Jun 14 2024
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Live At The Harlem Square Club
Sam Cooke
The first album I was given to review. I don't usually listen to live albums or this music style but I enjoyed it. Nice to listen to something different! The energy was great.
Highlights:
Chain Gang
Twistin' The Night Away
Having a Party
3
Jun 15 2024
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Doolittle
Pixies
A great band I've somehow never listened to before. A very intriguing sound and there are an interesting range of tempos. This album has clearly been influential in the sound of later artists. I would be interested in revisiting many of these songs again. Started off strong but there were also a few very similar sounding compositions towards the end. Overall, pretty good.
Highlights:
Debaser
Wave of Mutilation
Here Comes Your Man
Mr. Grieves
Gouge Away
4
Jun 16 2024
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This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Fast paced and an interesting range of tracks. Kept me interested throughout most of the album. I would revisit quite a few tracks but not all. It sounds incredibly modern for its time!
Highlights:
Pump It Up
(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea
Lipstick Vogue
Radio Radio
4
Jun 17 2024
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Stand!
Sly & The Family Stone
Interesting to explore a genre I haven't looked into much, and I enjoyed the chill vibes whilst the songs still retain many upbeat and funky moments. Some great singing and instrumental work. However, some songs were quite repetitive and long. I appreciate it but am not sure if I would listen to the entire album again. There are a few songs I would listen to again individually though.
Highlights:
Everyday People
You Can Make It If You Try
Stand!
3
Jun 18 2024
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Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Classic and funky. A good mix of different tempos throughout the album. The storytelling is good and highlights important narratives. He has such a powerful voice! Interested to hear some of his other albums on the list eventually.
The album started off slow, and with the exception of the more popular songs many of them seemed to go nowhere. However, the highs are good enough to keep my score level.
Highlights:
Living For The City
Higher Ground
All In Love Is Fair
3
Jun 19 2024
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In The Court Of The Crimson King
King Crimson
I understand that it's experimental and notable for its time, but the songs don't have much consistency and it feels like the tracks go on forever.
I will say that the instruments are played well and I can understand why someone would like this album, it just didn't click with me. Start and end was decent though.
Highlights:
The Court Of The Crimson King - I liked how it built.
2
Jun 20 2024
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Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
Really cool. Awesome instrumentals and every song sounded distinct. The longer instrumental sections seemed justified and still managed to keep my interest through their progression. The range of chords was really interesting to me. I enjoyed the fast pace. Many songs saved to my playlist and I didn't get bored at all throughout the album. Wish I'd found this a lot sooner. This might be my first 5 star.
Highlights:
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Parker's Band
Pretzel Logic
With A Gun
5
Jun 21 2024
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Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Another album I've never listened to. This was sometimes really high energy and fun. However some songs lost the momentum and blended together, lacking something that made them distinct. The more well known songs are definitely the highlights. I'd listen to a few of them again.
Highlights:
Breakdown
Anything That's Rock 'N' Roll
American Girl
3
Jun 22 2024
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Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
First album from the 21st century I've had on the list. I've heard a few of the songs before but never the entire album. I recognised more of the songs than I expected to. I remember hearing some of them on the radio when I was very young.
I really enjoyed it. Such a powerful and expressive voice. The instrumentals are just as impressive, combining sounds and styles from previous decades with 00s.
Highlights:
Rehab
You Know I'm No Good
Back To Black
Tears Dry On Their Own
5
Jun 23 2024
View Album
O.G. Original Gangster
Ice T
Not one of my preferred genres but I'll give it a go.
It just seemed boring to me, hard to get through. Did there need to be this many tracks? Quality over quantity. Generic beats. As for the lyrics... Repetitive, bragging, angry.
1
Jun 24 2024
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Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde
Not exactly what I expected. Weird, but also funny. Not a genre I usually prefer however this album was entertaining. Good flow and beats. I don't think I'd listen to it again though.
Highlights:
Oh Shit
Soul Flower
Ya Mama
3
Jun 25 2024
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Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
Liked some of this one. Interesting combination of heavy guitar and rap. The themes are still quite relevant today. Good arrangements. However, some of the lyrics and messages can be difficult to follow through the duration and added instrumentals in the songs.
Highlights:
Take the Power Back
Bullet In the Head
3
Jun 26 2024
View Album
Ladies And Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space
Spiritualized
Very strange and experimental, but not in the usual positive way. Its ok to listen to in the background, but it didn't click with me and was at times hard to listen to. Not for me at all. Some of the tracks were excessive without the need to be. I definitely did feel like I was floating in space though.
1
Jun 27 2024
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Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
Decent. Interesting vibe and sound. Instrumentals quite good. Good to listen to something new.
Highlights:
Adam Raised a Cain
The Promised Land
Factory
3
Jun 28 2024
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The Predator
Ice Cube
I've had three 90s rap albums this week. 2 of the 3 were difficult to get through. Really learning this isn't my genre. I get it has a message and impact but how many times do you need to swear in a song? A lot of showing off. Definitely not aged well.
However, the beats and flow were good for most of it. This somewhat makes up for it.
2
Jun 29 2024
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Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Arctic Monkeys
Really liked this. Loved the high energy and pace. Guitar sounded so good all the time. Wouldn't listen to every song again but none of them were weak and it was still enjoyable throughout, the highlights definitely make up for it. Really solid.
Highlights:
The View From The Afternoon
You Probably Couldn't See For The Lights But You Were Staring Straight At Me
Mardy Bum
Perhaps Vampires Is a Bit Strong But..
4
Jun 30 2024
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
Not what I was expecting but in a good way. Great instrumentals. Started off strong but towards the end the momentum decreased. There are still some tracks I'd hear again.
Highlights:
Gotta Get Up
Without You
Coconut
3
Jul 01 2024
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Skylarking
XTC
Never heard this group. This album doesn't seem to fit neatly within a genre, which makes a change. But the songs just didn't seem memorable, quite dull. There are some but very few tracks I'd listen to again if they came on.
Highlights:
Ballet For A Rainy Day
Season Cycle
2
Jul 02 2024
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
Heard a lot about this album so I was curious initially. I know this band is well known and regarded, but I found this album a mixed bag. Some interesting instrumentals and the energy is good, but some songs got quite repetitive and dragged on. Wouldn't listen to most of it again. Maybe I would prefer one of their other albums, but I'll have to see when I get them.
Highlights:
Rusholme Ruffians
I Want the One I Can't Have
2
Jul 03 2024
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Blue Lines
Massive Attack
This album mostly feels like background music. Maybe I'm missing something, but this really isn't for me. It was difficult to listen to and keep interested.
1
Jul 04 2024
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Surrealistic Pillow
Jefferson Airplane
Very calm, tender and delicate through most of the songs. I can feel the emotion and power despite the generally slower tempos. Enjoyed quite a lot of it, but the later half of the album was not as strong. Wish I'd discovered this group before. I'd heard of them but never looked into the discography.
Highlights:
Somebody to Love
Comin' Back to Me
3/4 of a Mile in 10 seconds
3
Jul 05 2024
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Exodus
Bob Marley & The Wailers
It was so nice to have a chill album for once that also remained interesting. It put me in a really good mood. Would love to dive more into this genre. So many great songs here.
Highlights:
Natural Mystic
So Much Things To Say
Three Little Birds
One Love
5
Jul 06 2024
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The White Album
Beatles
I haven't actually listened to any album with this many tracks before. However, this album wasn't much of a chore. Many great tracks I added to my playlist immediately. So much quality. The highlights really are great. However there is also a tangled mess of tracks in between showing the different experimental ideas each member had, and some don't work so well. I have also been hypnotised by the number 9.
Highlights:
Back In The U.S.S.R.
Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
Martha My Dear
Blackbird
Yer Blues
Revolution 1
4
Jul 07 2024
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Trafalgar
Bee Gees
Big fan of Bee Gees later disco work. This was a completely different sound though. Quite dramatic. It felt a bit like a chore though, not very interesting. Underwhelming.
Highlights:
How Can You Mend A Broken Heart
2
Jul 08 2024
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Technique
New Order
The timing for me to get this one is such a coincidence, considering I saw Peter Hook perform at a festival a week ago today.
The album is upbeat and funky, but there are some tracks that seem more like background music without any progression.
Highlights:
All The Way
Round And Round
Mr Disco
3
Jul 09 2024
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Gorillaz
Gorillaz
Listened to a few from Gorillaz before, but never a whole album.
I was hoping I'd enjoy more of this than I did. A lot of repetitive filler tracks without a lot going on. I can see how it is innovative through the characters created though. Definitely unique.
Highlights:
Clint Eastwood
19-2000
2
Jul 10 2024
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Time (The Revelator)
Gillian Welch
Relaxing for sure, but not really for me. If I listened to music in the background it would be ok but I want to really be able to connect with an album. Nice singing and guitar work but I don't really hear anything that stands out. I can't recall anything about what I just heard.
1
Jul 11 2024
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Under Construction
Missy Elliott
Again, this genre is not my thing at all. However, Work It is iconic and enjoyable enough to increase the rating slightly. The flow is good.
Highlights:
Work It
2
Jul 12 2024
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Scream, Dracula, Scream
Rocket From The Crypt
Nice to have something new and up tempo today. Many fast paced, short songs. Hard to understand what they are saying most of the time though as the music drowns the vocals out. Most of it is quite generic, without any distinctive instrumentals or lyrics. Not likely to listen again, but its ok.
Highlights:
On a Rope
2
Jul 13 2024
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Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
First time I've had a second album from the same artist.
Some really good tracks on here! Upbeat and well written. I liked it quite a lot, though slightly less than the previous one I was given, Pretzel Logic. Still very solid and enjoyable.
Highlights:
Do It Again
Only A Fool Would Say That
Reelin' In The Years
Change Of The Guard
4
Jul 14 2024
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Heartattack And Vine
Tom Waits
I was curious about this one. A distinct voice for sure, but sometimes a bit jarring.
I don't know what to think. The storytelling when it can be understood is really good. However, the style isn't always pleasant to listen to. When it works during some of the tracks, it is definitely good. Not likely to listen again though.
Highlights:
Downtown
2
Jul 15 2024
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A Night At The Opera
Queen
I'm so excited for this one. I was listening to some of these just last night. In fact its one of the albums I've listened to most. There are so many songs I know and love. '39 has been one of my favourites for years and its so underrated. So is Death On Two Legs, and Seaside Rendezvous. I can't stop rambling about how much I love this and I haven't even started listening yet!
There wasn't any moment I didn't enjoy, which is rare for an album. First time during this project so far.
Highlights:
Death On Two Legs
I'm In Love With My Car
You're My Best Friend
'39
Seaside Rendezvous
Bohemian Rhapsody
5
Jul 16 2024
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The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Started off a bit slow but only got more interesting. Goes well with everything that was popular at the time, although that's not always a bad thing. Chord progression is sometimes quite interesting. Not a lot going on for some of it though.
Highlights:
She Bangs the Drums
Bye Bye Bad Man
(Song For My) Sugar Spun Sister
Made of Stone
3
Jul 17 2024
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Pieces Of The Sky
Emmylou Harris
Calm, relaxing vibes but not for me. Not one of my preferred genres and a bit of a chore to get through. Voice and guitar was decent though.
Highlights:
Boulder to Birmingham
2
Jul 18 2024
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Central Reservation
Beth Orton
Chill, but a bit too chill. The tracks sounded very similar and just turned into background noise.
Highlights:
Stolen Car
2
Jul 19 2024
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Strange Cargo III
William Orbit
Ambient electronica. Not distinct at all, bland and uninteresting. I couldn't finish the entire thing. It seems more like a game soundtrack than essential listening. A whole lot of nothing.
1
Jul 20 2024
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Here's Little Richard
Little Richard
So good. A classic. It went by so fast. I guess that's what happens when every second of the album is essential without long repetitive instrumentals. Straight to the point. Perfection. Great powerful singing and instruments.
Highlights:
Tutti Frutti
True, Fine Mama
Ready Teddy
Slippin' And Slidin'
Rip It Up
5
Jul 21 2024
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Buffalo Springfield Again
Buffalo Springfield
Went by quick. Mostly enjoyable. Not sure if I'd listen to the whole thing again though.
Highlights:
Mr. Soul
Bluebird
Good Time Boy
3
Jul 22 2024
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The Specials
The Specials
Interesting combination of genres. Energetic and great fun. Reminded me of Madness at some points. Really good sound. Loved it. I'd definitely love to hear more.
Highlights:
A Message to You Rudy
Do the Dog
Nite Klub
Concrete Jungle
Monkey Man
5
Jul 23 2024
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The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
I've seen people say how great this album is, but I feel like I'm missing something. I didn't like it as much as I wanted to. It kept going and tried too hard to experiment whilst forgetting to add musicality. A lot of it was just noise to zone out to.
Highlights:
Venus In Furs
2
Jul 24 2024
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Hearts And Bones
Paul Simon
The first few tracks were dull but I gave it a chance. It improved slightly throughout but still not that enjoyable. There was nothing that stood out really. Only the lyrics, and not in a good way. Cars are cars?
2
Jul 25 2024
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Vauxhall And I
Morrissey
I gave it a chance. It just felt mediocre at best. Wouldn't listen again but I can appreciate its composition.
2
Jul 26 2024
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Da Capo
Love
Very experimental and takes you on a trip. Half the album's duration is taken by a single song. Definitely interesting, a lot of new sounds. Still a short album though. Overall pretty decent.
Highlights:
Seven and Seven Is
3
Jul 27 2024
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Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
Very good. Fast paced and memorable. I'm not usually one for this music style but it works in this instance. A classic for sure. Some tracks were a bit lacklustre but there are so many good ones too.
Highlights:
Cover Me
No Surrender
Glory Days
Dancing In the Dark
4
Jul 28 2024
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Vanishing Point
Primal Scream
I was expecting some rock not whatever this is. Generally boring, music to zone out to. Experimental music should be interesting not just random sounds thrown together with some speaking.
That being said, Star was ok. A redeeming track with a good instrumental.
Highlights:
Star
2
Jul 29 2024
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Olympia 64
Jacques Brel
Really powerful and passionate performances, even though I don't usually enjoy live albums. Some uninteresting moments but overall solid. There's something about listening to other languages that I enjoy a lot.
Highlights:
Amsterdam
Tango funebre
3
Jul 30 2024
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Heroes
David Bowie
An iconic and significant album where experimenting actually fits well. Some more uninteresting moments that don't quite fit but what album doesn't have strengths and weaknesses? Really interesting sounds that must've been completely new at the time though.
Highlights:
Beauty and the Beast
Blackout
3
Jul 31 2024
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Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
Round 2 of Waits for me, having had another album earlier this month.
I really wasn't a fan of this one. It was grating on my ears quite quickly. I appreciate the different instrumentals through, its the vocals that are less enjoyable.
2
Aug 01 2024
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Honky Tonk Heroes
Waylon Jennings
Some quite catchy and interesting rhythms in this one. A solid album.
Highlights:
Honky Tonk Heroes
Omaha
Ain't No God In Mexico
3
Aug 02 2024
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Dig Your Own Hole
The Chemical Brothers
Really not my thing. I get the variety of different sounds used, but if a song is going to be over 5 minutes long at least add some more progression throughout. It got tedious to listen to. Incredibly boring.
1
Aug 03 2024
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(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
I liked it a lot more than I expected to. Good instrumentation, upbeat, catchy. I've been missing out. Somehow I preferred the less streamed tracks to the big hits.
Highlights:
Hello
Roll With It
3
Aug 04 2024
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Warehouse: Songs And Stories
Hüsker Dü
A lot of the tracks sounded a bit too similar, but there are also some catchy ones mixed in. Decent.
Highlights:
These Important Years
Friend, You've Got To Fall
Actual Condition
3
Aug 05 2024
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Kenya
Machito
I had to double check what year this was made. It sounds way more modern than the 50s. Listening to instrumental music on a sunny day is refreshing, and this was no exception. Quite short though, but better than it going on forever.
Highlights:
Holiday
Frenzy
Minor Rama
3
Aug 06 2024
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Band On The Run
Paul McCartney and Wings
Lots of quite different sounding tracks, good instrumentals and writing. Quite funky at times. Nothing stood out as being outstanding though.
Highlights:
Bluebird
Mrs. Vandebilt
3
Aug 07 2024
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Ogden's Nut Gone Flake
Small Faces
A mixed bag. Some cool songs that fit in well with the time, but also some strange talking sections that don't make much sense. It seems to get stranger as it progresses.
Highlights:
Rene
Song of a Baker
Rollin' Over
3
Aug 08 2024
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The Real Thing
Faith No More
Really interesting compositions. The longer songs were a bit more difficult to get into but the album is overall good. Never even heard of this band before so that makes it a nice surprise. Really like the genre combinations, it works well.
Highlights:
From Out of Nowhere
Surprise! You're Dead!
Underwater Love
Edge of the World
4
Aug 09 2024
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Cross
Justice
Went in not knowing what to expect. It wasn’t this. It would definitely be fun to dance to but a lot of the songs are just a mix of glitchy sounds in a a different order. It became a bit of a chore. There were a few that I really enjoyed that I’d listen to again though.
Highlights:
Genesis
Valentine
DVNO
3
Aug 10 2024
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Dire Straits
Dire Straits
Some interesting songs but also some boring ones. Not sure I’d listen again.
Highlights:
Setting Me Up
Southbound Again
2
Aug 11 2024
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Frank
Amy Winehouse
Interesting instrumentals and powerful vocals. I like the laid back vibes of the instruments for most of the album. I did prefer Back To Black, but this album is still quite good, especially for a debut. Enjoyable to listen through. I wouldn’t listen to everything again though.
Highlights:
Know Me Now
F Me Pumps
Amy Amy Amy
3
Aug 12 2024
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Bug
Dinosaur Jr.
Quite a short one. Many very similar sounding tracks but a few I’d like to hear again. Also a fan of this style.
Highlights:
Freak Scene
Let It Ride
Keep the Glove
3
Aug 13 2024
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Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
Very chill and instruments played beautifully. Emotional. However it was also a bit boring. It’s short enough for it to not be too annoying. I can appreciate it to an extent though.
Highlights:
Fakin' It
Mrs. Robinson
2
Aug 14 2024
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Club Classics Vol. One
Soul II Soul
I'm sure it was good at the time but now it just seems boring and repetitive, something you'd zone out listening to. Some long tracks mixed in that don't go anywhere. Some parts do seem like later house music but less inventive.
1
Aug 15 2024
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The Scream
Siouxsie And The Banshees
I really enjoyed this. A good assortment of tracks with that punk grunge sound I like. I had only heard one song not from this album before this, definitely want to explore more now.
Highlights:
Overground
Helter Skelter
Mirage
Hong Kong Garden
The Staircase (Mystery)
4
Aug 16 2024
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Forever Changes
Love
Some nice guitar work but not much of the album stands out to me. I can appreciate it though. It does have that classic sound to it. There are some songs that I'd give another go.
Highlights:
Alone Again Or
Bummer In The Summer
2
Aug 17 2024
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Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
Some songs were decent, some dragged out a bit long. A mixed bag but not many I'd listen to again. I didn't mind listening to it though.
Highlights:
Keep the Car Running
The Well and the Lighthouse
2
Aug 18 2024
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Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
I was excited to see this pop up, having known a few of these tracks for years. The themes really speak to me. I also love genre combinations that effectively work together. I had never listened to the entire album before, so there were definitely some new ones I need to listen to again. I know many people do this rock rap style now but I can see this being innovative then.
Highlights:
Papercut
One Step Closer
Runaway
In the End
A Place for My Head
5
Aug 19 2024
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Clandestino
Manu Chao
Never heard of this before. So many tracks packed into quite a short album. Enjoyed the language combinations. Love music with this kind of sound, especially in the summer.
Highlights:
Clandestino
Lagrimas de oro
Luna y sol
4
Aug 20 2024
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Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
Engaging storytelling within the lyrics, but the overall genre isn’t really my thing. It’s not awful, not at all, it definitely has merit.
Highlights:
You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go
2
Aug 21 2024
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Music
Madonna
Not heard any of this before. It surprised me how different it was to what I'm used to from her. Despite being intriguing the experimental sounds don't pay off on every track. I do like how each track sounds so distinct to the previous one. There were some decent tracks but I think I'd need to listen again to fully get the album.
Highlights:
Impressive Instant
Runaway Lover
3
Aug 22 2024
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Solid Air
John Martyn
I liked it more than I expected, but there were still many moments I wasn't too keen on. The guitar and singing style is overall good. However, I don't think I'd listen again.
Highlights:
Over The Hill
Dreams By The Sea
3
Aug 23 2024
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New Boots And Panties
Ian Dury
When the instruments started I was enjoying it. Then, the lyrics and speaking began. I was certainly expecting more subtle lyrics than that. I laughed more than during any other album so far, the lyrics somehow got me.
The instrumentals and production is good, its just the lyrics and delivery threw me off.
Highlights:
Clevor Trever
2
Aug 24 2024
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Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Really soothing and engaging at the same time. I felt like I was somewhere else. Difficult to score though as I don't listen to that many instrumental albums. It was enjoyable but did get repetitive.
Highlights:
Samba Dees Days
O Pato
3
Aug 25 2024
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Golden Hour
Kacey Musgraves
First time getting a 2010s album in this. Powerful and emotional vocals. A lot of it was quite samey and plain in terms of instrumental. Generally country isn't my thing but I do like the folk elements mixed in, and the balance between pop and country.
Highlights:
Butterflies
Oh, What A World
Velvet Elvis
High Horse
3
Aug 26 2024
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Billion Dollar Babies
Alice Cooper
Interesting. Really like the sound and interesting tracks, each stands out on its own. The kind of classic I enjoy. Not oversaturated with filler tracks. It was longer than it felt, the type of album where you wouldn't mind more of this sound.
Highlights:
Elected
Billion Dollar Babies
No More Mr. Nice Guy
4
Aug 27 2024
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Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
Less heavy than I expected, which wasn't a bad thing. I love the sound of an electric guitar. Softer singing than I expected too. Some of the longer instrumentals didn't have a lot going on but overall decent.
Highlights:
Prowler
Running Free
3
Aug 28 2024
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KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
Never heard of this artist before, not sure what to expect.
Definitely a retro sound. Sounds older than it is. Calming and ambient instrumentals. I wasn't expecting this at all but it was interesting to hear.
Highlights:
Living In Denial
Hero
3
Aug 29 2024
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Haut de gamme / Koweït, rive gauche
Koffi Olomide
I love listening to things like this on a sunny day. Perfect vibes.
Great composition and instrument combinations.
Highlights:
Papa bonheur
Élixir
Obrigado
3
Aug 30 2024
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Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Surprisingly not heard this.
A really good classic with a variety of interesting songs. Some tracks were a bit lengthy though without also maintaining interesting aspects throughout.
Highlights:
Black Dog
Rock and Roll
Misty Mountain Hut
3
Aug 31 2024
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Parallel Lines
Blondie
I’ve heard some tracks of theirs but nothing from this album before.
Looking back, I have heard some of these songs, just not knowing who they were by. Seems incredibly familiar.
I really liked this. Outstanding. Catchy, fast paced, energetic. Constantly interesting. So many classics.
Highlights:
One Way Or Another
Pretty Baby
11:59
Sunday Girl
Heart Of Glass
5
Sep 01 2024
View Album
The Score
Fugees
I like the flow and transition of the tracks, it works well.
Unfortunately I can’t get into this genre in general. I’ve tried but it just hasn’t clicked with me. I didn’t mind giving the album a listen though.
That being said, there were some memorable tracks that definitely had an impact. I’d give some of them another go. I’d rate it higher than other similar albums because the lyrics were more creative and Lauryn’s singing is powerful.
Highlights:
Ready or Not
Killing Me Softly With His Song
3
Sep 02 2024
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If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
I love when traditional music steeped in history is combined with more contemporary instruments, so this is right up my alley. Energetic, traditional and modern at the same time.
Skipped Fairytale of New York as it’s September but I already know what it sounds like and love it. One of my favourite Christmas songs.
I can’t believe I hadn’t heard any of the other tracks before. I really liked it, more than I expected.
Highlights:
If I Should Fall from Grace with God
Turkish Song of the Damned
Fairytale of New York
Fiesta
The Recurring Sergeant / The Rocky Road to Dublin / Galway Races
The Broad Majestic Shannon
5
Sep 03 2024
View Album
With The Beatles
Beatles
Haven’t really heard the earlier Beatles before.
Short and upbeat, quite funky, but I do prefer the later stuff. Maybe I’m just more familiar with it. I’ll give this another listen sometime to see if my opinion changes though.
Highlights:
It Won’t Be Long
Please Mister Postman
Roll Over Beethoven
3
Sep 04 2024
View Album
Penthouse And Pavement
Heaven 17
I appreciate experimentation but this just wasn’t for me. Nothing stood out, but it wasn’t terrible musically. Lyrics were fine. I don’t think I’d listen again.
2
Sep 05 2024
View Album
Coat Of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
Not heard this one before.
I enjoy storytelling in songs, how it paints a vivid picture. Very powerful singing and songwriting.
Highlights:
Coat of Many Colours
My Blue Tears
A Better Place To Live
3
Sep 06 2024
View Album
Hunting High And Low
a-ha
Quite decent. More of these tracks should’ve been popular. A underrated one for sure.
Highlights:
Take On Me
The Sun Always Shines On TV
I Dream Myself Alive
3
Sep 07 2024
View Album
Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
Another one I somehow haven’t heard of.
It was good, some really funky tracks mixed in. I’d listen to the highlights again for sure. Great guitar. Rocked out a bit. It did improve as it continued.
Highlights:
Waitin’ for the Bus
Move Me on Down the Line
La Grange
3
Sep 08 2024
View Album
Fear and Whiskey
Mekons
Not really my thing overall, but some memorable tracks in between the bland. I didn’t know what to make of this at first. It sounded very country to me in the beginning but then switched to so many different genres I couldn’t keep up.
Highlights:
Hard to Be Human Again
Last Dance
2
Sep 09 2024
View Album
Safe As Milk
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Definitely an interesting band name.
On first impression this is going to be a difficult listen. The instruments completely drown out the vocals and this style of singing just grates on me. I like the upbeat instrumentations and attempts at experimentation but it all blends in at some point.
Highlights:
Call On Me
2
Sep 10 2024
View Album
To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
I doubt I’m going to like this one…
I will say the jazz elements are interesting and stop this from getting a 1, and the instrumentals in general.
However, there is nothing at all original about the lyrics. Excessive swearing, violence, bragging. Why do all these hip hop albums on this list talk about the same stuff?
2
Sep 11 2024
View Album
Teenage Head
Flamin' Groovies
It was good, started off slow but picked up, many catchy riffs and instrumentals, especially the guitar. I’m surprised by how underrated it seems to be on streaming services, but I guess that happens with older albums.
Highlights:
High Flyin’ Baby
Teenage Head
Evil Hearted Ada
That’ll Be The Day
3
Sep 12 2024
View Album
American IV: The Man Comes Around
Johnny Cash
Some powerful and emotional covers interpreted differently, as well as some originals mixed in. Gets you in the feels. However, some of them don’t really add anything new. Country definitely isn’t one of my preferred genres, but music that makes you feel something can’t be ignored.
Highlights:
Hurt
I Hung My Head
3
Sep 13 2024
View Album
Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club
Loving the guitar. Something I’d definitely listen to again on a sunny day. Some of the songs were longer than they needed to be but overall good.
Highlights:
De Camino a La Vereda
Dos Gardenias
3
Sep 14 2024
View Album
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles
Third Beatles in two months, second this month. Really enjoyed it, not that I expected not to. Great hooks and some big hits included. Short and to the point songs with great instrument playing and flow. I don’t usually say this but some songs could’ve been a bit longer.
Highlights:
A Hard Day’s Night
Can’t Buy Me Love
I’ll Cry Instead
You Can’t Do That
4
Sep 15 2024
View Album
The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
Fast paced tracks with intense guitar. Frantic vocals. Got repetitive after a while but still solid.
Highlights:
Invaders
Run to the Hills
3
Sep 16 2024
View Album
My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts
Brian Eno
The sampling is experimental for sure, but the album overall isn't interesting. Mumbling lyrics, too many sounds layered over the top. Difficult to get through. Got boring fast.
1
Sep 17 2024
View Album
Lady Soul
Aretha Franklin
Such a powerful and soulful voice. Some timeless classics in there. I’d definitely listen to some of these tracks again, some stood out a lot more than others though.
Highlights:
Niki Hoeky
Come Back Baby
3
Sep 18 2024
View Album
More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
Not sure why but I couldn’t really get into this. The sound just didn’t do it for me. Lengthy instrumentals without much happening.
Highlights:
With Our Love
2
Sep 19 2024
View Album
This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Didn’t know what to expect, never heard of them.
I tried but couldn’t get into it. It felt monotonous and all blended into one after a few tracks. Might need another listen sometime.
Highlights:
Couldn't Get Ahead
2
Sep 20 2024
View Album
xx
The xx
Never heard of them and gave it a go. I don't understand why this is on the list. Whispery vocals, mumbling, boring, no song really stands out. With most albums I can find at least one positive but not this time. An X for The xx.
1
Sep 21 2024
View Album
Dummy
Portishead
Not what I expected but I liked the mix of beats and sounds added in. Really nice vocals.
Unfortunately, for me it gradually got less interesting. The style is definitely unique but it carried throughout every track making them all merge not that far in. I might need to give it another listen sometime to really get it. I can see why this is on the list.
Highlights:
Strangers
Wandering Star
3
Sep 22 2024
View Album
The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators
The 13th Floor Elevators
The title of the album put me off initially, but it actually ended up being quite good. Short and to the point, funky and catchy.
Highlights:
You're Gonna Miss Me
Reverberation
You Don't Know
Monkey Island
4
Sep 23 2024
View Album
Halcyon Digest
Deerhunter
Somewhat relaxing, but also boring. Like I'm in some kind of trace. Not a lot going on here. Not easy to understand what is being said either.
Highlights:
Memory Boy
2
Sep 24 2024
View Album
That's The Way Of The World
Earth, Wind & Fire
Great singing, high energy, soulful and funky, just what I expected from them. I wish there were more tracks. Overall good.
Highlights:
Shining Star
Happy Feelin'
3
Sep 25 2024
View Album
Savane
Ali Farka Touré
I usually like this type of album and the summer ambience it creates but this time it felt like something was missing. Not much progression or change through the songs, especially the longer ones.
Highlights:
Yer Bounda Fara
2
Sep 26 2024
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Live At The Regal
B.B. King
Not usually keen on live albums, but the piano and guitars really stand out during live performances and this is no exception. Vocals are great. However, it felt longer than it was and got tiring.
Highlights:
Please Love Me
2
Sep 27 2024
View Album
L.A. Woman
The Doors
I don't know what but something is missing. It just seems like what all the rock bands were doing at the time. It's ok to listen to but there's just not a lot that makes it stand out from the others. I think I might need another listen.
Highlights:
Hyacinth House
2
Sep 28 2024
View Album
Brothers
The Black Keys
Funky. Good beats. Some pretty good stuff on this one.
Highlights:
Everlasting Light
Howlin' For You
3
Sep 29 2024
View Album
The Dreaming
Kate Bush
Very eccentric and experimental. A lot of weird sounds but also some good arrangements hidden within. Some tracks worked better than others, some were a bit too far for me. Instrumentals good throughout, overall decent.
Highlights:
Sat In Your Lap
Suspended In Gaffa
3
Sep 30 2024
View Album
Songs The Lord Taught Us
The Cramps
Very energetic and intense, got some of those classic sounds mixed in. Made me want to dance. Really liked some of the tracks, and when it was good it was really good. The stuff I like. I ended up wanting more tracks.
Highlights:
Rock On The Moon
Garbageman
The Mad Daddy
Mystery Plane
Strychnine
4
Oct 01 2024
View Album
Disraeli Gears
Cream
Lots of catchy hooks and interesting sounds. And that guitar... perfect. Why haven't I heard this before? Discovering so many great albums. Got a bit slower halfway through but picked up again. Enjoyable.
Highlights:
Strange Brew
Dance The Night Away
SWLABR
4
Oct 02 2024
View Album
Rhythm Nation 1814
Janet Jackson
Really funky and catchy. Inspirational messages. Some of the longer tracks got a bit tiring though, with the same beat over and over again. Overall good.
Highlights:
Rhythm Nation
The Knowledge
Miss You Much
3
Oct 03 2024
View Album
Chocolate Starfish And The Hot Dog Flavored Water
Limp Bizkit
What was that? Couldn't they think of any more lyrics? The instruments are played decently and the instrumental arrangements are the type of stuff I like but nothing else. The uninspired lyrics weren't delivered very well either.
2
Oct 04 2024
View Album
In Our Heads
Hot Chip
Not usually a fan of long instrumentals but this is pretty funky. There might not be much to the lyrics but that's not the focus in this genre and the beats make up for it.
Highlights:
How Do You Do?
These Chains
3
Oct 05 2024
View Album
Murmur
R.E.M.
Trying to get into it but finding it difficult. There are some catchy parts for sure but also many boring parts. I'll just settle in the middle and consider it decent. I got into it more towards the end.
Highlights:
Radio Free Europe
Laughing
Sitting Still
3
Oct 06 2024
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Slipknot
Slipknot
It just feels like its trying too hard to be edgy. I'm not always so keen on such aggressive music. It's not terrible it just didn't click with me. I can't recall a single song individually, all sounded alike.
2
Oct 07 2024
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Groovin'
The Young Rascals
Very strange album cover. The music just sounds like typical 60s pop. Nothing groundbreaking.
Highlights:
Groovin'
2
Oct 08 2024
View Album
Reggatta De Blanc
The Police
I didn't know what to expect, but I wasn't expecting that. Many different styles were dived into throughout whilst retaining the punk sound, I like albums that do that. Towards the middle it got a bit meh but picked up again.
Highlights:
Reggatta De Blanc
It's Alright For You
No Time This Time
3
Oct 09 2024
View Album
Bridge Over Troubled Water
Simon & Garfunkel
Powerful for sure. I completely get why its on here and it definitely was a moment. The ballad style tracks weren't really my thing but I do love the folk elements scattered in and the more up-tempo tracks. I feel like I'm being transported somewhere.
Highlights:
El Condor Pasa (If I Could)
Cecilia
Baby Driver
Why Don't You Write Me
3
Oct 10 2024
View Album
Underwater Moonlight
The Soft Boys
More psychedelic rock. How much is there on this list? Fast paced, catchy, all sounded the same though. And then I saw it was 40 songs long.... might not listen to the bonus ones. It was decent. Got quite strange towards the end.
Highlights:
I Wanna Destroy You
Positive Vibrations
3
Oct 11 2024
View Album
It's Blitz!
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Not awful, but still uninteresting throughout with a few exceptions. It get a bit better when the pace picked up.
Highlights:
Dull Life
2
Oct 12 2024
View Album
Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes
High energy. Some catchy hooks. Gets quite intense. In regards to the lyrics it does get a bit whiny and pitiful, to an obnoxious point. Good instrumentals but the lyrics not so much.
Highlights:
Blister In The Sun
Prove My Love
Gone Daddy Gone
3
Oct 13 2024
View Album
Woodface
Crowded House
That typical rock indie sound. I don't know what makes this distinct from others in this genre, but not awful. Something to put on in the background.
Highlights:
Fall At Your Feet
2
Oct 14 2024
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Fifth Dimension
The Byrds
Nothing wrong with it musically from a critical perspective. Liked the guitar, just not very interesting to me overall as a collective set of tracks.
2
Oct 15 2024
View Album
Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
Funky and smooth, but also chill. Something seems missing though. Not a fan of very long tracks but the shorter ones were decent.
Highlights:
Super Stupid
3
Oct 16 2024
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Devil Without A Cause
Kid Rock
I usually like genre fusions but not this. Some of the music was good, but the lyrics are just embarrassing, trying too hard to be edgy.
2
Oct 17 2024
View Album
Frampton Comes Alive
Peter Frampton
Great guitar and riffs. Lots of talent. Feels a bit dated even for the time though. Also don't usually prefer live albums. I definitely don't seek them out on my own usually.
Highlights:
Show Me The Way
3
Oct 18 2024
View Album
Truth And Soul
Fishbone
Genre fusions done right. Truly a bit of everything mixed in here. Each track was so different. Sometimes funky, sometimes heavy. I really enjoyed that. Glad I've discovered yet another new band.
Highlights:
Freddie's Dead
Ma and Pa
Mighty Long Way
Slow Bus Movin'
4
Oct 19 2024
View Album
Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
Great instrumentals, not as keen on the singing though. Lots of good tracks mixed with a few not so good ones, but it was a decent listen overall.
Highlights:
Today
Spaceboy
3
Oct 20 2024
View Album
John Prine
John Prine
Really not keen on the genre. There is at least some humour in this one though. It does get samey after not long at all, but it isn't awful in terms of lyrics.
2
Oct 21 2024
View Album
The Rise & Fall
Madness
Love the ska elements. Some tracks were kinda confusing with their tempo and didn't fit in but the album was pretty good!
Highlights:
Rise and Fall
Our House
Tiptoes
3
Oct 22 2024
View Album
Beggars Banquet
The Rolling Stones
Great instrumentation and pacing. Lots of unique tracks. Might need to give it another listen to full appreciate it. Definitely something good here.
Highlights:
Parachute Woman
Street Fighting Man
3
Oct 23 2024
View Album
São Paulo Confessions
Suba
I really like listening to music in other languages, but not so much this time. It's definitely nice for a chill evening, but not in any other context. It wasn't one of the worst I've heard though. The traditional instruments mixed in are quite nice.
2
Oct 24 2024
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Larks' Tongues In Aspic
King Crimson
The last album of theirs I got was ok, but this one just had nothing I liked. It's like they tried too hard to be experimental and ended up making it unlistenable. I gave it a go though.
1
Oct 25 2024
View Album
You Are The Quarry
Morrissey
Some humorous lyrics and good mid tempo beats. Most of it wasn't my thing but there were some good tracks too.
Highlights:
Irish Blood, English Heart
3
Oct 26 2024
View Album
Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
Dramatic. Suspenseful. There were moments I really enjoyed, but also lacklustre moments without much going on.
Highlights:
Try Not To Breathe
The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite
Monty Got A Raw Deal
3
Oct 27 2024
View Album
Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
Not terrible, just not my thing. I found it a bit boring and pretentious. I did want to like it more. Instruments are well played at least.
2
Oct 28 2024
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Bright Flight
Silver Jews
It just feels generic. Like anyone could have made it at the time. Nothing distinct. Mundane and uninspired.
1
Oct 29 2024
View Album
Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
Love the rock elements. Funky in parts. Really liked the instrumentation and delivery in general, just not most of the lyrics. Some made me not want to listen to certain tracks again.
Highlights:
Fight For Your Right
No Sleep Till Brooklyn
3
Oct 30 2024
View Album
Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
A bit of a whiny voice. Some nice chord progressions and the vibe is ok but not really my thing.
2
Oct 31 2024
View Album
A Wizard, A True Star
Todd Rundgren
Some very interesting sounds. It seems really underrated. Nice transitions between tracks. Some fun tracks and also some weird ones. A really interesting journey I was taken on.
You Need Your Head
Just Another Onionhead / Da Da Dali
3
Nov 01 2024
View Album
Vulgar Display Of Power
Pantera
Instruments were ok. Good for a high energy workout, however I like to hear what they are singing about and you don't really get that here
2
Nov 02 2024
View Album
Led Zeppelin II
Led Zeppelin
I had no idea this was from the 60s, I genuinely thought it was early 80s for some reason. Really ahead of its time. That makes it even better. Some strange lyrics but it's mostly about the instrumentation for this.
Highlights:
Whole Lotta Love
Thank You
3
Nov 03 2024
View Album
Jack Takes the Floor
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
Something I've never even heard of from that long ago. Very country, even to an extreme. Also what's with all the yelling? Interesting to discover this but not my thing. I see how he was influential.
2
Nov 04 2024
View Album
The Next Day
David Bowie
A lot of tempo switching. Funky but also slower at times. I mean It's Bowie. It lacks the charm of the earlier records though.
Highlights:
The Next Day
The Stars (Are Out Tonight)
3
Nov 05 2024
View Album
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
Some really good tracks. Such a classic. Short and to the point tracks that instantly pick up. A lot that I didn't really care for too though.
Highlights:
Blue Suede Shoes
I'm Gonna Sit right down and Cry
3
Nov 06 2024
View Album
Third
Portishead
Interesting compositions but overall not my thing.
2
Nov 07 2024
View Album
Logical Progression
LTJ Bukem
Just gave me an empty feeling. A ton of nothing. Elevator music.
1
Nov 08 2024
View Album
Shadowland
k.d. lang
Short songs but good. Really nice guitar. I don't usually like this tempo as much but this worked. Soothing, smooth.
Highlights:
Western Stars
Waltz Me
3
Nov 09 2024
View Album
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
2
Nov 10 2024
View Album
The Only Ones
The Only Ones
Started off very slow and mediocre, but closer to the end it really picked up and saved the album for me.
Highlights:
Another Girl, Another Planet
Creature Of Doom
3
Nov 11 2024
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Paris 1919
John Cale
2
Nov 12 2024
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Brilliant Corners
Thelonious Monk
2
Nov 13 2024
View Album
Come Find Yourself
Fun Lovin' Criminals
Not what I was expecting. Really funky with rock elements mixed in. Usually not a fan of hip hop on its own, but genre mixing is awesome.
Highlights:
The Fun Lovin' Criminal
Smoke 'Em
3
Nov 14 2024
View Album
Darklands
The Jesus And Mary Chain
2
Nov 15 2024
View Album
Risque
CHIC
Didn't know what to expect but I loved it. So funky and I love disco. I never realised Good Times was 8 minutes long.
Highlights:
Good Times
My Forbidden Lover
4
Nov 16 2024
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Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
3
Nov 17 2024
View Album
A Little Deeper
Ms. Dynamite
Was interested to see I'd got this one today. I saw a performance of one of the songs a while back, didn't expect to see it on here. Some cool melodies and instruments mixed in. Not very often am I a fan of this genre but I really enjoyed that. Some powerful messages in there.
Highlights:
Dy-Na-Mi-Tee
Put Him Out
4
Nov 18 2024
View Album
Ellington at Newport
Duke Ellington
Not typically a fan of live albums, but this was a treat. I wasn't a fan of the talking in between songs being included, but I really liked the high energy of the songs and the instruments were played so smoothly as well.
Highlights:
Tea for Two
III Newport Up
Sophisticated Lady
3
Nov 19 2024
View Album
Physical Graffiti
Led Zeppelin
Really catchy melodies. Those guitar riffs... man. Really good. The strong tracks are super strong and outweigh anything else. It gets better and better as the album progresses. I've had way more great albums lately, the algorithm is on my side.
Highlights:
Custard Pie
Houses of the Holy
Trampled Under Foot
Night Flight
Boogie With Stu
5
Nov 20 2024
View Album
Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
So chill. Just what I needed today. So many great songs. I do think I preferred the other Marley album I got a few months ago, but this one is pretty good too.
Highlights:
No Woman No Cry
Them Belly Full
Natty Dread
Talkin' Blues
4
Nov 21 2024
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The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
2
Nov 22 2024
View Album
Synchronicity
The Police
3
Nov 23 2024
View Album
Music in Exile
Songhoy Blues
Finally a new country! Really funky blues rock. I love music in other languages too. I like the different tempos a lot.
Highlights:
Soubour
Al Hassidi Terei
Al Tchere Bele
Desert Melodie
4
Nov 24 2024
View Album
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
Some very interesting and topical at the time issues in there. A bit monotonous towards the end but I still liked it.
Highlights:
Victoria
Some Mother's Son
3
Nov 25 2024
View Album
Junkyard
The Birthday Party
Oh boy it's time for this one. I'll admit I have heard some of this album before as I got quite interested in Cave earlier this year. After almost 200 albums on here this is my first Cave within the challenge though.
Very noisy. When its listened to in succession it just seems even more messy than before. After a while it did get unlistenable.
Highlights:
Dead Joe
Several Sins
2
Nov 26 2024
View Album
1999
Prince
3
Nov 27 2024
View Album
New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
3
Nov 28 2024
View Album
Vincebus Eruptum
Blue Cheer
2
Nov 29 2024
View Album
Roxy Music
Roxy Music
2
Nov 30 2024
View Album
Low
David Bowie
Somehow never heard this before. I liked it. It has that kick I need in music, that rhythm.
3
Dec 01 2024
View Album
Play
Moby
2
Dec 02 2024
View Album
Green River
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Wow. I really enjoyed that. This was awesome. It's hard to explain why specifically, but the rhythm and guitar really helped. I can't really recall a moment I didn't like. Haven't given a 5 for weeks so about time!
Highlights:
Green River
Commotion
Bad Moon Rising
Sinister Purpose
Broken Spoke Shuffle
5
Dec 03 2024
View Album
I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
3
Dec 04 2024
View Album
Born To Be With You
Dion
2
Dec 05 2024
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Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba
2
Dec 06 2024
View Album
Opus Dei
Laibach
2
Dec 07 2024
View Album
Imagine
John Lennon
A bit underwhelming for what I expected based on the reception, but decent nonetheless.
Highlights:
Imagine
It's So Hard
3
Dec 08 2024
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American Beauty
Grateful Dead
3
Dec 09 2024
View Album
Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
What the hell was that? Not what I expected but some of it was ok.
Highlights:
Wail
2
Dec 10 2024
View Album
Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
3
Dec 11 2024
View Album
S.F. Sorrow
The Pretty Things
3