414
Albums Rated
3.43
Average Rating
38%
Complete
675 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
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Taste Profile
1960
Favorite Decade
World
Favorite Genre
other
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
81
5-Star Albums
7
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Medúlla
Björk
|
5 | 2.73 | +2.27 |
|
A Northern Soul
The Verve
|
5 | 2.91 | +2.09 |
|
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida
Iron Butterfly
|
5 | 2.94 | +2.06 |
|
Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
|
5 | 2.95 | +2.05 |
|
The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators
The 13th Floor Elevators
|
5 | 2.96 | +2.04 |
|
Walking Wounded
Everything But The Girl
|
5 | 2.97 | +2.03 |
|
Future Days
Can
|
5 | 3 | +2 |
|
Savane
Ali Farka Touré
|
5 | 3.02 | +1.98 |
|
Real Life
Magazine
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
|
Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
|
5 | 3.12 | +1.88 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Music Has The Right To Children
Boards of Canada
|
1 | 2.91 | -1.91 |
|
Shadowland
k.d. lang
|
1 | 2.87 | -1.87 |
|
Dookie
Green Day
|
2 | 3.79 | -1.79 |
|
Cee-Lo Green... Is The Soul Machine
Cee Lo Green
|
1 | 2.65 | -1.65 |
|
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
|
2 | 3.64 | -1.64 |
|
The Genius Of Ray Charles
Ray Charles
|
2 | 3.63 | -1.63 |
|
To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
|
2 | 3.62 | -1.62 |
|
Buenas Noches From A Lonely Room
Dwight Yoakam
|
1 | 2.6 | -1.6 |
|
Timeless
Goldie
|
1 | 2.53 | -1.53 |
|
Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Ray Charles
|
2 | 3.49 | -1.49 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Dylan | 5 | 4.6 |
| David Bowie | 6 | 4.33 |
| Radiohead | 4 | 4.5 |
| Beastie Boys | 3 | 4.67 |
| Led Zeppelin | 2 | 5 |
| PJ Harvey | 2 | 5 |
| Metallica | 2 | 5 |
| The Doors | 2 | 5 |
| Joy Division | 2 | 5 |
| Queen | 2 | 5 |
| Miles Davis | 2 | 5 |
| Fela Kuti | 2 | 5 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 2 | 5 |
| Black Sabbath | 3 | 4.33 |
| Beatles | 5 | 4 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| k.d. lang | 2 | 1.5 |
5-Star Albums (81)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Stevie Wonder · 6 likes
4/5
I'm reminded once again (this is my 2nd Wonder album from the list) how good a musician Stevie Wonder is. Some stunning songs on this album including one of my favourites, Higher Ground. Unfortunately there are a few I like a bit less because too poppy for me (Don't you worry about a thing) or tooo smooooth and romcom outro-like. But that's being picky, this album absolutely needs to be on the list esp. given how well it aged.
Beastie Boys · 5 likes
5/5
This would have been 5 as a one-song album with just Sabotage! Luckily, there is much more goodness than just that song. Lots of almost punk-like energy but this is an album that can also be enjoyed as a careful listen. Lots going on. Listening to this (and having listened to Paul's Boutique) I one again realise how good a hip-hop band the Beastie Boys were.
Public Image Ltd. · 2 likes
3/5
I have always liked PIL but only knew a few songs. Listening to this album was great. Johnny's voice is marmite, but musically this album surprised me. Yes there is punk but not quite the Sex Pistols, there is Prog Rock but not quite Can, and there is hard edge funk bass but not quite TC Matic. Interesting rather than enjoyable, but worth a place on the list.
Earth, Wind & Fire · 2 likes
5/5
This has definitely been the discovery for me so far (25 albums in). I thought I kind-of knew EWF and classified them with with commercial '70 kitsch disco (think Boney M) which I hate with a passion. How wrong was I! This is an amazing sounding, soulful, funky and at times jazzy album. Excellent musicianship and most songs are just top class, groovy, can't-sit-still tracks. Even the ones I like the least (the ballads like All About Love) are good. But Africano, what a stonker of a funk track (as are several others)! It's a 4 or a 5 but I'll give it a 5 because it made my day, and I can't really find anything wrong with it. Note to self: buy the album.
Skunk Anansie · 1 likes
2/5
I was looking forward to this album... Skunk Anansie was part of life when I was a student and I saw them live, and liked it them. However I didn't enjoy this album. I was actually really happy when it was over, musically not bad but not genius either, a bit monotonous and I found Skin's vocals (which I used to find interesting, and I like Skin as a person and role model) quite tiring and shouty. They have even thrown in an operatic voice at some point, which was lost on me. This has unfortunately not aged well for me.
1-Star Albums (7)
All Ratings
The Who
3/5
Nice, some songs surprisingly Beatles like. Entwistle's bass is interesting. Did not move me very much emotionally but a pleasant listen with no bad songs on the album.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
Sounds very familiar of course. Great songwriting, great vocal harmonies. Just not for me. Too goody-goody and too reminiscent of priests.
The Kinks
2/5
Not a connoisseur of the Kinks but I like some of their songs, so had fairly high expectations of this album. I was quite disappointed, and would have skipped several songs of I hadn't committed to listening to the entire album. I was quite bored. There is a nice Englishness about the album and I'm sure it was influential, but not really for me. Not a fan of Ray Davies' vocals and most songs did not move me at all. Melodically the songs are good/ very good but lacking in other aspects of musicality for me (I like songs like You Really Got Me better, but it's not on this album).
R.E.M.
5/5
Great that I "had to" listen to this album again since a long time. One of the more intimate REM ones, and I love it (I also love their earlier work). Lots of fabulous songs and the opening track (Drive)... superb as are Night Swimming, Everybody Hurts and pretty much the entire album.
Black Sabbath
3/5
It works for me. Sort of heavy bluesy metal. Doesn't get a five because it's musically quite simple, based on a good guitar groove, usually picked up by the bass too. Ozzy's recognisable vocals. Songs are all quite similar; I like this sound but tire of it quite quickly. But, it does what it does, very well.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
I liked this more than I thought I would! I only knew one song but I think the whole album could grow on me (even if not 100% my cup of tea). There is some seriously good musicianship and the songs sound fresh even 50 years later. No bad songs on the album (and there are some SW songs I really don't like like Cherie Amour). A chilled, quite poppy album, nothing offensive or overly cheesy here.
Neil Young
4/5
Even though I am a Neil Young fan, I didn't know this album. I enjoyed it! Not quite like Harvest or After The Gold Rush but the songs are very good, just maybe a bit less "wow", but great all the same.
The Darkness
4/5
Great album, it rocks, has nice grooves, excellent vocals, there's an element of fun too. Would be even better live than recorded I'd think.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Bob Dylan fan here so what can I say... a great record and reminds me of my student years (not that I studied in the '70s). Beautiful melodies, great storytelling.
Skunk Anansie
2/5
I was looking forward to this album... Skunk Anansie was part of life when I was a student and I saw them live, and liked it them. However I didn't enjoy this album. I was actually really happy when it was over, musically not bad but not genius either, a bit monotonous and I found Skin's vocals (which I used to find interesting, and I like Skin as a person and role model) quite tiring and shouty. They have even thrown in an operatic voice at some point, which was lost on me. This has unfortunately not aged well for me.
N.E.R.D
2/5
I went back and forth between mild enjoyment and boredom. This album has elements of hip-hop, rock and pop; I normally like cross-over but in this case it didn't really work for me. The lyrics did not save the day. OK for a few songs but not an entire album for me. Not sure if this is a must-hear album.
The Clash
4/5
This is really well made punk, maybe it sounds even " too good"? After all, punk is not supposed to be about clever musicality, it is about raw expression of emotion (usually anger). So maybe I like the Sex Pistols better, or laer punk crossovers. But, this is a very good album and Simonon is a great and a bit of a musician's bassist.
Björk
4/5
Of course I know Björk but not this album. I never was a true fan (for some reason I viscerally hate "It' Oh So Quiet"), mostly because of the Marmite vocals that can border on vocal acrobatics to my ears. BUT I not so in this album, which I liked. All songs are good (I like the last one best I think), atmospheric, and this album definitely has a place among the 1001.
The Boo Radleys
4/5
An interesting discovery! In a way, I'm not sure what to think of it, it is an eclectic mish-mash. There's 60s, surf, glam rock, a bit of grunge,... but it's really well done. I need to listen to this more and see how it develops. Extra stars for creativity and musicianship, and it's made within miles from where I live!
Beatles
4/5
Like most Beatles albums, it has some songs I really like (Come Together, Here Comes The Sun) but also some songs that I can't stand, on this album for example Maxwell's Silver Hammer (on other albums songs like Yellow Submarine and Hey Jude). But overall, one can't ignore that this is a very creative and influential album... for these reasons I should certainly give it a 5 and it is absolutely a "must hear" album. But 4 it will be for me just because I don't really enjoy it as a full album.
Dusty Springfield
5/5
An album full of greats songs. I love Dusty's recognisable voice and the music/orchestration is great too. Listening to this album I feel like it sounds just right. There are no bad songs. Is it a 4 or a 5? Go on then, a 5.
Gary Numan
4/5
You could say the songs are a bit samey but I'd call it consistency which is a good thing when in the mood for this album. I love it; no bad songs and a few really good ones. This is early synth pop (?) and, with Kraftwerk, sounds like it but it stays fresh even today.
The Go-Go's
2/5
Does not sound unpleasant, it is cheerful and could be good for parties. Musically it is very simple/ a bit boring though; bog standard pop time measures and chord changes. I wouldn't "listen" to this album, it would be background at best. So, can't give it more than 2* even though it sounds alright (like a million other pop albums).
Air
5/5
I have this album and I always come back to it. I'll give it 5* because it's perfect (for me) in what it does. Very atmospheric, creative, and it just sounds great. Acoustic and electronic instruments well mixed.
Santana
5/5
This is a five for me. A genius guitarist who does not "show off" but always prioritises musicality. Very recognisable style yet varied and never boring. I'm not that much into latin styles but this is fantastic. I knew several songs from the album but never listened to it in its entirety. Every song is good. For all these reasons and because Santana is really influential, a decent five.
Sade
4/5
A very sensual, smooth album. Sade has a great voice but the musicians (esp. the rhythm section) are great too. Great to chill.
Femi Kuti
4/5
Very funky, I love it! I only wished it wasn't as full on the whole time, a bit more dynamics (quieter sections) would have been easier on the ears. But, fabulous musicianship and so much fun.
Deerhunter
3/5
Atmospheric and I generally love the sound but none of the songs moves me. It is really mostly about the soundscape and I wouldn't play this for a proper listen, it's (good) background music for me. I like better find this a very hard album to score... on a good day I could give it a 4 and on a bad day a 2. A three then.
fIREHOSE
3/5
Another hard one to score. Lo-fi, sometimes folky, sometimes rocky and Pixies reminiscent, even a bit of disco. I like the sound but it doesn't really move me. Not sure if this is a "must hear" album. On a good day it's a 3.
Otis Redding
3/5
I was really looking forward to this album... I like Otis Redding and this is supposedly his best album (I must admit I had never listen to a full Redding album before). I still like Otis Redding but this album is only a 3 for me. The reasons are that I find it hart to give a very high score for a (mostly) cover album. Redding only wrote three of the songs. And for the music, he could count on the Stax session musicians (which are amazing), it's not "his" band. Also, the songs sound great, but a bit same-ish.
N.W.A.
5/5
I saw the film on a plane and bought the CD soon after. People say a lot about political (in)correctness of the Gangsta Rap album (first of its kind?) but I think that's missing the point. This is definitely an album where it's not just about the tunes, but also about the context. I find this a very authentic album and culturally very important. Just for that it is definitely a Must Hear album. Does it sound good too? To me, yes (and I'm not a real rap fan).
Joanna Newsom
2/5
Phew, glad this is over. It started alright... interesting voice, the courage to make long (about 10') songs anno 2024. But I got tired of it really quickly and it was a struggle to finish the album. If you have a very characteristic voice it helps to vary the actual songs, ore use your voice differently, but she doesn't. All songs are long and sound the same (actually, in that sense an album of fifty 1' songs would not have sounded much different). Folky, same singing style, same sprinkle of harp (it doesn't help I'm nor really into folk any more and don't like harp). I'll give it a 2 because it is not without merit. Bur definitely not a must-hear album for me.
Destiny's Child
3/5
Totally not my thing, but being "forced" to listen to the album I must say it is really well made and the vocals are great (Beyoncé and the others, and their harmonies). Musically not daft either. I got a bit tired of it towards the end but I feel for its legacy it deserves a place among the 1001. Great album if you're into slick, well (overly?) produced commercial, poppy soul I suppose. Not my taste. But well made.
Earth, Wind & Fire
5/5
This has definitely been the discovery for me so far (25 albums in). I thought I kind-of knew EWF and classified them with with commercial '70 kitsch disco (think Boney M) which I hate with a passion. How wrong was I! This is an amazing sounding, soulful, funky and at times jazzy album. Excellent musicianship and most songs are just top class, groovy, can't-sit-still tracks. Even the ones I like the least (the ballads like All About Love) are good. But Africano, what a stonker of a funk track (as are several others)! It's a 4 or a 5 but I'll give it a 5 because it made my day, and I can't really find anything wrong with it. Note to self: buy the album.
The Byrds
3/5
Sounds very nice with excellent vocal harmonies and that recognisable guitar sound. Great songs too but (because) most of them are covers incl. Bob Dylan's. Their own material is a bit limited and (I've done some background reading) some of the songs (incl. Tambourine Man) are played by session musicians rather than the band themselves. So, even though I liked listening to this album, I can't give it a very high score. If they had composed and played all of the songs themselves it would have been a 4 or a 5.
Beastie Boys
4/5
I have (and love) Licence to ill, student days and all that. One of the first albums that got me interested in hip-hop too. But I didn't know Paul's Boutique. I loved it. It doesn't have the hits of Licence to Ill but is more coherent and just sounds great (I love the basslines too). The use of samples is very clever. My only slight gripe is that the vocals are a bit too omnipresent for me (and quite samey). A more restrained use of vocals and a greater emphasis on the music would have been a 5* for me. Still a great album and worthy of the 1001 list.
Ute Lemper
1/5
A collection of excellent songs completely messed up. A covers album is never going to get a very high rating by me, but this is an especially bad one. On the plus side, Ute Lemper can sing (technically - I personally don't like her cabaret style at all). She seems to go for a different sound for every song, sometimes going for a classical sauce (\"let's thrown in some violins and some harp, oh but we have a drumkit lying around too\"), sometimes more poppy or acoustic... I have disliked all the arrangements, and there is no vision on the album. I initially wanted to give it a 2 because at least she has a good (my :-)) taste for composers, and she can sing, but then most buskers I have recently heard can sing, too, so a 1 it will be. Bad. No idea why this is in the list.
American Music Club
3/5
Really pleasant sounding country/ alternative. More background than 'listening' music for me I think.
Christina Aguilera
2/5
OMG I so can't stand this album. 100% NOT my thing, which makes it really hard to give it a rating. She can obviously sing, technically speaking. But it's OK to sing... a... note. You don't need to convert every single note into a piece of two-octave acrobatics containing the full Mixolydian scale. Despite (because of?) this it's all a bit samey and lacks the soul that soul (I believe that's what this is?) is supposed to have. I listened to all songs but could not sit through any in full. Life is too short. I'll give it two starts rather than one because singing like this must be hard and she made me appreciate other music more. Maybe she deserves to be in the list because after all she's famous.
Moby
3/5
I love Moby and have this album but I like the other two I have (Animal Right and 18) more. I like the sound of it and some songs are great with clever use of samples. But it's not very varied. I'd give it 4* just because I like it, but I think in a list like this, it only deserves a 3*.
Gotan Project
4/5
I really love this tango inspired album, sometimes a bit more jazzy, sometimes almost trip-hop (think Portishead). Sensual cover too. One of those albums I can listen to, or have it as background. It never gets in the way but isn't dull at all either. I saw them live 20 years (?) ago and it was really good.
Jungle Brothers
3/5
I'm glad I discovered this album, it sounds good and inoffensive (for a rap album). Which is also my gripe - I like my rap with a rougher edge. This sounds a bit too mainstream/poppy almost. But it's a good album. Some funky touches. The lyrics are meaningful (and I believe the whole album is, from a cultural and black identity perspective) but IMO not especially cleverly written. So, for me, a fine album but a bit "meh".
Stevie Wonder
4/5
I'm reminded once again (this is my 2nd Wonder album from the list) how good a musician Stevie Wonder is. Some stunning songs on this album including one of my favourites, Higher Ground. Unfortunately there are a few I like a bit less because too poppy for me (Don't you worry about a thing) or tooo smooooth and romcom outro-like. But that's being picky, this album absolutely needs to be on the list esp. given how well it aged.
Aerosmith
3/5
This rock album has a lot to go for it. Tyler's vocals are instantly recogniseable, the musicians are good and the songs are catchy. For me personally it is an 'almost' on most scores and therefore it sits in the... what do you call the opposite of a 'sweet spot'? Despite the (well cultivated?) rowdy looks and behaviour of the band, I find the songs quite soft, a bit cliché, and commercial sounding. I can see the appeal and many songs are quite fun, I'm sure it's good on parties. Apparently, this album (and Aerosmith in general) has had a great influence on other musicians, some of which I do like, and I agree that this album deserves to be in the list of 1001. In terms of musical creativity and emotional appeal it's a bit lacking for me.
The xx
2/5
This album sounds nice. But maybe that's all I can say about it. Definitely wallpaper music for me (but very good wallpaper music) - I expected more based on my vague memories from hearing The XX on the radio. Some songs are very reminiscent of Ozark Henry, which I find better.
Nanci Griffith
3/5
Not a huge country fan bit this sounded very good. But there is absolutely nothing surpising in most of the songs, they are quite 'cliché' for lack of a better word. Of course that is also why some people will dig it. Not sure why this is on the list because I hear nothing groundbreaking in it, it could have been written 50 years ago. But - perfect country voice, good songswriting and the album just sounds 'cozy'.
Jeff Buckley
5/5
One of my favourite albums, ever, period. Jeff Buckley manages to do more with less, just his amazing voice and a well written song does the job. His own compositions are really good (and are the majority of songs on the album) but his interpretation of the classics Hallelujah and (my personal favourite) Lilac Wine is otherworldly. I never tire of those songs and this 54 year old bloke rarely keeps it dry listening to those songs. Not only is this an amazing album, it is a real legacy album by an artist who died way too young. Very sad. A very easy 5* for me.
New Order
3/5
A mixed bag for me. I thought I'd like this more, based on the New Order songs I know - but I had never listened to a full album. It is a good album, but not very coherent. Some songs are just too much like run-off-the-mill electro-pop songs. This album sounds quite cheerful which I can't blame the band for, but I like a bit darker, heavier, more atmospheric sound. I feel this should be on the list when seen in its late 1980's context, though.
Pretenders
3/5
Nothing wrong with this album at all. Rock with some punk influences but also poppy. The songs are quite varied but Chrissy Hynde's vocals are - however excellent her voice is - too monotonous or me. Almost every phrase ends with the exact same signature vibrato. This album leaves me a bit wanting even though some individual songs are really good.
B.B. King
3/5
I used to listen to blues quite a lot but never much to BB King, always found him a bit boring compared to my favourites (JL Hooker, Johnny Winter, Howlin' Wolf, Roland Van Campenhout, etc.). This feeling was confirmed with this album. It's all typical (cliché?) 12-bar blues with each taking turns for quite predicable solos. I hadn't heard any of the songs, yet I felt like I heard them 100 times before already. On the plus side, I can see that IF this is your thing, this album does it very well. BB King's singing and guitar playing are good and there is a nice live vibe. But I think the status of this album probably relies on its legacy more than the music itself. So "must hear before you die"? Probably yes. "More than once?", for me a no.
Pixies
4/5
Pixies, one of my favourite bands! They were hot when I was in uni and I remember when this album came out. I have always loved their quirky mix of punk, rock and grunge. Very recognisable sound. Lyrics don't make much sense which makes them at least much better than bad lyrics. Simple but highly effective bass lines from Kin Deal, and aggressive yet musical guitar by Black Francis. Only giving it a 4 because I don't think this is their best album, a bit too poppy at times, but a great band.
R.E.M.
4/5
Great album, I used to listen to it a lot in the late eighties and early nineties. Radio Free Europe was the first REM song I heard and I loved the sound. I like the fairly basic (in a good way) rocky sound whilst it is also melodic and Michael Stipe's voice contributes a lot to the quality of the songs. Crisp guitars and a very functional rhythm session complete the picture. Maybe not their very best album but excellent still! And it has aged well.
Gene Clark
3/5
I hadn't heard of Gene Clark, ex Byrd apparently, but this album was a good listen. Most songs (not all, e.g. the title song) sound very Neil Young like, just not quite as good. The main difference being the voice... I know Neil Young "can't sing" but his voice is 100x more musical and interesting. Gene Clark "can sing" but his voice is a bit dull. Good songs, not amazing, but as my wife said "pleasant while reading a book".
The Allman Brothers Band
3/5
I'm glad I forced myself to listen to this album in its entirety because it was off or a bad start. Your typical 12-bar blues I've heard too many times. But it gest better after the first two songs and is a nice rocky album, I think. With even some walking bass lines outside of a jazz setting but it works. I'll give it another listen. Not the most amazing or groundbreaking album, also I don't like the fact that they have cobbled together this album, it is not a true live album of one gig. But some songs are great.
The Monkees
4/5
I loved this album! Perfect flower power, perfect chill music. Quite varied too and Zilch was a pleasant surprise.
Frank Ocean
3/5
I found this utterly boring but I also recognise it's well made. This might even grow on me but I'll never know. Too much other, better music to listen to. It is quite varied, with interesting quirks but then he usually falls back to the R&B I just don't like. Still a 3. Not sure if this is a Must Hear album.
Solomon Burke
2/5
Yawn. This is really predictable 1960s soul even though to me it's lacking the latter. I read he is a preacher, I'm not surprised. Give me James Brown or Otis Redding any time, but this album is historical interest only (I think). A 2* because he sings OK and I suppose it's not bad 'in its genre'.
Everything But The Girl
5/5
This is a great, atmospheric album. The superb vocals runs smoothly and pleasantly like a river and are complemented by the minimalistic snappy electronic accompaniment. Yes it's very same-ish but in a good way - you could almost see this as one very long, great song. So it works great as a genuine "album" and I'll happily listen to this many times again. I like the smooth trip-hop sound.
Elastica
3/5
Trypical 1990's grunge, which I like but this is just not the best. Not bad either, just a bit 'meh'.
The Chemical Brothers
3/5
Yes it's boring monotonic electronic music if you "listen" to it, but that's not what it's meant for. I can imagine it works really well on the dance floor. And the Chemical Brothers are influential, so I understand this is in the list. 1-2* for musical quality, 4-5* it its genre, a 3* it will be then.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
A mixed bag, this one. Some nice songs (incl. the opening track) but half of the songs are quite boring 12-bar blues or classical Rock and Roll, which survive mostly because because of John Fogerty's recognisable voice which is the main asset of the album for me.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
There is a lot to like, but this just isn't for me. Too soft and poppy to be metal, I always think of this as teenage girls' "heavy music". (nothing wrong with that) Axl's vocals are very good but a bit same'ish. Slash certainly can play the guitar. I'll still give it a 4* because I'm in a good mood, it's an influential album, and it certainly has its qualities. Won't switch if off when it's on the radio but won't get the album either.
Justice
3/5
Less boring than what I was expecting for a house/ dance album. Some clever tunes and nice bass lines. D.A.N.C.E. is very catchy.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
What an album! Every song is fantastically creative and this is 1967 - a very influential album that sounds very "period" but still fresh at the same time. A very easy 5*.
Magazine
5/5
How come I didn't know this, as a Pixies fan! It's great, has enough punk vibe but also much more clever than what came before in terms of musicality. The songs are varied and I'll definitely listen to this again. 5* because it's so good and fresh after all those years.
Coldplay
3/5
Very good, well made but unspectacular pop. I like their first albums better.
Sparks
4/5
This album weas, in one word, great fun! I only knew (and loved) This Town Ain't Big Enough for the Both of Us but didn't know the band name, let alone I listened to an album. The album is eclectic, often combining many genres even within one song... there is punk, glam rock (lots), symphonic elements. In some way, it works together well. Good musicianship and great vocals; no bad songs but they're not all of "This Town (...)" level. This album has aged well, after 50 years it sounds fresh. I'm sure The Darkness have listened to this. I will definitely listen again.
David Bowie
5/5
That's what you get when you own a "best of" album. You get to completely re-discover aspects of an artist when listening to full albums. That was very much the case here. I love Bowie but only knew one song from this album. Loved all of it though, more instrumental than I expected, and esp. the "B side" was unexpected (Brian Eno, good job). Sometimes, as with most art, it's difficult to explain WHY you love it, but I do. A true album that just works, the songs follow each other beautifully.
Billy Bragg
3/5
I always liked Billy Bragg and own a few albums (not this one). However I also have to admit I don't put them on. So do I WANT to like him more than I actually do? Like other albums, I love the songs but an entire album tends to be a bit much. Likes: excellent melodic songs with some punk influences which I like, a socially engaged artist. Dislikes: given that the lyrics are so important, they are not that poetic - it's all a bit straightforward (non layered). His voice I find hard for an entire album. It's not very musical and a bit shouty (fits the lyrics though). It doesn't help that it's produced quite echo'y as if it was recorded live in a tube station. Which again, fits the content of the songs, but it's just a but much for an entire album. So I'm only giving it a 3* but they are the best 3* ever! Would be 4* or 5* if I just enjoyed listening to it more.
Primal Scream
3/5
I knew very little from this band, it's not really my thing. But I have to say it's well made and well mastered - the album sounds great. It has dance aspects (and the repetitiveness that goes with it which is good on a dance floor but less so in a living room), but it's more/ better than daft dance music. Some groovy lines in there. A 3* because it's not really my thing and it doesn't sound that novel to me. Still a fine album.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
2/5
Typical 1950's Rock & Roll that, to me, sounds very dated and predictable in 2024, but I appreciate it was probably trendsetting back then. From that era, I feel there was much better music around in the jazz scene. But if good ole' R&R is your thing then I suppose this is a perfect album. Doesn't move me at all though.
Can
5/5
What a discovery! I had never heard of Can, how is that possible? I truly enjoyed this album. Fantastic soundscapes, never a dull moment, an eclectic mix of styles (there isn't a genre not mentioned on the Wikipedia page) but is fits together coherently. Some nice grooves too. Cleverly made but not in a show-off way. I will definitely listen to this again, buy it, explore the band. Thank you 1001 Albums, this is why I do it.
Fever Ray
3/5
Atmospheric electronic music with (probably Marmite) vocals. I quite like the sound of it, but it's nothing groundbreaking... if this was made in the 1970s, yes, but not in 2009. The album sounds pleasant enough, almost like one long song, but I'm not sure if it is "must hear before you die".
The Zombies
4/5
This album sounds great. Catchy poppy songs 'with added value', good vocal harmonies, some nice rhythms too. Has a Beach Boys and Beatles ring to it. Sounds very American for some reason but they're British. A 3 or a 4, but because they started in 1961 I think the band must have been innovative, and the songs, although clearly testament to the 60s, still sound fresh.
Supergrass
3/5
Catchy, uncomplicated, happy and very well made songs with elements of ska and punk. No bad song on the album - and it's their debut! I don't believe the band intended to make Art Music with this but if they wanted to make "fun" music they have certainly succeeded. Not a super high start rating for me because it's pretty simple, just not very novel and it's not something that triggers more than one listen to me (well some songs I've hear 100 x on the radio). But really good at what it does!
Ray Charles
2/5
If you're going to call yourself a genius, your album better be half decent. But oh my, what a pain listening through all of this. The first half is mostly plain bluesy songs, given a Big Band make-over. I hate it with a passion (I'd actively switch this off if it was on the radio) but I appreciate it's a matter of taste, if this is your thing, fine, enjoy! Songwriting skills isn't Charles' saving grace - he didn't write any! He is basically an OK singer and piano player, like many others.
The second half initially got on my nerves much less and there are some fine songs (again, not his'), if only that omnipresent background choir had gone for a drink during the recordings. Less can be more, if you have a decent song as a starting point. I can imagine they would actually be quite good if e.g. Elvis Costello would sing them.
I'll round it up to a 2* for historical reasons. Phew, I hope it's not Frank Sinatra or so tomorrow!
Kendrick Lamar
2/5
I really wanted to like this album. I like at least some hip-hop (I gave NWA a 5*), because I like the music or (very often) for its significance, or both. And Kendrick Lamar is supposed to be "the man" currently when it comes to quality hip-hop. Wins all the awards. Unfortunately, and I tried hard, I don't see it.
It doesn't appeal to me musically as much as some other hip-hop and the lyrics, while meaningful, are not very poetic and still full of "nigga", "dick" and "pussy". OK in the 1980's but by now I hoped people had moved on. I'm going to listen to some more Lamar albums and hope I "get it" one day but for now, I don't.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
This is an easy one as it tick all the boxes for me. Influential album? Tick. Innovative sound? Tick. Just plain amazing music? Tick.
Bluesy Rock with a great rhythm section and amazing vocals by Robert Plant. Always functional and the album sounds fresh, all instruments can be heard individually, it's not a "soup of sound". My only minor issue, as with some other older stereo albums (Beatles very guilty of this) the sound for individual instruments sometimes sits completely on one side or moves wildly from left to right and back - a bit nauseous esp. with headphones. Still, if this isn't a 5* I don't know what is.
Black Sabbath
5/5
Perfect early metal from Ozzy and co! A very influential album too. I like that it still sounds very musical, not a compressed impenetrable wall of distorted guitars.
CHIC
4/5
I used to look down on everyhing with even a whiff of Disco - new wave and other cool music was where it's at! Getting older I no longer care, I listen to everything and anything, as long as it is good music. Chic has definitely been added to that list! I started to appreciate them when I started playing the bass. I'm an extremely poor bassist but I know a good bassline when I hear it and Bernard Edwards' are the best ever. Just genius. I could happily listen to just the rhythm section of any Chic song, the basics are all there and it would take rubbish musicians to completely mess songs with that good a foundation. Luckily, Rodgers' guitar is more than fine. The vocals, alright, but I couldn't care less. Very close to 5* even though Disco still isn't really my thing. My only minor nitpick is that the variation on the album isn't that great (within and between songs), they found a 'recipe' and follow it throughout. I'm never suprised by a sudden creative twist. Still an excellent album.
Elbow
4/5
The first listen was "meh" (really well made but "vanilla" pop sogs). The second, more careful listen was really nice! The music is good and very well produced, it sounds great with lots of musical detail and an expressive voice. The lyrics are also good. Will listen again! Not a 5* because it is not ground-breaking and songs are a bit same-ish but a nice album all the same. A 3 or 4 but go on then, I'm in a good mood, a 4* (not that anyone cares ;-)).
The White Stripes
4/5
I love everything White Stripes, it's the rawness and the authenticity, not the musical perfection! Even though Jack White is a fantastic guitar player. The band definitely belongs in the list - not sure about this specific album, I think there are some I like more.
Aerosmith
3/5
I think I like this Aerosmith better than their later work. Less hair-rocky, Tyler's voice is less dominating and some songs have a rough edge. Still, there is something about it that doesn't click with me, it's probably too much influenced by traditional (Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Haley) rock and roll for me. Those typical rhythm guitars. There are several instances where I thought they were going to squeeze in "great balls of fire". It's not a bad album, but in the mid 70's you also had Led Zeppelin, Queen, Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd and the like... compared to those bands this album is rather conventional and well-behaved.
PJ Harvey
5/5
PJ Harvey is one of my favourite musicians ever, or I'd rather say one of my favourite artists. PJ does not make music to please the masses and I get that the rawness and dynamics in this album isn't everyone's cup of tea. But I find it amazing. I'd buy the album even if it just had the opening song. Whenever I listen to PJ Harvey (any of her albums) I feel like I'm listening to a person, not just a song. There is something about her music that (when I'm in the right mood) connects straight to my brain without any resistance. Can't explain it. This is creative, raw, authentic art.
Talking Heads
3/5
This album is tight as anything, great rhythm section and it has a nice energy. My only problem (a personal thing) is that I find David Byrne's voice quite a-musical, almost robot-like in character. And it's right upfront in the mix so it dominates strongly. Which is probably exactly the intent and it does "work" but I get tired of it for an entire record. But I have to say this album is perfectly good in many ways.
The Fall
3/5
I'd been wanting give The Fall a good listen for a while - after all they are (were) from the area where I live now and have a bit of a cult following. So this album was very welcome. I liked it, not loved it. It ticks a lot of boxes for me (as someone who grew up with the Pixies etc.), sounds good but not "polished", and there are some good basslines. But few songs touched me and it's not an album I'd put on very often.
Thelonious Monk
5/5
I've listened to this album twice now and it's not going to stop at that. This is jazz how I like it, to be enjoyed with focus (but it works as background music too). It's as if you are in the studio with the musicians just enjoying and wondering what they'd come up with next. Nothing is predicable, but at the same time nothing is just to show off, it all serves a purpose. Nice variation in instruments/ solos. There are a (very) few phrases reminiscent of what came before like swing style jazz, which I don't like. But it's mostly (hard) bop - not sure what that means but if it's jazz with bop in it I usually love it :-). Nearly 70 years old but still sounds great. A 5* for me!
Hot Chip
2/5
If this album was food, it would be vanilla ice cream. Not the fancy homemade one with real Madagascar vanilla, but the 1.5 pound-a-tub supermarket variety. Do I enjoy such ice cream? Well yes, even bad ice cream is good! But it won't win any Michelin stars.
In the same vain, this album doesn't sound bad. Very inoffensive electronic-based songs. But if you told be this was AI generated I'd believe it. It's just very bland, I can see no reason to play this record either for a critical listen or as background music. If this was made in the 1960's I could see why it ended up in the list, but in the 2010's? I'll give it a 2*; a 1* would be if it met all of the above but also sounded bad.
5/5
What a fantastic album. Well, anything PJ Harvey is fantastic in my book. This album is one of her most accessible ones (that being said, I like the rawness of her first few albums a LOT). Every song is good, many are absolute marvels, and there is a nice coherence across the album. Fantastic musicians too and I especially like Thom Yorke's contributions. This Mess We're In, what a stonker of a song! Definitely a 5* for me.
Common
4/5
Pleasant surprise! I had never heard of Common, but find rap/hip-hop quite interesting so was keen to listen to it. I was hoping for a good one, because I had Kendrick Lamar last week, with high expectations, and was disappointed. This album I liked. The opening track was a very good start, which helps. The songs are quite varied and not all equally good, but many had interesting samples and good grooves. Common seems to be (like many rappers) a socially engaged person (and I'll take Michelle Obama's word for it). I'll definitely listen again. Is it a 3* (because do I _want_ to like hip-hop more than I actually do) of a 4* (because I haven't heard many better hip-hop albums, but not all songs are top)?
The Cardigans
2/5
Sometimes one wonders why albums even exist... The singer apparently did not plan to be a musician and only joined the band out of boredom - but then why is this music still so boring and same-ish?
Every song sounds the same and not in a good way. They are all thirteen-to-the-dozen pop tunes. The single "Lovefool" is probably the most catchy one of the bunch. Still nothing novel or anything like that, and I am clueless why this is on the "must hear" list. I'll give it a 2* because some of the arrangements are quite good and it's not _that_ bad, just (or did I mention this already) boring. Sorry for the boring review.
Cat Stevens
3/5
I knew two songs from the album (we al do: Wild World and Father and Son) and love them. But there are no bad songs on this whole album. It brabbles along like a gentle river. Yes, it's poppy and "uncomplicated" but it just sounds great. Cat (Sufjan)'s voice is of course very recognisable with its grain and nasal tone and I like it. This album does the job very well - not a 4 or a 5 because I keep those for more innovative and creative work, but this album is near perfect in its niche of sheer enjoyable melodic pop songs.
Peter Tosh
3/5
A really nice reggae album by one of the great names. Exactly as you'd expect it to sound, which is not bad.
Funkadelic
4/5
Another pleasant surprise! I was expecting over the top kitsch funk, which I associate with later Parliament Funkadelic stuff. However, this album is a much more eclectic mix witch echoes of Jimi Hendrix (lots), Led Zeppelin, and the use of sounds à la Pink Floyd. It all works together really well. I'd give it a 3 because it's not something I'd play often, but it gets an extra point for creativity and musicianship.
The Birthday Party
3/5
Nick Cave fan here, but I had never listened to The Birthday Party (shame on me). I liked the raw energy. I like early Cave and in a way this album is that, but extrapolated. A bit too much for my liking... I found it quite tiring to listen to the album in its entirety.
Ramones
3/5
Great, fun, energetic punk/rock. Not giving it a very high rating because after all, it is all very simple and same'ish musically. But I enjoyed the album. It's all about the drive and the energy.
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
This is yet another covers album from the 1950's. The Gershwins wrote songs, someone else arranged them and Ella sang them. All did their job great. I'd probably call this a Gershwin album with an invited singer. The result is an album that is great in its genre - except it's not mine. The songs are great for cliché rom-coms or in some cases children's cartoon movies. I'll give it a 3 because I gave Ray Charles ("The Genius", ahem) a 2 and this album got on my nerves much less - the big band arrangements are much less annoying here - and Ella IS an amazing singer (rather than a musician).
Can
4/5
My second Can album form the list, and another great one. Some songs (esp. the second half) are a bity too experimental for easy listening but the first four are great. The album is not exactly background music (good) but a careful listen is an interesting experience. I like the breakbeats and the often jazzy feel even though the instrumentation isn't jazzy. Very creative and interesting and, when in the right mood, great sounding too.
Beatles
4/5
Maybe one of my favourite Beatles albums, so far. Quite inventive (as usual) and some great, catchy songs starting with the opener, Drive My Car. However The Beatles rarely move me emotionally, most songs are just well-made pop songs. There is not a lot of musical coherence across the album, they are mostly individual songs (the lyrics align more though). And why do they always have to include some bad songs on each album? Here it's Michelle (really?) and What Goes On. But no doubt, this album is creative and very influential. Too good for a 3, but not quite a 5. For a 5 I'd like more coherence, no bad songs, and just me enjoying it more.
The United States Of America
4/5
Really glad I learned about this album. Not sure if I really like it or whether I find it "interesting" more than anything else. Either way, it is really a must listen album. One of the albums that really has a concept and it works. It is mostly psychedelic rock with lots of experimental stuff going on and use of electronics. Reminiscent at times of The Velvet Underground, Pink Floyd, The Beatles. Not quite as good as either of them, but that's no shame. Some songs are just really catchy though ("The garden of earthly delights"). The lyrics are very good and paint a picture critical of bourgois American holier-than-thou attitudes (I loved "I won't leave my wooden wife for you baby"), and bitter family situations (loved "Where is yesterday"). Excellent as a concept album, OK to listen to but it's not for every day.
Eagles
3/5
Your archetypical country rock. Well made, not my thing. Too well-behaved.
David Bowie
4/5
Not my favourite Bowie album I think but still good. Only six songs, some good ones (Golden Years, Wild is the Wind) but didn't like TVC15. A 3 or a 4.
Kanye West
3/5
Oh my, this is the hardest album to assess. Art (incl. music) is as much about the artist than about the product itself - I personally can't separate them. The product first - the album. I had never listened to a Kanye West album but I must say this is creative and sounds excellent. Beautiful production, and a slew of top guest artists taking part. Not really my thing but I recognise a level of quality when I see it. It doesn't move me emotionally though.
Now the artist. I find it really hard to enjoy an album made by a self-proclaimed Nazi and otherwise complete assh*le in his morality and behaviour. I won't listen to Ye unless I have to - similarly I would not hang a painting by Hitler in my living room (even f he was a great painter which he wasn't).
So in terms of rating, I'll torture myself and rate the album (I'll give it a 3) rather than how much I like the artist as a person (which would be a zero - yes I know the scale starts at one).
Sonic Youth
3/5
I love my grunge and this album is a good one... great drumming, a simple but effective bass and guitars to dominate the soundscape. However it gets a bit tiring after a while and I don't really enjoy this album in one sitting. I miss diversity, I miss a nice groove in many songs. Interesting more than enjoyable.
Nick Drake
5/5
Thank you 1001 Albums, this was a discovery for me. I'm not much into folk (any more) but this is an amazing album and it goes beyond your typical singer-songwriter material. Some of the accompaniments (esp. like the cello) are great as is the musicianship generally. Nick Drakes' vocal and lyrics are subdued but that is entirely in keeping with the album... and with wis tragic life and death a few years after this album was made.
Syd Barrett
2/5
I had high expectations, after all Syd Barrett is an original Pink Floyd! But, I was sorely disappointed. Some of the songs are fundamentally good but the album sounds like a demo tape cobbled together on a drunken evening (drugs, more likely). Is it too much to ask for a retake if the vocals are way off ("Dark Globe") or the guitar isn't even tuned ("Octopus")? Some songs are psychedelic Pink Floyd'ish but not nearly as good, and some songs are jus too Monty Pythonesque (but again not quite as good or with the necessary sense of parody). A pity.
Muddy Waters
3/5
OK - Muddy Waters is one of my favourite bluesmen, and Mannish Boy is a stonker of a song. And this is a great blues album. BUT apart from a few songs, it's all very same'ish 12-bar blues with the same harmonica howl running throughout. I know that's what blues is supposed to be like (and I love the sound esp. live) but doing that in the 1970's is hardly innovative and I think I can't give this album more than a 3 for those reasons. Muddy Water's voice is perfect though, and the album has a nice rough edge, it's very well (not over) produced IMO.
Tito Puente
3/5
I've enjoyed this album. Not totally my thing but it's good music. I enjoyed the songs with more focus on the Latin percussion most. The louder the Big Band, the less I liked it (I'm, generally not a big band fan). The whole album is quite filmic and transpires a hot humid climate. Pleasant, made me happy.
Madonna
3/5
This is good pop record, no arguing there. But it's exactly that, feels very commercial (made to sell rather than as an artistic expression) even though apparently this is Madonna's most "arty" album. Some good songs e.g. Oh Father. Many songs are so embedded in my brain from hearing then 1000 times on the radio that it is hard to have an opinion on them - they just "exist". I suppose they are really good at what they do. Madonna surely is a pop phenomenon and I feel at least some of the albums need to be on the list.
Soundgarden
5/5
I have this album but hadn't listened to it in ages. Was I wrong! It is brilliant. It is grunge I suppose, it refers to metal and post punk, and it is really well made. I like Chris Cornell's (RIP) vocals and the musicianship is good throughout, helped by alternative time signatures (My Wave in 5/4 time signature, Fell on Black Days in 6/4). Very good if you want something a bit heavier/ punchier without resorting to often very simple (but in many cases also excellent) stuff like some early metal or punk. It is a 4 or a 5? Can't find anything wrong with it, and Chris Cornell (and this album) was influential, so...
Radiohead
5/5
This is the (my) Perfect Album. Not the Radiohead album where you'd find another Creep or Karma Police - no "hits" here but this is a genuine album that works best when seen as a single work or Art, surpassing the attraction of single (even the best) song. The balance between conserving this coherence from start to finish, yet also having a unique sound signature to each song, is perfect. The soundscapes (no vanity solos here) strengthen the lyrics and the whole album feels very emotional in a warm very human sense. The lyrics are never cheap but also not so arty-farty that nobody actually understands them. Great balance, again.
I especially like the way how the album is made so well musically (great breakbeats, guitar work etc.) yet flows so effortlessly. This is one of the few albums that I'd both call great art, and also just sounds amazing. 106 albums into the list, this is the first I'd give a 6 if I could. Genius.
Mekons
2/5
I listened to this three times and still can't remember a thing about it or half whistle a tune. There is nothing really wrong with this album (except some of the vocals) but I find it very bland. A mix of folky and punky elements, some songs are Pogues like (but not nearly as good). I'll give it a 2 because it is not bad per se, but not more than 2 because for me it just "exists" and I don't know why this is a "must hear" album.
Primal Scream
4/5
I had to listen to this a few times to make up my mind. Yes it's interesting and creative, but do I also like listening to it? Yes I do. And thanks to my wife I am reminded why - at times it sounds like dEUS (which is even better but I'm biased). An eclectic mix of instruments and electronics with a focus on soundscapes, drawing from (prog) rock and much more. I like this album better than their singles, and will explore more :-).
Jerry Lee Lewis
2/5
As a live album this is a good one, it really feels "live" (small mistakes and tempos running away included). For historic reasons, I believe this fits in the "must hear" list. Musically, however, I find it quite basic and made simply to entertain - worthy in its own right but it won't get a high rating from me. I'm sure this must have been a fun gig but I have no desire to listen to this at home 60 years later, it all feels a bit cliché now. I've listened to it twice now and am utterly bored to be honest.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
4/5
I love Janis Joplin's vocals and they shine on this album with mostly blues/rock with a nice rough edge (plus a few great covers like "Piece of my Heart" and "Summertime"). Nearly a 5 but a few songs (like the slow blues) are a bit less interesting and they faked a live sound by adding recorded applause to studio recordings. But still, a great album that sounds and feels very "period" in the best possible way.
Spiritualized
2/5
There is a fine line between atmospheric dream pop and elevator music. Unfortunately this sits on the elevator music side of the spectrum for me. Not this it sounds "bad", but it doesn't do more to me than to merely "exist". Could have been AI generated if it wasn't from 1992.
The Kinks
3/5
Second Kinks album from the list and I hope it's the last. Simple, fun pop tunes wit a definite "Englishness" (that's good) but much too cabaret-esque at times, I think thins music would work well in school plays when the clown comes on stage. Some songs are very Beatles-like, but unfortunately like those Beatles songs I don't like. Songwriting as such, if this style is your thing, isn't bad. This album get on my system but not quite as badly as Christina Aguilera, which I have a 2, so I'll give a generous 3 here. Not fond of Davies' voice and it's right in front of the mix.
Badly Drawn Boy
4/5
Another hard one to scores - sound really nice and many songs are cleverly done. I love the acoustic instrumentation (an album with cello automatically gets bumped one point from me). So then why is this hard to score? For some reason I don't really connect, it does me nothing, and it'd be background music only. However I have the Kinks a generous 3 yesterday, and feel this should definitely be more. A 4 then.
Sly & The Family Stone
5/5
Very moody for a funk album but I absolutely loved it. No bad songs, but I'm not sure about the yodeling in Spaced Cowboy.
Dizzee Rascal
3/5
British hip-hop with its own recognisable sound. Not bad, but it doesn't really click with me. I think I'm more into Oldskool hip-hop, and less the kind you hear emanating from lowered Toyota Celicas. I can see it's well made, bonus point for that.
Keith Jarrett
5/5
This is of course a true classic and rightly so. What an album! Jazz can be all too academic and intellectual more than emotional, but not this album. What a feat pulling off this improvisation, live, under very difficult circumstances (wrong piano, tired etc.). This is very easy to listen to, but, luckily, not \"easy listening\". Works in the background but especially for a careful listen, wondering which direction Jarrett will take next (and the album does go through a range of \"feels\"), but it's always a good direction. A very easy 5.
Goldie
1/5
This is the sort of music that plays loud in crime series on TV, in shabby warehouses where the drug gangs are hanging out between cooking sessions. Because the series producers want to create the absolute most nerve wracking atmosphere so that we are all super happy when the first shots fall, the electricity drops out and all you hear is just shouting and guns. Which is an improvement over this music (thanks, cops). This music may be functional in crime series but I don't need it in my living room or in my too short life. There is something about it, mostly the breakbeat, that instantly makes me want to throw something through the window (and I am normally a very peaceful guy). The rest of the music is just very dull and unimaginative, with some cheap "orchestration". A hard 1 for me and definitely on my "1001 Albums you must avoid until you die (but may hear after if you believe in Hell)" list. Haven't been able to finish this, can't imagine listening to this without some form of sedation.
James Taylor
3/5
Good singer-songwriter. Pleasant but not exceptional. Wish he stuck to his folky songs, when he attempts the blues it's a bit boring (hard to make blies exciting at all, and he just doesn't have 'it'). When he adds some big band fills it's worse. But most of the songs are fine. Well written and sung. A generous 3.
Depeche Mode
4/5
Of course I know Depeche Mode (mostly the hits) and I quite liked them, but not enough to buy an album, it's always been more "radio music" to me. But listening to this album I must say - I really enjoyed it. No hits but a steady flow of good music, great to listen to in one sitting. Yes it has the typical electronic Depeche Mode sound but it's chilled and atmospheric, reminiscent of Talk Talk sometimes (and that's a huge complement).
Neneh Cherry
3/5
Still like Manchild the best - no wonder, it's co-written by Robert del Naja. But there is some filler too and it does sound a bit dated. However it's still an interesting combination of rap and other genres (mostly pop).
Terence Trent D'Arby
2/5
Terence Trent d'A was big when I was in secondary school and I found him OK, no more. I recall reading an interview where he seemed quite full of himself, proclaiming he was the new Michael Jackson and Prince combined I think. He said it was something to do with his name. He must have changed his mind then because he now goes by a different name. Anyway, what do I feel about the music? Not much. It's OK but a bit "meh". Some songs have nice arrangements and his high pitched gritty voice is good. It has soul and funk in it but it's mostly just quite commercial sounding pop. It also feels a bit dated and I can't see why I'd listen to this again. Could have been a 3 on a very good day but I'll go for a 2.
Buzzcocks
3/5
A nice, quite poppy punk album. Sounds a bit like Ramones (short songs, the vibe) but not quite as good. Pleasant but I miss a bit of rawness.
Metallica
5/5
A metal classic and rightly so, what an album. Heavy when it can, but with quieter intros etc... it's not just full pelt the whole time and it is very listenable. There is excellent virtuosity here but it's all functional. I almost took one point off for the production. A lot of Metallica is about the interlocking of the kick drum and the bass, almost sounding as one instrument giving a solid basis on top of which the guitars and vocals can shine. However, the kick drum sounds quite tinny (I listened on a good stereo) and the bass is... where is the bass? A pity, this album could sound better but I'll still call it a 5 purely for the quality of the music.
Mike Oldfield
4/5
A unique album in many ways, and it still sounds good after more than 50 years. Only a few long tracks (or should I call it symphonies) on the album. Ground-breaking synths with acoustic instruments too and all played by the same, young (23?) Mike Oldfield. Has elements of minimal classical music. Not a 5 for me because it's all a bit cold and academic and doesn't really move me. It's a bit too show-off like (try and cram as many instruments and variations in as possible). Still, quite a feat and a definite "must hear".
Metallica
5/5
By pure coincidence I had "... And Justice for All" two days ago. Two very different Metallica albums but I liked them both a lot. The "Black Album" is less speed/trash and more accessible, with even a metal ballad (of which I'm not usually a fan, but Nothing Else Matters is good). Lots of stonkers/classics on this album. And unlike "... And justice for all", this album is beautifully produced, it sounds great at all volumes with a solid rhythm section and powerful but not shrill guitars. Stunning album.
Rush
4/5
As far as prog rock goes, this is as good as it gets. It is not really my thing but I can enjoy it, and the quality of the musicianship is beyond any doubt. Geddy Lee produces beautiful, melodic basslines that are always functional. The opening piece is a brave 20-minute song (well it is in several very distinct parts), or rather a composition, much like a classical symphonic work. The biggest drawback for me is its lyrics... not my thing, I'm not into the fantasy thing with priests and temples and magic, it comes across as a bit puberal. But then I appreciate it is often part of the prog-rock package.
Musically, this is a great album and definitely worth listening to (and again).
Lorde
2/5
This is a typical run-off-the-mill pop album with all of the musical clichés one can imagine. Even though it doesn't sound "bad" it is really quite boring and I'm sure AI could write very similar songs. Kudos the the fact that there is a theme across the album, the lyrics are OK, and Lorde's voice is more interesting than some - if it wasn't for the voice, most songs could be mistaken for other generic pop such as Taylor Swift. Much like the latter, I think I really like Lorde as a person and role model and they have a lot going for them, just not the novelty of their music. I can understand that its inoffensive nature, universal thematic, and pleasant sound sells. Nothing wrong with a plain old commercial pop album, it just won't get a high rating from me as a "must hear" album.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Bob Dylan definitely belongs in the list, and especially this album does. Very influential, has several major "hits" and some of the most covered songs ever. I mean, all on one album: Blowin' in the Wind, Masters of War, A Hard Rain, Don't think Twice!
Dylan won't go into the history books as the best singer or harmonica player but that's not the point. His songwriting skills are the best and his legacy is clear. An easy 5 as a "must hear" album.
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
I have always liked PIL but only knew a few songs. Listening to this album was great. Johnny's voice is marmite, but musically this album surprised me. Yes there is punk but not quite the Sex Pistols, there is Prog Rock but not quite Can, and there is hard edge funk bass but not quite TC Matic. Interesting rather than enjoyable, but worth a place on the list.
The Black Keys
4/5
I loved this album, nice bluesy rock with good vocals and a nice "edge". A 3.5.
The Libertines
2/5
A bit of a cacophony, didn't like it, even though I like a lot of the elements that went into it (some punk, Indie, rock, but I like the "choo-la-la" less). A bit like a meal made with a random selection of fine ingredients that ends up tasting of nothing.
Elliott Smith
3/5
Lo-fi singer-songwriting. Sounds "nice" but it leaves me a bit cold. I really struggle to say much more about it. A bit samey and background music for me.
Cyndi Lauper
3/5
80s pop is not my thing, but I have always had a soft spot for Cyndi Lauper. Funky personality, great unique voice and some of her songs are really good (Time After Time). It's not all genius though, and I don't think, overall, that it's more than a 3 for me in terms of musicality, But a very good 3!
Tom Waits
5/5
Easy, I am a huge Tom Waits fan and this album, along with Rain Dogs, first attracted me to him. So, a definite 5 for me. It's the creativity, the use of unorthodox "instruments", the rawness (but with a soothing song just when you need it - Downtown Train etc.). Waits is an amazing storyteller, both with words and musically. I also love his jazzier early work and his more recent work, but I'll always come back this album and Rain Dogs.
Various Artists
2/5
All songs are quite samey; most sound like children's tunes treated with the same "wall of sound" sauce. I like the sound and some songs are half decent but more variation would be good. And it's still a Christmas album, for Christ's sake (pardon the pun). A 2 is as far as I can go for a Christmas album until someone puts The Pogues, The Waitresses and the few non-annoying Christmas songs in existence on an album.
The The
3/5
This album has a definite 1980's electro-pop stamp on it, and to my ears it hasn't aged very well. It's not bad, some songs are quite catchy, but I'm not sure if this is a "must hear" - is it that good? Has this album been novel or influential? Not sure.
Aretha Franklin
3/5
I know Aretha Franklin is the Queen of Soul but I never listened to an entire album. I like her singing but not many songs stand out to me - and only very few songs (not including R.E.S.P.E.C.T) she has (co-)written herself. So, she is mostly a singer rather than an artist. Kudos for the vocal power and style. Nice but not wow.
Mudhoney
3/5
Nice grunge, it started to grow on me after a few songs. I don't like it quite as much as Nirvana or Soundgarden, but Mudhoney was first and they deserve credit for that. The songs are nice and energetic with echoes of punk and Black Sabbath.
John Lennon
3/5
This album has two great songs (Imagine and Jealous Guy), a few OK ones (e.g. How do you sleep) and some mediocre ones (e.g. Crippled inside). Much like most Beatles albums you could say. As an 'album', to be played in its entirety, I don't particularly like it.
Fiona Apple
4/5
Really glad I discovered this! I'm not going to try and describe the sound or influences - first and foremost this sounds like a musician/ artist stubbornly doing their thing. This album sounds authentic and sounds great without being over-produced. I like the creativity and the use of a variety of instruments (and non-instruments) esp. for the rhythm (Tom Waits fan talking here :-)). I have listened to this album three times and also to two other Apple albums. Not all of it is 100% my think, but overall I'd say, a nice antidote to polished, poppy, but utterly boring music. There should be more Fiona Apples.
The Doors
5/5
I find the Doors fantastic - this album doesn't have the hits or most epic songs (e.g. The End) but it does have the typical Doors sound based on gritty blues with Manzarek's signature organ and of course Jim Morrison's voice and charisma. Great stuff.
Van Morrison
4/5
Great album, folky and with excellent songwriting. I also like Van Morrison's nasal and instantly recognisable voice. Not my favourite Van Morrison album (that may be Poetic Champions Compose) but still a solid 4.
Soul II Soul
3/5
Totally not my style it I see it's well made and I have well tolerated some of the funkier song. Very good rhythmically. Other songs seriously got on my nerves. Not my kind of soul.
Steely Dan
3/5
I've always had mixed feelings about this album, so for the sake of this list I had a really good listen of the album in its entirety, A to Z. I have now made up my mind. First, the good. Yes, as many will argue, this album is extremely well produced - the sound quality is superb. The musicians show great virtuosity. Technical perfection. Then, the bad. However technically good music is, for me it is ultimately about the intrinsic quality of the songs, the authenticity of the artist, the creativity, and more than anything else, the emotional appeal. And that's where it is totally lacking for me. Oh my, is it boring and non-engaging. It's soooo smoooooth. It's anti-punk. It's excellent for outros of cheap romcoms. It is an extremely skilfully polished turd (OK maybe I'm exaggerating a wee bit). It is mineral water served in a $1000 designer glass - I'd rather have a characterful single malt in a charity shop glass. I'll give it a generous 3 though, because I can see how, IF this is your thing, it shines "in its genre" and there are some nice jazzy chops and it is rhythmically very enjoyably tight (I enjoyed the first 20" of Josie). I just wish the album wasn't so boring. Oh is it boring.
Eels
5/5
Yes it's poppy but it shows how good pop can be, and I have a soft spot for this album (and for Eels in general). It strikes a nice balance between song variation (no bad songs at all on this album) and still having a coherent sounds album. Some interesting choices (instrumentation, some use of samples etc.) and good song writing elevate this above your run-off-the-mill commercial pop album. I should probably give it a 4 because is it really "must hear"? But I'll give it a 5 just because I love it and can't fault it, really.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
Good songwriting but I'm not too fond of the album for a reason that's hard to pinpoint. I quite like his voice but the songs get a bit boring-rocky and I'm not a huge fan of the instrumentation even thought this makes it "the" Springsteen sound (the sax, bells etc.). The Springsteen album I like most is Nebraska, which makes me not a real Springsteen fan I suppose. Still a 3 (could have been a 4 if I enjoyed it more). Just an album I won't put on but I won't zap away from it either.
The Undertones
3/5
I only knew Teenage Kicks, and liked it. The rest of the album is more of the same, but usually not quite as catchy. Well sung and played but a bit plain for punk, for me.
Patti Smith
5/5
I have to give this a 5 admittedly it's not just for this particular album, it's for the artist. In one word... authentic. You really feel like it's the artist communicating to you. Musically, it's good (nice song writing, some punk-like emotions), lyrics are great, but the combination surpasses both. Also definitely a "must hear" album because of its legacy.
Elvis Costello
4/5
Great album, maybe not my favourite Costello one but has the recognisable sound I quite like. Good songwriting - I'd almost give this a 5 just because of Allison.
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
Grunge perfection. A wall of sound interspersed with quieter songs to keep the attention. I may be biased because I saw them live and it was amazing.
New York Dolls
3/5
I knew them vaguely and thought I'd have loved this album more. I love early punk but this was a bit too much like (not so good) hard rock for me but with added quirkiness. It's all good fun though and I feel it does belong on the list as a quite influential band.
John Grant
3/5
I find this really hard to rate. I like the overall sound even though it often is not quite there. Good voice. Quirky lyrics (and sometimes, music) which is nice. A blend of folk/ singer-songwriter with some electronics etc. esp. towards the end. It's a 3 +/- 2.
Television
4/5
A bit of a discovery. Really clever prog rock (I think) worth listening to with some focus. It's really well made musically with great drums, functional bass and excellent guitars (I'd say good virtuosity but always functional). Could be a 5 but I'll stick with a 4 because the vocals are quite same'ish and I keep the fives to the absolute greatest (to me). Great album, I'll definitely explore the band.
Dr. Octagon
2/5
I like that this is a concept album (weird concept though) and it sounds OK. It does get a bit boring though. If hip-hop was my thing I'd certainly give it a 3 or 4 because I hear it has a certain quality. But I just don't enjoy it, it lack the rhythm and raw energy of rap albums I like more.
Ride
3/5
A pleasant curtain of organised noise wit a clear 90's stamp. I quite like this. A good rhythm section, nice basslines, noisy (but not too noisy) guitars and melodic vocal lines. It is a bit samey though and doesn't move me, but I was happy to discover this.
ZZ Top
3/5
I think we all know the hits on this album... (Sharp Dressed Man, Legs, Gimme All Your Lovin'). They are also the best song. The rest feels a bit like filler is is very samey. I feel like I should give this 2, max, for the quality of the music (with all its clichés) but that's not the point of this music. It was more about having fun and they didn't take themselves too seriously. So an extra point for that.
Nirvana
5/5
I have listened to this album so much when it came out - it's difficult to give an objective opinion on it (but since when do we need rationality in music). It's a 5 for me... I love it, and its legacy is huge (not just because Kurt Cobain died a tragic death). I see youngsters with Nirvana T-shirts on an almost daily basis. Nirvana originals have been completely reworked, I think we weren't expecting a grunge band to do this at the time. Add a few fantastic covers (Bowie, Leadbelly etc.) and you have a stonker of an album. A true classic.
Cee Lo Green
1/5
Sometimes you wonder why an album even exists. This is one of those. I find this utterly boring hip-hop and fail to understand why anyone would ever play this. I'm a positive guy though and I always look for a saving grace so did a bit of reading about Cee-Lo and this album. Maybe the lyrics are really good? Nope, they then to be quite banal and mostly about himself ("We gon' start this shit off tonight", "I am the living proof of a God somewhere" etc). Maybe this album created new trends? In 1978 possibly, not in 2004. Maybe Cee-lo is a really nice guy? Ahem, let's say he won't get an extra point from me for that. So I really can't see any reason to bump this to a 2. This was a hard listen.
Mott The Hoople
2/5
Sort of soft rock, early 'hair' blend of The Kinks and the least good version of Bowie. Meh. Some of the singing style reminds of Dylan but unlike Him, they can't get away with it, don't like the vocals. Probably OK for the 1001 list because of their fans, incl. Bowie, anf they had Queen as a support act! Won't put this record on, might zap away if it's on the radio.
Joy Division
5/5
A stunning album and very influential too, so an easy 5 for me. I love the unique sound they produce, with a dragging tempo adds to the feel of the songs. A great instantly recognisable rhythm section with tight drums (almost like a drum machine) and an aggressive bass which often plays lower than the guitars. Love Ian Curtis (RIP) vocals and contained anger. As good as it gets for late punk/ early new age, whatever box this fits is - just great music.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
Too bad it's recorded with the E Street Band. I love my Bruce Springsteen in its "Nebraska" incarnation - just dead good songs, executed minimalistic and powerful. Born in the USA (which I loved when it came out) has plenty of good songs but to me it is spoilt by that E Street sound, don't like the organ, don't like the sax, don't like the boring rhythm section (luckily there aren't too many tingaling bells on this album). Songs like Glory Days I really want to switch off. And be a bit less shouty in the vocals (as in Downbound Train) please Bruce, your softer voice is great. I love Bruce Springsteen, great songwriter, seems a really nice person with a very functional moral compass. I just like his intimate songs so much more than this. A harsh 3 for me, and I feel a little bit bad about it, it could have been an easy 4 if I liked the sound more. I find it a bit boring.
Sly & The Family Stone
4/5
Early funk from the late 1960's. It is not that I necessarily love all the songs on this album, but it certainly oozes fun and creativity (particularly loved the almost 14' of Sex Machine and the groove of I Want to Take you Higher). Excellent musicianship too.
Kraftwerk
5/5
This is just plain good music with its attractive early electronics charm. This was ground-breaking in 1978 and totally deserves to be in the "must hear" list. I don't just love the music itself, but Kraftwerk comes with a whole aesthetic, from the album cover to the band's appearance and stage performance. I like that. When listening to older (non classical) music, I always wonder whether I only like it in its context (i.e. as a famous album from the '70s) or where I would equally love it if it came out in 2025 and from an unknown band. I don't know, maybe not. But context counts. Liked all the songs, Neon Lights the least. Still a 5 for me.
Manic Street Preachers
2/5
This album proves the marketing principle that if you want to make something popular, make it bland. I've always found the Preachers very boring but (as a result) never listened to an entire album. I did now and won't do it again. This sounds like a local teenage band - alright with a pint of Guinness in the Rose and Crown on Friday evenings. I find is musically very weak, it's just a bunch of 1990's clichés (OK then, dated now) with samey (and unpleasantly shouty) vocals. But hey, they call themselves preachers after all. Bumped a point because some songs are catchy (A Design for Life, Kevin Carter).
Sonic Youth
3/5
I liked it but didn't love it - if it has to be Sonic Youth, I like Dirty better. It is however a novel album given it's from the mid 80's. Nice soundscapes but I miss a bit of a groove or hook. So, not interesting enough for a careful listen, and not pleasantly sounding enough for background music.
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
A decent rock album, no more, no less. Must hear before you die? Nah.
Queen
5/5
An incredibly varied album oozing creativity and musicianship. Almost no genre is left untouched - it even has a country song ('39) which don't care much about, neither do I care much about the more cabaret'esque songs (e.g. Seaside Rendezvous). With that out of the way, it is still a solid 5. Most importantly, this album has amazing prog-rock and I even spotted Caroline Shaw-like glimpses of contemporary (I mean 2020's contemporary!) vocal classical in The Prophet's Song. Of course, in Bohemian Rhapsody, most of these styles are combined within one song - and it works. Great singing by Freddie Mercury (RIP), amazing harmonies, superb guitars from Brian May. "They don't make them like this any more".
Count Basie & His Orchestra
3/5
I'll admit I'm very biased against big bands, they tend to get on my nerves and it usually doesn't take long to switch them off. But I decided to behave and listen to this album in its entirety. Yes there's still a lot I don't like (got the vibrato trumpets within the first 5 seconds, urgh) and many songs are what I call "Tom & Jerry" or "Love Boat" songs. However there were some good jazzy (but less big-bandy) bits that were OK and generally this album is rhythmically good
(that bass player is like a Swiss clock and his fast walking bass line are fab). I'd give it a 1 or 2 because I don't like the music - it does not move me at all (not in a good way at least). But it gets an extra point because I do see it's good "for the genre" and it's well made. And I like it more/ dislike it less than Duke Ellington which I gave a 2, so a 3 it is.
The Black Crowes
3/5
This is perfectly fine blues rock, I enjoyed this album, some catchy songs there. It is also very traditional - this album could have been made sixty years ago (and possible not compete with some other music that was around then). I struggle to find something to say about it. Sounds too good to be a 1 or 2, way too vanilla to be a 4 or a 5.
Tears For Fears
5/5
Not all popular albums from the '80s have aged well, but this one has. I had it on vinyl (remember that crippled, clunky medium that wore out as you played it) but I hadn't listened to the full album in ages. I'm, glad I did, all songs are really good and original despite the undeniable synthy '80s feel. I like the less popular songs as much as I like the hits.
Beatles
3/5
Most Beatles album contain some good songs, some average songs and one or two awful songs. This one is different, I find it uniformly bland. It's mostly plain R&R with not much to say about it. Not bad, just meh. All My Loving may be my relative favourite, but the lyrics are cheesy. Oh, and Money, but that's not their song (and not better than the original version). Maybe the better more creative (more drugs infused?) music was only kicking off a bit later in the 1960s, in general and also for the Beatles.
Dexys Midnight Runners
2/5
Not my thing musically and I don't dig the vocals for an entire album. Come On Eileen is fun at parties but it's not on this album. Not completely bad, but for me, definitely not "must hear before you die".
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
I liked this album a lot, warm, well made soul/pop/singer-songwriter songs. Nothing spectacular, but very pleasant. I'll give it a 4 which is maybe a bit generous, but the bar for popular music is pretty low these days, in my opinion, so he deserves it. And it's authentic. Tick.
OutKast
3/5
One of those albums that I don't enjoy that much (not my thing), but I can see the creativity and quality. It's much more than hip-hop, it's an album of two halves but both are quite quirky and very varied. Love the funky and jazzy (esp. on The Love Below) elements.
The Flaming Lips
2/5
Didn't enjoy this one, there are nice elements and the recognisable vocals add character, but it all feels a bit cobbled together. None of the songs fascinate me, they merely exist.
Nas
5/5
As good as hip-hop gets, if you ask me. A very atmospheric album.
Jethro Tull
3/5
Fine prog rock but it doesn't move me. The inclusion of flute is interesting, for a change, and I don't mind it, but at the same time it doesn't make it "wow" either.
Tangerine Dream
3/5
Mixed feeling about this one, part of me likes the early ambient sound, and part of me dislikes the over-use of some effects esp. the flanger. I don't like that jet engine sound. Less can be more. It reminds me of my early PowerPoint days where I squeezed in all sort of effects in my presentations just because it was possible and (I wrongly thought) "cool". I'll give it a 3 for history's sake buy there is better electronic music from that era (Kraftwerk, Brian Eno).
Fleetwood Mac
2/5
Wow, it's as if after rumours they wanted to prove they were also really good at making bad albums. Some songs sound OK (mostly the ballads) but are, musically, basic pop songs (Sara, Storms). Many songs are cliché, boring rock & roll (I know I'm not wrong). Some songs are barely tolerable (What makes you think you're the one). Fleetwood Mac deserves to be on this list, but not this album. Could have been a 3 if they kept the better half of the songs. Also, I don't understand why this was the mostly expensively produced album ever at the time. My wife said it better than I can: it's as if it's recoded in a pub and anyone can sing along.
Bee Gees
3/5
I never heard pre-disco, pre high-pitch, Bee Gees before, so this was unexpected. In a good (not great) way. Kind of a mix of folk/ psychedelic/ pop/ country. It's a 2 or a 3 but it's no worse than many other stuff from the 60s (incl. the Beatles in their less glorious moments) so I'll say, a 3.
Eminem
3/5
Another hard one for me. Musically, this is good, and Eminem has impeccable rhythm, lyrics etc... one can't deny he's an amazing rapper. I also like the music with a simple yet effective rhythm section. What I like less... even though some of the lyrics are good/autobiographical, why do there need to be the homophobic phrases - I have not been convinced they are "in character". Even without this, why do we need all this a$$holes, d!ck sucking etc... OK maybe this was cool and daring in the 1980s but come on, be a bity more creative. Could be a 4 or a 5 purely for the musicality and influence - but alas.
Fats Domino
3/5
I find this rather boring Rock & Roll (very much based on the 12-bar blues). Here the first two notes and you can basically imagine the whole rest of the song. It's not particularly well sung either. BUT this is 1956 and what sounds boring now didn't then. Being the first at this, is quite a feat and Fats was very influential. A 3 then.
Bob Dylan
4/5
A true classic of course, showcasing Dylan's fantastic songwriting. With pain in my heart, 1 point off just because there are Dylan albums I like more; there are a few songs on this I like less such as the opener, and there is slightly too much bad harmonica playing. Some fantastic songs too, though, or should I call them stories.
David Bowie
5/5
Another Bowie album I have never listened to before in its entirety, so I only knew (and loved) the hits - a shame! There are a few songs that leave me a bit cold but there is so much good stuff and creativity it still deserves a 5.
Barry Adamson
3/5
It's.... very filmic. A great soundtrack to a film that doesn't exist, but putting on this record brings scenes to mind. It's really quite clever. Not a 4 or a 5 because it's not something I'd put up an enjoy, but as Art music it is nice to have. A bit like some modern art, to be admired for the idea rather than just the thing at face value. A 3 it is.
The Replacements
3/5
Has a lot of elements I live (punk, rock, a bit quirky) but for some reason it doesn't move me at all. I think it's the songwriting, the songs just aren't great. Should have been great in a live setting though.
Ash
3/5
Sounds good. Has elements of grunge, rock, melodic pop, I rather enjoyed this. But it's not ground breaking, and it can get a bit samey. Hence a bit harsh 3 stars.
The Stone Roses
3/5
I rather liked this dreamy pop, with elements of grunge and of new wave. Nice sound. Not spectacular but a few catchy tunes.
5/5
What an unbelievably delicious album! And I never heard of it. Fantastic groovy soul, carried by a tight and melodic rhythm section (always a good start for me), with some elements of reggae but especially psychedelica. Some long songs but it's functional. Excellent musicianship but nobody feels the urge to show off. A top album and one of the main discoveries for me from the list.
The Crusaders
2/5
Too well-behaved, smooth soul. "They say" it's jazz but I wouldn't think so. Some OK grooves but lacking punch and the saxophones (and guitars) are just too smooth for me. Reminds me of cheap American TV series from the 1980's. Some good musicianship though.
Beastie Boys
5/5
This would have been 5 as a one-song album with just Sabotage! Luckily, there is much more goodness than just that song. Lots of almost punk-like energy but this is an album that can also be enjoyed as a careful listen. Lots going on. Listening to this (and having listened to Paul's Boutique) I one again realise how good a hip-hop band the Beastie Boys were.
Kacey Musgraves
2/5
Lovely voice and the album is well produced. Otherwise, this is generic country-pop that could just as well have been Taylor Swift or one of many others, as far as I'm concerned. So inoffensive and bland. I was going to go for a 3 listening to the first song, but got so bored throughout the album that it's a 2.
Dwight Yoakam
1/5
Someone please tell me this is a parody on country albums, not an actual country album? This would have been passable in the early '60s I suppose. Now, if you like all the clichés (sorry, style elements) of honky-tonk country including the themes, yodeling etc. and you don't mind if it feels like you've heard it all 1000 times before, then this may well be a 4 or a 5.
Finley Quaye
4/5
I love this dub-step album... works really well in one go. The right balance between consistency and variation between the songs, and the less well-known ones are just as good as the hits. Nice pumping bass lines and well produced (by himself I believe) too. I read that Finley is a Scot adopting a Jamaican accent for effect - not sure about that but I'll give it the benefit of doubt. Was going to give it 3 after my first impressions, but it's a 4 after a careful listen.
Green Day
2/5
I've always had mixed feelings about this boysband of "punk". Yes, there are some catchy tunes but it's all so predictable and very commercial/American sounding. Was going to give it a 3 because it's good fun after all, but got seriously bored halfway through the album, so a 2 it will be.
The Verve
5/5
This album really clicked with me! I have always liked Richard Ashcroft's vocals and The Verve in general but never got around to listening to them properly. This album was a very pleasant surprise. A 21st century version of psychedelic rock. No bad songs, beautiful soundscapes. They seem to be mentioned quite often with Oasis but there is no comparison in my book. A 4 or maybe a 5. Go on then, a 5.
The War On Drugs
3/5
They defined a signature sound and stuck with it. Fine, because it's a very pleasant sound, but it doesn't keep entertaining me. It escapes me why many people hear Dylan and Springsteen in this.
Rush
3/5
I only knew YYZ - it as classic amongst bassists (not that I can play it). So I was expecting a lot from this album. It is as well made as I expected. Clever prog rock, played with virtuosity. It also leaves me stone cold.
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
2/5
It's one of those albums that make you wonder why they exist. What is this exactly? On the scale of Britpop this seems to be the opposite end of The Verve which I listened to a few days ago. The Verve combined all the good things about Britpop and left out the bad. It seems like I now know where these leftovers went. Did the band actually enjoy this? And why does a so-called "superband" make such dull music? Questions I will never know the answer to, and I don't really mind. This is a 1 or 2 for me but I'll round up just because of Simonon's melodic and syncopated bass lines which I like. My next album is going to be #200, I hope it will be a good one.
Tortoise
4/5
When in the right mood, this is my thing. Very atmospheric soundscapes with hints of Pink Floyd, prog rock, etc. Songs flow nicely but are quite complex at the same time in terms of time signatures and transitions. Can function both as the better background music but also great for a careful listen. I don't like the noise overlaid on the music on the (otherwise very nice and long) opening track. Maybe it's a 3 but I'll give it a 4 because I like it, and it's creative.
Traffic
3/5
Sort of 1970s folky prog rock. A typical 3 for me - nothing wrong with it but does not move me. Happy I learned about this but a a bit meh
Radiohead
4/5
I love Radiohead! Just 1 point off because I don't find it their best album. Still very good with the usual creativity and soundscapes.
Yes
3/5
Excellent musicianship, no doubt. But it's too clinical for me, I keep wondering, "why"? If I want to groove or be emotionally touched I wouldn't go here. If I want to be all high-brow I'll put on some jaaaazzzz. In terms of prog rock, it's OK but there is better (Pink Floyd, King Crimson, etc.) Still, happy I listened to this.
Beck
4/5
A very creative and eclectic album. Hurray. Would be a 5 if I just enjoyed it more.
Songhoy Blues
4/5
This is amazing "desert blues" from Mali. I just love the sound. Yes it's blues but goes beyond the usual 12-bar scheme I'm a bit tired of. And it has this African warmth from the voices and typical guitar playing.
Pixies
5/5
I'm completely subjective about this one - it is a definite 5. This was the music from my uni years but it still sounds fresh and unique. This is energetic, no faff, fun, with elements from rock, punk and more. Gigantic - what a song, driven by an extremely simple but equally functional bass line and a penetrating guitar. And the energy! But there are lots of other great songs.
Hanoi Rocks
2/5
Mediocre hair rock from the 1980's. The opening tune is a parody on a folk song (out of tune recorder playing and all), not sure what it's doing there but I may like it more than the other songs. I like my metal less well behaved. I'll give it a 2 because I don't hate it, and it could be (have been) good fun live. But I don't know why this is on the list.
The Flying Burrito Brothers
2/5
A mix of cliché country and tear jerkers. Very well made though. Really good if you like this kind of thing. I love some country, but this leaves me stone cold.
Fairport Convention
2/5
British folk-inspired songs not without merits but I'm just not into this any more. Real folk yes, as in, traditional songs by real people (Lomax recordings!) The voice gets really annoying after a few songs. Not very creative.
Dead Kennedys
4/5
Punk how I like it. Raw, energetic, uncompromising, critical lyrics. A great sequel to the Sex Pistols.
AC/DC
3/5
Very decent bluesy rock & roll. I wouldn't call this metal (despite the squeaky vocals). I don't think this aims at being the climax of musical creativity, but it's fun and good at what it is.
Beth Orton
2/5
Rather bland folky pop without surprises, and the voice tires quickly
Charles Mingus
4/5
A real musical adventure, I love it, but only for a careful
Iisten. Not background music. Really well made - just one star off because it fills me with awe but not with emotion.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
I'll give it a somewhat generous 3. It is rather plain pop music, but good at it and for some reason I quite like them. Maybe not their best album.
Booker T. & The MG's
3/5
A mixed bag for me... I love the title song! Yes it's 12-bar blues but it has this unique sound with the organ and a very catchy groove. But - the album has only three original songs, the other nine are covers. The originals are the best by far, IMO. The covers would have been great fun at dance parties in the early sixties but aren't my thing (I find them all worse than the originals).
Because this album is a bit of a one trick pony, and it's mostly covers, I can't give it more than a 3 even though this is an influential album with an interesting sound.
5/5
I find this really hard to rate. I'm not the biggest Beatles fan but understand how novel they were (not their earlier work TBH which I find quiet poor) and they are of course hugely influential. For me, this is probably my favourite Beatles album, some great songs, some OK and in true Beatles fashion there has to be a bad song too - this would be "When I'm 64" here but it's still not as bad as some. I like that this is a concept album. I like the creativity and the psychedelic sound. I'd give it a 3 for what this is worth to me (I never feel the urge to play this album) with 1.5 bonus points for novelty and impact. So that rounds to a (low) 5. Of course, this has to be on the list (even if it was a list of 10 or 20 albums I'd say).
Calexico
5/5
I always liked Calexico for their atmospheric songs. But I never listened to this album - it's great. One could say an eclectic mix of tex/mex/country/rock but it really works for me. The music is very filmic which I love, perfect for relaxing and dreaming away.
Curtis Mayfield
5/5
I really love this album. Very cool funk. A very effective, amazing (but not showy) rhythm section. On top of that, funky (but again, not overdone) guitars and other instruments and interesting vocals. I also like that, because it is film music, it becomes almost a concept album. I could give this a 4 on a bad day but it's a good day.
Beyoncé
3/5
This is one of these albums where I'm going to put my "objective" hat on because this R&B is really not my thing but I also appreciate it has quality. Not 5* quality - it's just not creative or novel enough and it doesn't move me very much. Not sure how involved Beyoncé was in the songwriting either. BUT she can definitely sing and the album is quite varied. Lyrics aren't daft. Beyoncé is also a role good model too. Actually, I ended up liking this album more then I though I would. It is a totally un-cool album but I don't care. My enjoyment of listening to this is a 2 but if I were an R&B fan I could easily see this as a 4. There, a 3 it is. Beyoncé is alright!
Don McLean
4/5
American Pie and Vincent ("Starry starry night") are so much played I'm a bit bored with these songs. Very few songs keep getting better the more you hear them, and these aren't amongst them for me. But they are fine songs. The rest of the album I hadn't heard and I quite enjoyed it. Good songwriting, story-telling lyrics (could do without the God and Satan stuff for me, though), musically above your basic "man with a guitar" level and good vocals. Fine bass lines too! It's all very well behaved and it's not a 5 for me. A 3 or a 4 if I'm being very generous, yes. Nothing wrong with this.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Funny, I had "Superfly" just three days ago. Gave that a generous five, loved the album. I also like this one but it's more monotonous - it flows well but doesn't have the punchy drive Superfly has. In fact I got a little bit bored of it. Could be a 4 but because I rounded Superfly up, I'll be a bit harsh here. A 3.49.
David Bowie
3/5
I love David Bowie a lot, as an artist. But his output has been quite variable... his debut album is pretty rubbish, his final album (Black Star) is fantastic, and in-between it's been a mix (the 1001 list made me discover Low which I loved). I only knew a few songs from this album (Drive-In Saturday, good song) and The Jean Genie (great song). The rest of the album was generally a disappointment. It starts really average with basic rock and roll... apparently Bowie had been inspired by the Stones, maybe he should just have done his own thing. Next up is the title track - what was that? - it's as if Bowie wanted to test what he could get away with now that he was famous (as Ziggy). Pretty sure that if the album didn't say "Davie Bowie" on the cover nobody would have cared. Apart for the iconic cover maybe. The rest of the album remains very mixed, some OK songs, several really poor ones (incl. the Stones cover). I considered giving this a 2 but I gave Beyoncé a 3 yesterday (much to my own surprise) and I can't give this less than that. I would have, if the album didn't have the Jean Genie.
Blur
3/5
Not my thing. I find it quite quite dull musically, and Damon Albarn's vocals get a bit much after a few songs. Some songs (mostly the hits) are OK. I'd give it a 2 but with an extra star because, afterall, it is an influential album and band.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
5/5
No-one does funky, punky rock like the RHCP - I think they're amazing. Their songs have a great drive. Flea's basslines are the best - not overly complicated (mostly pentatonic) but so funky and effective. Chad is a fine drummer. Frusciante is a great guitarist - in fact he shines on Emit Remmus which is one of my favourite (but lesser known) songs on the album. Anthony Kiedis is... the singer. Few people would say he's a great singer but I like his timbre and if he keeps his pitch he's alright.
I love this album because it still has the early RHCP funk-like energy but also has some softer, more melodic, more mature you could say, songs. A lot of stunners on this album and no bad ones.
The only BUT is... the production. This Rick Rubin guy has a talent for completely messing up the sound (he did that with Metallica too). This is rock music - where is my kickdrum! Where are the dynamics! The whole thing is compressed to death and sounds as if it comes out of a transistor radio with Chad playing on a toy drum kit. Still 5* for me because music is much more important than sound quality, but with half decent mastering this could have been even more amazing.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Perfectly pleasant folky poppy Flower Power. But California Dreaming and (to a lesser extent) Monday, Monday stand out for me. The rest is a bit same'ish - great vocal harmonies and all that, but no "wow" factor. Some songs are very Beatles like. No great art (or grammar) has been lost on the cover.
Sex Pistols
5/5
This album is my yardstick for punk. I love all of it, great songs, pure energy, and daring (esp. for 1977) lyrics. It is also a true cultural icon. I'd say a top 10 album not just top 1001.
Doves
3/5
Atmospheric britpop. Does not sound bad but it's just too plain, predictable and inoffensive.
Slint
3/5
My first impression was quite good, it fits into a style I quite like, call it "dirty rock", lo-fi, soundscape rock, whatever. Elements of this album remind me of Sparklehorse, Dance Hall at Louse Point (Parish/Harvey - amazing album) etc. BUT going along this album let me down. It just doesn't have the spark I'm looking for - without it, the music sounds just like a bunch of mates freewheeling in the studio. Too many songs are basic with too repetitive guitar strumming and a bit long winded. The soundscapes are OK and quite filmic but it's just a bit uninspired. Not a top 1001 album for me. I'll give it a 3 just because of the sound but I think it's really only a 2, musically. But it's one of those albums that depends a lot on my mood. Maybe one day I'll like it more, it has the potential for it.
Gorillaz
3/5
I was pleasantly surprised by this album... something from/with Damon Albarn that I can stand, who would have thought. His vocals are much less annoying than on, say, Blur albums (I know, a personal thing). This album is very varied, it has Latin, jazz, dance and more in it. It works and it sounds alright. Still not my thing but it's a big fat 3 from me.
Steely Dan
3/5
Countdown to Ecstasy? Fine... counting... counting... still counting... I'm afraid ecstasy is the last thing this album is going to give me. Sure it's well made and all that, but the fundamental thing, the musical interest of the songs, is missing for me. This is ultimate, beige, Dad Rock, just trying a bit too hard to be clever. Don't care for Fagen's vocals. I'll still give it a 3 though because the musicianship is good as are some jazz and prog-rock elements. But it's very "meh". Like Aja.
Public Enemy
3/5
Hip-hop is very hit and miss with me buy I like this album. It has energy, the lyrics are better than the usual (n-word, dicks, etc.) and it's an influential record. I have heard that the band has used some homophobic and antisemitic language but I haven't looked into this properly - it would be a deal breaker (and it means I won't round "up"). Otherwise, they have good and critical social content in their lyrics - they are not Nobel Prize quality but still. The album sounds good, varied and with good musicianship.
David Bowie
5/5
This is a very powerful and emotional album. Musically, it is one of Bowie's best (he is variable, for example I really did not like Aladdin Sane last week). Blackstar is really good with lots of influences (jazz and others) and excellent musicians but it is still very Bowie. BUT just listening to the music at face value doesn't do full justice to the album. In Bowie style, he made himself part of the art, not with an alter ego this time, but as his very self. What a way to say farewell as a musician and artist, bringing out such a work and dying two days later. The context transforms this 5* album in a bigger fatter 5* album. What a performance.
The Doors
5/5
I love everything The Doors did and this is no exception. Raw and bluesy and it has the amazing Riders on the Storm, what an album. Jim's voice is hoarser than ever (goes well with the raw vlues style) and Ray Manzarek's keys are not only melodically great, but that tight rhythm! Fantastic album.
John Lennon
2/5
A seriously bad album. One great song (Working Class Hero), with thanks to Bob Dylan for inspiration, and the rest is very dull to mediocre.
The Who
3/5
The concept doesn't really work for me, but I apprecate the effort. A few good songs but mostly quite boring. They are good musicians. I'll round up.
De La Soul
3/5
A good hip-hop album. A recogniseable sound, better lyrics than most.
Iggy Pop
3/5
The Passenger is a great song of course. The rest of the album is a bit mixed but sounds good overall. Bowie'esque indeed but not quite as good as Bowie's best. Oh and that cover photo is rubbish! Has a very different feel from the music. Looks like an album by some B rated french charmeur.
Big Star
3/5
Could grow on me, in the right mood I kind-of enjoy this. Quite poppy rock, with a nice vibe. A bit low-fi (quite poorly recorded and played, not intentionally) and some songs have a Kink's-like sound (which I don't like). Jesus Christ sounds fun (OK let's forget the lyrics).
Bill Evans Trio
4/5
Great musicianship (by all three band members). I enjoy this - it's just a bit well-behaved to my liking, but then it doesn't always need to be "difficult". But at the right time, a very nice listen either in the background or as a proper listen, imagining I was there in the Village Vanguard.
John Martyn
3/5
I had never heard of John Martyn before. I don't know what to think of this! It's quite poppy generally, with a few OK songs (Big Muff has a nice groove, Dancing is fun) but it's quite experimental too and John's voice is interesting. The opening song (Dealer) has an African vibe. Too incoherent and just not moving enough for me, but there is creativity in this album and it's "interesting". It has the potential to grow on me, but I don't think I'm going to do the effort.
KISS
2/5
The emperor has no clothes, of course. Behind all the posing, make-up and pyrotechnics lies a set of plain, commercial, rather bad tunes. Rock with a metal sauce or (not on this album) pure disco. Whatever - as long as it sells.
But is that important? They might have taken themselves seriously (hard to tell) but we don't have to. I'm sure their gigs must have been a lot of fun. Spinal Tap much more so though :-).
Can't rate it highly because in the end, this list is about music, but maybe it deserves to be in the book just for its "legacy". Some songs are not as bad as I thought, so a one it is not.
Bon Jovi
3/5
Funny, this album comes after KISS's Destroyer and I could almost cut and paste my KISS comments here. In a nutshell: bad music (this better than Kiss though), too much posing, but a number of fun party hits. I'm totally happy for this to exist, but it is almost a parody of itself. This extremely commercial, poppy "metal". But one can't deny that "Livin' on a prayer" and "You give love a bad name" are top songs to hop around as a teenager on a party (I've been told). So I'd say a 2* plus 1* for entertainment value. There is worse crappy music than this.
Thin Lizzy
3/5
Sounds exactly as the cover suggests. A bit "would-be" heavy music. It's not bad... the strength of many songs is melodically, but I'm sometimes missing a good groove. This album is 3rd in line after two pseudo-metal albums (by Kiss and Bon Jovi) and this is musically better but still too poppy for me. Spandex leggings, a wide stance, a mean facial expression and a few fast riffs can't really change that. But it's alright and must have been great live.
Electric Light Orchestra
3/5
Beatles-like, too well-behaved for me, samey.
The Young Gods
4/5
I knew of the Young Gods but ever had a proper listen. I'm really glad I did now! Over my smart speaker it all came across as quite aggressive and chaotic, but the album is beautifully produced and over a good hifi system it shines. Not that is easy listening - anything but. Industrial rock is not usually sing-along music. It's also not musci I will often play at home but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate it for what it is. It is a bit like some (other) art forms, say a painting, that isn't necessarily "beuatiful" but that is well made, and transpires skill and emotion. The vocals remind me of Arno (and TC Matic before he went solo) which is a huge complement. I like Arno more though. Plus, elements of dEUS (another Belgian band), a bit of Les Tambours du Bronx,... it's a nice combo and the album creates its won atmosphere. I'm not calling it a 5* - I just don't enjoy it enough. But a very decent 3* or actually a 4* for the artistic merit. When in the right mood only - if not it is all a bit much.
The Cure
5/5
I love The Cure and this album is no exception. It is atmospheric and one of the more calming Cure albums. Maybe not their very best but too good to give it a 4.
Ice Cube
2/5
I like NWA but this... no. Too monotonous and not creative enough.
Marty Robbins
3/5
I kind of liked this even though it's not my cup of tea, it's almost ridiculously cliché and represents a cartoon (one could say childish) version of Western and Cowboy Life. It's well sung and played - no artistic gymnastics here but just plain Country and Western. Oddly, the music all sounds kind of the same (and quite fun), whether it is about being in love, or feeling the bullet deep inside his chest, and anything in-between. Not a Work of Art, but I'm happy for this to exist and I suppose it would have sounded different in 1959.
Jefferson Airplane
5/5
I knew (and liked) the hits on this album - Somebody to Love, White Rabbit. But the album is great in its entirety. There are no bad songs and it's varied, from more psychedelic to more bluesy. Good musicianship too with the jangly guitars, good riffs, and good close harmonies. Most songs have a great hook with a somewhat menacing undertone. I love it.
The Killers
3/5
I've always liked The Killers, but listen to this album was slightly disappointing. I had a bit of a "so what" feeling. Yes, there are good great songs but in the end it's plain rock that sounds OK but does not fascinate me. Nothing ground-breaking about this. So even though I like (not love) it I'm not sure this is a "must hear" album and it doesn't quite reach the level of creativity or uniqueness to deserve a 4 or a 5 for me. But I'd happily listen to this or even go to a gig, I think they're very good in a live setting.
Nine Inch Nails
5/5
I have the CD but hadn't listened to it for ages. Glad I did again now... what a perfect album. Very coherent and emotional, a real work of art. Because of the dark thematic it's not exactly everyday "feel good" music, but when in the right mood it is just perfect. Industrial rock but very varied too, and underlying even the most aggressive tracks, there is great song-writing. It sometimes takes a cover (Hurt by Johnny Cash, great in its own right) to appreciate that. I was listening to Amenra the other day which, although more metal, conveys some of the same emotions and is (almost) equally good. As was The Young Gods a few days ago. Glad my streak of "vanilla" albums is over now - I had too many "pleasant sounding" but musically unremarkable albums recently. This is the opposite. Give me that, any time.
Dennis Wilson
3/5
Some very nice songs there by this Beach Boy, but unfortunately some average ones too (incl. the opener) and the 2nd song (What's Wrong) showcases why I'm not a fan of (this kind of) Rock and Roll. But overall, a nice feel, but not fabulous and not "must hear" material I'd see. All in all, the Beach Boys have the better songs but you can't really compare.
Miles Davis
5/5
A lot of good things have been said about this album and they're all true. This is to jazz what the Dark Side of the Moon is to rock, or Mozart's Requiem to classical. The musicianship is amazing and I especially like Miles' lyrical trumpet, which does not dominate the music but lets the other instruments breathe, too. A very easy 5*.
Sepultura
3/5
This is a great trash metal album. Really well made. Just one star off (could have been 2 on a different day) because most songs follow the same recipe. It's a good recipe but sometimes you want a change of flavours. And it's just not as good as Roots, a unique album.
Gang Of Four
3/5
This is good (post) punk. For some reason it doesn't really gel with me like some other punk acts do, maybe it misses a bit of the rawest energy or the addictive hooks some punk songs have.
The Beach Boys
4/5
This is melodic pop perfection, really well made and with plenty of stunners. A harsh 4 because it's not really my thing and it is a bit same'ish. This is music I used to find totally uncool, but I am now appreciating for the intrinsic quality (I bought the CD not long ago).
Cocteau Twins
4/5
This album lives and breathes the early 1990's. Shoegaze, dreamy post-new wave, not sure how to label this. I like it a lot, not the least because of Liz Faser's voice. Musically, it produces beautiful soundscapes. It's a generous 4 for me - not a 5 because few songs are absolute stunners, but the album works well as a whole (probably _because_ the songs all sound quite sameish).
k.d. lang
1/5
k d lang can sing. I think she's a great person and I admire her for her activism. Now onto the album.
This got seriously on my nerves, I found if god awful. The huuuuge slides (not just guitars but vocals too), the pace - if this was vinyl I'd swear this was a 45 rpm album played at 33 rpm. Sooooo sloooooow! The album sounds like a parody on Country, rather than Country, all the clichés are thrown in and then magnified. It's not consistent either, sometimes a bit of cabaret or "love boat" style sax is thrown in too. But the lack of consistency is not surprising given that the songs are all written by different people, and none is even co-written by k d lang. I'd give it a one, plus one because she can sing, minus one because she hasn't written any of the songs.
XTC
3/5
Dear God is a fabulous song. Otherwise, I find this album just pleasant pop and a bit bland. Andy Partridge's voice is distinctive and good.
Supertramp
3/5
Nice 1970's pop/rock, good musicianship. Not overly exciting but I'll happily listen to this. Almost a 4.
Goldfrapp
4/5
I had only vaguely heard of this band... what a shame. I really enjoyed this atmospheric album. The singer has a beautiful, interesting voice (this carries the album really) and the album is soothing. Instrumentation is simple but effective.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
Wow, is this album nearly 30 years old? I have always loved Nick Cave as an artist and I love that he does not repeat himself. I'll give it a very fat 4 just because there are Cave albums I like even better... for me the sweet spot was his Good Son/ Henry's Dream era. This, for me, struck the right balance between his earlier work (which could be a bit "much" for me) and his later work which is softer, sometimes borderline cheese (non-pasteurised artisanal quality cheese though). This album is consistent with some smashing songs and no bad songs. Consistent lyrically and musically. The fattest 4 I've given.
MGMT
3/5
There are three hits on them and they are bangers - pop perfection. The rest is OK but feels a bit like filler. All in all, a fun album.
Billy Joel
3/5
OK it's cheesy and it's not Art. But it is generally, fine melodic pop. And I've always had a soft spot for Always a Woman. Some other songs are bit annoying though. Would be better with less lalala (Get it Right) and cacaca (Moving Out). Would be a 2 without Always a Woman.
Waylon Jennings
2/5
Hyper-predictable country. Nah. I'll give it a 2 because it's "not bad at what it does".
Afrika Bambaataa
2/5
Definitely an influential album and therefore deserves a place on the list. Musically, I find it hasn't aged very well, at times it feel like a cheap computer game from the '80s. Not my favourite hip-hop album.
Carole King
5/5
This album is absolute top level songwriting. So many amazing songs. That's a five for me and I make a note to check out her other albums too.
Fela Kuti
5/5
This album was quite the discovery! I "knew of" Fela Kuti but never properly listened to an album. What a party! Super funky Afrobeat. James Brown with wits of jazz and loads of African charm. Only a 5 songs, all long (usually 10+ minutes) but they don't bore for a second. They almost brought a tear to my eye, I'm not sure why, but it's a good sign. Now I need to listen to MORE Fela Kuti (and check out his progeny too).
Brian Eno
4/5
Interesting album! Interesting, more than truly enjoyable esp. the quirky and Talking-Heads-esque first half. The second half is the opposite, enjoyable, and actually still interesting as early "ambient", which Brian Eno invented if I'm correct. A great musician and producer. Could have been a 3 purely based on my enjoyment, but gets an extra star because of the wider importance of Brian Eno.
Queen
5/5
Not a lot of hits on this album (apart from Killer Queen) but it's Classic Queen and really good (glam) rock. Maybe not their absolute best album but still worth a 5 to me.
Bob Dylan
5/5
He can't sing, his harmonica playing is worse, and his live gig last year was one of the worst concerts I've ever seen. But I love Bob Dylan, his song-writing (music and lyrics) and influence on modern music are immense. And I love him partly _because_ of his imperfections. Some real stunners on this album.
Mudhoney
3/5
I like a bit of grunge but this album I find a bit boring. A 2 for me with an extra star because they were influential and helped define the genre, and some songs are good.
The Who
3/5
A true concept album and "story". Kudos for that. However I'm just not too fond of it. As a "rock" album, it all sounds a bit plain. Not bad, but just "meh".
Prince
4/5
Luckily, the kitsch infused cover has only mildly (but somewhat) trickled into the music. No doubt, Prince was an extremely talented musician, both as a composer and a multi-instrumentalist (and as a showman if you care about that). I can't deny that. I just wish I liked his music more. But is this a well-made album and is it a must on the 1001 list? Absolutely.
Randy Newman
2/5
I keep getting visions of cheap American romcom outros when I listen to these songs. Any song really, because they are all the same. Apparently he's more of a Disney man (same difference).
I was going to give it a 3 because of the songwriting quality and the parody he does. But a few songs in I became so bored... he really likes his habits doesn't he.
I can see why some people like it, the music is very inoffensive. A nice melody, a recogniseable voice, some piano, some arrangements here and there. Not my cup of tea. Wel actually, it is exactly like a cup of tea. It's just that I like a double espresso more.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
4/5
Not my usual style, but I have to say, as far as Bluegrass goes, I like this a lot! A really long album but it does not bore thanks to the diversity of songs and musicians (many of them legends). I read this is recorded live in the studio with only one or two takes per song on a basic recorder, maybe that helps explain the authentic feel. Not music I will often play, but for a folk/bluegrass album there's nothing to fault. Reminds me of the fantastic film 'The Broken Circle Breakdown' (watch it if you can find it, you may like the genre a bit more afterwards).
OutKast
3/5
Not a bad hiphop album, with other influences, and easily listenable. Not really my type though.
Lauryn Hill
2/5
Oh my, this album really gets on my nerves. What a struggle to finish it. Is it the lack of grove and the slow tempo - I'm not a "soul" guy (oldskool, yes, though) Or is it the vocals? Lauren either "raps" monotonously and I wish she were singing more, or she "sings" but has the soulful habit to convert every note into a complete scale (the infamous noodle-neck style). I have never been a Fugees fan and this is very similar. I realise my almost hatred for this album (I will actively turn it off when it's on the radio) is totally subjective and I see this music it is made with skill (hence I won't give it a 1). Who knows I will some day get into this (I have surprised myself in the past) but for now it's got to be a 1 just because I loathe it so much, plus 1 because it's (technically) well made.
Super Furry Animals
2/5
Your typical Britpop. Very Blur/ Daman Alban like (which in my case is not a good thing). It feels more like listening to the radio than to an album. Nothing offensive, a few somewhat catchy pop songs. Not a "must hear" album for me.
Kings of Leon
2/5
It started quite well, and I thought that the lesser known songs ware as good as the hits. After having listened to the entire album, I'd say that's probably true but they're all not for me. What can I say, it's not BAD, but it's all a bit cliché American Rock Band. Very predictable. I don't like the voice and singing style (Use Some-bodeeaaa). So a harsh 2 it will be.
Meat Loaf
4/5
It's kitsch, it's over the top, it's cliché, it's cheap-operatic... but if not taken seriously it's a fun album. Very good at what it does and definitely influential so must be on the list. I will never listen to this by choice (any more) but have to give it at least a 3. Oh go on, a 4 then, after all, if you like kitsch etc. this is about perfect.
Christina Aguilera
2/5
The peak of commercial noodle-neck R&B pop I suppose, not my thing, it gives me the colliwobbles. Weird cover photo. Musically it's not poorly made so I'll boost if from a 1. But please don't make me listen to this again. This is already my 2nd Aguilera album from the list I must hear "before I die". OK I have done so, survived it (just barely), please no more.
Iron Butterfly
5/5
Another discovery! Psychedelic rock with hints of The Doors and even The Bee Gees. This is my thing, not the least because of the amazing bass lines. It's not just the title track that's amazing. NAS cleverly stole its opening lines for Hip Hop is Dead, a song I love (but maybe ever so slightly less now).
Jean-Michel Jarre
4/5
This was such a big part of my teenage years when I started to discover my own music, that it is really hard to form an opinion on it. Listening to it now, I am rather distracted by the (now) cheap sounding sweeps, phasers, "p-chew" sounds etcetera. Like a 1980's computer game. I feel they are unnecessary and the main sounds and melodies (which are great) are more than enough. Less is more but in the early days of synths it must have been tempting to try out all the buttons. Still, JM Jarre is one of the pioneers of electronic music and definitely influential. His live gigs were a sonic and visual spectacle. I'll say a 3, plus a bonus point because he did this in the 1970s and has made his mark.
The Notorious B.I.G.
4/5
A very good gangsta rap album with a foreboding title... BIG was shot before his 2nd album came out. 4* quality even though not really my thing.
Elvis Presley
3/5
I really like some of Elvis' songs but this album, not really. Some songs are good (albeit quite basic R&R) but none are written by Elvis so he does not get any marks for song-writing. He is "just" a singer, but with a real signature sound so that's good. Of course, Elvis was very influential so I assume this album belongs on the list. A generous 3 on this one.
Incubus
2/5
Your dose of predictable, cliché, commercial American Nu Metal. Foo Fighters like. I spare my 1*s for the absolute worst albums so this is a 2, some songs are not too bad and one or two songs could be fun at parties.
The Specials
4/5
One of the bands that immediately comes to mind when you say Ska. Socially engaged but it sounds just plain fun too. This is not genius musical art but it doesn't always have to be.
John Lee Hooker
5/5
I LOVE this album, have done since it came out. JLH is one of my favourite blues artists, great voice and he does not stick to basic 12-bar blues. There are loads of guests on this album so every song has a different signature sound, but it still works together for me. As far as blues goes, this is among the best for me.
Sam Cooke
4/5
It's not really my thing musically (too R&R) but it's a good live album with some classics, which (not always the case back then) Sam Cooke has written himself. Hence it deserves a 4 for me.
Richard Thompson
4/5
Elevated well above most other folk/rock because of the excellent songwriting and Richard's guitar playing. I'm always in two minds about his voice (like with Billie Bragg - there is an un-musicality about it). I think I like some of his later work better but still as far as folk and folk rock goes it's very good.
Black Sabbath
5/5
I am listening to this just days after Ozzy died. What an album.
Funkadelic
4/5
Second Funkadelic album - I liked Maggot Brain better. This is a bit more of, what I call Kitsch Funk (yes a genre I have invented). It would be a 3 for enjoyment, but some songs are very good, it's great muscicianship, and an influential album. So a 4 it is.
Beatles
4/5
Nice pop. A few cheesy and just not so good songs (e.g. I'm happy just to dance with you) but some great songs too. I'll round it up to a 4 because it's better thsn much other stuff flrom the era, and of course very influential.
Willie Nelson
2/5
A cover album of songs I either don't like, or I do like but but not what Willie Nelson makes of them. I'd give it a 1 but it's not quite as bad as the 1s I have given so far. A generous 2 then.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
Nice folky pop - I have always loved Joni Mitchell butonly really know the album Clouds. This one resonates less with me though. Borderline 3-4.
Al Green
4/5
Nice oldskool soul. Not all songs do it for me, but the punchy ones do (the cheesy ones, less so). Very recognisable vocals. A 3 or a 4.
King Crimson
5/5
This is an amazing album, so creative and superbly made. Prog Rock sprinkled with a good dose of psychedelia. I especially like the drumming, very clever. The album is varied but it all fits together really nicely. An easy 5*.
Johnny Cash
4/5
I am not a country fan, generally, but I love Johnny Cash, and this album is how I love my love albums. You can sense the atmosphere - I also admire that Cash played in prisons, it must have been ground-breaking (still is I suppose). Can't say much bad about this album, except that I love Live at Folsom Prison even better, so I'll keep my 5 for that, assuming it will be in the list. (and because it's not THAT creative musically, to be honest...)
Amy Winehouse
4/5
She was class. I don't necessarily like her songs that much though, I'm not that old a soul. Deserves 100% to be in the list though and she was so talented.
3/5
There's something about The Kinks - not all songs - that seriously gets on my nerves. Songs like Drivin', for example, really get me in a bad mood. I think it is because of Ray Davis' vocals and the carnaval-esque sound. Many songs sound quite like Mont Python tunes but without the fun. Some Kinks songs are OK, on this album, Victoria, for example, but it's all too inconsistent. I'd give it a 2 but they were influential and have a signature sound. A generous 3 then.
Ministry
3/5
Industrial/trash metal - it's OK but I rarely feel like playing this genre and if I am in the mood fort this, others do the job better (Nine Inch Nails, Sepultura etc.). It's fine though, it just doesn't really move me.
ZZ Top
4/5
Quite liked this! Dirty blues, nothing too innovative but it sounds good, I probably love it more than their later more commercial wok (although that was fun too). A 3-4 but I'm in a good mood.
Erykah Badu
3/5
Me no like R&B but I gave Lauryn Hill a 2 and this album gets on my nerves less than Lauryn Hill's, so I'll give it a 3. Many songs have a groove and nice funky elements. Good musicianship. One of the better albums I have heard in the genre I suppose. I still don't like it but who knows, one day I might.
Hole
4/5
Courtney Love is an authentic, really good rocker/ grunger! This album is really nice.
Skepta
3/5
It's a funny one, this. I normally stay far clear of this style, associating it with chavs cruising around in pimped Corsas. But I have to admit that this album does not get on my nerves as I initially feared. Yes there is still the chav thing but many songs could just as well work as the soundtrack for a well made crime series. The deep drone on most songs work well, and the album is generally well produced sound-wise. Can't explain why, but I don't mind this one!
The Temptations
5/5
I love the Temptations and certainly their more groovy funky (70's) stuff. This album has a little bit of cheese left from the earlier albums but is mostly amazing esp. the first three songs. It would almost make me dance (and that's saying a lot). This is really amazing musicianship (also the band who never get enough credit). My only reason to pinch a star off would be that this band is a bit of a construct of singers. They don't play instruments and the songs are also not written my themselves. But that's how it was done. I'll just imagine Strong and Whitfield (the authors) are band members, and I also can't blame them for using the Funk Brothers as a band! So still a five.
UB40
4/5
I liked this album more than I expected, knowing UB40 mostly from their later, more commercial work. This is proper dub/reggae. Love it.
Joy Division
5/5
Joy Division is a band like no other... fantastic music especially in its context. When I hear these driving songs (love the rhythm section) I can't help think of the state of the UK back then, of course Ian Curtis' suicide, and Anton Corbijn's fantastic photos of the band. I was almost going to give it a 4 because I like Unknown Pleasures even more, but can't bring myself to it. It's a landmark album for me.
Pink Floyd
5/5
I think Pink Floyd is one of the best (if not THE) best bands ever and this album proves why. Amazing songs. No words needed, an easy 5*.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
A nice blend of ska, pop, bits of punk and more. Instantly recognisable lead vocals (that I'm not that fond of). Not my favourite album, but fits its era very well.
Simple Minds
4/5
The Simple Minds were very much part of me finding my musical identity. It some much more poppy and goody-goody than it did at the time but I think the songs still stand, also the lesser known ones. Nice basslines, and the vocals stand out.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
4/5
This feels like when I first listened to Tom Waits' Rain Dogs, but on steroids. Of course, Captain Beefheart was first. This album initially sounds like a bric-a-brac shop with random stuff piled up, except upon looking carefully it's not random but rather a very considerate construction by an intriguing mind and musician. Does that make it easier to listen to? Hell no, this is one of the hardest albums I know, not quite as hard as, say, a Christina Aguilera album, but for rather different reasons. This album makes me want to listen to it carefully... will buy (it seems very hard to find though). The songs are a blend of hard blues, free jazz, and much more that I can't name, the can get you so on edge that the odd recognisable chord or rhythm suddenly feels like a relief. Lots of tension in this album. Definitely a hugely influential album, definitely well made, definitely interesting, but does it sound good? Still making up my mind. Safe as Milk was definitely much easier. If it depended just on "does it sound pleasant" I'd give it a 2-3 for the moment. But I have the feeling that as I unpeel its layers, it will very much grow on me.
Amy Winehouse
3/5
An old soul in a young body, passed away way too young. I like her music but for some reason it doesn't really connect with me.
Johnny Cash
3/5
This is a typical example of an album I like listening to, but can't give a super high rating. After all, it's only a covers album and if it wasn't for Cash's interpretation and voice (which I happen to love) it wouldn't be very special, musically.
4/5
I always say Bob Dylan can't sing, but in a very good way. On this album though, and the first song is an example, his signature swoops get really annoying. Maybe "vocalising" is a better word than "singing" for much of what he does, esp. live, oh my, saw him live last year and it was bad. Similarly, his harmonica playing, possibly worse than his singing, is better described as "nervously in- and exhaling through a harmonica".
And yet.
I love Bob Dylan despite all of this. His song-writing is peerless. His lyrics are not daft (understatement) like most. There's just something about his music that feels very "right" to me.
This album in particular is significant, reflecting his (then) controversial inclusion of those damned electric instruments.
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
This type of vocal jazz just isn't my cup of tea... Zero credit goes to Sarah Vaughan for songwriting because this is a covers album. OK - I understand it was often done like that in the day, but the fact remains that being a decent singer is orders of magnitudes easier than writing your own songs AND singing AND (in many cases) playing them. Interpretation and vocals are good, but I'm not a fan of the same vibrato that ends almost every phrase. On the plus side, this works very well as a live album (jazz is always best live IMO) and I would have very much enjoyed being in the room. A generous 3.
Missy Elliott
3/5
Hip-hop is not my thing but I have an open mind and have given some albums a 5* rating. Not this one, even though I see it is well made. I just find it not that enjoyable musically, and lyrically even less so. For me, hip-hip is a lot about lyrics so when it's too much of the same boring language (n!ggas, pussies, etc.) the whole time, I feel they need to do better. Some songs have catchy hooks and overall the album sounds good (technically). She can sing (and rap) and has some creative ideas, sound-wise. As an influential female rapper this deserves a place on the list.
Happy Mondays
2/5
This is like vanilla ice cream, but they forgot to put in the vanilla. Yaaaaawn. Very forgettable 90's pop. I won't give it a 1* because it doesn't sound that bad. Definitely not "must hear" for me.
Stan Getz
4/5
This is a really well made jazz album. Not a 5 because this is a bit too smoooooth for me and I'm not sure about the authenticity, I should ask a Brazilian. But no denying, this has ambiance and musicianship is perfect.
Paul Simon
2/5
Paul Simon has made really good albums, Graceland I give a 5 and some of his older work is less my thing (too well-behaved) but still proper good songwriting. Why this specific album made it to the 1001 list is a mystery to me though. This so lame... Pauls' voice is very featureless (probably a pure sine wave) so it helps if the music gives a bit of oopmh. Unfortunately, everything about this album is lame and boring, vocals, instruments (the famous 80's organ) and lyrics. No standout songs, a few bad ones (Allergies, Cars) and it's generally just so pathologically inoffensive. 2* because I keep my 1* for crimes against humanity which this isn't.
Jazmine Sullivan
2/5
I find it difficult to rate this type of R&B because I really don't like it. I suppose she can sing. AS a "concept" album I find it quite weak - yes it has a concept which I quite like (emancipation, sex, etc.), hence an extra star, but it's implemented in a too pubertal and unpoetic way. Musically, nothing going on that piques my interest. Struggled to make it to the hole (pun not intended).
Raekwon
4/5
One of the best hip-hop albums I've heard and only because I discovered it here. Musically really quite good, lyrics less daft than many (but not genius either), and a very coherent (but not boring) album. A 3-4 for me.
Elton John
4/5
OK, Tiny Dancer is pop perfection. The other songs are OK - undeniably good songwriting but just a bit meh for me. But I just have a hip-hop album a generous 4 and can't give this any less. On a different day it might have been a 3. Too poppy for me.
Silver Jews
4/5
I like me a bit of lo-fi and this is lovely. Musically really good, and the vocals are going to be love it or hate it, but I love the gritty tone and overall character. Fits really well. The lyrics paint atmospheric, film-like pictures in my head. Will listen again, and a pleasant discovery on this list.
Ali Farka Touré
5/5
I love Ali Farka Touré - didn't know this album but I have Niafunké which may be even better (?)
It's just the sound - very bluesy but not in a boring seen-it-all-before 12-bart sense, more in sense of the general "feel". Not too polished, that wouldn't fit. Love the warm thick, African sound. An interesting man too!
Elliott Smith
4/5
Beautiful songs and a beautiful delivery. On a bad day I'd call this album boring, on a good days it just ticks all the boxes.
The Charlatans
3/5
Not much to say about this album. Generic Britpop. Not that it's bad but the world would not be much different if this didn't exist.
Frank Sinatra
2/5
Sounds like Christmas music (not a fan). Would work well in cheap American romcoms (which I also don't like) though, or in anything "family friendly" Disney. The best thing about this album is that it does not contain "My Way" or "Singing in the Rain". OK - I do get the appeal. If you are into crooners this is probably really good, it has a very recognisable sound. Sinatra can sing (like many others) but I find his voice lacking in character, it's just too plain. And singing is his sole merit because he hasn't written the songs and doesn't play an instrument. He's strictly a singer and a bit boring one. One star up from a 1* because the album has a certain consistency and a "theme" (even if heartbreak is a bit of a a lame one). A 2* may sound harsh "for Sinatra" but I really think this is nothing special, musically. It's just old, but that doesn't get extra points for me because much older and better music exists.
Suede
3/5
One of the better bands from the Britpop era, very recognisable vocals over more generic music. Not bad but it doesn't move me much.
Steely Dan
3/5
The best music I don't like. There is definitely a lot of craftsmanship, but why do they need to make it all sound as dull and inoffensive as possible? I suppose I'm not a soft rock/ yacht music man.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Yes! One of my heroes, Jimi Hendrix! What a relief after a stretch that included Frank Sinatra and Steely Dan. I may like Are You Experienced even more but this is still comfortably a 5. That rawness, creativity, energy and fantastic guitar playing doesn't stop to amaze me. What an album.
Jimmy Smith
3/5
Pleasant hammond organ based jazz. Grooves nicely at times and with nice sax, drums and guitar too. But all in all a bit too smooth for me.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Can't not give it a 5, if only for Stairway to Heaven. Yes we've all heard it so many times but it is an absolute highlight of rock music - almost a little symphony rather than a song. The other songs on the album are also perfectly decent. Nice and bluesy at times, full of energy, signature vocals and guitar.
The Teardrop Explodes
3/5
I quite like the sound of this, quite poppy, New-Wavy, but it's nothing too special. Not sure they belong in this list. I only knew Treason and that's a nice song. Some others have better bass-lines though. Vocals a bit too up-front for me maybe. Rounded up to 3 because they are Scousers :-).
MC Solaar
4/5
One of the best rap albums I've heard! Solaar's rhythm is just perfect and I love it musically... lots of influences including jazz, funk and reggae, and it works really well. Lyrics are good too in proper French tradition. No boring rambling on about pussies, dicks (or the french equivalent bite) for a change. No 5* because it is not 100% my thing and I find it slightly too flat with the vocals, although rhythmically perfect, have just a bit too plain timbre and are a bit too much upfront in the mix for me. But - great album and a (too) rare non-Anglocentric one on the list.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
I quite like the sound of this album 'for and electonic/ dance oriented album' which is not my style generally. A few nice hooks and some songs remind of Talking Heads. Not unpleasant but quite featureless and it leave me stone cold, it just 'exists'.
Linkin Park
2/5
This has some elements I like, yet the whole package is so cliché and pubertal I so can't enjoy this. Nu metal tends to be like that (please give me the real thing) but this is particularly boring. No. One star up from 1 because I can get the appeal and some songs can be fun and radio-worthy (not on my favourite stations, but still).
The Jam
3/5
I liked this album, nice and tight punky rock/pop - not sure what to call this. Quite melodic, with good bass lines, and good vocals by Paul Weller. Very English sounding in a good way (unlike The Kinks, for me). Doesn't move me very much though, but I'll happily listen to this on the radio.
Mike Ladd
2/5
I don't know why but there's loads of hip-hop in this list, and the bar seems to be quite low. This album has few OK moments but it's generally quite weak I think.
DJ Shadow
4/5
My first thought was... oh no not yet another random hip-hop album please... I've been on a long stretch recently. However, I was very pleasantly surprised with this album that I had only vaguely heard of. It's chilled, very well made, instrumental (apart from sampled vocals) hip-hip, and I'd say bordering rather on trip-hop (which I love). The drums, as the only "real" instrument, hold it all together. Enjoyed the sound of this, tastefully sampled and expertly mixed, and I understand DJ Shadow was quite ground-breaking. Can't give it a 5 because without other people's music, this album would be nothing but an hour-long, boring drum solo. Of course all artists "steal" but not to this extent. But it's a 4 because it sounds great and is well made and is (was) novel.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
I thought I loved the Jesus and Marty Chain (or "Jesus and the Mary Chain" to the agony of a friend) more than I do. Sure it ticks the boxes for me... I like New Wave and a bit of dream pop. shoegaze, whatever this is. The sound is great, and filmic. But this does not move me at all, it's mostly really nice background music and too poppy. But they were influential, I was going to give it a 4, but listening to this, at face value, in 2025, it's a 3 for me.
Jane's Addiction
2/5
This album contains some alt rock elements I like, but after a few songs I started to get bored, and by the end of the album I was really dreading it. The bad kind of boring music. Doesn't go anywhere, monotonous and lacking dynamics.
M.I.A.
2/5
An eclectic mix of styles: electro-pop, rap, bollywood, disco. I appreciate the effort but I can't stand the result. If martians find the list of 1001 albums after humanity has disappeared, and check this album out as one of the 'must listens' they will certainly scratch their little green heads and blink their transparent eyelids in disbelief.
Radiohead
4/5
I love Radiohead and this album, although not my favourite by them, it still top notch. It's the soundscapes, the creativity in the details, or sometimes the melody. I get why it may not "click" with some people but it definitely does with me.
Devendra Banhart
3/5
Quirky folk and I can't really decide what I think of it. I... think... I like it. I'll need to give this a 3 but it may deserve a 4.
Anthrax
3/5
I can enjoy a bit of trash metal (early Metallica, Slayer etc.). This album has the right overall sound and feel, but it's too monotonous. The songs aren't just that addictive and the production is also a bit flat. Like some Metallica albums - the drums are too tinny (they kick way harder on Dire Straits albums!) and the bass too modest, all to favour the guitars and vocals. I'm not sure about the vocals, they sound a tad well-behaved for the genre, to me. Not bad, just a bit average.
Common
2/5
The makers of this list certainly love their hip-hop, it seems like it's half of the albums I am getting these days. This one starts really well with a great double bass groove (it's nicked, erm, sampled though). The second song is alright. Is this going to be a 4* hip-hop album? Unfortunately, it then goes downhill for me - GO! being too smooth "soul" like and there's more like that. Didn't enjoy apart from that bass groove so I'm going to listen to some 1970's jazz now, which has all that jazzy goodness but none of the annoying "yeah" talking over it.
The The
3/5
It was better in my memory - not all 80s pop has aged well. Good voice though. Not bad, but rather forgettable.
The Shamen
1/5
Maybe this was good back in the day, to rave to, on pills. It's definitely not an album I will sit down, listen to, and enjoy. Not great songs and they sound very dated. Quite annoying, didn't make the whole album. I wanted to give it a 2 but can't really come up with a reason.
The Only Ones
3/5
I rather liked this. Quite simple (in a good way) punky rock with a nice energy. Not spectacular but I can enjoy this. Would have been nice live.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
5/5
Hurrah! Neil Young! For a moment, I stupidly thought I'd give it a 4 because it's maybe not my favourite a Neil Young album, but then Cowgirl in the Sand started and I just can't not give this a 5. I especially like the guitars on this album, but song-writing is great as ever and there's just something about his voice that I love.
Megadeth
3/5
Album covers with zombies and "heavy" fonts (see also: Iron Maiden etc.) always look pubertal and a bit off-putting to me. However, musically, this is fine, but not so fine that I'll pick this over Metallica or Slayer. Good musicianship though, not sure about the vocals, some nice grooves. Just doesn't stand out for me. Glad I discovered it though. Yet another 3.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
2/5
This is (too) many things, but sensational isn't one of them. Sounds like a random collection of songs going nowhere, usually rock and roll-esque but not the good kind (imagine Gang Bang with Jagger's voice and it could have been a mediocre Stones song). Struggled to finish it.
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
Yet another hip-hop album but I quite like this one, it has a recognisable sound, vocals are good, samples tasteful... it just doesn't move me much at all. A bit meh. But nothing wrong with it.
Throwing Muses
3/5
I like the energy which borrows from punk and grunge, I like Kristin Hersch's vocals. Not novel in 2003 I'd think.
Jeru The Damaja
2/5
Oh my, is this list "1001 hip-hop albums you must hear before you die"? I like the general sound of this album but there's better (NAS etc.)
Peter Frampton
2/5
Not my thing - generic, well-behaved, vanilla rock. Not a fan of the squeeky voice. Very forgettable.
Tracy Chapman
5/5
What a debut album! Doesn't get much better in terms of singer-songwriters. Beautiful melodic songs, good lyrics, and a very characterful, voice. No bad songs, all are very decent or stunners. Not my favourite album of all times, maybe I've heard it too often, but still a 5.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
I have always loved Dusty Springfield, or at least I thought so. I was rather disappointed by this album. It doesn't sound very novel for 1964, and Dusty just sings (all respect to singers) other people's compositions. And I don't like the songs very much, at least most of them (there are good ones, You Don't Own Me; Wishing and Hoping). I still like her voice though, and it all sounds filmic. I just like her later songs better. This is only, an being generous, a 3.
Coldplay
4/5
I bought this album when it came out, and before it became fashionable to hate Coldplay. Actually, most people didn't know the band.
I still think this is album full of almost perfect pop songs, and better than their later stuff. I rarely deliberately listen to Coldplay now, fatigue has kicked in a bit, but this is an absolutely fine album that has aged well.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
4/5
Beautiful harmonies and a nice, instantly recognisable 1970's vibe. A bit reminiscent of Simon and Garfunkel, just a it weaker in the song-writing department, but with a bit more oomph (which is not that hard). I quite enjoy this but it doesn't move me, it's more background music for me. I'll give it a generous 4.
D'Angelo
2/5
There is really nothing I like about this album. Very same'ish songs, and none that does even OK in any musical aspects, be it rhythm, harmony, melody, or lyrics. What is left is a general "sound" which happens to be not for me even if I am very eclectic. I truly did not enjoy this album, and what's worse, it sounds like D'Angelo wasn't either. I'll give it a 2 because there is definitely skill involved.
Green Day
3/5
I thought I wasn't going to like this (yet another boring American poppy nu-metal band?) but it initially pleased me actually. By the end of the album my initial thoughts were confirmed though. Some fine songs/ earworms but all in all very plain and nothing I will deliberately listen to. It's just not very interesting.
The Coral
3/5
A bunch of pop songs with varying influences, not badly made but I'm left wondering 'why'? Does not feel like an album. Dreaming of You is radio-friendly and some other songs are fine but none wows me in the least. A generous 3.
Arcade Fire
4/5
After a few listens, this turned out better than I expected. Nice, atmospheric indie. Nothing too spectacular, but a very nice listen.
David Holmes
3/5
I read all these negative comments about this album, and dance/DJ is really not my thing, so I started with low expectations. It's not quite so bad! I liked the overall sound of the album (for the genre). He often gets (well uses a sample of) a nice groove but just sticks too long with it, and many songs get a bit monotonous after 2' or so. They sound cinematic, which I like, and I'm not surprised he has made lots of soundtracks. The NY street recordings, don't know, as a British DJ I would have found it more interesting if he stuck to his home turf. A generous 3.
Stephen Stills
3/5
Nothing really wrong with it but it just doesn't stand out. Typical 1970's folk/rock songs with good harmonies and musicianship. I like the rockier songs much better than the tearjerkers. Still, not elevated to a high level, as Neil Young managed (-s).
Bob Marley & The Wailers
5/5
Tight as anything, I love it, love it.
The Roots
2/5
A mixed bag for me, this varied hip-hop album. Don't like the more R&B songs, but the groovier/rockier songs are better. Still nothing I'd choose to listen to. A maybe slightly harsh 2.
Paul Revere & The Raiders
3/5
Beatles-like 1960's rock. Does the job but nothing stands out.
The Isley Brothers
3/5
A mixed bag. There is definitely good musicianship here, but I like the groovier, funkier tunes much better than the slower more 'soft rock' ones.
Pearl Jam
5/5
A classic grunge album, and for good reason! My favourite track is probably Black, but they are all good really. Has aged really well, too.
Adele
3/5
I get why so many people love this. You could argue it's pop perfection... Adele can definitely sing and has a recognisable voice (which some hate but better that than a bland voice). The album is beautifully produced too. And yet... it's all too cheesy and cliché, for me to score high on this list there needs to be novelty not just popularity, or plain musical genius. There is neither of that here. This is nothing I would choose to listen to but I'll probably have to, as long as radios and celebrity dance programmes exist. This is probably the best sounding 3 I've given.
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
This album, of course, has a whole lot of very good songs (and some average ones) and needs to be on the list. While I appreciate its quality, I just... don't like it than much... hard to say why. Fatigue? The award for world's most boring bass line on an otherwise fine song (Dreams)? The hype? Is it just too poppy for me?
Boards of Canada
1/5
I don't like beige wallpaper.
I was going to give it a 2 because it's not offensively bad (i.e. it is an OK soundscape). But then, give me a poor album that at least triggers an emotion, rather than something that does exactly nothing to me. No idea why this is on the list, could just as well have been AI generated elevator music.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
I really like this album. Some songs are a bit too much smooooth soul for me but overall it's great.
Q-Tip
3/5
This hip-hop album (the authors of the list really have a penchant for hip-hop, haven't they) is one of the more enjoyable ones in the genre, for me. ManWomanBoogie is my favourite and has an addictive bass groove - not surprising because it is Can's (fabulous band). I always struggle deciding how much credit I need to give the hip-hop artist for good tunes that really rely on other people's work. Yes, I get the idea of hip-hop, but really - what would Q-Tip (or US3 etc.) be without samples? Of course, it's also a skill to sample tastefully and do something creative with it. Yet, I can't rate this as highly as truly original work. Also, I don't like it very much even if it was all original. A generous 3.
The Style Council
2/5
Paul Weller must have been soul searching and decided to make an album with any genre you could possible imagine on it. Unfortunately he's not paricularly good at any, and this very definitely does not work as an album. What on earth is this? A real pity because Paul Weller has also made good music in his life. One star extra because there is skill involved and I believe he wrote his own songs. Will very definitely not listen to this again and I also doubt this belongs on the list.
Beastie Boys
5/5
I have maybe given hip-hop the benefit of doubt too often, but this album really is a 5! It has the energy I also find in Rage Against the Machine, Urban Dance Squad etc. I suppose, more rocky and funky than many and less reliant on just samples.
The Go-Betweens
2/5
Very inoffensive pop - sounds fine but it's just soooo forgettable. And... how dare they compare this to The Smiths!
Neu!
4/5
Kraut Rock has been a bit a discovery for me - this is a nice album but nothing like Can. I do like how it starts more electronic/ ambient like and then becomes rockier with some punky touches. I like the sound but it doesn't really move me. Could have been a 4 on a good day.
Butthole Surfers
4/5
My kind of noisy rock! Reminiscent of Pixies, Sonic Youth, Captain Beefheart and much more. Quirky, absurd and catchy. Likes the sheer attraction of the above but still my cuppa tea.
Michael Jackson
3/5
This album is so entrenched in the minds of anyone who was around in the late eighties that it is tough to assess it. I never loved Michael Jackson, too slick, too poppy, too many mannerisms, too much of 80's synth (which has not aged well). I love the Motown sound Off The Wall more, and the Jackson Five even more. Yet, it can't be denied that this album is full of pop perfection and showcases good musicianship. Does it belong in the list? Yes 5/5. Will I listen to this by choice? Mostly no, except for one or two songs (Dirty Diana, maybe Man in the Mirror if it didn't have the cringy singing mannerisms, maybe Smooth Criminal). Let me be guilty of a harsh 3.
Gene Clark
2/5
Yaaaawn. It's not BAD, but I see no reason to listen to this when a much better version of this type of music exists in the form of the likes of Bob Dylan, Neil Young etc.
Nico
4/5
Nico's voice is very recognisable and probably divisive - I love it. Beautiful melodies, spare but effective instrumentation, great psychedelic songs (admittedly mostly written not by herself but by the likes of Jackson Browne). The production is a bit annoying with e.g. all guitar left and all vocal right sometimes but they like to have "as much stereo as possible" in the 60's I suppose. Not a 5 because what would I then give the The Velvet Underground & Nico?
Radiohead
5/5
This is simply one of the most stunning albums ever made. It's all a bit understated and contained, but on a careful listen it's so layered, with every instrument and the vocals modestly but effectively contributing to beautiful, cinematographic soundscapes. Fabulous music, a very definite 5 for me.
The Prodigy
3/5
I must admit there are some cracking, punchy songs on this. It's not my thing but it's well made. Let's not mention some of the lyrics. Probably a 5 on drug infused parties, sitting at home in my sofa it's a 2 for me, with an extra star for punchiness and influence.
4/5
I know I should be giving this a 5, David Bowie and all that. I love David Bowie but he is not consistently great, for me it varies between really good (maybe not genius) and rather average. Same with this album. I do love that this is a concept album and one of the most influential ones, and some songs are stunners (my favourite probably being Suffragette City). Absolutely needs to be on the list.
Deep Purple
4/5
Good early bluesy hard rock. I struggle a bit to say much more about this, and that's probably why it's a 4 and not a 5.
Fela Kuti
5/5
Amazing, punchy, funky, African jazz. I love it.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
There's some stuff from BC I really like, most his more intimate stuff. Nebraska is my favourite album. The Rising is very poor to BC standards, for me, and I have no idea why they picked this for the list. There's still good song-writing but oh my, that E-Street sauce makes all songs sound the same (and not very good), they have one recipe for every song and why does every single sax solo on every single BC album sound the same? Need to hear Springsteen before you die? Sure - but not this album. I'll round up to a 3.
k.d. lang
2/5
Do you know the feeling when you're driving a car with a tiny petrol engine up a hill and go "come one, a little bit faster, come on, you can do it!" That's the feeling I have listening to this album. I don't mind slow music (some of the minimalist classical I love is way slower than this) but this album just feels out-of-place slow, almost on purpose to annoy me. KD Lang has an excellent excellent voice but I really dislike how she constantly slides into notes. The songs are quite "meh" too. Sorry KD, I think you're a lovely person, but this is not a "1001 people you need to have a pint with before you die" list.
Public Enemy
3/5
Another hip-hop album I can really appreciate. Kudos for The lyrics are quite alright (of well at least it's not full of the cliché pussies and bitches). Musically, a bit of a one-trick pony. I think this was quite an important band and album back in the day,
Ray Charles
2/5
I know I should love this, "Ray Charles" and all that, but honestly... I can't stand the over-the-top horn and violin arrangements - this hasn't aged well for me. Sure, Ray Charles is a great singer but this is covers album, I don't rate him as an artist. Covers albums never score very high for me, and I'm not very much of a Big Band guy in the first place. But yeah, he's a good singer and some of the songs are alright.
Björk
5/5
I never was a Björk fan but this list has made me realise how good she actually is. This album is very creative and interesting... it almost crosses over with some vocal/sound oriented contemporary classical music (e.g. Caroline Shaw) which I love. Her unique voice really shines on this layered, atmospheric album. However much I dread "It's oh so quiet", this album is a star. You know what, I'll give it a 5!
Suzanne Vega
4/5
Maybe it's a 3 but I'll give it a 4 just because. I love Susanne Vega. Her pure voice, simple arrangements and excellent song-writing.
Portishead
5/5
OK - this is the soundtrack on my university years. I loved it back then and I love it just as much now, this has not lost any appeal to me. The soundscapes are amazing, the music is calm and atmospheric but has this tension too. This is some of the best trip-hop.
Morrissey
3/5
Very recognisable Morrissey but not his very best - and definitely not as good as anything The Smiths (which would all get an easy 5 from me). So a big fat 3 but not quite a 4. The songs are good, there just aren't any standout, spectacular one on this album. But in the right mood I can enjoy this.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Yeah! I always hope my round numbers (this is #400 for me) are good albums, so I was chuffed to get a Jimi Hendrix one. Jimi Hendrix is one of my heroes. However I must say this is not my favourite album. Oh wait! It has Voodoo Chile (slight return) and All Along the Watchtower - a cover, yes but what an excellent one. OK, still a five then :-).
U2
3/5
I love early U2 (up to The Joshua Tree) but I also love how they have reinvented them to be more poppy and electronic, whilst keeping that U2 stamp thanks to Bono's voice and The Edge's characteristic guitar sound. For some reason, it seems like U2 have become un-cool, but I think at face value their music is rather good. Not the U2 I fell in love with (that weas the "Sunday Bloody Sunday" era) but quite good in its own right.
Miles Davis
5/5
Not as accessible as some of my favourite Davis albums (the obvious Kind of Blue, Ascenseur pour l'Echaffaud) but so much worth a careful listen. This seems to be a divisive album, and I get why, but to me this absolutely must be on the list and it's a feat for the ears but only on the right day for it! The rhythm is great as is the musicianship and listening to this is like going on a discovery adventure. And it's almost "easy listening" compared to Trout Mask Replica :-).
Teenage Fanclub
3/5
Pop with hints of grunge as well as the Beatles. Some radio-friendly tunes but all in all, very forgettable. A generous 3.
Roxy Music
4/5
I love Roxy Music and this is a great album with a punchy sound. There are a few songs I'd skip though (e.g. the old fashioned R&R song If it Takes all Night).
Frank Zappa
5/5
I never invested too much in Zappa for no reason at all - he was always on my "must explore" list. Glad the 1001 list is forcing me to listen to his albums and this is my favourite one so far. What a stunner! Solid basis by a great rhythm section with of course amazing guitar (and sax) "solos" (can a solo entail an entire song?) Great jazzy psychedelic rock, I love it, a big fat five.
Kate Bush
4/5
I love Kate Bush but this isn't my favourite album. Her voice just gets a little bit too much to me sometimes. It's musically very good though - better than a 3. It'd an album I'll listen to again, carefully, when I am in the mood for it.
Steve Winwood
2/5
This album really annoys me. Not because it's poorly made, and some songs are radio friendly (or were, 40 years ago), but because it is soooo.... damn... vanilla. It's the epitome of1980's pop music that hasn't aged well. This synths, the vocals, it's all very faint and pathologically inoffensive. I get that some people enjoy this, but from an artistic and influence point of view I think this definitely does not belong on the "must hear" list.
Kings of Leon
2/5
I thought I'd like this more. In fact I don't like it at all. Very cliché musically; run-off-the mill American rock. I think they have a few radio-friendly OK songs but this particular album bored me to death.
4/5
I quite like this combination of Brazilian soundscapes and rhythms with electronics and even the odd funky guitar riff. Nice vocals too. Very cinematic. I'll round up to a 4 as it was a very pleasant discovery for me.
The Icarus Line
2/5
This album should be up my street as it has a lot of elements I like (rock, punk, experimental) but for some reason it manages to be rather bad, regardless. Songs are rather random, it lacks the energy I want in this king of album. They seem to try hard, but fail... Some OK sections but all in all just noise for the sake of it.
Sinead O'Connor
5/5
This is an amazing album by an amazing artist... The Lion and the Cobra set the scene with a more edgy feel, this is more polished but I like both albums. This one has Nothing Compares to You - a stunning song combining two geniuses but I feel Sinead's own compositions can be just as good as Prince's (different though). This is fabulous music but Sinead was also a revelation and thus her early albums totally must be on this list. She is missed.
Underworld
4/5
One big and pleasant surprise! I was expecting this to be dull Dance/ DJ, one of my least favourite genres. But the music is very atmospheric, ambient-like and I rather liked this album's spun-out songs. It doesn't move me enough to give it a five, but it's a decent four for me.
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
I only knew all their hits but never listened to an entire album. And I probably won't do again. Surely there are some radio-friendly pop hits but as an album I was quite disappointed, and I feel the overall sound hasn't aged very well. Songs are a bit samey (and not great).
The 13th Floor Elevators
5/5
One of the discoveries from the list! Amazing psychedelic (a term they have apparently coined) rock. Not a bad song on the album. This will go on my to-buy list for sure. This still sounds fabulous and I can only imagine how this must have sounded in 1966.