1001 Albums Summary

Listening statistics & highlights

282
Albums Rated
3.17
Average Rating
26%
Complete
807 albums remaining

Rating Distribution

Rating Timeline

Taste Profile

1950
Favorite Decade
Jazz
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
20
5-Star Albums
16
1-Star Albums

Breakdown

By Genre

Tap a bar to see the albums behind it

Top Styles

Tap a bar to see the albums behind it

By Decade

By Origin

Albums

You Love More Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
5 3.29 +1.71
Raw Power
The Stooges
5 3.3 +1.7
Live At Leeds
The Who
5 3.31 +1.69
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
5 3.4 +1.6
Either Or
Elliott Smith
5 3.4 +1.6
Van Halen
Van Halen
5 3.61 +1.39
Highway to Hell
AC/DC
5 3.63 +1.37
A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
5 3.64 +1.36
Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
5 3.67 +1.33
Pearl
Janis Joplin
5 3.71 +1.29

You Love Less Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
1 3.39 -2.39
Melodrama
Lorde
1 3.32 -2.32
Better Living Through Chemistry
Fatboy Slim
1 2.98 -1.98
Walking Wounded
Everything But The Girl
1 2.97 -1.97
Foxbase Alpha
Saint Etienne
1 2.95 -1.95
The Contino Sessions
Death In Vegas
1 2.9 -1.9
Leftism
Leftfield
1 2.89 -1.89
Maverick A Strike
Finley Quaye
1 2.74 -1.74
Yank Crime
Drive Like Jehu
1 2.74 -1.74
Triangle
The Beau Brummels
1 2.7 -1.7

Artists

Favorites

Tap an artist to see their albums

ArtistAlbumsAverage
The Who 3 4.33
Beatles 5 4

Controversial

Tap an artist to see their albums

ArtistRatings
Neil Young 5, 4, 2, 2
Beatles 2, 5, 3, 5, 5

5-Star Albums (20)

View Album Wall

Popular Reviews

1999 by Prince

I never knew this was a double album! The first three songs of course are fire! What a way to start (and of course turned out to be the hit singles). From there it seemed like it was extended electronic funk jam filler for me. Had problems listening to the rest of it in one sitting after the first three songs since it seemed to peak too soon and steadily lost interest in the rest of the album. Not horrible but not great either.

Dog Man Star by Suede

Hear a lot of early Bowie influences here, especially one of the songs sounds like the ending to All the Madmen. Never heard of this band before, so must have been more well known across the pond than here in the US. Decent listen.

1-Star Albums (16)

All Ratings (282)

Smash by The Offspring
May 07 2024
Graceland by Paul Simon
May 08 2024

I remember the Call Me Al video in ‘86 with Chevy Chase? Hard to get past it :)

Raising Hell by Run-D.M.C.
May 09 2024

Forgot how great this album was. Skipped Walk This Way, though.

1999 by Prince
May 10 2024

I never knew this was a double album! The first three songs of course are fire! What a way to start (and of course turned out to be the hit singles). From there it seemed like it was extended electronic funk jam filler for me. Had problems listening to the rest of it in one sitting after the first three songs since it seemed to peak too soon and steadily lost interest in the rest of the album. Not horrible but not great either.

Live! by Fela Kuti
May 11 2024
The Doors by The Doors
May 11 2024

Such an amazing album, start to finish. I put The Doors on the backburner for the last 30 years, probably because of the Oliver Stone movie. Before that, I listened to them a lot, learned many songs on guitar.

Scum by Napalm Death
May 12 2024

I listened to my share of thrash back in the day in junior high - Metallica, Slayer, COC, DRI, Celtic Frost. Somehow I missed this one since it may have come right after. I rent a rehearsal room in a warehouse, and now I know the influence of what I hear ad naseum for the last 25 years where I live. My wife says zero stars but I’ll give it one for its influence :)

Off The Wall by Michael Jackson
May 13 2024

Have listened to this album on and off the last 30 years. Historically have like it better than Thriller. Side 1 would always get a ton of play but not so much with Side 2.

Purple Rain by Prince
May 14 2024

Classic from beginning to end.

Aqualung by Jethro Tull
May 16 2024

Rediscovered this album on vinyl last month and forgot how great it was. Really the only Jethro Tull album I like.

Led Zeppelin III by Led Zeppelin
May 18 2024

Perhaps my least favorite of all the Led Zep albums aside from In Through the Out Door and Coda. Grew on me over time. Since I’ve Been Loving You is perhaps in my top Led Zeppelin songs, especially their live version. Would give this 3 1/2 stars if possible, knowing I would rate their others 4-5 stars. Also enjoy this album more than the ones I ranked 3 stars so far.

With The Beatles by Beatles
May 21 2024

Not the biggest early Beatles fan, and this album is just simple, straight rock n’ roll, which I love. However, I prefer so many of their other albums in comparison. I know it’s borderline blasphemy to rank this so low given their impact, but judging on a curve compared to their other albums.

Dusty In Memphis by Dusty Springfield
May 23 2024

I own the 45 of this album and it is great. Not in my top albums of all time but very excellent.

The Atomic Mr Basie by Count Basie & His Orchestra
May 25 2024

Basie can swing! Definitely in my top 30 jazz albums. I looked for this record for a while during pandemic.

Pearl by Janis Joplin
May 28 2024
New York Dolls by New York Dolls
May 29 2024

Pure, straight ahead head rock and roll. No frills in the music. Love the guitar tones.

Harvest by Neil Young
May 30 2024

Classic. In my top 50 albums of all time.

Mermaid Avenue by Billy Bragg
May 31 2024

Heard Wilco before but not this one with Billy Bragg. Somehow missed this one in the late 90’s. Quite a find for me and cool story behind working with Woody Guthrie’s lyrics.

After The Gold Rush by Neil Young
Jun 01 2024

Not my favorite of his but a few really great songs.

All Hail the Queen by Queen Latifah
Jun 03 2024

Turns out I’m a fan of older school rap. Pleasantly surprised. Did not listen to this while growing up other than one song. Pretty good stuff.

Supa Dupa Fly by Missy Elliott
Jun 09 2024

Has its moments, an hour is long in my book these days. I actually didn’t realize she around in the 90’s and only heard her in the 2000’s. I would have liked this more back then, now I’m not so sure. Maybe the content hasn’t aged well.

Arrival by ABBA
Jun 10 2024

My wife gives it 4 stars since it’s in her wheelhouse. I would give it 2 so we’ll split the difference. Actually very catchy and poppy album.

The Suburbs by Arcade Fire
Jun 11 2024

Might have to give a few additional listens to appreciate it more. Not bad but not great at first listen.

Walking Wounded by Everything But The Girl
Jun 12 2024

Sounds like what I would hear in the Hyatt lobby. Maybe a little Sade influence? Love Sade but not so much this.

The White Album by Beatles
Jun 13 2024

My favorite Beatles album. Other two in my top-3 would be Rubber Soul and Revolver.

Jun 14 2024

Missed this movie in 1999. Soundtrack is okay, very sad considering my thoughts about suicide now that I’m older. Probably will give it 2 stars.

Getz/Gilberto by Stan Getz
Jun 15 2024

Definitely in my top 20 jazz albums of all time. Love Bossa nova and it started here.

Can't Buy A Thrill by Steely Dan
Jun 16 2024

Not a Steely Dan fan and would usually turn from the classic radio station when a song would come on. This first album is the rare exception. Not a fan of the mid to late 70’s Steely Dan sound.

Ellington at Newport by Duke Ellington
Jun 17 2024

Rebirth of Ellington. Gonsalves kills it on sax.

Iron Maiden by Iron Maiden
Jun 18 2024

My first record. Awesome experience hearing the opening riff to Prowler right away on one side, then the rest of the band coming in. Grew up on and favored the Bruce Dickinson stuff up to Powerslave back in the day, but that now seems like Spinal Tap opera looking back. Very much love the rawness of this first album, more straightforward, has aged much better than their later stuff.

Shake Your Money Maker by The Black Crowes
Jun 19 2024

I bought this CD when it came out in ‘90. I thought at the time they were a Faces and Rolling Stones rip-off, and enjoyed it probably because of that. I didn’t really follow them after this album as I moved on to other music, but sort of regret it now since it’s really great. Played a couple of these tunes that was fun to play in an old cover band I was in.

Jun 20 2024

Had this in cassette back in ‘86. Wow, have my musical tastes changed (well I was 12 at the time)! Anyway, not as shred as I remember. Mustaine’s voice can be grating at times but wasn’t as bad as I remember, since it’s been almost 40 years since I listened to it. Liked it back then, but not so much today.

The Velvet Underground & Nico by The Velvet Underground
Jun 21 2024

Love the poetic lyricism of this. Velvet Underground are one of my top bands, ahead of their time. Only turnoff is it can be too avant garde in spots. Reminds me of some intellectuals regarding avant garde jazz that those who dislike it aren’t smart enough to “get it.” Some like melodies and catchy tunes, not a ton of dissonance. I fall in the middle.

Triangle by The Beau Brummels
Jun 24 2024

It’s a cross of country, bluegrass, Bob Dylan, and psychedelia. Thought this was okay at first but his vibrato become increasingly piercing to the ear in an icepick way as the album continued.

Debut by Björk
Jun 25 2024

Bjork is an acquired taste.

Strange Cargo III by William Orbit
Jun 26 2024

Nice background music but that’s about it for me.

Bryter Layter by Nick Drake
Jun 28 2024

Really enjoy Nick Drake’s material. Think I like his other albums more than this one.

Definitely Maybe by Oasis
Jun 29 2024

Not the biggest Oasis fan. From an engineering standpoint, I find the mix bright in the rocking songs and that’s through a couple of tube amps where the high end might already be rolled off. Something in the high-mids.

Planet Rock: The Album by Afrika Bambaataa
Jul 01 2024

Knew of Africa Bambaattaa. Maybe even mentioned a few times in conversation growing up, but never purposefully listened to them. Wow. Genius! So great on so many levels.

A Love Supreme by John Coltrane
Jul 02 2024

This is in my top 10 albums of all time. Not just jazz albums, top 10 of all genres. A spiritual experience listening this every time.

Honky Tonk Heroes by Waylon Jennings
Jul 03 2024

Never really gave Waylon Jennings much of a listen since I’m not into Country. This was a great listen. Thanks!

Highway to Hell by AC/DC
Jul 04 2024

I would give this 4 1/2 stars, and this would be my favorite AC/DC album. Some has to do with it being Bon Scott’s last album. Another is the production by Mutt Lange. I use a couple of theses songs consistently as reference tracks when mixing rock. Maybe there could be more bass? Other than that, Lange’s techniques have been held close to the vest, and appreciate the production on such a great band and album.

Black Sabbath by Black Sabbath
Jul 05 2024

What a great album. Historically would have rated this 5 stars but now rating it closer to 4 stars for the following reasons — The remastering of this and other early Sabbath albums are not as balanced as those versions I bought in the 80’s. Ozzy’s vocals are soooooo forward and amped compared to the rest of the band, like he’s a good +15dB louder. Plus there’s something in the high mids or 2k-6kHz that’s ice picky, and I’m playing through tube stereos that have a little roll-off in the high end. I have to turn down the volume when he sings. It’s like Iommi, Geezer, and Ward are his backing band. This is the Rhino version that was just released (2024). Not sure if this is a Sharon thing to make it all about Ozzy, since my 2016 version of Masters of Reality is the same. Whereas, when I play my copies from the 80’s, Ozzy’s vocals are sitting in with the band better and everything is more balanced. I know it’s the trend right now to have vocals extra prominent and forward for a radio mix, but this isn’t Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, or The Voice TV show. As a result, I would advise others to check out earlier versions of this album where the vocals are not so hyped.

Disraeli Gears by Cream
Jul 06 2024

Not as good as I remember. Seems to be a lot of filler songs on the album. Three virtuosic legends in their prime, yet the songs don’t really come together for me aside from the classics on this album.

Jul 11 2024

Recognized the name but not what I thought it was going to be. Like an unexciting version of Prodigy.

Oar by Alexander 'Skip' Spence
Jul 12 2024

The year this came out should be in my wheelhouse and starts out decent. However, gets mellow, droning and monotonous as it goes on.

Electric Prunes by The Electric Prunes
Jul 14 2024

When the reissue came out a few months ago (in 2024) on vinyl, I first listened to it on Qobuz. It was okay, not sure if it was vinyl-worthy for me.

Blue Lines by Massive Attack
Jul 16 2024

Sounds like what I would hear at the Hyatt Place lobby bar.

Music by Madonna
Jul 17 2024

The only thing I can say about this is that I listened to this out of the 1,001 albums before I die. That’s about all I can say. Prefer her earlier stuff.

Imperial Bedroom by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Jul 19 2024

Not my favorite Elvis Costello album but okay.

Stand! by Sly & The Family Stone
Jul 23 2024

Sly & Family Stone at their peak in my opinion. Would give it 5 stars but the long Sex Machine tune took it down a notch for me unfortunately. Still a classic album.

Thriller by Michael Jackson
Jul 25 2024

I recently got the UHQR version of this and I’ve heard things I’ve never heard before. The separation is amazing. Although the detail some takes the party vibe out of the mix. It’s taken me many years to fully appreciate this album, all the performances and songwriting that went into it, and Quincy Jones’s production of this album. Simply amazing.

Machine Gun Etiquette by The Damned
Aug 02 2024

Never gave The Damned much of a listen. Surprised at the instrumentation and dynamics. Thought it was going to full steam all the time and was not. Would rank it higher perhaps after a few additional listens.

Porcupine by Echo And The Bunnymen
Aug 04 2024
Parachutes by Coldplay
Aug 06 2024

Perhaps my favorite Mingus album. Great to revisit.

Aug 09 2024

Fan of the greatest hits for years, on repeat early in my college years. This full album has its moments but the longer songs get monotonous for me.

2112 by Rush
Aug 10 2024
Butterfly by Mariah Carey
Aug 11 2024

Other than the first song, doesn’t seem like any strong melodies. Sounds like boilerplate filler after that.

All Directions by The Temptations
Aug 12 2024

Despite enjoying the lyrics and content at times, much prefer the David Ruffin Temprations.

Crime Of The Century by Supertramp
Aug 13 2024

Probably supposed to like them more based the production of their tunes, but unsure if I would give this another listen.

So by Peter Gabriel
Aug 19 2024

Once I get beyond Sledgehammer, this is a really good album.

Here Are the Sonics by The Sonics
Aug 23 2024

Holy moly! How did I miss this band before? Right in my wheelhouse. Straight ahead raw rock and roll.

Fever To Tell by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Aug 24 2024

Hard to believe this album is over 20 years old (as of 2024). Brings back memories. I was in a weekend warriors cover band with a female singer and wanted to okay either Maps or Y Control. No dice. Guess this was too “new” for the band.

Gentlemen by The Afghan Whigs
Aug 25 2024

Good but prefer Congregation. Brings back memories. One of my favorite bands at the time.

Moving Pictures by Rush
Aug 26 2024

Spent a lot of my youth trying to play YYZ.

Shadowland by k.d. lang
Aug 28 2024

Familiar with her contemporary hits but this is really great. She really has a great voice. Forgot that it was KD Lang I was listening to on this album. Reminiscent of Patsy Kline to me. Enjoyed it.

The Specials by The Specials
Aug 29 2024

Recognize a few of these tunes from growing up. Early ska. Much more into it than I was back then. Thoroughly enjoyed this.

Tommy by The Who
Aug 31 2024

Classic. Think their live version of Tommy is incredible.

Spiderland by Slint
Sep 01 2024

Awesome this made the 1,001 list!

Raw Power by The Stooges
Sep 05 2024

In my top 5 albums of all time. Straight ahead rock and roll. I get a chuckle out of Iggy’s mix with everything in the red and clipping. Adds to the awesomeness.

Siamese Dream by The Smashing Pumpkins
Sep 06 2024

Would rate it 4 1/2 stars if I could. Not quite in rare 5-star level desert island for me. The guitars sound immense and love the drum tone.

White Blood Cells by The White Stripes
Sep 07 2024

Tough to not give it 5 stars, so many great songs. Although I find myself consistently skipping a few.

Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs by Derek & The Dominos
Sep 10 2024

Of course, heard Layla a bazillion times but never this whole album. Glad I did after all these years. I enjoy the other songs much more than I do Layla (the ending with the slide guitar drags for me - I know, blasphemy since it’s Allman). Sounds like Freddie King’s tone and playing on several of these songs. A few of the standards he always played are here (ex: Key to the Highway). Know Clapton took a lot from him. Great listen. Enjoyed this a lot and might be my favorite Clapton-related album.

Celebrity Skin by Hole
Sep 12 2024

Sounds like a bunch of Smashing Pumpkins songs instead with female vocals. Okay album but not sure if I’ll listen again.

McCartney by Paul McCartney
Sep 15 2024

Maybe I’m Amazed and Every Night are both incredible songs but the rest of the album is a rough listen, considering it represented the end of The Beatles. Not good compared to both Harrison and Lennon’s first albums post-Beatles. 2 stars might be a bit harsh but not sure I can give it 3 based on two songs.

So Much For The City by The Thrills
Sep 16 2024

I’ve lived in California all my life (50 years) and was wondering why I haven’t heard of this band before with tunes like Bug Sur and Santa Cruz. Turns out they’re from Ireland. Well, that probably explains it. A good listen. I can see where where the novelty might have worn off given the inauthenticity, as well as not working here in the US.

Frank by Amy Winehouse
Sep 19 2024
Either Or by Elliott Smith
Sep 24 2024

This has been in regular rotation for so long. In my top 20 or 30 albums.

Dog Man Star by Suede
Sep 26 2024

Hear a lot of early Bowie influences here, especially one of the songs sounds like the ending to All the Madmen. Never heard of this band before, so must have been more well known across the pond than here in the US. Decent listen.

Transformer by Lou Reed
Sep 28 2024

I forgot what a great album this is. Certainly appreciate it much more now that many years ago.

Sep 30 2024

When putting this on, surprised to hear country and bluegrass, so had to read the backstory. I can see where fans were put off by it given the change from previous Byrds albums, as well as country folks thinking that a hippie band was trying to hijack country. This album probably made no one happy, both fans and non-fans. However, I found this was a great listen, maybe since I’m not into country, so the crossover works for me. Do miss the McGuinn 12-string Ricky jangle, though.

Pink Moon by Nick Drake
Oct 01 2024

Classic in my book. My favorite of his albums. Was in my regular rotation for while.

Melodrama by Lorde
Oct 02 2024

Of all the pop albums to be released in the last ten years, this one makes the list??? The lyrics of the first are atrocious and the rest of the album gets a tiny bit better from there. Classic record label songwriting at its best right here.

Talking Heads 77 by Talking Heads
Oct 03 2024

Ashamed that I never listened to this album beyond Psycho Killer. Has some great moments. Haven’t been a huge Talking Heads fan but would probably put this as my favorite link of theirs. Would give it 3 1/2 stars if I could.

A Hard Day's Night by Beatles
Oct 05 2024

Some all-time great songs but some filler as well? They were producing so many songs during this time that they had clunkers, too. Prefer the later Beatles stuff but some of this is great as well.

The Only Ones by The Only Ones
Oct 06 2024

Definitely will have to listen again. Seems that a lot of bands that came later, and in some cases much later, where influenced by them. I hear early Violent Femmes. Some early Strokes. Some vocals sound like early Brendan Benson. The song “Immortal” reminds of something from Weezer’s Maladroit. Understood this album came out decades earlier, but never listened to any of the band’s material before this listen. Might give it 4 stars based on listening to it more.

Rubber Soul by Beatles
Oct 08 2024

Definitely in my top 10 albums of all time.

Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits
Oct 11 2024

Feel like I’m supposed to like Dire Straits, great guitar playing, great sound and production. Alas, their music doesn’t hit with me. Plus I heard Money for Nothing ad nauseam in the mid-80’s. Hard to give it 2 stars due to my fast being a bit different.

Oct 12 2024

Really like the songs beyond the “hits,” as I never listened to this whole album. Only seem a couple of fillers on here.

Be by Common
Oct 17 2024
Oct 20 2024

Of all the Ray Charles albums in this list, unsure why this and not others. It’s okay, more like a few country tunes with an old R&B feel. Not terrible but not great.

Unknown Pleasures by Joy Division
Oct 23 2024

Great album. Ian Curtis was amazing. Love Peter Hook’s playing.

Ten by Pearl Jam
Oct 24 2024

My friend in high school told us about how the members from Mother Love Bone got another band together from a singer originally from our area (San Diego). He got a hold of a demo tape, perhaps from friend-of-friend of a friend. Popped it in the tape player of a friend’s car and said “this is the band I want us to sound like.” Pretty funny looking back and I haven’t given it a complete listen in more than 30 years. Brings back memories. Forgot out great the first 2/3rds of the album are, perhaps loses a little interest towards the end.

Country Life by Roxy Music
Oct 25 2024

I feel Roxy Music never got their due here in the U.S. as much as they did in the U.K. This is a good listen, although prefer their first album.

Sign 'O' The Times by Prince
Oct 29 2024

I don’t remember much of this album when it came out, maybe since it was overshadowed by Purple Rain and 1999. After listening to this, I feel Prince wrote better songs for other artists at the time. Other than a couple of songs, unsure I’d give this whole album another listen.

Ragged Glory by Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Oct 31 2024

Understood this may have been a bit of a comeback for him after his intentional 80’s druthers outputting things to upset his label at the time. Parts of this I like, probably needs to be shorter to listen to the entire album in one sitting.

Siembra by Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
Nov 01 2024

Interesting choice. I probably prefer Costa neustra and The Hustler only because I’m more familiar with those. Perhaps need a few more listens of this to compare but so far prefer those.

Revolver by Beatles
Nov 02 2024

Maybe other than Rubber Soul, the best Beatles album in my opinion. White album is up there for me as well.

Murmur by R.E.M.
Nov 05 2024
Get Behind Me Satan by The White Stripes
Nov 11 2024

Not my favorite White Stripes album. Got this when released and perhaps a letdown from previous albums. A few good songs but seems like a lot of filler?

Kid A by Radiohead
Nov 12 2024
Back In Black by AC/DC
Nov 23 2024

Along with Highway to Hell, appreciate Mutt Lange’s production. Reference track material for me when mixing.

Dirt by Alice In Chains
Dec 04 2024
Green by R.E.M.
Dec 06 2024
Exit Planet Dust by The Chemical Brothers
Dec 15 2024

Thanks for having this on the list. I haven’t listened to this in almost 30 years. Used to get home from work late at 9pm, veg out watching my roommate playing video games listening to this (and Prodigy), then going to bed and waking up at 5am to go back to work. Feel I can appreciate this more. Brings back memories.

Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones
Jan 11 2025

Perhaps my all-time favorite Stones album. The first half alone is amazing. the second half drags in some places or else I'd give it 5 stars. If there's 4 1/2, I'd rank it there.

Dirty by Sonic Youth
Jan 16 2025
Blur by Blur
Jan 18 2025
Yank Crime by Drive Like Jehu
Jan 27 2025

Surprised to see this San Diego band on this list. Rocket From The Crypt was the band everyone looked up to at the time. Not sure I was aware of the connection. My buddies shared the same bill with Jehu quite a few times. Perplexes me how the had a following at the time, let alone making it on this list.

Heavy Weather by Weather Report
Jan 31 2025

Absolute monsters on this album — Shorter, Jaco, etc. Can see why this made the list as it’s one of the few jazz albums of the late 70’s that broke new sounds. However, it does sound a bit stuck in the late-70’s as well. One of those albums I feel I should like much more than I do.

In Rainbows by Radiohead
Feb 01 2025

I bought this direct from them when it was released, which was novel at the time. Back then, I wanted it to be more OK Computer or even a little Kid A, so I was disappointed at the time. Definitely appreciate and enjoy it more listening to it now. Still a handful of songs I would skip.

Fromohio by fIREHOSE
Feb 03 2025

First gig was opening up for these guys while I was still in high school. So great to listen to this again, brings back memories. Also a Minutemen fan as well. Talking to Mike Watt in his red flannel back then in 1990 was pretty cool looking back.

Destroyer by KISS
Mar 10 2025

Memories growing up in the late-70’s to this. Part of my soundtrack at the time.

Low by David Bowie
Mar 11 2025

Definitely an acquired taste for sonic landscapes and a bit of the avant garde. Not for everyone.

Beauty And The Beat by The Go-Go's
Mar 13 2025

Better than I remember. Not sure I listens to the album before. Actually liked the other songs better than the hits.

Out Of The Blue by Electric Light Orchestra
Mar 18 2025

Sounds a bit stuck in disco late 70’s rock for me and not age well.

25 by Adele
Mar 19 2025

Adele’s voice is incredible. The album is a bit long for me and runs together in some spots where it starts to sound similar throughout the whole album. Other than that, this album captures her performances really well.

Heroes by David Bowie
Apr 02 2025
Truth by Jeff Beck
Apr 21 2025

Wow, I forgot how great this album is. This was on constant repeat for me in the early 90’s and as a guitarist was the type of band I wanted to be in. What strikes me now listening to it thirty years later is the R&B and soul coming through, and the groove. Perhaps I was too focused on the guitar playing and Rod’s vocals not to appreciate the whole. A definite addition to the vinyl collection.

Blue by Joni Mitchell
Apr 22 2025

Perhaps my favorite Joni Mitchell album out them all.

Queen II by Queen
Apr 29 2025

Actually enjoy this more than Night at the Opera, despite the “lack” of hits (perhaps this was only the case in the US). Love the sound of this album.

Apr 30 2025

Would like to give this a few more listens before ranking. Unfamiliar with “later” Byrds material but I rather enjoyed this up until a couple of songs towards the end.

The Number Of The Beast by Iron Maiden
May 03 2025

This was the ultimate Iron Maiden album when I was growing up. Had a poster of the Live After Death over my bed as a 12-year-old. Funny that now I much prefer the Paul Di’Anno albums as they don’t sound as dated to me, more straight ahead raw rock. Bruce Dickinson in hindsight is a bit too opera for me, but I’ve been rediscovering an appreciation for this phase of Iron Maiden as this was them at their top.

May 04 2025

Wow, French rap/hip hop? Who knew. Enjoyed this more than a lot of American stuff. Had a Tribe Called Quest feel. Enjoyed this.

#1 Record by Big Star
May 05 2025

Never even heard of this group or album over the years until recently when seeing the album cover, perhaps due to vinyl reissues. The music was not what I was expecting based on the cover. Seemed like it was influenced by a blend of later psychedelic Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, CSN. There’s a song that reminds me of early KISS (which I know came later). I also hear a lot of influences on bands many years later. A surprisingly good listen. Would rank it higher but need to hear it more to give it 4 stars.

Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock
May 06 2025

Really love this album. Has been a staple in my vinyl collection for years.

Aftermath by The Rolling Stones
May 11 2025

Relistened to the UK version. What a great album. Feel that Going Home might be filler but also understand that’s them getting back to blues. Reminded how amazing Brian Jones is on this. Also, not sure if it’s because of the hi-res version I listened to but Bill Wyman’s bass really comes through more than I remember. One of the great albums I don’t have on vinyl.

Gorillaz by Gorillaz
May 12 2025

First half sounds like a Blur album, which was disappointing for me. Second half is much better in my opinion. Much prefer Demon Days, though.

May 15 2025

I recall listening to this not long after it came out, as every few years, I browse SubPop’s website for new stuff (although I’m not sure why Arctic Monkeys showed up since they were on a different label). Anyway, enjoyed it much more as it beyond the first few songs. Much prefer this album by comparison to their more mainstream stuff, with the exception of AM. Perhaps I didn’t give it a chance before since I never got past the first couple of songs. Will have to give Suck It and See a relisten.

Reggatta De Blanc by The Police
May 17 2025

Although I prefer the raw sound and energy of Outlandos d'Amour, Copeland’s drumming on this is amazing. Then again, so is Andy Summer’s guitar work, then I really noticed Sting’s bass lines coming out as well. Incredible musicianship from these three guys. Perhaps like some of the other songs more than the hit singles.

Tapestry by Carole King
May 25 2025

I was going to rate this 4 stars but there’s really not a bad song on this album. One of those albums that’s always in and out of my rotation that my wife also enjoys.

Music for the Masses by Depeche Mode
May 27 2025

As a non-Depeche Mode fan, enjoyed Violater much more outside maybe a couple of songs.

Licensed To Ill by Beastie Boys
Jun 10 2025

No Sleep to Brooklyn and Fight For Your Right ruin it a bit for me, since the other songs are great. Brings back memories of junior high for me. Also partying in TJ while in college as a lot of these were nightclub staples.

Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys
Jun 15 2025

The only debate for me is which one I prefer, the mono or stereo version. Prefer the stereo version for the separation of all the vocals and instruments, with the expanded soundscape. Not weird like the Beatles stereo albums that were originally in mono. However, I feel the mono has a little more snap or punch, bass. I suppose it’s good to like both.

Devil Without A Cause by Kid Rock
Jun 16 2025

My opinion has not changed on this in 27 years when it was released.

Jun 18 2025

This album has recently been in rotation for me. Brings back memories. Growing up listening to SubPop, it was them and Soundgarden at the top. Seemed they got “left” behind at about this time, but hear that Arm was pretty adamant about staying on an independent label going back to the Green River days, whereas other bands coming through SubPop signed to major labels. Anyway, this has become my favorite Mudhoney album of them all.

Woodface by Crowded House
Jun 22 2025

Somehow missed Crowded House in the late-80’s outside of a few of their hits. This is probably my favorite album of theirs beginning to end.

Blood And Chocolate by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Jun 29 2025

Really decent album. Might not be up there with Aim Is True, This Year’s Model, or Armed Forces but definitely has a handful of gems. Recaptures a bit of the raw energy of his first two albums. I like it. Might give it four stars but hard to give it the same rating for me as the above albums mentioned.

Feast of Wire by Calexico
Jul 04 2025

Pleasantly surprised to see Calexico on this list. This is the album I’d point everyone to when listening to them for the first time. Hard to imagine it’s been 22 years since this was released (as of the date of this post).

Lust For Life by Iggy Pop
Jul 08 2025

Really like Idiot as well but a lot of great tunes on this. Sales brothers are completely awesome.

Giant Steps by The Boo Radleys
Jul 16 2025

Nondescript to me. I see why not as popular in the States.

Madman Across The Water by Elton John
Aug 04 2025

Starts off extremely well but from there seems to be a collection of too similar sounding songs? Perhaps should give it a few additional listens to appreciate the deeper cuts.

Ramones by Ramones
Aug 06 2025

I can see where some would think this album is repetitive but it’s straight ahead rock and roll, no frills.

Deja Vu by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Aug 21 2025

What a great album, especially side 1.

Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin
Sep 03 2025

Again, a difficult one for me to rate given there's really not a bad song on the album. Growing up listening to Classic Rock FM radio, Stairway to Heaven was always THE #1 SONG OF ALL TIME whenever they would do the countdown of the top 300 songs or whatever. I don't agree, and actually think they have better songs. However, given all the songs on here are incredibly great and timeless, yet it's also not my favorite Led Zeppelin album, hard for me not to give it anything under 4 stars.

Sep 26 2025

Boon! What a great band that influenced so many. Sad the way it ended and loved what Mike Watt did afterwards.

Synchronicity by The Police
Oct 26 2025

First album (cassette) I got as a kid. Brings back memories but I definitely like their other albums more today.

Daydream Nation by Sonic Youth
Nov 08 2025

First time I heard Sonic Youth was this album in the late 80’s. Still sounds great.

Nevermind by Nirvana
Nov 16 2025

Man, hard for me to rate this one since Bleach was on constant rotation in the car for me and my friends while I was in high school, along with Soundgarden, Mudhoney, Smashing Pumpkins, Chili Peppers pre-1991. On Nevermind's release date, after school was out we drove to Tower Records, bought it, and immediately popped it in the cassette player in the car. Our minds were totally blown. But then what used to our own underground scene of music was not so underground anymore, since by the end of senior year 9 months later, all the jocks and our valedictorian were listing to Nevermind. It was kinda like something died for us after this album was released, followed my Soundgarden's Badmotorfinger, Chili Pepper's Blood Sugar Sex Magik, and Pearl Jam's Ten. We had moved onto discovering other bands in late '92 as a result, like Pavement and Monster Magnet in their early years. However, my personal beliefs and experience don't take away from this being a great album for the songs and for the impact it had around outside my group of friends. We had moved on from the "hair bands" way before this was released, so this album helped everyone else catch up to where we already were.

American Beauty by Grateful Dead
Nov 18 2025

I always panned the Dead and my friends who were Deadheads going to their concerts (one in his orange VW bus with Empire Strikes Back curtains), but it's taken me 40+ years to appreciate them, and I find this album is simply amazing. So glad I bought the latest reissue on vinyl.

Van Halen by Van Halen
Dec 06 2025

This album is the whole reason I picked up a guitar as a kid. I suppose I’ve panned this album for while, though, probably because my tastes changed in the 90’s. However, growing up listening to classic rock radio in the 80’s, there was no denying this album’s influence and how many bands followed it. For me, there were albums before 1978 and albums after 1978 with this album being the inflection point. Ted Templeman got some criticism but looking back, this album sounds great. Not a bad song on here. Although not in my handful of top albums of all time, hard to give it anything lower than 5 stars.

Nothing's Shocking by Jane's Addiction
Dec 08 2025

This album was in constant rotation when I was in high school, even after Ritual came out. Perhaps not as good as I remember at the time, but brings back memories.

Reign In Blood by Slayer
Dec 13 2025

Brings back memories when I bought this with allowance funds while in junior high when it was released. Interesting to listen to it almost 40 years later. I remember liking their earlier stuff more but this sort of put them on the map.

Live At Leeds by The Who
Dec 21 2025

This album has the perfect guitar tones in my book. The deluxe version is amazing with the complete live version of Tommy. Simply incredible live band. Perhaps the best live album of all time.

Berlin by Lou Reed
Jan 13 2026

Masterpiece in my book but understand it’s not for everyone. I feel Bowie took this as a template for what he later did in the 70’s with his albums and with Iggy Pop.

There's A Riot Goin' On by Sly & The Family Stone
Jan 19 2026

First Sly & The Family Stone album I ever bought and my introduction to them back in high school. Much mellower than their previous albums. Like it for nostalgia reasons but prefer their stuff earlier than this. Also remember it had a different album cover.

The Modern Dance by Pere Ubu
Jan 22 2026

Sounds more modern to me than year would suggest. Good soundscapes and moments. Would be good background music as well. Unsure what to think of this one.

Jan 27 2026

Lots of recognizable songs. I feel this is the best version of Chicago, not the cheese ball late 70’s/early 80’s version.

Ghosteen by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Feb 04 2026
Go Girl Crazy by The Dictators
Feb 06 2026

Definitely tongue-in-cheek. Fun listen but not exactly rushing out to buy this album.

Dookie by Green Day
Feb 17 2026

Not my favorite Green Day album, but when this was released, boy were they considered a sell-out for getting a record deal. I left music, went to college and had a career hawking health insurance. These guys are still going 35+ years later playing music. Gotta hand it to them for that, so my whole entire attitude of being a "sellout" has changed since then.

Rage Against The Machine by Rage Against The Machine
Feb 28 2026

Band I used be in with friends ended up sharing the same bill with them a couple of times in early 90's. When this album came out with the videos on MTV, we kinda made fun of them at the time. My attitude has changed a bit some 35 years later. Good to put on when angry. Plus good they made a career out of it and Morello's still going after this time while I'm selling insurance.

1984 by Van Halen
Mar 02 2026

The first album I ever bought was this when it was released at the end of ‘83. Whole reason why I picked up a guitar. Not as good as VH1 but definitely this album throws it back to that first album. I feel that all the albums in between were loaded with filler (except for my favorite Mean Streets), especially with Diver Down that was released before this one.

Hot Fuss by The Killers
Mar 08 2026

I remember reading the Yahoo reviews when this was first released and one said “I didn’t know Duran Duran were still around.” Anyway, I really like this album, first half definitely better than the second half, almost where the second half has more filler? Seems their other albums that followed never captured the magic this first one had.

Songs The Lord Taught Us by The Cramps
Mar 09 2026

Awesome and their best in my opinion. Never been able to find a good copy on vinyl. If someone asked me where to start with the Cramps, this is the album I’d point to. Before they got more into their smut phase.

Let Love Rule by Lenny Kravitz
May 02 2026

Really liked this album when it came out. I think it’s his best album by a country mile. I felt his albums and songs that followed this in the 90’s were too deliberately similar to other classic bands and songs, as if they sat around and said “let’s do one that sounds like x song from John Lennon/Plastic Band,” or “y song from Jimi Hendrix.” Seems to me he found his own sound in the 00’s. Anyway, this album to me has a Sly & The Family Stone vibe but with more of a rock approach. Really appreciated this album listening to it after all these years.

Da Capo by Love
May 06 2026

Not nearly as good as Forever Changes in my opinion.

Dig Your Own Hole by The Chemical Brothers
May 08 2026

Exit Planet Dust set the bar, so hard not to compare this one to that. Good overall.

Horses by Patti Smith
May 16 2026

Finally listened to this after so many years. Sounded different to me the second listen than the first.

Jun 01 2026

I never went back to listen to the Syd Barrett Pink Floyd. Perhaps I need to give this a few listens before passing judgement, but it was mixed for me.

In The Wee Small Hours by Frank Sinatra
Jun 03 2026

Funny this comes up a few weeks after getting the new Tone Poet reissue on vinyl. Very good, have to be in the mood for it, though.

First Band On The Moon by The Cardigans
Jun 04 2026

I had their first album Life and had a crush on the singer at the time. Understood they also really like metal, which was funny since they were a pop band. Of course heard Lovefool a gazillion times, but never listened to this album before. The musicianship is really great on here. The lyrics of some songs are not the best, almost like filler lyrics, but a few other songs make up for it. However, the Iron Man cover took it several notches down for me right when I was thinking it was a decent album.

More Specials by The Specials
Jun 05 2026

Not as good as the previous album but still enjoy it. Not as much bottom end as the first album?

You're Living All Over Me by Dinosaur Jr.
Jun 12 2026

Pleasantly surprised to see this on the list. Mind blowing when it came out since it was so different than everything else “popular” at the time. I felt it was a return back to basic rock, although more complex than that. J. Mascis is a genius. Odd this wasn’t in constant rotation. Looking back, this was the band I wanted to be. Influenced so many for years to come.

Slanted And Enchanted by Pavement
Jun 14 2026

Huge Pavement fan. Stockton, CA! This album started it for me when It was released. Malkmus is a genius in my book. Love the raw energy.

Jun 19 2026

Their initial album was always on constant repeat for me in the mid-90’s and had TNT. This one might be my least favorite of those albums, improves in the 2nd half. They have better albums than this one. Saw them live at Fillmore West in 2000. Great show. The opening act was two people on laptops, which was kind of funny at the time. Interesting how some things haven’t changed in that front in 26 years.

Let It Bleed by The Rolling Stones
Jul 07 2026

Great album. Sticky Fingers is my favorite Stones album and this is a notch or two below that in my opinion. Love the slide guitars on here.

Group Sex by Circle Jerks
Jul 08 2026

Basic, straight ahead rock and roll but nothing that didn't come right before it at the time.

Urban Hymns by The Verve
Jul 15 2026

Other than Bitter Sweet Symphony (which is funny since I thought at the time was an Oasis song), the rest of the album is nondescript.

Superfuzz Bigmuff by Mudhoney
Jul 27 2026

This album was in constant rotation in the car on the drive to and from high school in 1990. Bought the vinyl not that long ago and gave it a listen. Brings back memories. My buddies and I thought they were the top Sub Pop band along with Soundgarden (even though they had moved labels). Nirvana was a tier below bit of course Nevermind changed all that later. Anyway, as much as I wish to give it 4 stars, I actually like their next two albums more now than I did back then.

Imagine by John Lennon
Aug 01 2026

I haven't listened to this album in probably 35 years. Although it's a required album to have in someone's album collection, I always liked the John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band album so much more and easily dismissed this one in comparison. However, listening to it now, my view has changed that it's a good album. Just so hard not to skip over the song Imagine since although a great song, gets played everywhere to infinity. I've also not been a huge fan of Spector's production, always preferred the singles versions than those that ended up on Let It Be, plus way too much wall of sound on George Harrison's All Things Must Pass. With that said, Imagine seems to be a bit restrained in comparison to Spector's other works.

Fifth Dimension by The Byrds
Aug 05 2026

Not my favorite Byrds album. Love the 12-string, as always.

Bert Jansch by Bert Jansch
Aug 06 2026

Perhaps I need to listen to this a few more times to appreciate it.

Disintegration by The Cure
Aug 08 2026

This album has quite a few of their best songs on it. Interesting how a lot of songs on this album have the same structure with the long intros before the vocals kick in — pretty much the opposite of what happens right now in 2026 where the song gets right into it without an intro. Despite hearing these songs over the years a zillion times, really good album.

Rocks by Aerosmith
Aug 11 2026

Starts out great but hard in my book to beat Toys in the Attic or their debut album (which is my favorite before Steven Tyler became more Steven Tyler as time went on).

It's A Shame About Ray by The Lemonheads
Aug 15 2026

Probably never gave Lemonheads much of a listen due to the Mrs. Robinson cover being their “hit.” Listened to this album and actually pretty good until the end when Mrs. Robinson kind of runs the album for me. Probably won’t listen to this one again. Between 2 and 3 stars for me, definitely not in the 1,001 albums to listen to before you die.

Wordsmith

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