album in my opinion). Maybe I'm Amazed is my favorite.
2
Jun 06 2024
View Album
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles
I was immediately glad to see this wasn't The Shitty Beatles, because they suck. This takes me back to my high school days, what a gas!
Just kidding. I started listening to The Beatles in my late 20's, and I quickly realized how many hit songs they had. They pumped out the hits. They've been photographed more than Jesus Christ. This was good for the time it was in, before The Drugs ruined the youths and sent this once great nation torpedoing toward hell. And I Love Her is my favorite. I love the vocals.
3
Jun 07 2024
View Album
Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
Man, this one is great! Thank you, Andy, for telling me about this album. At the time, I was actually going through a personal battle in the War on Drugs. I had been arrested in a sting operation for cannabis, a plant that grows naturally upon the face of the earth. I lost my career, and was having to live off my 401k and work several shitty, low paying jobs just to pay rent. I didn't tell my family or immediate support system, and my father passed away (a couple weeks before my hearing!), so any hope of financial assistance was not possible. I would sit, drunken in my car, and blast this first track, crying my eyes out. That was almost 10 years ago, and all is well now. All charges have been dropped, or "conditionally discharged", and FUCK the police and the state. This album means a lot to me. Red Eyes is on my trivia host playlist, so it gets regular play. Hard to pick a favorite on this one, but I'm glad it popped up on here. I guess An Ocean In Between...
4
Jun 10 2024
View Album
Live At The Regal
B.B. King
This is a nice live album. King has some good banter with the crowd. While I respect what blues means for the world of music, and I no doubt listen to countless bands who would not be around if not for blues music, I just don't really get into it. I does nothing for me. It's the same way I feel about jam bands, like Phish or Widespread Panic. Whenever their music comes on I'm like, "I have other things I need to do..." I have a hard time feeling anything with the music. BB King is an all time legend for this genre, so I respect it. The crowd loves him, and that's fun to hear. I guess You Upset Me Baby was my favorite.
2
Jun 11 2024
View Album
Doolittle
Pixies
Another Pixies album. Dead is a good one on here.
3
Jun 12 2024
View Album
Nixon
Lambchop
Never heard of this guy, so no expectations here. This is a real mellow album. Grumpus is giving some Mac Demarco vibes. I like the soft horns throughout the album, kind of like Sufjan Stevens' Illinois. Of course, this album came before that. This is good background music, super chill, so I'll check out the rest of his catalog. I like the music, but his vocals are whatever. He has no business singing, so it's ballsy that he does it. Good for him for doing what he loves. Up With People is my favorite.
2
Jun 13 2024
View Album
Chris
Christine and the Queens
Decent pop album. Good vocals and music. Not really for me, but I enjoyed the listen.
Goya Soda was my favorite.
2
Jun 14 2024
View Album
Histoire De Melody Nelson
Serge Gainsbourg
Interestingly, I was following this artist on Spotify already. He must've been on Jacques Brel's radio (big fan of Brel), and I followed. Right off the bat, I hear Beck's Sea Change in the first song. The man and woman back and forth reminds me of Lovage. And that makes total sense, because holy shit, look at his album cover for the 1959 album Nº2.... Dame as Lovage. It's neat to hear all the influence in later music that I enjoy. Now, I just need to learn French.. I like L'hôtel particulier as a favorite.
3
Jun 17 2024
View Album
Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
One of the classic bands from the 70's here. Everyone knows the hits, but I really like Emerald. I dig the guitars. This album would be better if the singer didn't talk. He sounds like a chode. I like how, after the first song, he lets the ladies know that he is ready to party if they "want a bit more Irish in them." Really setting up his after concert experience early on in the set, smart. Then, towards the end of the set, he asks them, "Are you ready to rip it up? Are you ready to rock?" He's ready to get backstage and rip up some vagina, and he wants to make sure they are ready, too. This guy knows how to plan his evening. Oh, Huey Lewis on harmonica, nice!
2
Jun 18 2024
View Album
The World is a Ghetto
War
I have always been anti-war, but this seems like a just-war I can support. Just some groovy tunes here. Funk, groove, jazz, psychedelic, a bit of Latin, it's a nice soup of music. The titular track is my favorite.
3
Jun 19 2024
View Album
Traffic
Traffic
Man, what is with all the things I hate? War, Traffic... What's next, Death? Is there a band named Famine we can listen to? 60's hippie music, it's decent and pleasant. I prefer Winwood's 80's pop. (Roamin' Thro' The Gloamin' With) 40000 Headmen is my favorite. I like the flute.
3
Jun 20 2024
View Album
Winter In America
Gil Scott-Heron
Spotify didn't have this one. I had to go to the Youtubes. This is mellow grooves. At some points, it sounds like Mr. Roger's. I love The Bottle, that bass. Groovy as shit. I'm getting funked up on it.
3
Jun 21 2024
View Album
Paul Simon
Paul Simon
Simple, folky music. Pleasant to listen to while working. I like Armistice Day, mainly because the guitar breakdowns. Almost a heavy vibe on them, but acoustic. Peace Like a River is probably my favorite, also because of the guitar work. Great tune. Paul Simon isn't someone I would typically ride around listening to, but his music makes me smile.
3
Jun 24 2024
View Album
Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Hmm, I had no idea these guys were from San Francisco Bay area. You hear the singer, and you would think they are from the southeast. This is a fun album. Clearly some really great hits on this one, Run Through The Jungle being my favorite. I hear some 50's influence in some of these songs, some Elvis. This is a good, what I would consider southern rock album.
3
Jun 25 2024
View Album
The Bends
Radiohead
A great 90's album. They were honing it in on this one, but not quite there. Although, this was their best straight rock album. They continue to get better on subsequent albums. Just is a favorite, as is My Iron Lung. I take that back, Street Spirit is the one.
3
Jun 26 2024
View Album
Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
Man, I am NOT an R.E.M. fan, so I'll get through this one, I guess... My old roommate's dad was in a bunch of Savannah bands back in the 70's and 80's, and he used to tell us that his band played in Athens one time, and they had to open for some shitty house band named REM. I guess they aren't so shitty, because they've sold a ton of albums. Good for them. Maybe Jeff's dad was just jealous. It just isn't for me. I'm actually upset, because now the Spotify algorithm will try and infuse this into my recommendations... There is a nostalgia to some of these tunes. I watched MTV a lot back when this came out, so I was inundated with the "hits." If I had to pick, I like the album before this one, and I like Orange Crush off of their 88 album Green. Favorite song on here, Man on the Moon.
2
Jun 27 2024
View Album
Smokers Delight
Nightmares On Wax
Kind of a snoozefest here. Sounds like something you'd hear if you went into one of those stores across from Junkman's Daughter looking for some JNCO's or Kikwear back in the mid 90's. I love 90's techno and trip hop, but this one is boring. There wasn't a particular song that stood out for me to call a favorite, it all sounded like the same background music. Nightmares, indeed.
2
Jun 28 2024
View Album
Kick Out The Jams (Live)
MC5
I liked Rocket Reducer No. 62 - Talk. Kind of had a Hendrix vibe. Overall, I didn't really like this album. It was OK. I did, however, let the Spotify radio keep playing after, and some Captain Beyond came on. That was a highlight. Also, another MC5 song, The American Ruse, played. Man, that songs was right up my ally. This live album gets a 2 from me.
2
Jul 01 2024
View Album
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
3
Jul 02 2024
View Album
Dookie
Green Day
It has been a loooong time since I've listened to this one all the way through. There are some bands that own their genre, and I think Green Day owns pop punk. Every song is super catchy. They are great at what they do. They also put in a lot of hard work on their own dime in the beginning, so they are deserving of the success. I like She and Having a Blast as favorites.
4
Jul 03 2024
View Album
Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
I never thought I would be listening to this one again. I gave it several spins when it came out. I had a really cool experience with them I'll never forget. I saw them play in Birmingham before they were really big, and I met them afterward. My friends and I got on their tour bus and we played Playstation. At one point, Chester picked up an acoustic guitar and started playing Alice in Chains, and I did the harmonies with him. He did the Stayley parts, of course. It was really fun. A few months later, they were huge. This album was good when it came out. I'm a big fan of turntables, so I like that aspect of it. I kinda just stopped listening to them after this album. Not sure if it was it was a phase, or my tastes changed. I like Forgotten.
4
Jul 04 2024
View Album
Rust In Peace
Megadeth
Ah, the best guitarist from Metallica... This one is an assault throughout. I don't like his voice, but he is a talented shredder. Holy Wars is great, as is the title track. I always liked the Megadeath song on the Last Action Hero soundtrack. Back when soundtracks were killer. 3.5 on this one.
3
Jul 05 2024
View Album
Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
I grew up on Phil Collins Genesis, and have always been a fan. Separately, I grew up on Peter Gabriel's solo stuff. As a child, I just thought Gabriel was always just his solo songs. As I got older, I discovered he was the original singer for Genesis, and as my musical taste has expanded over the years, I have grown to love the Gabriel Genesis more than the iteration with Collins leading the vocals. I was excited to see this album pop up, because it is my favorite. The music and melody is so cool on this one. I will always love the pop Genesis, but prog Genesis has taken over in my mind. My favorite song is The Cinema Show.
4
Jul 08 2024
View Album
The College Dropout
Kanye West
I missed the boat on Kanye West, and now it seems he is on a different boat on a different planet. I just never gave him a listen. I can't really say I can tell you any of his hit songs. This is my first time listening to a full album. Just not my vibe. Get Em High was my favorite, I guess. I do like all of the guests he has on this album. This album doesn't move me. I don't like the music or beats, and his lyrics don't speak to me.
2
Jul 09 2024
View Album
The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
Classic metal band. Definitely innovators, but I do hear some Van Halen influence in there. The bass stands out for me. It's prominent on most of the songs. There's of course some shedding on the lead, but later metal music takes that to a different level. Good grooves on here. I like the energy on Run to the Hills.
3
Jul 10 2024
View Album
Done By The Forces Of Nature
Jungle Brothers
I've always heard the name, but never listened. This sounds like a classic, but more diverse samples than their counterparts. There's break-beats, rock, piano, and funkadelic. It's dope! I realize now that The Prodigy (Liam Howlett) had sampled these guys, and is heavily influenced by them. I like Doin' Our Own Dang.
4
Jul 11 2024
View Album
The Doors
The Doors
Such a great album here. Not really any bands like this one in 1967, or now even. Every songs is great, but I'd have to give the nod to The Crystal Ship. Although, Alabama Song is strange, and I LOVE it. Psychedelic circus music at its best. I like that they pushed the censorship envelope with their live performances. Wonderful band!
5
Jul 12 2024
View Album
Street Signs
Ozomatli
The only album I've ever listened to from these guys is their debut album. I remember liking it, but I never revisited it or listening to any of their later albums. This is a fun one. A nice melting pot of hip hop, latin grooves, and I hear some middle eastern vibes at some points. Oh, I recognize the song "Saturday Night." Not sure where I heard it before. My favorite is Dejame En Paz. I don't dance, but it makes me want to shake my tuccus.
4
Jul 15 2024
View Album
1989
Taylor Swift
Here I am. A 44 year old man, taking a big shit at work, and listening to a Taylor Swift album. Where did it go wrong for me? Truth is, I'll never forgive Swift for ruining muh football games!! Listen, I'll try to have an open mind. The music is cool and catchy. I guess there are like 9 producers on this thing. The lyrics aren't for me, and much of it is repetitive. That's ok. There is clearly a market for this with 97 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. Kudos to her for creating, or bringing in producers to create, music so many people enjoy. Shake It Off is catchy as hell, and that is my favorite on here. I like I Know Places as a deep cut favorite. I'll mark listening to an entire Taylor Swift album off my bucket list now.
3
Jul 16 2024
View Album
Beauty And The Beat
The Go-Go's
I kinda just played this one in the background. Standard 80's music here. I like their opening track, as it is a familiar hit. Honestly, I was too busy with work to really soak it in. I'll need to give it proper attention later.
3
Jul 17 2024
View Album
New Forms
Roni Size
I am not a drum and bass, or jungle, fan overall, but there are a few DJ's that I like. AK1200, Dieselboy, Photek (my favorite), and Roni Size. They do it right. Drum and Bass is too repetitive for me. Other than Brown Paper Bag (I like the shorter radio version better), I always enjoyed Share the Fall on this album.
3
Jul 18 2024
View Album
Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables
Dead Kennedys
Assault punk! I love these guys. The goofiness of Chemical Warfare sounds a bit like Mr. Bungle. Actually, I hear a lot of Bungle weirdness in this album. It isn't just a straight punk album, there's some circus rock, surf rock, odd breakdowns, etc. These guys stand apart from other punk contempraries. My favorite song on here is California Uber Alles.
4
Jul 19 2024
View Album
Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby
Terence Trent D'Arby
Hmm, I think you mean The Artist Formally Known as Terence Trent D'Arby. His momma called him D'Arby, Imma call him D'Arby. Well, thanks for getting Wishing Well stuck in my head. It has been about 30 years since I've heard it. He certainly has a set of pipes on him. If he composed all the music, I can definitely respect his game. The music and vocals are solid. It's a good album for what it is. I just wouldn't ride around listening to this. My favorite tune is I'll Never Turn My Back On You (Father's Words). Sign Your Name is dope. That would be my favorite "hit" from this album. As Yet Untitled is great, too. I love a cappella songs.
3
Jul 22 2024
View Album
Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
While I respect what these guys have done over the last half plus of a century, I just don't really vibe them. You can hear a variety of styles on this album, and that's really their strength, their musical versatility. Jagger's voice just ruins it for me. I would listen to a music only version. Loving Cup is a favorite on here. I like the brass and piano.
3
Jul 23 2024
View Album
S&M
Metallica
Metallica is known for being a great live band. It's cool to hear orchestral music with rock, so this was a fun listen. I'm glad they played Of Wolf and Man, which was always a favorite from the black album. I can only take so much of Hetfield's yeah-eahs! So, at 21 songs, this was a bit much for me. I like their first few albums, and really nothing else after that. It is amazing to hear the huge crowd singing. It's a testament to how much their music touches people. They are the pinnacle of popular heavy rock music. One is one of my favorite ones, if I had to pick one.
3
Jul 24 2024
View Album
L'Eau Rouge
The Young Gods
I've never heard of these guys, but I'm hopeful as I see that fans also like Front 242, one of my favorite industrial techno groups. I can see the I guess I can see the similarities, but Front 242 is way better, in my opinion. 242's Front By Front album is far superior. These guys throw some strings in there, and there's a bit more heavy rock. If I want hard, dirty industrial, I'm going for Godflesh. I like the music ok, but I just don't like the guy's voice. Ville Notre was my favorite on here. L'Amourir was pretty hard, too.
2
Jul 25 2024
View Album
GREY Area
Little Simz
I really like the music! This was a solid hip hop album. I was too busy to really focus on any of the lyrics, but the music was fantastic. Actually, I just let it keep playing into the previous album, Stillness in Wonderland, and that one was even better! I'm now following this artist and I listen forward to hearing the rest of her catalog.
4
Jul 26 2024
View Album
Southern Rock Opera
Drive-By Truckers
So, I had a coworker tell me I had to listen to this album a few months ago. He said it was a life changing album. I listened. I'm just not getting the same feeling. This is actually my least favorite type of music. These guys are good at storytelling while jamming, but it isn't any story to which I can relate, nor is it the type of music I like. I can recognize their talents, and there are people this is for, but it ain't me, babe. If these guys were playing in city market in downtown Savannah, I would probably stop and listen for a couple minutes, then move along. I guess Birmingham is my favorite, because I lived there. Three Great Alabama Icons was a neat story. I enjoyed it. I will say, this album seemed to get better as it went on, but still not my jam.
3
Jul 29 2024
View Album
All Directions
The Temptations
Did these guys put out multiple albums a year, or what!? This is a classic. I can't believe they were able to get away with saying the "n" word so many times on Run Charlie Run! That would never happen in today's popular music..... Papa Was A Rollin' Stone is the jam. On I Ain't Got Nothin', I like the nod to The Flamingos' I Only Have Eyes for You with the "shu bop shu bop".
4
Jul 30 2024
View Album
London Calling
The Clash
These guys are punk, but not punk. Multiple styles represented on this album. They are set apart from the other bands of their time and place. London Calling is my favorite on here.
3
Jul 31 2024
View Album
California
American Music Club
Never heard of these fellas. It's a pretty chill album with some country vibes. Some of it is haunting. I like Pale and Skinny Girl. Nothing groundbreaking here, but good, mellow music.
3
Aug 01 2024
View Album
Morrison Hotel
The Doors
Another good Doors album here. Not as great as their earlier albums, but still has some bangers. This one makes me feel like I'm driving on the open road out West, making stops at random dive bars to get drunk and party with the locals. It just has that vibe to me. Peace Frog is my favorite on here.
4
Aug 02 2024
View Album
Don't Stand Me Down
Dexys Midnight Runners
I am immediately annoyed by this guy's voice. The music is alright, so I'll slog through the rest of it. One of Those Things, I mean Werewolves of London also gets on my nerves. I can't get past all the talking and the vocals. The music is ok, but this album shouldn't be on this list. Thankfully, after several needlessly long songs, I was able to Waltz my way out of this and into a different album.
1
Aug 05 2024
View Album
Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Good ole Willie. I love the old western country style. There's a heavy gospel vibe on several songs that takes me back to the church pew I so often sat on as a child. Not sure why there's three Time of the Preacher songs, but the short version is hilarious. I thought, "Oh, here it goes again. Oh, it's over." This album takes you to church, then to a saloon in west El Paso, and the dusty trails in between. It isn't something I would listen to regularly, but Willie is fun from time to time. Remember Me is my favorite on here.
4
Aug 06 2024
View Album
Stankonia
OutKast
There are no other rappers like these guys. They put Atlanta hip hop on the map. Their first two albums got a ton of play from me in high school, but I honestly haven't listened to a complete album of theirs since the 3rd one. I definitely know the hits off this one, so I'm listening forward to hearing this on a continuous play through. The hit songs stand out, so good call making those the singles. The song with B-Real sounds exactly like a song with B-Real should sound. I'm a huge Cypress Hill fan, so that one is a favorite. This is a better produced and more mature album than the previous ones, but I still like the first two better. Either way, Big Boi and Andre are on a different planet from other hip hop artists.
4
Aug 07 2024
View Album
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme
Simon & Garfunkel
Let's get to cooking! What can be said about this album that wasn't mentioned on the Sounds of Silence review? This a a great rainy day album, which is perfect because I'm working from home on a rainy day! This seems like a continuation of the previous album. I really enjoyed the 7 O'clock News/Silent Night mashup. It's a timeless tune that would work in today's atmosphere.
3
Aug 08 2024
View Album
Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Here we go! Just some good, clean, non-drug induced music. I pretty much let this one play in the background while I worked. Nothing jumped out at me, but I did find myself liking Calvary.
2
Aug 09 2024
View Album
Very
Pet Shop Boys
You can shake your tuccus to this one. It's like if Empire of the Sun was hopped up on meth. Speaking of meth... when I was in my early 20's, I did many meths. We purchased our meth through a gentleman in the gay community in Atlanta. One night, we had to meet him at the famous 24 hour gay nightclub, Backstreet, in order to make the purchase. It was an interesting experience for a young, heterosexual male. Sweaty dudes with glitter on their shirtless bodies, dancing and making out. One guy even hit on me. I was flattered. My mom always said I was handsome, and this experience helped confirm that was true. I tell that story to say that I could definitely imagine hearing this album playing at that club. Yesterday When I Was Mad was my favorite.
2
Aug 12 2024
View Album
Pretenders
Pretenders
Man, this album is dope start to finish. I have heard Brass in Pocket literally every time I hosted karaoke (frankly, I am sick of hearing it), but the rest of the album is so much better. There are some straightforward songs, but there are some offbeat rhythms throughout the record. I love it. Love the vocals, love the music, love the arrangements.
I'm glad this one is on the list, because I don't know if I would've listened to this on my own. Phone Call and Lovers of Today were favorites.
4
Aug 13 2024
View Album
Brothers
The Black Keys
I recognize a couple of these songs, Tighten Up and Howlin' for You. This is like some Mississippi delta music or some Bayou music, or something. It's ok, but not my favorite type of music. I don't really have an interesting critique of this album. It doesn't move me, but it isn't terrible. I like the guitar, keys, and at some points, the vocals. The drums are just basic rhythm most of the time (The Go Getter is an exception), which I think is what bothers me about the album. I feel like I could play these drums, which isn't good because I can't play drums. Not trying to hate on it. It definitely fits this album. It isn't a bad album, but I wouldn't ride around listening to this. The back half of the album is much better. Tracks 7, 8, and 11 were a few of my favorites on here.
3
Aug 14 2024
View Album
Court And Spark
Joni Mitchell
Blue is the only full album I've listened to from Joni, so that one is my favorite. I was blown away by that album, so I am listening forward to hearing this one. Her roller-coaster vocals are so cool. It's always a mystery where she is going next, and it's a beautiful ride. The musicality and musicianship, the harmonies,
the songwriting, and the storytelling are all mastered by Joni. I could listen to her all day. In fact, that is what I'll be doing today. Just Like This Train is one of my favorites on this album. I still like Blue better, though. Easy 5 from me on this one, and probably most of her albums.
5
Aug 15 2024
View Album
Oracular Spectacular
MGMT
I love this album! Two separate moments of nostalgia for me on this one. The first is 2009ish living in a loft apartment in Macon next to some preppy Mercer law students. They had three of these songs on all the time. I would go over and play bear pong and do blow with them. Good times. Next was after I moved to Savannah and I actually decided to listen to the whole album, making the ride to the beach, sun out and windows down. It's fun and refreshing, perfect beach music. They've certainly evolved with each album, but this one is my favorite. Production by Dave Fridmann, which makes total sense why this has a Flaming Lips vibe. Weekend Wars is my favorite on here.
4
Aug 16 2024
View Album
Drunk
Thundercat
I have Them Changes on my trivia playlist, so I hear it a couple tines a week, but I haven't listened to this whole album. Right off the rip, it is funky. Should be a fun ride here. He's right up there with the best: Flea, Bootsy, Mono Neon, Joel Guerra, Les Claypool. I hear some KNOWER or Louis Cole in here. I love the Kendrick cameo. Groovy album! Besides Them Changes, I liked Inferno. DUI was a cool ending.
4
Aug 19 2024
View Album
Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Nice! I have this one on vinyl. Living for the City, Golden Lady, Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing, and Higher Ground are obvious great ones, but I love the mellow haunt of Visions.
4
Aug 20 2024
View Album
Tommy
The Who
A great group of musicians here. I just let this one play in the background, but a few songs stood out: Sparks, Christmas, and Pinball Wizard. It seemed like run of the mill hippy music, but way tighter and more professional. Real clean and solid playing. There were some goofy elements in some of the songs, which was fun and pleasing to my senses. I enjoyed the album overall.
4
Aug 21 2024
View Album
Horses
Patti Smith
This one was alright, but I did get annoyed with the vocals after a few songs. I liked it better when she straight up sang. Birdland and Elegie were favorites.
3
Aug 22 2024
View Album
Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
Alright, I LOVE Buddy Holly! Nice, clean rock n roll, before the Marijuana took over the youths and turned everyone into hippies. This guy loves falling in love. Times were simple back then, no milkshakes in the yard, no WAP, just loving your sweetheart and eventual breakup and heartbreak. He's kind of a nerdy Elvis, but it works. Died too soon. I like the slower stuff, It's Too Late is the one for me.
4
Aug 23 2024
View Album
Abraxas
Santana
This is groovy. Nice cover art! Track 2, all I can think of is the little, drunk Vietnamese gentleman that would sing this at karaoke every Saturday when I hosted. It was great, great tune too. I can't hear Oye Como Va without smiling. This is a wonderful mix of psychedelic rock with Latin beats and some jazz mixed in. Great album! Incident at Neshabur was my favorite here.
5
Aug 26 2024
View Album
Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
So many hits here. Unfortunately, my notes didn't save (user error). I don't need to tell you that this is a great album. I'll give it a 4.
4
Aug 27 2024
View Album
Grace
Jeff Buckley
I've never listened to Jeff Buckley, although I'm familiar with the name. Man, that first song grabbed me. I'm in for this one. I love the vocals (Chris Cornellish). The music is awesome, too! Reminds me of some Eleven, or Alain Johannes, or Big Wreck, but obviously before them. Great shit! The arrangements and melodies are fantastic. It is hard for me to pick a favorite without giving this a few more listens. So Real, or Dream Brother would get the nod at this point. Glad this was on here.
4
Aug 28 2024
View Album
War
U2
Not a huge U2 fan, but this one has some hits and I feel nostalgia with some of these songs. Back when MTV played videos... The last time I actually listened to U2 was the album Joshua Tree when I was driving through Joshua Tree. Good times. I really like Like a Song... Nice guitar work and rhythm on it. I've never heard it before, but it is probably my favorite "deep cut" on here. Actually, Red Light is dope, too. This turned out to be a great album. I guess I've always just hated on U2 for no reason, or without really listening to their catalog. Call it Bono's douchebaggery, or just my own ignorance. It reminds me of how, when I was younger, I caught myself repeating the line "communism looks good on paper." Then, I actually read the Communist Manifesto, and I realized communism looks terrible on paper. Same thing for U2, but opposite. Their albums are really good. Solid 4 on this one.
4
Aug 29 2024
View Album
Zombie
Fela Kuti
I was super busy at work, so this one just played in the background. I was able to be highly productive with it, so that was cool. After the album was over, it just continued to play his prior albums. This was the better one of the ones I heard. I couldn't tell you which song I liked better, as it just flowed together with decently long songs. I love the album artwork. I'll give this a 3.5.
3
Aug 30 2024
View Album
Halcyon Digest
Deerhunter
I much prefer The Dear Hunter, as they are a superior band, but this one is good, too. Totally different style of music. The end of Don't Cry sounds like something from Beck's Mellow Gold. I like Revival! Memory Boy is kind of a throwback. Desire Lines is a favorite here. It's on my trivia playlist, so it gets a spin every week, or so. Coronado is great, as well. I'm a sucker for a saxophone.
3
Sep 02 2024
View Album
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Beatles
Never heard of these guys. Hopefully, they don't suck like the Shitty Beatles. A bit of a different album for these guys. I wonder if they had partaken in any drugs at this point... the world may never know. Great album. The opening track is baller. Not my favorite album from them, but I'll give it a 3.5
3
Sep 03 2024
View Album
Since I Left You
The Avalanches
I haven't heard of these folks, but this is an outstanding album! Sounds like some Dan the Automator stuff. Right up my ally. Cool artwork, too. I think Frontier Psychiatrist is my favorite, but I'll be spinning this a few more times. Solid 4 here.
4
Sep 04 2024
View Album
Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
This is a solid early 90's album. I realize now just how much Toadies ripped PJ Harvey's vocals off. I've been super busy at work, so I haven't had the time to pause and take down notes, but Me-Jane jumped out to me. Good stuff. 3.5
3
Sep 05 2024
View Album
Dust
Screaming Trees
Another standard 90's rock album. There are some elements of Soundgarden on that first song. I didn't hear anything spectacular on this one, but I enjoyed the album. Traveler stood out to me as a favorite. Solid 3.
3
Sep 06 2024
View Album
Armed Forces
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
This was a fun album. I'm not a huge fan of Costello's voice, but it works with the quirkiness of the album. Again, busy at work, so the album flew by for me. I really liked Goon Squad. I'll give this one a 3.75
3
Sep 09 2024
View Album
good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
I like Section.80 better, although the production is superior on this one. I'm always down to listen to Kendrick. He really is set apart from other artists in hip hop. He has a crazy control over his vocals, making it sound out of control at times. It's strange and unique. The music on this album is solid, really on all his albums. To be expected from a Compton artist. I love his storytelling, too. He's one of the best at it. I fell like Kendrick took the baton from the hip hop artists I grew up listening to, and he is carrying it for a new generation. I'll give this album a 5.
5
Sep 10 2024
View Album
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
Outstanding yacht rock album. I didn't have time to write down any notes, but I did enjoy the hits and non-hits on here. I'll throw a 4 on it.
4
Sep 11 2024
View Album
Wild Wood
Paul Weller
I missed this one in the 90's. I'm not sure who this is, but the guitar is cool right off the rip. Interesting album, kind of after its time being in the 90's. Nothing jumped out at me, but solid album. Imma give it a 3.
3
Sep 12 2024
View Album
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
I was really hoping for Neil Young with Crazy Town... You're my Butterfly Cinnamon Girl, Sugar Baby... This is a good, mellow album. I really dug that Buffalo Springfield better than this solo stuff, but I like this album. Glad to see he's back on Spotify. 3.12 stars from me.
3
Sep 13 2024
View Album
Club Classics Vol. One
Soul II Soul
Not sure why this is on the list. I remember one of these songs, but overall the album just didn't move me. I'll give it a 2 for the nostalgia aspect.
2
Sep 16 2024
View Album
Young Americans
David Bowie
Bowie is a chameleon. He changes throughout the decades. This one fits perfefectly in the 70's. It isn't my favorite album, but it does have one of my favorite songs, Fame. If you haven't done so, check out the God Lives Underwater cover of that song. Good stuff. Again, not my favorite Bowie album. But I'll give this a 3.99
3
Sep 17 2024
View Album
Beggars Banquet
The Rolling Stones
Yet another Stones album. This does have my second favorite from them, Sympathy for the Devil, and for that I'll give this one a 3.87. Many styles on here, as usual. I just don't like Mick's voice, or his face.
3
Sep 18 2024
View Album
Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Hit after hit after hit on this album. My favorite one is Black Dog. There's really no band like Zeppelin, except of course for Greta Van Fleet. This is such a great album, so I'll just give it a 5.
5
Sep 19 2024
View Album
Colour By Numbers
Culture Club
Meh. I'm not a huge fan of Culture Club. I think it missed me when I was younger. My sister listened to metal, and my brother was into hip hop. When my mom jazzersised, it was to Wham, which is very similar to this I suppose, but a little more fun. I'll take George Michael over Boy George, both in music and if I were attracted to men. George Michael is superior. There is a slight nostalgia to some of the songs on here, so for that I will give it a 2.
2
Sep 20 2024
View Album
People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm
A Tribe Called Quest
Banger of an intro album. Great music on this one. Luck of Lucien is my favorite here. The basically sums up the type of hip hop I like. 5 for me.
5
Sep 23 2024
View Album
Cloud Nine
The Temptations
I'm tempted to rate this one in the middle, but I think I'll give it a 4.
4
Sep 24 2024
View Album
At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash is the man. This is a cool album, and interesting concept to play and record at a prison. After awhile, the songs begin sounding the same, but Cash is a great story teller. I give a bump to Cocaine Blues.
4
Sep 25 2024
View Album
Third/Sister Lovers
Big Star
I've never heard of this one. I found it mostly bland, but I did LOVE For You. Actually, it seemed to get better as the album played on. Overall, this one gets a 3 from me.
3
Sep 26 2024
View Album
Among The Living
Anthrax
Classic thrash! The music is killer. The vocals don't really go with the music, in my personal opinion, but it clearly has worked for them and their fans. I have never really listened to a whole album from Anthrax, but I dig this one. 4 on the music.
4
Sep 27 2024
View Album
The Next Day
David Bowie
I didn't even know about this album. I'd like to say I've heard all of Bowie's catalog, but I'm only in my 40's. There just isn't enough time.. He's so versatile. I enjoyed this one, although it was mellow at times. The Stars was a great song. If You Can See Me is probably my favorite here. Definitely NOT mellow. Not my favorite Bowie album, but I'll give it a 3.9, rounding up to a 4.
4
Sep 30 2024
View Album
Bringing It All Back Home
Bob Dylan
It goes without saying Dylan is a better songwriter than singer, but I will say Dylan is a better songwriter than singer. I get the influence he has had on music, but his vocals kill it for me. I appreciate what Bob Dylan is, but I'm going to bring it all back home with a 3 rating.
3
Oct 01 2024
View Album
You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen
What a snoozefest! It really isn't for me. If I were on heroin, maybe. There is pain in his voice, much like Johnny Cash in the end. He's a great lyricist, but I can't get into this album, or his vocals.
1
Oct 02 2024
View Album
Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
This is a Fleetwood Mac album. I'm neither a fan, nor detractor. They make some cool music, but I've never been able to sit down and be enthusiastic about listening to them. Not a bad album, but not groundbreaking. I do like That's All for Everyone. Middle of the road album here, so 3.
3
Oct 03 2024
View Album
Spy Vs. Spy: The Music Of Ornette Coleman
John Zorn
I'm excited to see this one. He has such a massive catalog, and I love Zorn about 75% of the time. This one is decently wild. Not quite Naked City. This guy definitely influenced Bungle. I'm still trying to work through his full catalog, which seems impossible, so I can now mark this one off the list. I like the structured chaos. I'll give this a 3.
3
Oct 04 2024
View Album
Out of Step
Minor Threat
Right off the rip, I can tell Offspring were fans of these guys. Maybe AFI, too, but the opening song sounds like an early Offspring song. One could say that they were the Offspring of this music. This is a good follow-up to older punk, or even their first album. It's good for what it is. I really have to be in a mood for this. I'll give it a 3.5.
3
Oct 07 2024
View Album
Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
LOVE this album. The first seven songs are seven of my favorite from them. The buildup on Sit Down. Stand Up, man, I was sitting down, then I had to stand up and boogy. Then, I sat back down for Sail to the Moon. Such a beautiful song. The Gloaming, I could do without. There, There picks it right back up to be my favorite on this album. It's an easy 5 from me on this one.
5
Oct 08 2024
View Album
Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
A lovely jazz album. Great background music, but nothing jumped out at me. I'm not able to hone in on a favorite. If it played again, I wouldn't be mad, but I probably won't look for this to play again. 3 for me.
3
Oct 09 2024
View Album
Kala
M.I.A.
A bit of nostalgia with the song Paper Planes, which is the best song on this album. The rest of the album is ok, but seems somewhat immature. She's a grinder, though, and she has had well deserved success. I'll throw a 3.5 at this one.
3
Oct 10 2024
View Album
The Renaissance
Q-Tip
Huh... As much as I like Tribe, I have never listened to Q-Tip's solo stuff. I have news for him, Johnny 5 is Alive! I like this, right of the rip. Should be a fun one. The music doesn't disappoint. It sounds like an alternate universe version of Tribe. I will need to listen to the rest of his solo albums. This one gets a 4.1.
4
Oct 11 2024
View Album
The Rise & Fall
Madness
I've heard of Madness, and at times have experienced Madness, but this is my first listen. As I listen, I can't fit these guys into a particular box. At least, not on this album. A bit like The Clash, just different than any of their counterparts. Ah, wait, I've heard Our House... ok, yes. Good, catchy tune. I thoroughly enjoyed the song before it, though, Sunday Morning. That one is definitely a favorite. I'll give this a 4.
4
Oct 14 2024
View Album
Debut
Björk
Here.We.Go. The Human Behavior music video was my first introduction to Bjork. I was blown away by how cool it was. He voice, too... I had never heard vocals like this, and still haven't. She truly is on a planet by herself. Each album is different and unique. Ever since I heard Bjork for the first time, I had wanted to go to Iceland. I wanted to see what environment could produce this art. I was able to go on my honeymoon. As I drove around ring road, I played her albums and gazed at the scenery. It was constant goosebumps and raised arm hairs. Such beauty, just like Bjork. There's beauty mixed with chaotic jazz in her voice. Every album from her gets a 5 from me. Hard to pick a favorite. I'll give it to Human Behavior, because that is the one that started it, but I also love Like Someone in Love.
5
Oct 15 2024
View Album
Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
I, too, was born in the USA, so I can relate. Man, so many hits on this album. My mother loved this album, but I never really got into it. It just isn't the type of music that moves me. I get the appeal, but it ain't me, babe. Good storytelling, though. Dancing in the Dark is probably my favorite hit on here. I dig the keys and the sax. Overall, the album is a great representation of the idea of America.
4
Oct 16 2024
View Album
Shaka Zulu
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
I love a cappella, so this is starting nicely. Great harmonies and timing. Beautiful album. Yibo Labo is my favorite.
3
Oct 17 2024
View Album
Behaviour
Pet Shop Boys
This shouldn't be on the list. It's great background music, but I honestly forgot it was playing for a bit. Just seems like a basic album. 1.
1
Oct 18 2024
View Album
The Modern Dance
Pere Ubu
Interesting. Never heard of these blokes. I'm hearing some Tunde type vocals there on Modern Dance. Maybe some Oxbow. Strange album, but I'm glad I've heard it. Humor Me was a good ending song, and my favorite.
3
Oct 21 2024
View Album
L.A. Woman
The Doors
Some of my favorite songs on this one, Love Her Madly and the title track. This album gets a bit weird toward the back half. Sounds like a band that has been drinking all night, then had to get up on stage and perform. Riders on the Storm is a great ending to the album. Solid 4.5 on this.
4
Oct 22 2024
View Album
I Should Coco
Supergrass
This is a fun, playful album. Some good energy on here. I definitely recognize Alright. Parts of this sound like a watered down Ween mixed with Thee Oh Sees. I enjoyed listening to it, but nothing is driving me to listen again. She's So Loose was my favorite. Good album, so I'll give it a 4.
4
Oct 23 2024
View Album
Odelay
Beck
Beck has only gotten better over time. I was a huge fan of Mellow Gold when it came out. This one was the next evolution for him. This doesn't have some of the gloomy, weird style songs that were on mellow gold, but still has some of the flavor. I think it's more mature, but he's still figuring it out. I like New Pollution as a favorite "hit", and Readymade as the deep cut. Not my favorite Beck album, but I'll give it a solid 4.
4
Oct 24 2024
View Album
Medúlla
Björk
Yes! This is a top 3 Bjork album for me. All vocals, strange, beautiful, magnificent. Loaded with great guest artists. Up until this point, Bjork had incorporated various eclectic instruments and electronic music into her albums, but she flipped the script and went A Cappella for this one. Totally amazing. Getting the best human beat box and best male vocalist of all time to guest was an excellent decision. My favorite song is Vökuró. Easy 5 for this album.
5
Oct 25 2024
View Album
Sweetheart Of The Rodeo
The Byrds
This is an interesting album pull, because I'm going to my first rodeo tomorrow. Pleasant opening tune. I like the country guitar. Nice harmonies. Just a very old school country vibe on this album, which is really the only type of country worth listening to. I don't know much about The Byrds, but I didn't think they were a country group. We'll, and it seems they ran out of country songs, because it tails off at the end, then comes back. I don't know... I enjoyed this album, overall, so I'll give this a 4.
4
Oct 28 2024
View Album
Rio
Duran Duran
Great album here! The bass stands out throughout the whole album. So many hits, Rio, Hungry Like the Wolf, Save a Prayer. Much nostalgia. Duran Duran just hits different than other groups from this time. They have the music you can cut a rug to, and the softer ballads. I really enjoy some of the deep cuts, like Hold Back the Rain and Last Chance on the Stairway. Not quite a 5 for me, but a solid 4.5
4
Oct 29 2024
View Album
Pink Moon
Nick Drake
Cool artwork. I've never fully listened to this guy's music, although I am familiar with his name. Some really nice guitar work! Mellow music, somber vocals, beautiful album. I can hear this influence in some newer music (Father John Misty, Fleet Foxes, The Clientele, José González, etc.) I really enjoyed this, and I am now curious to listen to more of his catalog. I'm giving this a 4.
4
Oct 30 2024
View Album
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
I love me some Peter Gabriel! This is a great first solo album, but his albums get better as he goes on. I can't not hear the vocals and think of Silverchair's Young Modern album. A solid break away from Gensis, but the best is yet to come. I give this a 4.
4
Oct 31 2024
View Album
Born To Run
Bruce Springsteen
This one is good. Again, I'm not a huge Springsteen fan. Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out is my favorite hit, and I liked Meeting Across the River. Solid 3 on this.
3
Nov 01 2024
View Album
Music Has The Right To Children
Boards of Canada
This is alright, if I were huffing airduster in a cool-off tent at a rave. Nothing really inspiring about this low-fi trip-hop, just good background stuff. I'll give this a 2.
2
Nov 04 2024
View Album
Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
If Mick Jagger and David Bowie had a baby that speedballed, it would be Iggy Pop. I like Bowie, and I don't like Jagger. Iggy is more on the Jagger side for me, as in I'm not a huge fan. Although, I did like that Stooges album we listed to awhile back. I guess this is a good album, but it isn't something I would listen to voluntarily. Glad I heard it, though. 3
3
Nov 05 2024
View Album
Different Class
Pulp
I've never heard a Pulp album, so first for me. This is alright. Kind of a lesser than Bowie or Smiths. Monday Morning was fun. I probably won't listen to this again, but I'm not mad about having to listen. Middle of the road here, 3.
3
Nov 06 2024
View Album
Fly Or Die
N.E.R.D
I never really got into NERD's first album, so I never really knew they had additional albums. I'm phamiliar with Pharrell, but I couldn't tell you any song that I like of his. He is regarded as a great producer/performer. So far, the title track is alright. I was going to say this has a slight Lenny Kravitz vibe, then I see that he makes an appearance, lol. Drill Sergeant is is groovy, then it turns into a Flash Gordon tune. Strange and interesting. I enjoyed this album. I give it a 3.4
3
Nov 07 2024
View Album
Get Behind Me Satan
The White Stripes
I am not a fan of The White Stripes. I've tried to get into them. I do have respect for Jack White, but this music is just too basic and I don't like his voice. I'm actually upset that I have to listen to a full album of theirs again, but this is the task we have been given... If I had to pick a favorite, it would be As Ugly As I Seem. It isn't a terrible album, but no higher than a 3 for me.
3
Nov 08 2024
View Album
Private Dancer
Tina Turner
Tina Turner rules! Just super strong, powerful vocals. You can definitely jazzersise to the opening track. Sweat it out!! What's Love Got to Do With It? Dope! Much nostalgia. I Can't Stand the Rain sounds a bit like a Peter Gabriel tune. Man, so many hits on this album. Private Dance is a karaoke favorite. Interesting cover on Let's Stay Together, and I love her take on it, as well as Ball of Confusion. Good stuff. This is a solid 80's album with passionate vocals. 4 stars here.
4
Nov 11 2024
View Album
Dire Straits
Dire Straits
Pretty good yacht rock album. It's a bit slow, but nice music. I like the hit song, Sultans of Swing. I don't have much to say about it, as usual. Decent album from a decent band. 3
3
Nov 12 2024
View Album
Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
Definitely not my favorite Cure album, but I love the vibe, more so than their first album. It feels like they are coming into their sound on this one, and they keep honing it in on later albums. A Forest is a favorite. I'll give this a 3.5, but some of their later albums get a 5.
3
Nov 13 2024
View Album
Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
Ah, great voice. A throwback. Good music to fit, kind of Budos Band-ish on track 2. Doowop on other songs. This is a really groovy album. Not much needs to be said about it. I give this a 5, because I don't hear a weak point.
5
Nov 14 2024
View Album
Vanishing Point
Primal Scream
I guess I never got into these folks in high school. I did listen to similar stuff, but not this. It sounds ok. I enjoy track 5. I can't fit this into a single category. There's an electronic vibe to it, but it isn't techno at all. It's as if God Lives Underwater was more like Orbital and nothing like God Lives Underwater. Not sure if that makes sense. I prefer God Lives Underwater. This is pretty decent trippy 90's music. Stuka is dope. I'll slap a 3 on this.
3
Nov 15 2024
View Album
LP1
FKA twigs
I'm not sure who this is, but the first song sounds like something you might hear on a Bjork album, so I'll give it a go. This sounds pretty good. Not really something I would normally sit around listening to, but I couldn't see vibing this on a night drive through the city. I dig the music, for sure, so high marks on the production. I'm not sure how involved Twigs is in that process, but this is groovy. The vocals aren't super powerful, but it fits the vibe. I'll go 3 on this.
3
Nov 18 2024
View Album
Bad
Michael Jackson
Nothing needs to be said about this album. It's a 5.
5
Nov 19 2024
View Album
The Cars
The Cars
Can there be anymore hits on an album? This one is jam packed. When I think of unique 80's bands, Cars is on that list. Just different than most, but still very palatable. Odd vocals, but it works for them. It doesn't warrant a 5, but on the hits and nostalgia I'll give it a 4.5.
4
Nov 20 2024
View Album
Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Really great rock album, and ahead of its time. I think later bands in the late 70's, early 80's bit this style. I can hear some Van Halen and a bit of Motley Crue in some of this, but then they slow it down with the ballad, Dear Friends. Then, out of the blue, they give you Bring Back That Leroy Brown. Great range here. Obviously, one of the best rock singers of all time. Based on the range and perfect execution, this album is an easy 5 for me.
5
Nov 21 2024
View Album
Melodrama
Lorde
Oh, Lorde. I like the cover art. I'm not a fan of her voice. It's not bad, but not for me. She seems to be a good songwriter, but this album isn't moving me. I'm thankful that I had the chance to hear it, but I most likely won't listen to anything else from her without being forced to do so. 2 rating.
2
Nov 22 2024
View Album
Third
Soft Machine
First, I love the hair cuts. I've never heard of these guys, but I like the sound. Jazzy, progressive music? Sign me up! This was a really fun one to listen to while working. These guys were definitely groundbreaking. I'm upset I'd never listened before, but no time like the present to listen to all their albums. The vocals aren't great, but I understand it's difficult to sing on acid. I'll give this a 3.5.
3
Nov 25 2024
View Album
Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
Well, this has a bunch of my favorite Hendrix songs, so this will be an easy 5. There's no need to explain, because Hendrix is basically a legend. Crosstown Traffic and Burning of the Midnight Lamp are my top 2 on this album.
5
Dec 05 2024
View Album
Fred Neil
Fred Neil
Not sure who this is. Opening track sounds cool. This seems like an odd mix of Johnny Cash and Elvis, if they were a bluesy-americana thing. Interesting. Not really my bag here, but it's pleasant enough to vibe the album. Fred is my dad's name, so he gets a point there. Cool ending song. This was good, but middle of the road to me. 3.
3
Dec 06 2024
View Album
Mothership Connection
Parliament
I funking love this one. I saw these guys in the 90's with a gigantic mothership on stage. What a great show! This is a fun album that no doubt influenced later Westcoast hip hop. It doesn't get funkier than this, unless you're talking about another Parliament, or Funkadelic album. I saw a recent documentary about this group, and I lost a lot of respect for George Clinton. He's basically a big piece of shit, and he screwed all these great musicians out of money. Crack is wack. I give this a funky 4.
4
Dec 09 2024
View Album
Arrival
ABBA
Abba! Man, I can't wait to read Joel's review of this... It's a fun album that brings out a smile while I'm listening to it. Dancing Queen slaps. The title track is cool. This isn't something I would vibe, but it is groovy at points. Kind of easy listening at other points. I'm going to give this a 3.
3
Dec 10 2024
View Album
Birth Of The Cool
Miles Davis
Well, it doesn't get cooler than this. This is one of my favorite pre-1960 Miles albums out of the 1000 he released before 1960.... Budo and Deception are two favorite songs, with Rogue killing it at the end. It's a straightforward jazz album, a great one. A 5 here.
5
Dec 11 2024
View Album
In The Wee Small Hours
Frank Sinatra
Ah, The Sultan of Swoon! Great mellow crooning. There are some bangers for grandma on here. I definitely have days where I like to vibe this music. He is one of the greats. I like What Is This Thing Called Love, but I prefer Billie Holliday's version. I'll give this a 4.
4
Dec 12 2024
View Album
Synchronicity
The Police
Decent rhythm section here. I had to check to see if it switched over to King Crimson on track 4. I had no idea Police got down like that. This album was alright, but I don't really like Sting's voice. For that, I'll give this a 3.
3
Dec 13 2024
View Album
American Beauty
Grateful Dead
Well, not a huge fan of these guys, but we must do what we must do. Hopefully, these shrooms will kick in soon and carry me through til the end. Look, they're all good at their instruments, but I just find this uninspiring. I can't put my finger on why I don't like it, but I have a strong desire to not listen to this ever again. 2
2