Neon Bible
Arcade FireNot bad… consistent… reminiscent of U2 without the edge.
Not bad… consistent… reminiscent of U2 without the edge.
I’m sure this is an important album that deserves better, but I didn’t latch onto anything here.
There are albums that stylistically I think I’ll like, but they prove shallow and unmemorabke. Then there is an album like this that I wouldn’t seem to match my tastes as well but it draws me in. Truthfully I need to give the latter half more time, it didn’t feel as strong, but the first half is strong. Also, randomly… I could picture mashing this up with Talking Heads’ “Remain in Light.”
This is beyond reasonable dispute one of the greatest albums of all time, so I will only add these thoughts to those who only hearing it now, 50-60 years after its release. 1) you have to think in terms of chronology. This album is from 1967, and it is the headwaters of so much that would later be dubbed “alternative.” Basically, most of my favorite music starts here. (The rest begins with the Beatles.) 2) again, 1967! What a year! It’s unbelievable the albums released this year which included the Doors first album, the first two Jimi Hendrix albums, Sgt Pepper, and more. 3) don’t try this at home… well, try the music but not the lifestyle choices being described. For example, Heroin… please just don’t. This album transports you to the New York underside circa 1967, but also to its art scene - which is why you get Andy Warhol involved in the mix as well. There is deconstruction, some self-destruction, and beauty. Wow, I said too much… make sure to also listen to their second album (self titled) and to Loaded.
Was pleasantly surprised as this album kicked off. It retained a good sound but, at least first time through, didn’t give me much reason to return. Better than expected overall but can’t get it past three stars.
You can’t not listen. It pulls you in and insists you enjoy the remarkable musicianship.
The eightiest poppiest of 80s pop, but some pretty interesting things going on below the surface. Really is a lot of fun.
Listened twice. Great sound, consistent, and pleasant. I would return to it.
just in case you didn’t know, this was recorded after the Let it Be (or “Get Back”) sessions. It shows that they stayed at the top of their game till the end. Literally till The End (one of my favorite songs on this album.) George Harrison was clearly coming into his own, as he contributes Something and Here Comes the Sun.
Intelligent progressive pop. It doesn’t always excite but it’s a quality production.
Very unclear why this must be listened to before one’s demise. Some will enjoy it nevertheless. But for me it does not invite another, closer listen.
Some great noise and guitar work on this rock’n’punk album but something was missing. The second track was covered by REM, I’m told, and that was a highlight.
Great song titles. Interesting and somewhat engaging music. Apparently making a statement. Probably an acquired taste…
Everything about this is intriguing. And sounds pretty good. I’m rounding up to 4 stars.
A couple strong tracks and I don’t really think the title track quite gets there. There is some great music going on behind the lyrics and way-too-serious vocal delivery. This came out in 1969… go back two years and find the Doors first album doing everything this was trying to do, so much more successfully. But hey, getting a classic from 1969 is welcome nevertheless.
Here’s a deep cut I’d never heard from an amazing year in music. Genre bending, psychedelic, and experimental. It’s not flawless but it gets 5 stars from me - because it’s just the kind of treasure I hope to find among in the 1001. Enjoyed it and will return to it!
The joke is on us.
Great band. This is first time hearing this album in its entirety and while it has some down moments I’m rounding up to 5. Best to listen through while reading the lyrics…
This one was disappointing - just didn’t live up to its potential. The opening song “Kicks” will be recognizable and “Not Your Stepping Stone,” but even these don’t have much staying power for me. It’s OK.
Love the cover, with the band dwarfed by nature. Standout songs included Darkness, Darkness and Besutiful.
I don’t get the hype.
The Bible itself gives the best review… from 2 Kings 9:20. “And the watchman told, saying, “He came even unto them and cometh not back; and the driving is like the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi, for he driveth furiously.””
As albums, What LA Woman is to the Doors, John Barleycorn is to Traffic.
Three stars kinda feels like too many but it’s not a bad album. It has its moments but they are just…moments. Not sure how it earned a place on this list.
Not bad… consistent… reminiscent of U2 without the edge.
It will take you a while to get to the songs you most recognize - Pinball Wizard, I’m Free, and We’re Not Gonna Take It. Enjoy the journey. This entire (double) album sounds so good, and Keith Moon on drums keeps each song interesting and engaging.
There are about five stand out songs here with my favorites being Jesus Christ and For You. Both appear to be worship songs not sure they worship the same person. I like their sound but mainly the more energetic songs… although their cover of Femme Fatale certainly hits the mark. Would it grow on me further? TBD. But I’m rounding up to 4 stars because the songs I like I will definitely return to.
This album was a forceful expression of where rap could go creatively. It converted me from a rap skeptic in the 80s, although other trends in the genre keep trying to push me back.
I’m sure this is an important album that deserves better, but I didn’t latch onto anything here.
I cannot judge this genre intelligently - this 2 star review just represents my level of enthusiasm.
There are albums that stylistically I think I’ll like, but they prove shallow and unmemorabke. Then there is an album like this that I wouldn’t seem to match my tastes as well but it draws me in. Truthfully I need to give the latter half more time, it didn’t feel as strong, but the first half is strong. Also, randomly… I could picture mashing this up with Talking Heads’ “Remain in Light.”
A synth-pop album that surprised me with its ability to draw me in. Emotionally, lyrically, and musically interesting. Made me want to discover more from this band.
U2 have several members who profess the Christian faith. On this album you see how Faith, uncertainty, and companionship are intertwined in a weary world. The highlight for me lyrically and emotionally is Peace on Earth, a lament that is resolved by Grace, the final track. This album is musically and lyrically excellent with only a minor misstep here and there. If you only know the single Besutiful Day… well, I tend to forget that is part of this album.
A quite-good indie album. I was “rounding up to 4” until the last three songs when I was tempted to round up to 5. Was it just my mood? In any case, don’t miss those… and enjoy. I’ll be returning to this one for sure.
Obviously, some really excellent music on here! I think that Stevie Wonder was building on the sound of Sly & the Family Stone’s “There’s a Riot Going On” but with a much sunnier vibe. I’m only giving it four stars because, for me, some of the ballads don’t hold my attention as well.
Picture the classic Mothers of Invention albums such as “Absolutely Free” or “We’re Only In It for the Money” or maybe even “Apostrophe.” Now adjust it to something more serious, more epic, and more poetic. That’s what this album is like, maybe. This surely isn’t for everyone but it displays tremendous talent. If you’re prone to skip, at least slow down and take in “Casimir Pulaski Day,” which is not very much about Casimir Pulaski Day.
While I don't share John Lydon's disdain for religion, I can appreciate the anger at bad religion. (Jesus was known for this as well, see for example Matthew 23.) But this album gets 4 stars for the other statement it makes. Fresh off the Sex Pistols' musical coup, John Lydon (formerly Johnny Rotten) goes into full deconstruction mode - not just about religion but about celebrity, fame, and (you guessed it) image. There are some great sounds here. I love the vibe of Annalisa, based on a sad story of religious malpractice. This sound would be reproduced and deepened on Metal Box, aka Second Edition. Meanwhile, Fodderstompf apparently draws inspiration from Monty Python, the Beatles, and maybe the Mothers of Invention. If you don't like a song, wait till the next one. There's quite a bit of variety here. That alone is interesting coming off of "Never Mind the Bullocks." And besides, if you literally hate some of the tracks on this record, that's probably what John Lydon was going for.
This is album that has its moments. "A Minha Menina" is a cover of a song by Os Mutantes, an impressive 60's Brazilian experimental psychedelic band (!) whose 1968 album is part of the 1001. Most of the album doesn't sound quite like this but, again, there are moments. I liked the sound and feel of "Angryman" and "Sweet Like a Champion." Mostly I'm intrigued by the story: two friends create an album in the shed of their parents' garden, which sounds like a British version of the tech company started in a parents' garage. I'm told the duo went on to tour with a "real" band, and that real band made some more good albums... curious to check them out! But I can only give 3 stars because I don't picture coming back to this one, promising as it is.
Great album with well known “Heart of Gold” and “Old Man,” but don’t miss “The Needle and the Damage Done.” First track and “Alabama” also strong. Then, go listen to “Tonight’s the Night.”
I actually first heard this album in 1988 and it has followed me around since then. An album like this gives this 1001 list credibility, it is an album not everyone has heard but really should. To fully appreciate it, put yourself in the musical landscape of 1988 and consider what a tour de force this was. This is a band in the zone and doing something unique. Other 5 star reviews can describe the musical accomplishment better than I can, so at this point I turn it over to them….
This is the most accessible Captain Beefheart album, with some quite remarkable moments. It dips a little here and there, especially with the maybe comical (?) “I’m Glad.” But the first two tracks should be enough to draw you in and keep you on the lookout for more weird greatness.
My thought process: What is this? Oh… Not as bad as I thought. But, maybe another time. That time never came.
I give 4 stars to the songs I extract from this double album and forge into my own playlist. They are: Sign o’ the Times Play in the Sunshine Starfish and Coffee Forever in My Life U Got the Look Strange Relationship I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man The Cross The other songs display Prince’s versatile talents but these are the songs that resonate with me at this point!
This guy is incredibly talented, but I don’t ultimately need this in my life. I can and suppose I will, in fact, die without it. 2 for the talent, minus 3 for making the world so much less beautiful
Can’t do this. And have no business rating it.
Fantastic offering from the Class of 67. A friend encouraged me to focus on the drums / percussion and I pass that advice along to you as well.
My 3 stars simply reflect the fact that I’m unlikely to return to this album. I’m sure it deserves more respect, but nothing is putting hooks into me personally…
I was introduced to this album in the early 80s, which I consider fortuitous given that the entire album is a deep cut. But do what I did then… drop the needle on “Side Black” which begins with Ogre Battle. What an amazing set of fantastical songs. And every member of the band in full stride. And hey, Side White is cool too.
Rock becomes punk becomes post-punk becomes Mudhoney becomes Nirvana. I wish I had been more aware of this band in my teenage years. Lyrically, there is not a whole lot to offer my grown adult, self, but musically… well, you had me at fuzz.
Garage rock meets blues. Reminiscent of the White Stripes but less lyrical depth. But, strong sound.
Fantastic album that still reveals the optimistic side of the 60s and hope for a better future, before the cynicism of the 70s set in. Intelligent lyrics, harmony, and some nice electric flourishes throughout. The biggest problem on the album is the jarring movement from the opening song, Carry On, to the second track, which is full on country. In fact, the album does have a little bit of unevenness that way, but the highs are so high. It’s still rounds up to a five star rating.
There are four albums by R.E.M. on this list if I’m not mistaken. I would gladly see this one swapped out for Life’s Rich Pageant or Out of Time. It’s hard when a band is so dominant that most of their albums deserve to be on the list. So by REM standards, this album is probably a four star by the standards of anything else that came out that year… Easy five star.
Of course 5! It would be strange indeed if you joined this 1001 community and didn’t want to hear albums like this (again) (and again). Enjoy!
This has hooks to draw you in. Really good stuff, and had never heard this album before. So... thanks!
It just sounds fantastic.
I am not sure the editors of 1001 know much about Cabaret or Broadway, and I’m not sure many of us do either. So here’s 4 stars from someone who has no business judging this album, because it had the air of quality and some stand out lyrics and some high class contributors.
A little better than expected with a 70s Eno & Talking Heads vibe… I don’t think it’s just familiarity that makes “Cars” stand out though.
Bob Marley is an important artist, I just don’t know if I would return to this album much. For reggae please drop the needle on “The Harder They Come” (soundtrack) and Pato Barton’s “Never Give In.” Thank you, and sorry.
Post-punk at its earliest and finest! So minimalistic so energetic so good. If you like this, leapfrog to 1997’s “Dig Me Out” by Sleater-Kinney.
Apparently thee are mostly cover songs, woven together and his own testament. There are a few that are poorly done, but it’s clear he doesn’t care what you think about that. Tough empathy. Sentiment breaking up from the hard ground. Most powerful song for me: “I Hung My Head.” (Written by…Sting?!)
I love good rap / hip hop that has a story to tell and something to say… but… not willing to dig through the profanity, violence, and misogyny to find it.
You will hear this described as power pop, retro, blues rock, and proto-punk. There's a lot of different sounds going on here but it fits together. My favorite songs were Yesterday's Numbers and Whiskey Woman. I didn't love the title track but its lyrics were something Billie Joe Armstrong would have written if he grew up in the 60s: When you see me Better turn your tail and run 'Cause I'm angry And I'll mess you up for fun I'm a child of atom bombs And rotten air and Vietnams, I'm you You are me FYI - the original album went up to Track 9 (Whiskey Woman) and everything that follows are bonus tracks from the CD release years later. The bonus tracks are covers of early 60s songs like "That'll Be the Day" and Walking the Dog... they sound GOOD.
This is beyond reasonable dispute one of the greatest albums of all time, so I will only add these thoughts to those who only hearing it now, 50-60 years after its release. 1) you have to think in terms of chronology. This album is from 1967, and it is the headwaters of so much that would later be dubbed “alternative.” Basically, most of my favorite music starts here. (The rest begins with the Beatles.) 2) again, 1967! What a year! It’s unbelievable the albums released this year which included the Doors first album, the first two Jimi Hendrix albums, Sgt Pepper, and more. 3) don’t try this at home… well, try the music but not the lifestyle choices being described. For example, Heroin… please just don’t. This album transports you to the New York underside circa 1967, but also to its art scene - which is why you get Andy Warhol involved in the mix as well. There is deconstruction, some self-destruction, and beauty. Wow, I said too much… make sure to also listen to their second album (self titled) and to Loaded.
These are tight pop songs that aren’t quite memorable but so pleasant - especially when the rhythm guitars and percussion create a bright little “pop jam.” In the best moments I’m reminded of early Talking Heads, or live Talking Heads, or if the horns kick in…end game Talking Heads. I wish I could round up to 4 but it’s not quite there - best 3 you could ask for.
Strong album. I listened a couple times because it grew on me the more I relaxed into its sound and the more familiar it became. I really like some of the deeper cuts too. The 1 star reviews by some on this site seem completely unserious and childish. Just had to say that.
This album had mixed reviews upon release but its acclamation has steadily grown. I’m still with those early reviewers, and not sure what the big fuss is about. But… a little fuss is warranted! So I’m rounding up to 4 for the musicality and the strength of its best songs (which are also the most familiar).
This album and I go way back and I can only give it 5 stars, even if there are two songs weaker than the others. But I agree it’s CS’s best, though for a complete experience step back one album and make sure to listen to Maybe You’re Right, I Think I See the Light, and Trouble - all songs included on the soundtrack to Harold & Maude along with some from Tillerman. An inspired soundtrack for sure.
The cover says it all. Joyful flamboyance with a smoldering cigarette in the center.
OK, I will rate this 4 Stars if you would be willing to go back one year to Fishbone’s “Truth & Soul.” The Pixies are attempting what Fishbone accomplished perfectly with their album a year earlier: a cutting edge suite of songs weaving multiple genres together into a hard edged, hard rock tapestry. Love that album. And I like this one. This album is well crafted and you just may love it.