Very melodic, smooth, and chill album. Lead singer has a sometimes haunting, but always emotive voice. Great music for a chill evening.

No one needs to hear this before they die.

When I think of 70s rnb/funk, this is what I hear. Many of the songs sound like improvisational jam sessions in a room full of people who are ready to have some fun. With so many voices contributing it is hard to discern which is Sly. This album would be great at a party playing in the background. It’s fun….entertainjng….funky as can be…..a Sly is an original.

I, of course, knew several songs off of this album from the heavy radio play. I also must admit that the song disarm is one of my big songs that I love to hear. I had never listened to a complete Smashing Pumpkins album until this. I have to say I really enjoyed the diversity of this album. There was rock, light metal, and some straight up pop . I’ve always appreciated Billy Corrigan‘s voice also. Overall, I really did appreciate and enjoy this album.

The album and songs of my senior year in high school. Love the Beastie Boys. This album is all about fun, cool rhymes, great samples, and partying. MTV was at it height and the Beastie Boys were made for that channel. To me, these are some timeless songs. Love this album.

No one sounds like Marvin Gaye. He is/was truly an original. This really is a protest album masked by such a soulful voice. War, racism, pollution were all addressed on this album. It is definitely one of the best albums to come out of Motown. Marvin could sing the phone book and make it sound soulful - he was a gifted singer and songwriter who made a huge statement with this album.

If anyone wants to hear how much The Rolling Stones were “influenced” by American soul and blues, they can give this album a listen. That being said, it’s a great album. From the beginning wails heard from Merry Clayton in Gimmie Shelter to the end harmony of the childrens choir in You Can’t Always Get What You Want - it’s a great ride. Classic Rolling Stones.

Everyone in the world knows this album….EVERYONE. It is a phenomenal album. My only hesitation about praising this album is forcing myself to separate the artist from the person. I do believe MJ had a horrible childhood at the hands of his parents and other adults in his life. I also believe that, and these around him who only focused on appeasing him, led him to make choices as an adult that led to others having traumatic experiences as children. That being said - I will focus on the artists. It would be impossible for me to pick a favorite song…..but as a challenge to myself I’ve decided to rate them….least favorite to more favorite. 9. The Lady in My Life - even for the 80s, when cheesy romance songs seemed to praised, this is “mid”, at best. 8. Baby Be Mine - an ok mid-tempo song. The background vocals were on point. 7. P.Y.T. - a fun song. I still belt out the “PYT” as if I am backing him up. 6. The Girl is Mine - I prefer Say, Say, Say. For me, the choices of rankings get a bit tricker at this point. 5. Human Nature - I absolutely love the music on this that has been sampled numerous times. SWV, did the best at using this music with Right Here. 4. Thriller - As I write about most of these songs the videos and hype around them automatically pop into my head. The video for this song was so massive that, at one point, they played it every hour. And we planned our day around watching it because my family did not have the means to buy a vcr. This song and album made MTV become relevant to all. Rarely did the play music from black artists before MJ. As for the song, when it comes on people pay attention and automatically get into it. It’s funky, poppy, and a classic. 3. Billie Jean - I do really like this song. It’s a classic, but not my fav. 2. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ - such an underrated funky jam. I will till belt out ma-me-sa, ma-me-sa, ma-me-coo-sa whenever this comes on. Fun song to listen to, sing along to, and dance to. 1. Beat It - Fantastic song. It has great rhythm, Eddie Van Halen, and even a great parody song made about it.

I bought this cd when it was first released. I did so after hearing Do You Realize?? on a commercial. This concept and themed album is a fun listen. I definitely need to be in a certain mellow mood to enjoy.

Well…..I listened. While I did not hate this album - it was just not for me. At times it sounded futuristic, other times it sounded amateurish, and still other times the harmonies reminded me of a band from the 1960s. Odd combination. Pass.

Never heard of this group. I do enjoy a soulful, themed protest album. I liked many of the songs and really enjoyed the message. Not my favorite, but a decent album.

I had heard of Portishead, but never heard their music. I didn’t mind it. More trip than hop, in my opinion. I did really like Beth’s voice. Lots of mid tempo songs that I enjoyed. I felt the beginning of the album kept my attention better than the second half. So…..now I can say I heard of Portishead and have listened to their entire album.

This album is damn near perfection from start to finish. My entire senior year in high school I was obsessed with all of these songs. The videos were ground breaking and Peter being a bit eccentric, IMHO, made him even cooler. Here is my ranking of the songs on So.. 9. This is the Picture - this seems such a typical song that Laurie Anderson would be on - artsy. Solid song, but not my fav on the album. 8. We Do What We’re Told - This has always been a very eerie song. A simple protest song. 7. Mercy Street - This song has always struck me as so sad……almost hopeless. But it has killer music. Haunting. Quite honestly. The next six could be tied for my number 1. It’s like a Sophie’s choice… 6. Red Rain - the soaring drums…..Peters gravely voice…..this song is the perfect kick off for this album. 5. That Voice Again - There is one part to this song that I used to rewind and listen to over and over again…..”Only love can make loooooooooooooove”. 4. Big Time - Indeed, Mr. Gabriel. 3. Sledgehammer - Such an overtly sexual song that fits nicely in an album about Anne Sexton and deep protest songs. 2. Don’t Give Up - So close to being number one. Kate and Peter together were such perfection. Such a beautiful love/support song. The haunting music would not seem to be an obvious choice for this type of song, but it works. 1. In Your Eyes - not my favorite just because it was featured in one of my favorite movies - but because it has such fantastic music…..lyrics…..vocals……bridge. It is such an unorthodox love song I cannot get enough of. Love this album!!!

While I know the big hits by The Kinks in later years, I knew none of these songs. At first listen, it honestly sounds like many of the British bands of this time period. Jaunty guitars, trippy at times, It’s an ok listen to me. After listening I read about this album’s legacy and what it meant to many more contemporary artists - I still do not hear anything revolutionary.

I certainly have heard of Duke Ellington and listened to a song of his before - I would not be able to pick a song of his out….ever. That being said - I do really appreciate and enjoy the music. I’m envious of the talent of these musicians. This is music I would definitely prefer hearing live or maybe as background music.

Otis has such a strong and distinctive voice. I read he recorded most of this album over a 24 hour period - maybe it’s me, but I can see that. Despite that - this is a quality album. He put his own stamp on some classic songs.

I like the actual music, but I have never been a fan of the singers. I like their attitude and messaging. Their singers have always turned me off.

Not my jam…..at all. I like some hip hop but it is really hard for me to separate the man from the artist. And I can’t stand the man. Can we get behind writing songs that portray woman as something to use and conquer? The misogyny on this and many albums makes me ill. I will never listen to this album again and will continue to avoid listening to him.

Great musicians who sound like they really love making music. Lots of fun.

Fantastic album. Eminem introduced a unique way of rapping and became a legend. I once heard him somehow make many words rhyme with Orange….who else can do that? This album, like all of his music, is so personal. It’s not just about bravado and self-promotion, it’s about life through his eyes……with a bit of humor. There’s a reason he is one of the best selling artists of all time. Plus, being from metro-Detroit, I love how much positive light he puts in our region.

I had always known bluegrass music existed, but it was not until the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack that I really gave it a listen. That was also when I fell in love with Allison Kraus. I am not at all a fan of traditional country - with a few exceptions like Patsy Cline or Dolly Parton. I have never knowingly listened to a song by NGDB. I really enjoyed this album. The way they can burst into a song after a short chat and absolutely nail it is beyond impressive. And the harmonies are exceptional. Great band and great music.

Punk, new wave with some rock-a-Billy thrown in. Enjoyable album.

Not my jam.

Listening to this album I heard Smashing Pumpkins, A bit of Alice in Chains, and some 80s punk. Nothing special about this album or band to me.

I have always loved the soothing and comforting sounds of Taylor’s voice. This album is exceptional.

I enjoyed the album. He was legend already when he died at 26.

I just watched an HBO documentary about the music of 1971. This album and David Bowie were highlighted. Heroes is a classic song. His last album before the introduction of Ziggy Stardust. Solid album with great melodies.

This music makes me happy. Great to have on while working around the house.

I love all of Madonnas eras but I’m more partial to her earlier work. That being said, this is a great album. 25 years into her career she was still producing chart topping and memorable music. I saw her on her recent tour and several of these songs made the cut and with a career as long as hers, that says a lot.

While I certainly know Walk On the Wild Side, I had never heard any of these songs before. While I totally appreciate his artistry, Lou Reed is just not my jam. I also have to acknowledge how absolutely ahead of his time Reed was when singing about transgender issues and homosexuality in 1972. Bowie and his lead guitarists being the producers makes a lot of sense for the music scene at the time.

I wore this CD out in 1991. A truly great band finds a way to peak again after an incredible and career-making album like The Joshua Tree. Their early albums were also killer, but it was TJT that took them to another level. On this album Bono came up with his alter ego, MacPhisto. U2 reinvented themselves for this album and tour. Great rock album from beginning to end. My song rankings…. 12. Love Is Blindness - The least memorable song on the album. 11. Acrobat - Don’t let the bastards get you down. Nuf said. 10. Until The End Of The World - Solid track. 9. The Fly - cool song. 8. Zoo Station - Sweet Guitar 7. So Cruel - A song full of yearning. 6. Even Better Than The Real Thing - Honestly, this could be higher. Hard to choose from this point forward - except for number 1. 5. Trying To Throw Your Arms Around The World - “a woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle”. Fits this song perfectly. 4. Mysterious Ways - Killer guitar and lyrics. 3. Ultra Violet (Light My Way) - Bono does great lead and harmonizing vocals on this one. 2. Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses - Love the pace and tempo of this song. 1. One - Who would have thought a song about breaking up with your band would be so earnest and emotional? Love, Love, Love U2 and this album.

Decent album. A bit White-stripey and you can hear the country influence. Worth a listen, but not earth shattering.

Fun album. Sort of hip - pop.

I’m sure for its time this album was very “ahead of its time”. I can understand how it influenced many future New Wave/Alternative bands - being a big fan of that music I appreciate that aspect of the album. That being said…..it was OK to me. Could be good background music while chilling, especially the second half of the album.

Incredible introduction of their new lead singer. It is straight forward rock that does not offer any nuance or depth, but I like it. They are a party band that makes no apologies for the fact that they very formulaic. Even a casual listener knows at least one of the songs on this record (hello “You Shook Me….”). With this band, you get what you get.

Very melodic, smooth, and chill album. Lead singer has a sometimes haunting, but always emotive voice. Great music for a chill evening.

Coldplay is just mid to me. I have enjoyed a few of their songs over the years. As for this album…..it’s ok. The only songs I recognized were Yellow and Trouble. Overall, this is a much, much, much more mellow album than I expected. Their big “hits” since then have been more arena-oriented. This album was mellow to the point of being sad. Need to be in a certain mood to give this a listen……or end up in a certain mood. 😔 Overall…..I give it a Meh.

This is a very puzzling album. At times it was melodic and pleasant…….other times it sounded like a bunch of preschoolers were given instruments and told to screech in the highest pitches possible…..all during the same song. The love of falsetto is confounding and unpleasant. And the more of these albums I must hear before I die, the more confused I get. THIS is one of them?! Because it is better than the billions of other albums that have been released? 🧐

This is a very nostalgic album for me. It is the early days of MTV when the video made a song a bigger hit. ZZ Top had good music, but their videos for this album really helped them rise to the top for a time. Listening to this album now I really hear how influenced it was by the synth-pop of the time. Did not realize that then, obviously. I like the music/songs……but I have and will never seek out listening to one of their songs or this album.

The only song I have heard of by T. Rex is Bang a Gong. That was after hearing The Power Stations remake. I am still much more of a fan of later version. I also had heard T. Rex was a pre-glam band who influenced many like Bowie and The New York Dolls. I feel many of the songs need a bit more of an aggressive approach. Much like Robert Palmer gave to Bang a Gong. Feels like they are holding back a bit. That being said, it was an enjoyable album.

Ok

Interesting. Almost there for me. Decent but also forgettable.

It’s a decent garage band album……that’s it. The covers were not exceptional - just ok. They also live to wail…..too much.

Great album. So many well known songs. Wonderful harmonies. The swan song for a tremendously Influential duo. The singer-songwriter era will never be equaled. Total non sequitur……what is up with the album cover picture? Why is part of Arts face blocked by Paul? Never understood how someone made the decision to choose this picture.

Half of the songs from this album can still be heard on the radio today. That says a lot about the album and the band. Imagine what they could have done had they not imploded. All of the songs, except Mother, are enjoyable. Great stuff.

While I do appreciate the talented musicians, this is not my jam. When I tell people that I don’t like country music this is the type of twangy voice that comes to mind. This album in particular covers many of the stereotypes of country music - drinking, being left by his woman, someone getting shot…..it’s too much. Pass.

A nice soulful, pop, r&b album. A bit overproduced at times, but I enjoyed it.

This is a band that I do not I totally get. I like some of their songs but never understood those who worship them so. It is like R&B for really white people. I mean lily white people…..no pigment at all. That being said, it is an impressive debut and I knew a few songs. It feels like two different albums depending on which singer is taking the lead. I prefer Fagan led songs over Becker. Fagans voice sounds much more contemporary to me. Beckers songs sound like they were released in 1972. I really like the song Reeling in the Years. Overall, a good-ish album.

My introduction to Anthrax was in the late 80s during college. It was not by choice. It was because some of my friends liked them. I did not. I still do not. I am no longer in touch with those college friends. If I were I imagine they would be wearing red MAGA hats and “Grab her by the pu**y” shirts. Hard pass.

Steely Dan……again. I like a song…..that’s about it.

I enjoyed this funky and soulful album. Lots of covers they put their own spin on.

It’s an ok album.

The roots of punk. Ok album. Not really my thing. Would sound way better live and in person.

My wife is from India and loves Bollywood movies. Over the years I have seen many of these to be cheesy in the worst possible I also find the music, including this soundtrack, to be formulaic and a very difficult listen. Hard pass.

After listening to an entire Moby album for the first time I firmly believe this is all music made to be in the background on movies/TV shows and in commercials. With the exception of South Side, I cannot see myself intentionally listening to any of these songs. Only South Side feels like an actual song. The rest? Cool sounds…..but they are a collection of samples with some piano, drums, and guitars added. I sorta get where Eminem is coming from…….i am just not as angry about it.

I had never heard of this album nor these artists. What a politically charged and timely album despite being 50 years old. I particularly liked the tacks Back Home and The Bottle. I really loved the song H2O Gate Blues - such a powerful song about the events in 1974. I’m not huge fan of the flute in jazz, I always think of the awful Zamfir, but it works for this album. Overall, a soulful and delightful album.

I knew a few songs from TJAMC, but never listened to one of their albums. You have to be in a very specific mood to listen to this or need to get into a brooding, melancholy, ennui kind of mood. Decent music……but only at times.

I have never been a country western music fan. At all. Despite that, I enjoyed the story telling and Marty’s vocals. I can certainly tell how he influenced many future performers and appreciate the significance of this album and genre. Solid work, but not my jam.

No one needs to hear this before they die.

To me, this is a poor man’s Enigma. It misses the mark. Just meh.

Nope

While I appreciate how cool it is for any band to get a symphony treatment, I’ve never been a fan of Metallica’s music.

The only song I remotely liked was Mama Roux. The rest were just a bit too jumbled for me. I have heard of Dr. John but have never been particularly interested in him. Listening to this album did not change that opinion.

This sounds so much like The Beatles and The Stones. That was my exact thought whenever a new song started. LOTS of harpsichord!! It’s a decent album, just sounds way too familiar.

Blatant misogyny aside - which I have an issue with all genres of music - this album slaps!!! I had heard many singles from NWA over the years, but never a complete album. This is the rap that I grew up on and miss. Great album.

Great album. I have always liked the jaunty and fun music SS puts out. You can’t help tapping your feet when listening. Great stuff.

It’s a late 60s psychedelic, folk, country album. Nothing to write home about.

There is something so haunting yet comforting about Neils voice. Incredible album.

I am not at a country fan but I love Dolly. She does have such a flawless voice. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would.

Great album. Several classic songs. Also a couple of meh (Octopus’s Garden seems so random). Plus an iconic album cover!

This album helped define my freshman year of college. This band stormed radio and wiped out all the hair bands. This album is iconic and not a weak song on it. They were unapologetic, bombastic, raw, and made great music. The follow up albums were good…..but never topped their debut.

Love TBB. While this album has some sweet songs, it’s not my favorite by them. But it’s a great follow up to Licensed to Ill. I could listen to TBB everyday.

Ol

Sounds like music from some bad B movie.

I can understand how important this album was when it was released because of the culture at the time. Listening to it now, I’m underwhelmed. Great music and vocals, no doubt. It is more like elevator music to me.

I really, really like Fleetwood Mac, however, this is not their strongest album. This even more apparent since Rumors was my record of the day 3 days ago. Some enjoyable songs, but overall not my favorite. This could have easily been a single album. Some of the songs sound so far removed from their premier material.

As far as Beatles records go, this one is pretty good. Some classic songs that I love are included: Norwegian Wood, In My Life, Nowhere Man, Michelle, and Drive my Car. That is 1/3 of the songs. The rest of the songs are just Ok. Not their best and not their worst. The Beatles were a hit machine.

While it is very joyful and fun music….it sounds so generic to me. Like something I would hear on a cruise or at a themed restaurant.

It’s an ok live album. I know a couple of their songs, which sounded decent…..but that may have more to do with their post concert mixing than the actual performance. Nothing to write home about.

I do appreciate the woman empowerment theme of this album. I also like the concept of a song relating to some spoken word track immediately preceding it. What is disappointing to me is the actual music. It sounds dated, over produced, too many effects and layers of vocal track. I really wanted to like this album but overall I do not. I’m not sure how this landed on the list. In this genre of female artists give me a Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, or even Sza album over this any day.

Fun music. Rod before he broke away from the pack and really hit it big……or sold out…..whatever.

I have never heard of this band. If I had not seen the date of the release I would have thought this was released 10 years earlier - when The Smiths reigned. So, a bit of a throwback that I really, really enjoyed. These songs fall right in my wheelhouse. Jangly guitar…a bit of angst…..good stuff.

Honestly, the only songs I can really jam are Don’t Stop, Off The Wall, and to a lesser extent, Rock With You . The rest sound dated. It’s an ok album. I give this a 3 only on the strength of Don’t Stop - can’t sit still for that song.

I knew a couple of songs but only really like one of them. This album is a drug infused, psychedelic trip. I will never listen again.

When I think of The Beach Boys I think of sun and surf. I do not think of whatever this album is. Even the cover throws me off. There are ok songs and some not-so-good songs….Take a load off your feet is so odd. Student demonstration is awful. The other songs are meh. Not for me.

A decent country/rock album. Their sound has been much duplicated since their time. Best song is The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down. The rest are ok. Not totally my type of music but I appreciate the vocals and musicianship.

I know I have heard of Muse. I just could not remember the song I had heard. For EVERY song that played I thought “This is the song” because they all sound so much alike. They don’t sound bad, they are just forgettable. And I still do not remember the song I knew them from.

When I think of Tangerine Dream I think of Tom Cruise. That is because they did some of the music for Risky Business. Listening to this I only imagine it playing during a movie……in the background. It’s cool music but not something I would seek out or jam to. I like Vangelis better than this, but I appreciate the ground they broke.

Sweet emotion alone gets a 3.

Ironic is an iconic song.

A nice album. Nothing ground breaking.

When the first track started I thought this album was going in one direction, but the beat kicked in and I was taken in an entirely different way. I really enjoyed this album. Such an eclectic mix of sounds and genres. Good stuff!

Some nice folksy music. Nothing to write home about.

Doesn’t do anything for me.

Pass.

Nothing spectacular - nothing awful. This is quirky pop music.

OG Funk.

Sounds like 80’s alternative mashed with Oasis-era British pop. It’s ok - nothing novel or extraordinary. I enjoyed it for what it was.

While I enjoy an occasional reggae song…..I would never choose to listen to it. I knew one song from this album which I enjoyed - No Woman No Cry. The rest all sounded very similar. While I appreciate what Bob Marley did for this genre and what a disruptor he was, reggae is not my jam.

I was obsessed with the follow up to this album, Oranges and Lemons. I still pull it up to listen to occasionally. While I have never listened to this album in its entirety, I certainly knew some of the songs - Dear God, most notably. I have always appreciated how the sound of XTC is so current but also throw back. It’s catchy pop with an alternative twist. Great stuff. This album is not as good as Oranges and Lemons, to me. I still really enjoyed it. It’s just happy music.

It seems the albums of some artists are chosen just as they are starting to define themselves. While I enjoyed this album, Simple Minds really hit their stride two albums later with Once Upon a Time. This album was good, but not great.

The album that really launched The Cars. Classic minimalist songs with catchy tunes and vocals. Fun, but not too serious, music. Great album.

I really started paying attention in the 80s when they had a song featured in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. I then bought the two volume greatest hits cassettes. I have rarely listened to an entire album. This is the second album I have listened to and I did not realize how many covers they have done. Despite that, I really enjoyed this early Beatles album.

I was hopeful when the first song started and then………that voice ruined it all. I listened to every single song hoping the first song was just a joke. Unfortunately, the entire album is filled with it. On All the Kings men there are parts where the voice is tolerable except when he “sings” in that god-awful high pitch screech. Two Dancer (i) and (ii) are tolerable. Such a waste of good music.

Madge kicked off her third music decade with a fantastic album. She always found a way. Several stand out songs to me: Music, Don’t Tell Me, and What it Feels Like For a Girl. And…..NOBODY should remake American Pie. Seems an odd choice for this album anyway. It’s a club/disco/electronic album and I’m here for it.

Solid album that I still own. Admittedly, I have not listened in some time. Listening now there are still a few songs I like, others sound dated. Overall, it’s a 2.5…..but since that’s not allowed it’s a 2.

I have heard of Joan - but did not know much about her. For some reason I had also assumed she was American. I had also heard the song Love and Affection, which I love, but I did not know she sang it. Overall, this is a pleasant album and very much of its time.

Not the worst album…….and not the best. It was Ok.

I love this album from beginning to end. I still listen to it now and then. Great music, great lyrics, and great vocals. There is something about the rhythm and timing of the lyrics of so many of these songs that makes it so fun to belt out! Fantastic album!!

I recognized a few songs. That’s about it. Never been a huge Dylan fan and listening to this album did not change my mind.

Meh.

Hard pass.

While I really liked many bands that came out of the grunge era, Nirvana was not my favorite. Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, and Soundgarden were/are much higher rated for me. While I like many of the songs on here, they are a bit too raw and rough for my liking. I also think bands with such an enigmatic frontman always appeal more to the masses and the press. That being said, this is a great album that still sounds good after all of these years. Side note - I had always thought this was their debut album.

I’m guessing Nick and his seeds are fans of Tom Waits. While there a couple of interesting songs - I’m not really impressed. I would’t listen again.

I am very much appreciative of music created by musicians who can sing, compose, play, and tell a story. This album checks all of those boxes. I am not a fan of much of contemporary country, but have always appreciate bluegrass - a subset of country. I enjoyed the pickin & grinnin in this album.

I cannot figure this band/album out. Part jazz lounge music, part Leonard Cohen/Tom Waits, part uncomfortable, and part 60s background music. I liked a couple songs and was so intrigued by it all. I did it love it, but I didn’t hate it either.

Heard of but never listened to The Strokes. Decent album that I really enjoyed.

Solid album.

I listened and was bored to death. Then I read it was a soundtrack and I understand. Without the visuals of the movie this is a boring listen. Makes no sense why it is included on this list.

Back to back albums by Air. Of all the albums ever released this duo has released two I need to hear before I die? I don’t think so. It’s just…..ok.

Sounds over mixed and produced. So much so the lyrics sound like they are drowned out at times. Absolutely nothing stands out about this album or band.

It’s a very mellow and kind of meh Elvis album. I prefer his upbeat songs. He is much more of a single artist than an album artist.

This album started with a very unpleasant song. It got a little less awful for a couple other songs……but not by much. Overall, I did not like this album at all. Awful.

It’s a Bowie album from the 70s. Very similar to the other 2 albums of his on this list from the 70s. I like Bowie……but not as much as the author of this book.

Hard pass. That voice is like a thousand nails on a chalkboard.

My favorite Coldplay song is on this album - Clocks. As for the entire album…..much more mellow than I would have thought. For me, Coldplay is much more of a single than an album band.

It’s The Sex Pistols. They blazed a trail like no other. Great album when you are feeling ornery and have a need to disrupt.

THE concept album of all concept albums. I did not know, until i read the Wikipedia entry, that the album came before the movie. That is very interesting. I have not listened to this album since I watched the movie long ago in college. Remains a “let’s get baked and listen” album to me. I do appreciate the artistry, the vision, and the music.

Typical 80s album. Somewhat “edgy” for its time. They sound much more pop than their album cover would lead you to believe.

Loved this album from beginning to end when it first came out. Still sounds pretty damn good.

Sounds like a Grateful Dead Jr. Very mellow. So mellow it borders on being boring. Not my favorite but I didn’t hate it.

Well…..as advertised it is ambient background music. The author of this book made some really dumb picks

I find it interesting how many, including the author the I spring this site, choose albums of artists before they hit it big. Why wouldn’t the album that put them on the map be the chosen one? That being said - I did enjoy this album but not as much as later work. It is much more mellow than one would think.

Some good tracks. The filler tracks were a bit much. I wish the “uh huh’s”, “uhs”, and “yeahs’s” were uttered less frequently. The worst trend ever. While I do like some of his songs, as a whole, I did not really care for this album. Just mid to me.

Interesting album. 60s vibe, for sure, with influences from Santana, the dead, and even a bit of prog rock. The lead singers voice is often drown out by the music. I don’t hate it……..but I’m not in love with it. Sounds like a lot of music I have already heard.

I do like some of Neil You ngs songs - mostly the upbeat. I really liked the song Come On Baby Let’s Go Downtown. The rest sounds like typical Neil Young. Overall, an ok album to me.

Meh

I never took this music seriously. It was and remains a punchline. Beavis and Butthead felt the same. Unserious music for angry, white males.

Again….why not pick an artists album with their most popular songs? I just can’t get into Suzanne Vega…..not my thing.

First off……what a horrible album cover. Could they have at least cropped out the toilet?? And the facial expressions certainly tell a story…..only Cass looks happy. And John looks pissed off at the world. The three classic songs aside…..much of this album sounds like bad elevator music. Ick.

MASTER-FUCKING-PIECE!!! The voice, the piano, the arrangement, the emotion - this album is perfection. So Far Away alone is worth 10 stars.

Interesting album. Starts out straight punk but often veers into pop, rock, and even psychiatric. There are even keyboards! I don’t hate it, but I wouldn’t choose to listen to this again.

Some fun tracks. The best Hip Hop album ever? Nah.

Hard pass.

I liked the music but would have liked it better with a different vocalist.

I definitely enjoy this album. I even bought it on CD when it was released. I just never thought their music was that transcendent. It’s good pop with a bit of a rock edge. Not mind blowing nor trailblazing. I wonder if the brothers had never feuded if they would be as big as they are now. Champagne Super Nova is my favorite track and favorite overall song from Oasis. Quite honestly, I cannot think of an Oasis song that is not on this album.

Well……I listened. Sounded like mostly torch songs to me with lots of keyboard. Meh.

I think this is my 32nd Bowie album. I knew a couple of the songs (Ziggy, Suffragette) and the rest sounded very similar. To me, his albums from the 70s all sound the same. It’s an ok album.

It’s an ok album.

I first heard Bjork when she was with The Sugarcubes. Life’s Too Good is a phenomenal album and should be included on this list. There is nothing like her voice and it sounds phenomenal on this album. I most enjoy her upbeat songs like Human Behavior. Good stuff!!

Lots of noises. Some of it very unpleasant. Also some very strange subject matter. Hard pass.

I enjoy The Clash. Melodic, rhythmic punk…not some noise with screaming. I was not familiar with this album or these songs. Despite that, I did enjoy it. Good stuff.

Solid debut. Fun music - more island style music than I’ve heard from them before. Upbeat and enjoyable.

Do I like a couple of the singles from The Doors? Yes. Would I ever choose to listen to one of their albums? No. Although, this is an impressive debut. Do I think they are worth all of the hype? No.

I like The Stones but with such a huge catalogue I think their best albums are greatest hits. This one is a bit early for me.

Never heard of him and will soon forget his name.

Never been a Dead fan. Listening to this does not change that fact.

Really fun album. I first heard the song Tightrope on a K-Mart commercial which lead me to finding out who Janelle Monae was.

I’m not sure what to think about this. It’s all over the place. Without You is so sappy it’s almost satirical. I actually thought the beyond silly Coconut was written for a commercial. Gotta Get Up is fun. A few other mildly entertaining songs. Just a puzzling album that I could not completely get into.

It’s music that belongs in clubs or in the background.

It’s not horrible but it’s not great. Not my jam.

I don’t get the appeal of this album. Not at all. It is not at all interesting. Nothing makes it stand out to me.

Not bad. Until I looked at the release date, I thought this album was from the 80s. While that is an impressive feat, it is not a very memorable album.

Trippy songs that go on way too long.

While this is fun music, there is absolutely nothing unique or special about it. There are any of a number of other DJs that put out way better quality dance music than this.

Smooth. Mellow country rock.

I like some the songs……but I do not get all of the love they get.

Sounds like some local kids set up a make-shift recording studio in their basement and after getting drunk recorded this album. I don’t get it. I don’t like it.

While this album is a lot of fun, the songs are all so similar that it gets monotonous. I’m sure this was a fun band to see in concert.

Over the years I have liked Bon Jovi songs. With the exception of the greatest hits, I have never listened to a complete album by this band. I tend to like their slower jams like Wanted Dead or Alive or Never Say Goodbye over the big anthem hits. And boy do they like making big anthem hits. Overall, it’s an OK album. Some of the lesser-known songs were pretty bad though.

Not a fan.

Cool jam.

One of my all time fav songs by R.E.M. is radio free Europe. Great harmonies, musicianship, and lyrics. All of these traits are what they gave the world. This album gave us hints of what was to come. Enjoyable album.

Mildly entertaining mix of Brazilian and Electronic music. Interesting combo…..background music, at best.

I feel like there are three camps regarding LZ - one worships them, one likes their music and certain songs, the last could care less. I’m more the middle group. I sometimes choose to listen to them but not that often. Another curious thing to me about LZ is that I know way more of their songs than I realize. I remember guitar riffs or lyrics but can’t retain song titles. This album is a great example of that as I knew a good half of the songs without realizing it by looking at the titles. Good stuff from an incredibly influential group.

Not my jam.

Faith No More sprinted so Kid rock could copy them. I’ll admit I owned and listened to this album. I even saw him in concert back in the day. I am also from the Detroit area and we heard a lot about Bob Ritchie back then. I also later learned that the man who claimed to be so street and “trailer park” smart was actually raised in a mansion by a father who owned a large car dealership. His rewriting of his personal history aside……I gave this entire album another listen as I had not done so in decades. The nostalgia feelings this invoked aside…..this album sounds dated and, at times, cheesy with lots of male bravado cliches. Not the worst…….but definitely not 5 stars. Would I ever listen again? No. Would I tap along to one of these songs on the radio? Possibly. I wonder if Eminem has any regrets about his involvement?

Songs all sound very similar. Not a fan of lead singers voice. Not for me.

Sounds very 80s and very English (I know they are Australian but lived/recorded in England). I do not mind this at all. Rather pleasant. I am surprised I have never heard of this band before today because I would have been all over this when it was released.

Superstition and You Are The Sunshine Of My Life get a 4 star alone. Such perfect songs. Some of the other songs did not hit as well, for me.

I had only heard a couple of Gorillaz songs in the past. This album started out likable. After Clint Eastwood it lost its way. Some songs were so unpleasant I skipped them. I will just stick with their singles.

The first song threw me off. Less Tom Petty rock and roll and more harmony pop. I enjoyed the rest of the album. This is what I think of when I think of straight forward rock. I’ve always liked Breakdown and American Girl just slaps!!

Second album by Portishead. This one is much more depressing. Like the soundtrack to a movie where everyone dies, including the dog. Some interesting sounds but I won’t listen again.

Just because an album is allegedly “ahead of it time” does not mean it is good. And this one is not.

The opening song reminded me of Stonehenge by Spinal Tap. It was hard for me to take them seriously after that.

Eclectic album. A mix of funk, jazz, Latin, soul, and r n b. Started strong but then took a dip it didn’t recover from it. I like the Sly feel of the first two songs - wish it stuck with that formula.

While I truly appreciate their vocal harmonies of The Bee Gees - this was sooo mellow to the point of being forgettable. A bit too sappy. The best was yet to come for them.

Anyone who doesn’t enjoy at least one Adele song is the type of person who likes to be oppositional just to be oppositional. I have even heard my 13 year-old son (“bro”) jamming her music. This album definitely had more modern instrumentation and more “up-beat” songs - which I quite like. Great album that I really enjoyed. Regarding those who hate on this (or any album) because of its popularity or that it was “over played” - part of this project is having the ability to let go of those preconceived opinions and just listen.

I am a huge Prince and have been since my first listen of the 1999 album. SOTT was peak Prince. He was in complete control and put out an album with funk, rock, dance, orchestra, and rap (tongue-in-cheek). And his trademark sense of humor was also present (Housequake….Starfish and Coffee). There is not a skip on this album. This is my favorite album by the purple one and the one I point people toward to experience a perfect album.

I was pleasantly surprised by this album. I had heard of the group, but thought it was an EMO or pop/punk band. I really, really liked these songs. Great voice, instruments, lyrics…..overall a super enjoyable album. I will listen again and dive into his catalogue.

Fun music but doesn’t really stick out for me.

It’s good. Just not great. I do not get all of the hype over this band.

While I didn’t mind the music too much…..the vocals ruined it for me. Not my thing.