597
Albums Rated
3.29
Average Rating
55%
Complete
492 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1960
Favorite Decade
Metal
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
69
5-Star Albums
22
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
A Grand Don't Come For Free
The Streets
|
5 | 2.65 | +2.35 |
|
KE*A*H** (Psalm 69)
Ministry
|
5 | 2.69 | +2.31 |
|
Arise
Sepultura
|
5 | 2.73 | +2.27 |
|
Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
|
5 | 2.87 | +2.13 |
|
Apocalypse Dudes
Turbonegro
|
5 | 2.89 | +2.11 |
|
Supa Dupa Fly
Missy Elliott
|
5 | 2.92 | +2.08 |
|
Fishscale
Ghostface Killah
|
5 | 3.05 | +1.95 |
|
Get Rich Or Die Tryin'
50 Cent
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
|
Bandwagonesque
Teenage Fanclub
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
|
Crazysexycool
TLC
|
5 | 3.07 | +1.93 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Kid A
Radiohead
|
1 | 3.71 | -2.71 |
|
Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
|
1 | 3.7 | -2.7 |
|
Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Wilco
|
1 | 3.3 | -2.3 |
|
Shaft
Isaac Hayes
|
1 | 3.25 | -2.25 |
|
Rain Dogs
Tom Waits
|
1 | 3.19 | -2.19 |
|
Treasure
Cocteau Twins
|
1 | 3.09 | -2.09 |
|
Kimono My House
Sparks
|
1 | 3.06 | -2.06 |
|
Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
|
1 | 2.97 | -1.97 |
|
London Calling
The Clash
|
2 | 3.97 | -1.97 |
|
Millions Now Living Will Never Die
Tortoise
|
1 | 2.89 | -1.89 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 6 | 4.67 |
| Led Zeppelin | 3 | 5 |
| Nirvana | 3 | 5 |
| The Doors | 3 | 4.67 |
| The Smashing Pumpkins | 2 | 5 |
| Metallica | 2 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 4 | 4.25 |
| Bob Dylan | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Tom Waits | 3 | 1.67 |
| Elvis Presley | 3 | 2 |
| Björk | 3 | 2 |
| Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds | 4 | 2.25 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Beastie Boys | 2, 5 |
| Isaac Hayes | 1, 4 |
| Neil Young | 2, 5, 4 |
| Radiohead | 1, 4, 3 |
5-Star Albums (69)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Ray Charles · 2 likes
3/5
Ray Charles is undeniably one of the greats, but The Genius of Ray Charles leans a little too hard into the Big Band sound for my taste. The arrangements feel a bit dated, and while his talent shines through, this earlier work doesn't quite hit the same as his later, more stripped-down stuff. It's got its moments, but overall, it’s not something I’d come back to often. More historical appreciation than personal enjoyment.
Favorite song: Let The Good Times Roll
Prince · 2 likes
3/5
Prince is one of those artists where you can see the talent from a mile away. The guy could write, produce, perform, and probably fix your car while shredding a solo. But no matter how many times I try, his music just doesn’t click with me.
1999 has its moments. The title track is fun, and “Little Red Corvette” still holds up. But as a whole, it feels like something I respect more than actually enjoy
Favorite song: 1999
Least favorite song: Automatic
Tom Waits · 1 likes
1/5
Rain Dogs was straight-up miserable to get through. I know Tom Waits has a cult following and people swear by this album, but honestly? I have no idea why. It sounds like a drunk pirate muttering nonsense over trash can percussion and broken accordions. The whole thing feels like it’s trying way too hard to be weird for the sake of being weird.
There’s no flow, no real melody to hang onto — just a mess of clanking sounds and gravelly rambling that made me feel like I was losing my mind. I kept hoping it would turn a corner or give me something to latch onto, but it never happened. Every track just made me more annoyed that I was still listening.
Les Rythmes Digitales · 1 likes
3/5
This is a solid throwback to late-'90s electro-funk with a heavy dose of retro flair. It's got a slick, polished sound that works well as background music—something you might put on while cleaning, working, or hosting people who don’t want anything too intense.
There are definitely a few standouts. “Music Makes You Lose Control” is catchy and playful, “Sometimes” has a nice groove, and “Damaged People” adds a little emotion to the mix. “Disco II Disco” also has a fun energy that stands out from the rest.
That said, I didn’t find myself wanting to come back to the album or add many of the songs to my regular playlist. It’s good, just not essential.
The Rolling Stones · 1 likes
5/5
Exile on Main St. shows the Rolling Stones at their most ragged, raw, and relentlessly brilliant. It is a sprawling, sweaty dive into American roots music that pulls from rock, blues, gospel, country, and soul, all filtered through the band’s drug-fueled haze in a French villa basement. It should not work, but it absolutely does.
“Tumbling Dice” is the crown jewel, a slinky and swaggering groove wrapped in slurred vocals and gospel backing that feels both effortless and essential. “Rocks Off” blasts the doors open as the chaotic and glorious opener, with Keith and Mick sounding like they are on the edge of collapse and somehow thriving in it.
There is no polish here, only grit, sweat, and soul. It captures the sound of a band laying it all out, imperfections and all. This is not just a great Stones album, it is the kind of record that defines rock and roll itself.
Favorite Song: “Tumbling Dice”
1-Star Albums (22)
All Ratings
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
Franz Ferdinand’s self-titled debut is a sharp, swaggering burst of post-punk revival energy that still sounds remarkably fresh. With taut guitar riffs, infectious hooks, and a danceable edge, the album delivers on its promise to make guitar rock fun again. The band’s art school sensibilities mix smoothly with a raw, rhythmic urgency, giving the whole record a confident and stylish vibe.
"Take Me Out" is the obvious standout, a perfectly structured anthem that shifts gears mid-song and never loses momentum. It is bold, catchy, and brilliantly executed, the kind of track that defines an era. While not every song hits that same high, the album keeps a strong pace throughout, full of clever lyrics and tight arrangements.
It is not flawless, but as debut albums go, this one made a massive statement and backed it up.
Favorite Song: "Take Me Out"
Johnny Cash
3/5
At Folsom Prison is an iconic moment in music history, but as a listening experience, it can feel uneven. Johnny Cash’s raw charisma and outlaw spirit are front and center, and the live setting adds grit and authenticity. There is a unique electricity in the air, the kind you only get when a man sings to a room full of inmates about crime, regret, and redemption.
Not every track holds up musically, and at times the pacing drags. It is more historically significant than consistently compelling. Still, when it hits, it really lands. “Cocaine Blues” steals the show with its speed, swagger, and dark humor. Cash sounds completely in control, delivering it like someone who has lived every word.
A flawed but fascinating listen, and essential if you care about country, rebellion, or the blurred line between performer and prisoner.
Favorite Song: “Cocaine Blues”
ABBA
3/5
Arrival finds ABBA at the height of their melodic powers, crafting polished pop with an almost mechanical precision. The album is filled with shimmering harmonies, lush arrangements, and that unmistakable Swedish pop shine. For all of its craft, though, it can sometimes feel a little too clean: beautiful, but a bit emotionally distant.
“Dancing Queen” is the undeniable crown jewel, a perfect slice of pop euphoria that is both regal and irresistibly fun. It is the track that justifies the album’s legendary status. The rest of the songs are solid but don’t always reach the same heights. A few fade into the background, impressive in production but lighter in emotional pull.
This album shows ABBA’s brilliance while also highlighting their limitations. It is pristine and expertly made, but that polish can come at the cost of connection. Still, when ABBA hits their stride here, they sound untouchable.
Favorite Song: “Dancing Queen”
Herbie Hancock
2/5
Head Hunters is often praised as a landmark in fusion, and I respect what it achieved, but as a listening experience it is uneven. Herbie Hancock mixes funk, jazz, and electronic textures with undeniable technical brilliance, yet at times it feels more like an extended jam than a focused record. The grooves are tight, but they can stretch past the point of enjoyment, turning hypnotic repetition into something that tests patience.
“Chameleon” is the obvious standout, both for its influence and for the way it lays down a groove that has been sampled and referenced endlessly. Still, unless you are deeply into jazz-funk experimentation, the record can feel indulgent. It leans cerebral, prioritizing musicianship and innovation over emotional impact.
As a piece of history, it deserves all the credit it gets, but that does not make it endlessly replayable. I respect what it represents, even if it is not an album I will find myself coming back to often.
Supergrass
3/5
I Should Coco is a youthful, high-energy debut that captures the chaotic charm of mid-90s Britpop with a mischievous, punky streak. Supergrass sound like they are having the time of their lives, and that spirit bleeds into the music. The album barrels forward with speed and attitude, sometimes brilliant, sometimes a bit much, but never boring.
“Alright” is the obvious standout, an anthem of carefree rebellion that somehow balances swagger with just enough self-awareness to keep it from being too sweet. It is the track where everything falls into place and still feels timeless.
The rest of the album is fun in bursts, though uneven. There is plenty of noise, energy, and cheeky charm, but not every song hits the mark with the same staying power. As a debut, it works best as a snapshot of its era, capturing the mid-90s spirit in all its messy enthusiasm.
Favorite Song: Alright
AC/DC
5/5
Back in Black is a thunderous, no-frills rock and roll masterpiece, a defiant return after tragedy and arguably the greatest comeback album ever made. AC/DC doesn’t reinvent the wheel here. Instead, they lock in, tighten every bolt, crank the volume, and unleash a record that has stood the test of time. Every riff feels razor-sharp, every chorus built for stadium-sized singalongs.
The title track, “Have a Drink on Me,” and “You Shook Me All Night Long” are undisputed classics, but “Shoot to Thrill” is the standout. It is pure adrenaline, with Brian Johnson belting at his most electrifying and Angus Young tearing through solos like he has lightning in his veins.
There is not a weak moment on this album. It is lean, it is mean, and it still sounds massive decades later. If rock has a blueprint for perfection, this is it.
Favorite Song: “Shoot to Thrill”
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Exile on Main St. shows the Rolling Stones at their most ragged, raw, and relentlessly brilliant. It is a sprawling, sweaty dive into American roots music that pulls from rock, blues, gospel, country, and soul, all filtered through the band’s drug-fueled haze in a French villa basement. It should not work, but it absolutely does.
“Tumbling Dice” is the crown jewel, a slinky and swaggering groove wrapped in slurred vocals and gospel backing that feels both effortless and essential. “Rocks Off” blasts the doors open as the chaotic and glorious opener, with Keith and Mick sounding like they are on the edge of collapse and somehow thriving in it.
There is no polish here, only grit, sweat, and soul. It captures the sound of a band laying it all out, imperfections and all. This is not just a great Stones album, it is the kind of record that defines rock and roll itself.
Favorite Song: “Tumbling Dice”
Jefferson Airplane
5/5
Surrealistic Pillow stands as a psychedelic landmark, dreamy and defiant, drenched in the swirling spirit of the late 60s. Jefferson Airplane created an album that feels like stepping into another dimension, with Grace Slick’s voice cutting through the haze like a siren. It balances rebellion with reverie, capturing both the chaos and beauty of its era.
“Somebody to Love” is an anthem that still feels urgent and electrifying, while “3/5 of a Mile in 10 Seconds” injects a shot of frantic energy to keep things moving. The masterstroke, though, is “White Rabbit.” Its slow, hypnotic build explodes into one of the most iconic climaxes in rock history, turning Lewis Carroll’s imagery into a velvet-wrapped punch straight to the counterculture. The crescendo is breathtaking and unforgettable.
More than fifty years later, this album still sounds revolutionary. It is messy, beautiful, and alive, exactly what a psychedelic record should be.
Favorite Song: “White Rabbit”
Kanye West
3/5
Yeezus finds Kanye West at his most abrasive, experimental, and confrontational. Instead of the polished sound of his earlier work, he tears everything down and rebuilds with industrial beats, jagged synths, and an almost complete refusal to compromise. The ambition is obvious, and there are moments of brilliance, but the chaos does not always come together into something cohesive or worth replaying often.
“Black Skinhead” stands out as the closest thing to a traditional banger, pounding forward with explosive drums and snarling energy. It is the track that best captures the album’s intensity. “New Slaves” also delivers, pairing stripped-down production with biting social commentary that makes it one of the more powerful cuts here.
In the end, Yeezus feels more like a statement than a record built for repeat listens. Bold, daring, and undeniably influential, but not consistently enjoyable from start to finish.
Favorite Song: “Black Skinhead”
Les Rythmes Digitales
3/5
This is a solid throwback to late-'90s electro-funk with a heavy dose of retro flair. It's got a slick, polished sound that works well as background music—something you might put on while cleaning, working, or hosting people who don’t want anything too intense.
There are definitely a few standouts. “Music Makes You Lose Control” is catchy and playful, “Sometimes” has a nice groove, and “Damaged People” adds a little emotion to the mix. “Disco II Disco” also has a fun energy that stands out from the rest.
That said, I didn’t find myself wanting to come back to the album or add many of the songs to my regular playlist. It’s good, just not essential.
Foo Fighters
5/5
Foo Fighters’ debut album is raw, relentless, and brimming with the kind of energy only a fresh start can bring. Recorded almost entirely by Dave Grohl himself in the aftermath of Nirvana, it’s a project that feels both cathartic and full of purpose. There’s a looseness to it — unpolished but deeply focused — that gives it a unique charm in the band’s discography.
Tracks like “This Is a Call,” “Big Me,” and “Alone + Easy Target” showcase Grohl’s knack for melody buried under layers of distortion, but “I’ll Stick Around” is the standout — aggressive, hooky, and pulsing with just enough venom to feel personal. It’s the sound of someone reclaiming their voice and turning the volume way up.
As far as debut albums go, this one doesn't just promise a new chapter — it slams the door on the past and kicks open a new one with confidence.
Favorite song: "Big Me"
Killing Joke
4/5
Killing Joke’s self-titled debut is a jagged, aggressive blast of post-punk menace that helped lay the groundwork for industrial, metal, and countless bands that followed. It’s raw, dark, and brimming with urgency — a perfect mix of punk fury and mechanical precision.
Tracks like “The Wait” and “SO36” hit hard with relentless rhythm and snarling vocals, while “Bloodsport” and “Primitive” showcase the band’s knack for combining chaos with groove. There’s a primal energy here that still feels fresh, and the fact that Metallica covered “The Wait” nearly two decades later? That’s not just a nod — it’s a badge of honor.
It’s not the most polished album, but that’s part of the charm. It’s gritty, relentless, and fearless — a powerful debut that deserves its place in the post-punk hall of fame.
5/5
Sgt. Pepper’s isn’t just a landmark album — it’s a world unto itself. The Beatles fully embraced the studio as an instrument, crafting an immersive, kaleidoscopic journey that redefined what pop music could be. Every song offers something distinct, yet the album flows with a strange, theatrical cohesion that feels both whimsical and profound.
While tracks like “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” “A Day in the Life,” and the title track often get the spotlight, “Within You Without You” is the quiet revelation — a meditative, mystical piece that transports the listener beyond the psychedelic circus into something deeper. It’s George Harrison at his most spiritual and daring, and it gives the album a philosophical depth that balances the playful experimentation elsewhere.
From start to finish, Sgt. Pepper is rich, strange, and timeless — the kind of album that rewards both casual listening and deep dives. Favorite Beatles album, or just one of many in the rotation?
Favorite song: "Within You, Without You"
Suede
4/5
This one caught me off guard. I had no clue what to expect going in. Never heard of the band, and the album cover felt like a random pick from a thrift store bin. But the opening track, “So Young,” hit hard right out of the gate. The guitar riff during the chorus is slick and oddly familiar. It grabbed my attention immediately.
“Moving” was another solid track, and the whole album has a confident mix of glam rock flair and early Britpop edge. Brett Anderson’s voice is theatrical in a good way, and the band knows how to build up a song without dragging it out.
It’s not one I would’ve stumbled across on my own, but I’m glad I heard it. Solid stuff all around.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Led Zeppelin II is a loud, confident, and endlessly fun rock album that hits hard from the first note. “Whole Lotta Love” kicks things off with one of the most iconic riffs in rock history — a perfect opener that sets the tone for what’s to come. The band wastes no time showing off their power, with heavy guitars, wild solos, and Robert Plant’s soaring vocals.
Side two starts strong with “Heartbreaker,” a track that blends swagger with skill, and that sudden solo break never gets old. “Living Loving Maid” follows with a fast, catchy groove — short by Led Zeppelin standards, but packed with energy and attitude. Then there’s “Ramble On,” mixing soft verses with thunderous choruses, showing the band’s range and love for storytelling.
Every song adds something special, and the whole album feels tight, bold, and full of life. *Led Zeppelin II* isn’t just great — it’s essential rock and roll.
Favorite song: "Whole Lotta Love"
FKA twigs
1/5
This is the musical equivalent of style over substance — all aesthetic, no soul. It tries desperately to be avant-garde, but ends up sounding like a pretentious mess of whispery vocals, awkward rhythms, and production that’s more interested in being “weird” than listenable. It’s as if someone took the concept of emotional depth, filtered it through a fog machine, and forgot to include an actual song.
Tracks bleed into one another with little distinction, and while the album clearly wants to be groundbreaking, it often feels hollow and self-indulgent — like a fashion show with no models, just flashing lights and ambient noise. LP1 doesn’t invite you in; it keeps you at arm’s length and dares you to care.
In the end, it’s less of a musical experience and more of an endurance test. If this is the future of R&B, it might be time to hit rewind.
Pulp
2/5
This album is just a slog. Pulp trades in the catchy wit of their earlier work for something that feels heavy, self-important, and honestly kind of depressing. Most of the tracks drag on far too long, and the whole record feels weighed down by its own sense of misery.
The big dramatic moments fall flat, and nothing here sticks in your head the way a good pop album should. It comes across as trying way too hard to be dark and edgy, but just ends up feeling tired. I was bored well before it was over.
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
Tribe really knows how to blend clever lyrics with smooth, head-nodding beats. Their writing always has that tongue-in-cheek edge to it, and the production here is clean, jazzy, and laid-back without ever feeling boring.
I didn’t like this one quite as much as their debut, but it’s still a solid listen. Songs flow well, the vibe is tight, and the whole thing feels polished without losing its soul.
The Everly Brothers
3/5
They’ve definitely got the harmony thing down. That sibling blend is tough to beat, and it’s on full display here. “Love Hurts” still holds up, and considering how many artists have taken a swing at it over the years, that says a lot. “Cathy’s Clown” is another highlight—catchy and classic.
The rest of the album kind of blurs together, though. It’s pleasant, easy to listen to, but nothing really grabs you beyond the hits. Feels more like a time capsule than something I’d put on regularly. Still, you gotta respect what they brought to the table.
Mott The Hoople
4/5
This album is a blast from start to finish. Mott the Hoople hits that sweet spot between glam rock and classic rock, and they do it with swagger. The songs are big, catchy, and packed with attitude.
Tracks like “All the Way from Memphis” and “Honaloochie Boogie” are pure fun, and even the slower moments work. There’s a sense of style and confidence here that makes the whole album feel alive. If you’re into rock with a little flair and a lot of hooks, this one is worth spinning.
Tricky
4/5
This album caught me off guard in the best way. The mix of trip-hop, soul, and dub creates a sound that’s dark and hypnotic but still catchy. Tricky’s production is creative without feeling overdone, and Martina Topley-Bird’s vocals add just the right touch of smoothness and edge.
There’s a lot of atmosphere here, but the beats and melodies keep it grounded. Every track has its own mood, yet the whole album feels connected. It’s unique without trying too hard, and it still holds up after all these years. Definitely worth a listen if you want something a little different.
John Lennon
5/5
Imagine is John Lennon at his sharpest — tender, bitter, playful, and unapologetically honest. While the title track often gets all the attention, the real magic of the album lies in its depth and contrast. Lennon swings from vulnerable ballads to scathing takedowns with ease, crafting a record that feels deeply personal yet universally resonant.
“Crippled Inside” stands out as the highlight — a wry, rollicking tune that pairs biting lyrics with a bouncy, almost country-folk arrangement. George Harrison’s slide guitar and dobro work throughout the album is nothing short of masterful, adding texture and emotional weight in all the right places. Tracks like “Jealous Guy,” “Gimme Some Truth,” and “How Do You Sleep?” showcase Lennon’s full range — from self-reflection to pointed rage — while “I Don’t Wanna Be a Soldier” drowns you in its hypnotic, anti-war groove.
Imagine*isn’t just a peaceful plea — it’s an artist laying himself bare, flaws and all. And it still sounds just as vital today.
Favorite song: "Crippled Inside"
Sex Pistols
3/5
Never Mind the Bollocks definitely has its moments. “God Save the Queen,” “Anarchy in the UK,” and “Problems” still sound pretty awesome—loud, messy, and full of attitude. I remember getting into early punk back in high school and putting “Anarchy” on one of the CD-Rs I burned. It felt rebellious at the time, like I was in on something wild.
That said, the rest of the album doesn’t do a whole lot for me now. It’s more of a cool piece of music history than something I go back to.
Maybe it’s Bono. Maybe it’s me. Probably both. But U2 just doesn’t land for me, and this album didn’t change that. I went in hoping for at least one song to stand out, but nope—nothing stuck.
It’s not even offensively bad, just painfully bland. The whole thing felt like background music for a car commercial. I get that people love them, but I must be missing that gene.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
This album is a haunting, graceful farewell from Leonard Cohen — a man fully aware he’s near the end, yet still crafting poetry with clarity and weight. His voice, deep and gravelly like a whisper from the grave, gives the album a solemn power that’s impossible to ignore. Every word feels measured, every pause intentional.
The title track, “You Want It Darker,” is the undeniable centerpiece — eerie, hypnotic, and laced with resignation and defiance. The arrangements throughout are sparse but rich, allowing Cohen’s voice and lyrics to stand at the forefront like an aging prophet speaking from the edge.
It’s not an easy album, but it’s a beautiful one — full of reflection, acceptance, and that signature Cohen wit and wisdom. As parting gifts go, it’s hard to imagine a more fitting one. Did this album get you to revisit his earlier work, or was it your introduction to Cohen?
The White Stripes
2/5
This album is all over the place, and not in a good way. Most of the songs feel half-baked or just weird for the sake of being weird. There’s barely any of the raw energy that made The White Stripes interesting in the first place.
Jack White tries to experiment, but most of it falls flat. The songwriting is forgettable and the whole thing drags on without any real payoff. I kept hoping for a standout track, but nothing stuck. For me, this was a sloppy, directionless mess that’s easy to forget.
Calexico
3/5
Public Enemy
3/5
The Strokes
3/5
The Go-Go's
3/5
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
3/5
The Mamas & The Papas
5/5
If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears is a near-perfect snapshot of 1960s sunshine pop at its peak — warm, melodic, and packed with lush harmonies that still hold up decades later. The Mamas & The Papas blend folk, pop, and soul with ease, delivering an album that feels effortless but is full of rich vocal interplay and polished production.
“California Dreamin’” is the undeniable standout — a timeless anthem of longing and disillusionment, wrapped in a perfect arrangement that captures both the warmth of the West Coast and the chill of winter. It’s one of those rare songs that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Tracks like “Monday, Monday” and “I Call Your Name” show the group’s range, while their soulful cover of “Spanish Harlem” adds texture and depth to the tracklist. Every song is delivered with confidence and charm, making this not just a great debut, but one of the defining albums of its era.
Golden harmonies, sharp songwriting, and undeniable vibe — this one’s the real deal.
Favorite song: "California Dreamin."
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
The United States Of America
3/5
King Crimson
3/5
Black Sabbath
3/5
Black Sabbath’s debut is a cool listen if you’re into the roots of metal, but it’s definitely a bit rough around the edges. The title track has that spooky intro everyone talks about, but it drags for me and has never really been a favorite.
That said, “N.I.B.” and “The Wizard” still hold up—both have a great groove and show off what the band was about to become. You can tell they were onto something, even if the full album doesn’t totally land for me.
Favorite song: NIB
Pixies
3/5
Queens Of The Stone Age
4/5
This album delivers a solid post-grunge Seattle sound that just works. The riffs are punchy, the grooves are tight, and there’s a gritty energy running through every track. It has that raw, no-frills rock vibe, but with enough hooks to keep things interesting.
You can hear the influence of the Seattle scene, but Queens of the Stone Age puts their own stamp on it. The songs are straightforward but catchy, and the album never really loses momentum. If you’re into hard-hitting, unapologetic rock, this is an easy recommendation.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
One of the best parts of working through this list is stumbling across albums I never would've picked on my own. Curtis Mayfield was a name I knew, but I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. I’ve never been big into funk, but this album hits different.
The grooves are smooth, the production is tight, and the lyrics actually say something. Curtis doesn't sugarcoat a thing—he gets straight to the heart of social issues, and a lot of what he’s singing about still hits hard today. He balances heavy themes with laid-back vibes in a way that makes it stick. Definitely one of the better surprises so far.
The Black Keys
3/5
Ali Farka Touré
3/5
Harry Nilsson
4/5
Harry Nilsson really knew how to make a weird little masterpiece. Gotta Get Up kicks things off with such infectious energy you can't help but get pulled in. It's upbeat, it's got bounce, and it sets the tone perfectly. Then there's Coconut, the kind of oddball track you think is a joke the first time you hear it, until it's stuck in your head for three days straight. Everyone knows it, even if they don't know where they know it from.
The whole album is packed with charm and a sense of playfulness that makes it stand out. It isn't trying to be cool or profound. It's just good, clever songwriting with real personality. Nilsson was doing his own thing, and this album is a solid reminder of how much fun music can be when it leans into the weird instead of running from it.
Pink Floyd
4/5
Wish You Were Here is one of Pink Floyd’s most emotionally resonant albums — a reflective, atmospheric tribute to absence, loss, and the pitfalls of the music industry. It trades some of the grand concept sprawl of The Dark Side of the Moon for a tighter, more personal focus, and it pays off beautifully.
“Wish You Were Here” is a standout — haunting in its simplicity, heartfelt without being sentimental. It’s one of the most enduring acoustic tracks in rock history, full of quiet yearning. “Have a Cigar,” on the other hand, brings swagger and satire, poking holes in the industry machine with biting lyrics and a funky, driving groove.
While “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” bookends the album with grand ambition, it occasionally drifts a little too far into the ether. Still, when Wish You Were Here is locked in, it’s stunning — thoughtful, mournful, and musically rich.
A near-masterpiece with a soul.
Buena Vista Social Club
3/5
Nirvana
5/5
Unplugged is not just one of the greatest live albums ever recorded — it’s a raw, intimate portrait of a band stripped down to its emotional core. Recorded just months before Kurt Cobain’s death, the performance carries an eerie, fragile weight that only deepened with time. Unlike other Unplugged sessions, Nirvana didn’t lean on their biggest hits or crowd-pleasers — instead, they curated a somber, haunting setlist that felt more like a wake than a concert.
Tracks like “Something in the Way,” “Dumb,” “Polly,” and “On a Plain” take on a new vulnerability in the acoustic setting, each note soaked in quiet desperation and quiet strength. Their cover of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” is unforgettable — reverent yet completely reimagined, with Cobain’s voice hovering between detachment and revelation.
But the true apex is the closing track, Lead Belly’s “Where Did You Sleep Last Night.” Cobain’s final, guttural scream is less a performance and more a primal exorcism — chilling, cathartic, and final. It’s the perfect, devastating end to a performance that feels more like a confessional than a concert.
Unpolished, unguarded, and unforgettable — Unplugged isn’t just a career highlight. It’s a requiem.
Pearl Jam
5/5
Ten is a towering debut — raw, passionate, and bursting with emotional weight. Born from the ashes of Mother Love Bone and the tragic death of Andy Wood, Pearl Jam emerged with something to prove and everything to feel. Stone Gossard’s songwriting forms the backbone of the album, anchoring it with powerful riffs and deeply personal themes, while Eddie Vedder’s voice — wounded, searching, and full of conviction — gives it soul.
Standout tracks like “Once,” “Alive,” and “Jeremy” showcase the band’s ability to balance fury with melody, tackling trauma, identity, and alienation without ever slipping into pretense. But “Black” is the true heart of the album — a devastating, beautiful slow burn that builds to one of the most emotionally resonant moments in all of rock. When Vedder delivers the line, “I know you'll be the sun in someone else's sky, but why can't it be mine?” it’s not just heartbreaking — it’s unforgettable.
Ten is more than just a great grunge record; it’s a statement of survival, grief, and defiance. It’s the sound of a band coming together in the shadow of loss and turning pain into something transcendent. Still hits just as hard today.
Favorite song: Black
Brian Eno
3/5
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
Siamese Dream is a sprawling, explosive masterpiece that defined alt-rock in the ’90s. The Smashing Pumpkins mix fuzz-drenched guitars, soaring melodies, and emotional intensity into something both massive and deeply personal. It’s ambitious without being bloated — every track hits with purpose.
“Cherub Rock” is a thunderous opener, full of tension and release. “Today” brings melody and melancholy together in perfect balance, while “Geek USA” is pure controlled chaos — fast, wild, and technically sharp. But “Silverfuck” is the real standout. It’s a rollercoaster of distortion, beauty, and fury, stretching past nine minutes and never wasting a second. It captures everything the Pumpkins do best: shifting dynamics, layered sounds, and raw emotion.
From start to finish, Siamese Dream is powerful, melodic, and completely unforgettable. A true high point of '90s rock.
Favorite song: Silverfuck
The Specials
3/5
Duke Ellington
3/5
The Streets
5/5
This is one of those rare albums that completely catches you off guard. I went in with low expectations and came out blown away by the storytelling, honesty, and clever wordplay. Mike Skinner, the mind behind The Streets, turns everyday life — lost money, broken TVs, failed relationships — into gripping drama. It’s part concept album, part confessional, and completely original.
His use of a thick Cockney accent isn’t just for flavor — it becomes part of the rhythm, giving the rhymes a raw, grounded feel that makes every line hit harder. “It Was Supposed to Be So Easy” is the perfect opener: funny, frustrating, and totally relatable. It sets the tone for an album that’s as much about mood and pacing as it is about bars.
This isn’t just British rap — it’s kitchen-sink poetry with beats. Smart, emotional, and totally unique. One of the best concept albums I’ve heard.
Favorite Song: "It Was Supposed To Be So Easy"
Queen
4/5
This one might not be packed with radio hits, but it's still Queen doing what Queen does best. The theatrical flair, the layered harmonies, the ridiculous talent across the board—it’s all here. They weren’t playing it safe, and that’s what makes it interesting.
You can hear the band really starting to experiment, especially on the second half. Brian May’s guitar work is as sharp as ever and Freddie’s vocals are already larger than life. It's not the kind of album you'd throw on for a greatest hits vibe, but it's a solid listen if you want to hear a band finding their sound. Not essential Queen, but still pretty good.
ZZ Top
3/5
Mudhoney
2/5
I’ve got a lot of respect for Mudhoney—they were one of the OG grunge bands and Superfuzz Big Muff still rips. But Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge just didn’t land for me.
The raw energy is there, and I get what they were going for with the garage rock vibes, but the songs kind of blur together and not much really sticks. It just felt like a slog to get through, and I kept waiting for a moment that never really came.
Glad they exist and helped shape the scene, but this album isn’t one I’ll be revisiting any time soon.
DJ Shadow
2/5
I know people call this album groundbreaking, but honestly, I just found it boring. Most of the tracks drag on way too long, looping the same ideas until they wear out their welcome. There’s barely any energy, and it all starts to blur together after a while.
For all the hype about creativity and innovation, I was left waiting for something to actually catch my ear. It feels more like background music for a hip coffee shop than something I’d ever want to play again. If this is supposed to be a masterpiece, I’m missing the point.
Tom Waits
1/5
Bone Machine is what happens when an artist mistakes chaos for genius and noise for depth. Tom Waits leans so hard into his gravel-throated, junkyard prophet persona that the entire album collapses under the weight of its own forced weirdness. It's not raw — it's sloppy. It's not haunting — it's grating. Listening to *Bone Machine* feels less like hearing music and more like being trapped inside a rusted-out oil drum while someone bangs on the outside with a wrench.
The songs meander without structure, the percussion sounds like it was recorded in a scrapyard, and Waits’ voice — once evocative — now just sounds like a parody of itself. There’s a difference between being experimental and being unlistenable, and this album doesn’t seem to know the line.
Critics called it bold and visionary, but bold doesn’t mean good. It’s an endurance test disguised as art, and one that I have no interest in repeating. If this is brilliance, I’ll happily stay in the dark.
Pink Floyd
5/5
The Dark Side of the Moon isn’t just an album — it’s a full-body experience. Even after all these years, it still sounds futuristic, mysterious, and endlessly deep. Pink Floyd crafted something truly timeless here, blending rock, jazz, synth, and soul into a seamless journey through the human condition — anxiety, greed, mortality, madness. Heavy stuff, yet somehow completely hypnotic.
“Time” is a masterclass in dynamics and lyricism, “Us and Them” aches with beauty, and “Brain Damage” is haunting and surreal. But “Money” is the standout — funky, cynical, and packed with bite. That cash register intro alone is legendary. It’s the song that pulled me in, and, in a former life, probably soundtracked more than one slow-motion head trip with smoke curling through the room.
This album doesn’t just hold up — it lives outside of time. Whether you’re stone-cold sober or somewhere else entirely, it still hits like nothing else.
Favorite song: Money
David Gray
3/5
Saint Etienne
3/5
Massive Attack
3/5
When it comes to trip-hop, I lean way more Portishead than Massive Attack. There’s something about Portishead’s vibe that pulls me in, while Blue Lines just kind of... floats by. It’s not bad by any means, but it didn’t grab me.
The beats are solid, the production is smooth, and I can see why it gets so much love. But for me, it felt more like background music than something I’d seek out again. Good enough to hold my attention, just not enough to keep it.
The Coral
4/5
I can get behind the folksy, neo-psychedelia vibe this album delivers. The Coral mixes catchy melodies with a retro feel that somehow still sounds fresh. There’s a lot of variety here, from jangly guitars to swirling, trippy moments, and it all works together better than you’d expect.
It’s fun, a little weird, and surprisingly easy to listen to from start to finish. If you like classic pop hooks with a touch of strangeness, this is definitely worth checking out.
Tori Amos
3/5
Beastie Boys
2/5
I know this album has a cult following, but honestly, I don’t get it. Compared to Licensed to Ill, this just feels all over the place. The beats are weird, the flow is messy, and none of the tracks hit the same way.
There’s a lot going on, sure. Tons of samples, inside jokes, and deep cuts. But clever doesn’t always mean good. I spent more time wondering what was happening than actually enjoying it. Definitely not for me.
Sister Sledge
3/5
X-Ray Spex
3/5
Queen
4/5
This is where Queen really started showing off all their different sides. You’ve got the theatrical flair of Killer Queen, which is just pure fun every time, and then you’ve got Stone Cold Crazy—fast, loud, and way ahead of its time. It’s no surprise Metallica picked it up for their covers. That song rips.
The album bounces all over the place, but in a good way. There’s glam, hard rock, even some proto-metal in the mix. Not every track is a banger, but when it hits, it hits hard. Great energy throughout, and a big step up from the first two albums.
Joan Armatrading
2/5
I really tried with this one, but it just didn’t land. The whole album feels flat and lifeless, and nothing about it made me want to keep listening. Her voice is fine, but the songs are bland and forgettable, almost as if they’re afraid to take any risks.
Nothing here stands out or leaves much of an impression. I kept waiting for a spark or even a catchy hook, but I just found myself zoning out. Maybe there’s something here for fans of soft, safe singer-songwriter stuff, but for me it was boring and completely uninspired.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
Fun fact I learned during this listen: Dusty Springfield is British. With a name like that, I assumed she was American. The music definitely leans into that Southern soul vibe, which makes it even more surprising.
Son of a Preacher Man is the standout here, no question. It’s iconic for a reason. But the rest of the album kind of fades into the background. Nice voice, solid production, but it didn’t leave a big impression on me beyond that one track. Good, not great.
Fela Kuti
2/5
I get that Fela Kuti is a legend, but this live album was a chore. The jams just drag on and on, with every song blending into the next. The band is tight, sure, but the endless repetition and lack of real variety made it hard to stay interested.
It’s supposed to be energetic and electric, but most of the time it felt like background noise that refused to end. If you’re not already a diehard Fela fan, this album feels more exhausting than exciting. I honestly just got bored.
The Pretty Things
3/5
David Bowie
3/5
David Bowie is one of those artists I can respect, but I just can’t get into most of his music aside from a few singles. Station to Station has some strong moments and you can tell he’s pushing boundaries, but the album didn’t really grab me.
The songs are well-crafted and Bowie’s style is unmistakable, but it all felt a little distant. It’s clear why people love this record, but for me, it was just okay. I appreciate the artistry more than I actually enjoyed the listen.
Coldplay
4/5
Ananda Shankar
3/5
Ella Fitzgerald
4/5
You've got Ella Fitzgerald, one of the greatest jazz vocalists ever, singing songs written by George and Ira Gershwin, two of the most iconic songwriters in American music history. Honestly, what’s not to like?
Every track feels like it belongs in a black-and-white movie or echoing from an old record player in some smoky lounge. Ella’s voice is smooth, effortless, and classy. The arrangements are sharp, and the songwriting still holds up decades later. Even if you're not big on show tunes or jazz standards, it's hard not to appreciate the sheer talent on display here.
MC Solaar
4/5
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
Green River is CCR at full strength — lean, swampy, and loaded with timeless songs that still sound fresh decades later. It’s only half an hour long, but there’s not a wasted second. The band’s mix of Southern rock, blues, and Bay Area grit is locked in here, and John Fogerty’s raspy howl is at its absolute peak.
The title track and “Bad Moon Rising” are undeniable classics — tight, catchy, and full of that backwoods swagger. But “Lodi” is the real gem. It’s simple, sad, and brutally relatable — a perfect story of missed chances and being stuck somewhere you never planned to be. Fogerty’s delivery hits like someone who’s lived it.
Green River doesn’t need flash. It’s all muscle and soul — just great songwriting, great playing, and a sound that belongs to CCR alone. A high watermark in American rock.
Favorite song: Lodi
Beastie Boys
5/5
Licensed to Ill is loud, bratty, and absolutely legendary — a one-of-a-kind debut that smashed hip-hop into rock with zero apologies and maximum swagger. The Beastie Boys delivered something totally fresh in 1986: a party album that was as clever as it was chaotic, packed with attitude and anthems that still hit decades later.
“Fight For Your Right” is the ultimate teenage rebellion anthem, while “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” blends headbanging riffs with rapid-fire rhymes, proving these guys could hang in both mosh pits and cyphers. “Brass Monkey” is pure chaos in the best way — goofy, infectious, unforgettable. And yes, even “Girls,” for all its ridiculousness, captures the tongue-in-cheek charm that made the Beasties impossible to ignore.
This isn’t just a party album — it’s a cultural reset. Wild, unfiltered, and way smarter than it pretends to be. A perfect storm of hip-hop, rock, and pure energy.
Favorite song: "Fight For Your Right"
Paul McCartney and Wings
5/5
Band on the Run is Paul McCartney’s masterpiece of the Wings era — a brilliant mix of pop, rock, and soul that proves his post-Beatles songwriting could stand tall on its own. Born out of chaos (with two band members quitting just before recording), McCartney turned adversity into one of the most cohesive and rewarding albums of the 1970s.
The title track, “Band on the Run,” is a mini rock opera — starting slow and dreamy before bursting into one of the most uplifting choruses in his entire catalog. It’s bold, inventive, and completely unforgettable. “Jet” is a full-on blast of glam-rock energy, with a chorus that sticks in your head for days.
“Mrs. Vandebilt” brings in a laid-back groove and infectious “ho hey ho” chant that feels tailor-made for a crowd singalong. “Let Me Roll It” channels Lennon-esque grit with a heavy riff and smoky vocals — raw and soulful in all the right ways. And then there’s “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five”, a thunderous closer that builds into a sweeping finale, tying the album together with cinematic flair.
Every track feels carefully crafted but totally alive — it’s playful, passionate, and endlessly replayable. Band on the Run isn’t just McCartney proving himself — it’s McCartney showing off, and it’s glorious.
Favorite song: "Let Me Roll It"
Miles Davis
3/5
Butthole Surfers
1/5
Locust Abortion Technician is a sonic disaster masquerading as avant-garde brilliance. The Butthole Surfers throw everything at the wall here — noise, distortion, pitch-shifted gibberish — and somehow nothing sticks. It’s not weird in a cool or challenging way; it’s weird in a "please turn this off before my brain leaks out" kind of way.
There’s no structure, no coherence, and certainly no reward for sitting through this mess. Every track sounds like it was recorded during a psychotic breakdown in a garage full of malfunctioning equipment. The vocals are buried under layers of nonsense, the production is intentionally awful, and any moment that might resemble a song is quickly sabotaged by sheer obnoxiousness.
If the goal was to make something unlistenable, mission accomplished. It's not bold, it's not experimental — it's exhausting. This isn’t art. It’s a migraine with album art.
The Isley Brothers
3/5
In this case, 3+3 equals 3. This album has its moments, and the Isley Brothers know how to lay down a groove, but nothing here really wowed me. There are some catchy tracks and smooth vocals, but overall, it feels a little safe and predictable.
It’s good background music and definitely easy to listen to, but I never felt the urge to hit repeat.
Cowboy Junkies
4/5
This was a cool one. I had no clue what to expect going in, but the backstory grabbed me right away. The whole album was recorded in one day, live, with a single mic in a church. You can actually hear the space in the songs, and it gives the whole thing this intimate, ghostly vibe.
Their covers of Hank Williams and Lou Reed were unexpected but really well done. They made those songs their own without trying too hard. It’s mellow, slow, and kind of hypnotic. Definitely not something I’d throw on every day, but it’s a beautiful listen when you’re in the right mood
Air
4/5
An instrumental soundtrack from a movie I hadn’t even heard of didn’t exactly sound promising going in. But wow—this one really surprised me. Air did a great job capturing a dreamy, haunting atmosphere without saying a single word.
The music feels nostalgic and eerie at the same time, like flipping through old photo albums or watching a sunset in slow motion. It’s moody without being depressing, soft without being boring. Definitely one of the better scores I’ve come across, and something I could see myself putting on in the background again. Didn’t expect to like this one, but here we are.
Sonic Youth
2/5
Sonic Youth is always a toss-up for me. Sometimes they hit with a gritty, noisy charm. Other times, it just feels like they’re jamming for the sake of it. This one falls into the latter category.
There’s clearly some creativity here, and I get why people call it influential, but most of it just didn’t land for me. A few interesting moments scattered around, but not enough to make me want to come back to it. Definitely a miss this time.
The Allman Brothers Band
5/5
Live at Fillmore East is not just a live album — it’s a defining moment in American rock history. The Allman Brothers Band captured lightning in a bottle over two nights in March 1971, delivering a performance that’s raw, masterful, and completely electrifying. This is the sound of a band at its absolute peak, blending Southern rock, blues, and jazz into something uniquely their own.
Duane Allman and Dickey Betts’ guitar interplay is nothing short of legendary, weaving improvisations that feel both spontaneous and impossibly tight. Tracks like “Whipping Post” and “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” stretch past the ten-minute mark without ever losing momentum — these aren't jams for the sake of jamming; they’re journeys.
The band’s chemistry is off the charts. Gregg Allman’s soulful vocals and Hammond organ work bring depth and grit, while the rhythm section drives everything forward with relentless precision. Even the quieter moments are steeped in emotion and finesse.
Live at Fillmore East sets the gold standard for what a live rock album should be: urgent, expansive, and alive. It’s more than a performance — it’s a masterpiece.
Favorite song: "Whipping Post"
Soft Machine
2/5
Listening to this album felt like wading through wet cement. Every track just trudges along without any spark or payoff. There’s a sense that something interesting is about to happen, but it never really does.
Instead of building momentum, the songs get lost in their own confusion. It tries for deep and experimental, but ends up feeling tedious and joyless. By the end, I was more relieved than anything else.
Dirty Projectors
3/5
Adele
5/5
Adele’s 21 is a masterclass in heartbreak, soul, and sheer vocal power. From the opening stomp of “Rolling in the Deep,” it’s clear this isn’t just another breakup album — it’s a storm of raw emotion wrapped in stunning songwriting and flawless delivery. Adele doesn’t just sing about pain; she makes you feel every word.
Big hits like “Rumour Has It” and “Set Fire to the Rain” showcase her ability to blend pop accessibility with old-school soul, but it’s the quieter moments that really shine. “Don’t You Remember” is a criminally underrated deep cut — aching, vulnerable, and beautifully restrained. Her take on The Cure’s “Lovesong” strips it down to its emotional core, transforming it into something haunting and elegant.
Every track on 21 serves a purpose, and Adele’s voice is the guiding force — powerful, bruised, and completely human. This is the rare album that’s both critically respected and universally embraced — and it absolutely earns every bit of that praise.
Favorite song: Don't You Remember
Paul Weller
3/5
Portishead
5/5
Dummy is a landmark debut — dark, elegant, and emotionally devastating in the best way. Portishead created a sound all their own here, fusing hip-hop beats, moody jazz chords, and vintage vinyl crackle into something deeply cinematic and intimate. It’s trip-hop at its finest, but even that label feels too small for what this album achieves.
Beth Gibbons’ voice is the beating heart of the record — fragile one moment, fierce the next — and she delivers every lyric like a whispered confession. “Roads” is the emotional centerpiece, a slow-burning masterpiece that aches with loneliness and longing. “Sour Times” blends spy-movie strings with a dusty breakbeat and unforgettable chorus. “Glory Box” closes the album with a sultry, smoldering plea for love and identity, flipping blues and soul into something futuristic and haunting.
Even deeper cuts like “Mysterons” and “Wandering Star” add to the album’s shadowy atmosphere, each track flowing into the next like scenes from a noir film. Every detail — the scratches, the samples, the silence between notes — is deliberate and affecting.
Dummy isn’t just an album; it’s a fully formed world. Strange, sad, and seductive — and once you enter it, it’s hard to leave.
Favorite song: Mysterons
D'Angelo
2/5
This one was a slog. I get why some folks love it, but that smooth, laid-back R&B just isn’t my thing. It all kind of blurred together after a while.
D’Angelo’s clearly talented, and I respect the vibe he’s going for, but it just didn’t grab me. Maybe if I were sipping wine in a dimly lit lounge, I’d feel differently. But sitting on my couch? I was just waiting for it to end.
Beatles
5/5
The White Album is sprawling, strange, beautiful, and completely essential — a double LP that refuses to be pinned down. Every track feels like a world unto itself, bursting with personality, invention, and the kind of songwriting range that only a band at the peak of their powers could pull off. There’s no filler here — just a kaleidoscope of styles and moods, each song revealing something new with every listen.
Favorites shift with the wind, but certain tracks always rise to the surface. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” aches with sorrow and Eric Clapton’s searing guitar. “Blackbird” is simple and perfect, a quiet anthem of hope. “Mother Nature’s Son” feels like a soft breeze through an open window. And then there’s “Savoy Truffle” — funky, playful, and full of George Harrison’s dry wit.
The White Album isn’t just a collection of songs — it’s a complete experience. Chaotic, brilliant, and endlessly replayable. One of the greatest albums ever made, and somehow still full of surprises.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
3/5
The Specials
4/5
Nine Inch Nails
2/5
I like some of Nine Inch Nails’ stuff, and I actually think the concept behind this album is pretty interesting. It’s dark, gritty, and clearly meant to push boundaries. You can tell Trent Reznor put a lot of thought into the storyline and atmosphere.
But man, the music just didn’t land for me. It felt like noise for the sake of being edgy. I wanted to like it, especially with all the hype around it, but most of it was borderline unlistenable. Cool idea, rough execution.
Dagmar Krause
3/5
The Kinks
4/5
PJ Harvey
3/5
Sufjan Stevens
5/5
I had zero expectations going into this one. Never heard of Sufjan Stevens before and figured it’d be another artsy indie album that just wasn’t for me. I was very wrong. This album blew me away.
The level of detail he packs into the songs, blending state history with personal stories and weird little jokes, somehow works. One minute you’re smiling at how ridiculous a song title is, the next minute you're hit with something that genuinely stops you in your tracks. It’s theatrical, intimate, and weird in the best way. I still chuckle every time I see the full title of “The Black Hawk War...” but then I get pulled right back into something like “Casimir Pulaski Day,” which just hits hard. Easily one of the most unique albums I’ve ever heard — and one of the best.
Bert Jansch
3/5
Gorillaz
3/5
Wait... the guy who gave us "Woo-hoo!" in Song 2 is also behind this cartoon band? Wild. Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect with their debut, but it’s got a few cool moments. "Clint Eastwood" still slaps, no question there. The rest of the album? Kind of hit or miss.
Some tracks feel like experiments that didn’t fully land, while others are just chill enough to leave on in the background. It's not Demon Days but it laid the groundwork. A decent start from a group that got much better later.
Amy Winehouse
5/5
Back to Black is a soul-shaking triumph — raw, stylish, and heartbreakingly real. Amy Winehouse poured everything into this album: her voice, her pain, her wit, and her flaws. With Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi’s vintage-inspired production, the record feels like a lost Motown classic filtered through the lens of modern heartbreak.
“Tears Dry On Their Own” stands out as the crown jewel — a pure throwback groove with a soaring melody and a devastating undercurrent. It’s the kind of song you can dance to with tears in your eyes. Throughout the album, Amy swings between swagger and sorrow, never flinching, never faking it.
Losing her so young feels like more than a tragedy — it’s a loss of a once-in-a-generation talent whose voice and honesty could cut through anything. Back to Black isn’t just a great album. It’s a legacy. One that still echoes loud and clear.
Favorite song: Tears Dry On Their Own
Cypress Hill
3/5
Rufus Wainwright
4/5
Faith No More
3/5
Taylor Swift
4/5
I'll admit it—Taylor Swift is one of my guilty pleasures. Say what you want about her being overexposed or polarizing, but the woman’s got talent. She writes her own songs, sings them, plays instruments, produces the tracks, and actually performs. That alone sets her apart in a pop scene where half the charts are just features and samples.
1989 was a big shift for her, and looking back, it still holds up surprisingly well. It’s polished but personal, catchy without feeling hollow. Hard to believe it's already been a decade since this one dropped, but it doesn’t sound dated. Solid album from a legit artist.
Happy Mondays
2/5
CHIC
3/5
Tears For Fears
4/5
Baaba Maal
2/5
I found this album a real slog to get through. The songs feel repetitive and almost every track starts to sound the same after a while. There’s very little here that grabbed my attention or made me want to keep listening.
It’s supposed to be energetic and lively, but I just found it dull and uninspired. Nothing really stands out and the whole album feels forgettable. I was ready to move on long before it ended.
Burning Spear
2/5
I know this album is supposed to be important in reggae history, but I just couldn’t get into it. The songs all blend together, and the vocals started to grate on me pretty quickly. There’s not much here that stands out, and it honestly felt like a chore to get through the whole thing.
Roxy Music
3/5
David Bowie
3/5
Count Basie & His Orchestra
4/5
This is a pretty cool listen, especially for a '50s swing album. The energy is infectious, and the band is as tight as it gets. Every track feels lively and fresh, even all these years later.
Count Basie’s piano leads the way, but the whole band shines, and the horns bring the songs to life. It’s easy to see why this record gets so much love. You don’t have to be a jazz expert to enjoy it. Just hit play and let the groove take over.
A classic that’s actually fun to listen to.
Beatles
5/5
Revolver is where The Beatles stopped being just a band and became full-blown innovators. It’s their first album made after experimenting with LSD, and you can hear the doors of perception flying open in every track. This isn’t just a collection of songs — it’s a turning point in modern music, where creativity, curiosity, and consciousness collided in the studio.
“Taxman” opens with a snarl, George Harrison taking aim at the system with sharp wit and funk-infused grit. “Eleanor Rigby” follows, radically different — a stark string arrangement and narrative depth that felt miles beyond anything in pop music at the time. “Here, There and Everywhere” brings a beautiful softness, McCartney’s delicate vocal and ethereal harmonies floating somewhere above reality.
“I Want to Tell You” captures the confusion and internal noise of a mind pushed beyond its limits, with clashing chords and hypnotic tension. “Got to Get You Into My Life” brings it all back to earth with brassy, joyful energy — a soul-infused track that channels Motown while still sounding distinctly Beatles.
With Revolver, they weren’t just writing hits — they were rewriting the rules. Studio effects, tape loops, backwards guitars, philosophical lyrics — all of it feels fresh, fearless, and forward-looking. It’s the sound of four minds opening up and taking rock music somewhere it had never been before. A psychedelic masterpiece that still stands as one of their boldest and best.
Favorite song: "Eleanor Rigby"
Dire Straits
4/5
It’s hard to dislike an album with a song like “Money for Nothing.” That riff alone is worth the price of admission. The whole album has this laid-back, clean sound that just works, even decades later.
“Walk of Life” is another easy highlight, and the title track closes things out on a high note. Dire Straits never rush anything, but nothing here drags or feels forced. The production is crisp, the guitar work is top-notch, and Mark Knopfler’s voice fits the vibe perfectly.
This one goes down easy every time.
The Black Crowes
5/5
Shake Your Money Maker is one of those rare debut albums that lands with the confidence of a band already in full stride. The Black Crowes came out swinging, blending Southern rock, blues, soul, and a shot of Stones swagger into a sound that feels both timeless and raw. There’s nothing trendy or overproduced here — just great songs, gritty performances, and a band that knows exactly who they are.
“Jealous Again” is a killer opener — punchy, soulful, and driven by Chris Robinson’s raspy, commanding vocals. It’s the kind of track that could’ve come out in 1971 or yesterday and still feel fresh. Then there’s “She Talks to Angels,” a haunting acoustic ballad that strips everything back and showcases the emotional depth behind all the bravado. It’s one of the most powerful songs of the era, full of vulnerability and storytelling.
Throughout the album, the band leans into a classic sound without ever feeling like a cheap throwback. Whether it’s the bluesy strut of “Twice As Hard” or the gospel-tinged groove of “Seeing Things,” every track feels lived-in and real.
This isn’t just a great rock album — it’s a reminder that timeless songwriting, passionate delivery, and a little Southern grit never go out of style.
Favorite song: "Jealous Again"
Stevie Wonder
3/5
My Bloody Valentine
1/5
m b v sounds like what happens when you accidentally leave your headphones half-plugged into your phone and convince yourself it’s art. It's like they took everything cool about shoegaze, drowned it in a bathtub of reverb, and hoped no one would notice there's barely a song underneath.
The vocals are buried so deep it’s like the band was too shy to actually be heard. The guitars sound like they’re melting in slow motion, and not in a good way. Every track just kind of floats around in a fog, going nowhere, like ambient noise for people who hate melody and pacing.
Fats Domino
3/5
The Kinks
3/5
Kate Bush
2/5
This album is just exhausting. Every track is buried under layers of weird production choices, bizarre vocals, and forced quirkiness. Instead of sounding creative, it feels like a mess of ideas thrown together without any real focus.
A couple of moments almost work, but most of it is just grating. The songs wander all over the place and never settle into anything enjoyable. People call this a masterpiece, but I just found it confusing and annoying. I was ready for it to be over by the halfway point.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
I kept waiting for something to grab me on this album, but it never happened. Everything here blends together in a haze of reverb and post-punk moodiness, but there’s just not much substance under the style. The songs drag, the melodies feel recycled, and the whole thing comes off as more try-hard than groundbreaking.
If you’re really into the brooding, gothic vibe, maybe you’ll find something to like. For me, it was just repetitive and dull. I could barely remember a single track after it ended.
Big Star
3/5
Maxwell
3/5
Morrissey
4/5
I went into this one expecting to like it just because I’m a fan of The Smiths, but it surprised me by standing on its own. Morrissey sounds more reflective here, less snarky and more... human? The songwriting feels personal and mature, and the melodies stick with you.
It’s got that melancholic charm without being too dreary, and the production is sharp without trying too hard. Definitely one of his better solo efforts. Even if you're not big on Morrissey outside The Smiths, this one’s worth a listen.
Pretenders
2/5
I don’t get the hype at all. This album is a snooze fest. Every song sounds like it’s just killing time until something interesting finally happens, but spoiler alert: it never does. Chrissie Hynde’s voice is supposed to be iconic, but on these tracks it mostly just drones on and on.
Honestly, the whole thing feels painfully average. If this is supposed to be a classic, I’m missing the appeal. There’s nothing here that hasn’t been done better by a hundred other bands. I was bored ten minutes in and just waited for it to end.
Tito Puente
3/5
50 Cent
5/5
Get Rich or Die Tryin’ isn’t just a debut album — it’s a full-blown cultural moment. 50 Cent came into the game like a force of nature, and this album delivers everything his myth promised: hard-hitting beats, street-certified lyrics, and hooks for days. It’s raw, relentless, and polished in all the right places, with Dr. Dre and Eminem behind the boards and a hunger in 50’s voice that you can’t fake.
“What Up Gangsta” sets the tone from the jump — aggressive, no-nonsense, and built to shake car trunks. “Patiently Waiting” pairs 50 with Eminem before their eventual fallout, and the chemistry is electric. It’s a back-and-forth showcase of hunger and intensity, with Em blacking out on his verse. “Many Men (Wish Death)” stands out as a dark, emotional centerpiece — a street anthem soaked in paranoia and pain.
“High All the Time” brings a woozy, hypnotic vibe to the mix, while “P.I.M.P.” is a laid-back, steel drum-laced banger that showed 50 could dominate clubs just as easily as corners. And the closer, “Gotta Make It to Heaven,” reminds you that underneath the bravado is a man who’s survived too much to take life for granted.
The features are just as iconic — Nate Dogg brings that West Coast smooth to “21 Questions,” Lloyd Banks adds grit on “Don’t Push Me,” and the whole thing plays like a greatest hits album. This album didn’t just live up to the hype — it set a new standard. One of the strongest debuts in hip-hop history, period.
Favorite song: "Stay High All The Time"
Paul Simon
4/5
Magazine
3/5
Bobby Womack
2/5
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Arcade Fire
3/5
Violent Femmes
4/5
Frank Zappa
2/5
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
There’s a reason Kendrick Lamar has a Pulitzer. The man knows how to write. His lyrics are sharp, layered, and full of meaning without ever sounding preachy. This album is packed with ideas and feels more like a statement than just a collection of songs.
That said, I still like good kid, m.A.A.d city more. It’s more cohesive and a little easier to throw on. To Pimp a Butterfly asks more of you as a listener, but it rewards you for paying attention. Not an everyday listen, but definitely an important one.
T. Rex
3/5
The Incredible String Band
4/5
If you’ve ever wondered what a fever dream in a Hobbit village might sound like, this album is pretty close. The Incredible String Band leaned fully into psychedelia here, and it’s oddly charming in that medieval-folk-on-acid sort of way.
Psychedelic music was easily one of the best by-products of the 60s, and it’s hard not to credit a lot of that to mind-altering substances. This isn’t a casual background album, but if you’re in the mood for something strange and beautifully layered, it’s worth the ride.
The Waterboys
2/5
Van Morrison
4/5
Germs
3/5
Sabu
1/5
I get it — Palo Congo is supposed to be important in the history of Latin music. That’s cool. But that doesn’t mean I have to enjoy sitting through it. This album is basically one long drum circle with someone yelling over it, and after a few tracks, it starts to feel more like a test of patience than a musical experience.
“Billumba-Palo Congo” was especially rough — chaotic without being interesting, and way too repetitive. I kept waiting for it to click, but it never did. It just kept going... and going... like someone left a bongo on loop.
That said, “Rhapsodia del Maravilloso” was a bright spot. It had some real rhythm and energy that stood out from the rest. But one decent track can’t save an album that feels more like background noise for a cultural anthropology lecture than something I’d willingly listen to again.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Highway 61 Revisited is the moment Bob Dylan lit a match and set folk tradition on fire. With a bold move to electric guitar and full-band arrangements, he stirred major controversy among purists — and in doing so, helped reshape the future of rock music. It’s wild to think this level of backlash came from adding some amps, but Dylan wasn’t just changing sound — he was changing the rules.
Desolation Row closes the record with nearly 11 minutes of stunning, surreal poetry. Dylan’s lyrics are dense, apocalyptic, and weirdly beautiful, turning the song into something that feels more like a literary epic than a folk tune. It's proof of exactly why he earned that Nobel Prize.
Still, the electric tracks are incredible. “Like a Rolling Stone” kicks the door down with one of the most iconic openings in music history, while “Tombstone Blues” and “Ballad of a Thin Man” are razor-sharp, dripping with cynicism and swagger. “Highway 61 Revisited” itself is a chaotic joyride — twisted Americana turned on its head.
This album didn’t just push boundaries — it redrew the map. Highway 61 Revisited is rebellious, visionary, and endlessly re-listenable. It’s not just a classic; it’s one of the key reasons Bob Dylan stands alone in the pantheon of songwriters.
Ironically, my favorite track on the album is the only fully acoustic one: “Desolation Row.”
Neil Young
2/5
Neil Young can be hit or miss for me, and Tonight’s the Night definitely leans more toward the miss side. Most of his albums usually have at least one track that really grabs me, but this one just kind of drags from start to finish.
If I had to pick a favorite, I’d go with “Tonight’s the Night – Part II” — but really, it’s just the one I disliked the least. The rest of the album blends together in a hazy, off-key way that I get is supposed to feel raw and emotional, but it mostly just felt flat to me.
Sepultura
4/5
I'm so glad to see a thrash metal band like Sepultura get their due, and Roots lives up to the hype in its own heavy, experimental way. I’ve had various Sepultura tracks on my playlists since high school, but this was the first time I sat down and listened to Roots front to back — and it didn’t disappoint.
“Roots Bloody Roots” kicks things off with absolute power. It’s raw, aggressive, and easily my favorite track on the album. That riff hits like a truck. “Ratamahatta” is another standout, bringing in indigenous Brazilian rhythms and vocals in a way that actually works — a really cool blend that makes the album feel unique in the metal world.
“Breed Apart” has a banger of an opening riff, and “Jasco” was a surprising acoustic moment that added a nice breather in the middle of the chaos. On the flip side, “Canyon Jam” was my least favorite. The gunshot sound effect was a nice touch, but after that, it kind of just wandered around for way too long.
There’s a proggy, experimental edge to the album — not just in the 14-minute closer, but throughout, with all the tribal instrumentation and ambient textures layered into the mix. It’s bold, heavy, and has more depth than you might expect from a band known for thrash.
Arcade Fire
3/5
Not a huge fan of indie rock in general, so Neon Bible didn’t totally land for me. A lot of the songs just blended together and felt like the kind of generic indie rock that never really grabs me.
That said, there were a couple of standouts. “Intervention” was a solid ballad — emotional, well-written, and probably the most memorable track for me. But “Ocean of Noise” was the one I actually really enjoyed. Great vibe, moody in the right way, and definitely a cut above the rest.
Radiohead
1/5
Kid A sounds like what would happen if a less talented version of The Beatles tried to make Sgt. Pepper’s and forgot to bring the songs. I gave it a listen as part of Apple Music’s 100 Greatest Albums countdown, and honestly, once was more than enough.
After how great OK Computer was — wall-to-wall bangers — Kid A feels like a total drop-off. It's just aimless, glitchy noise wrapped in artsy vibes with zero payoff. Nothing stuck with me. In fact, when I saw it pop up again, it actually took me a minute to realize I had already listened to it before. That pretty much says it all — completely forgettable.
There’s not a single track I’d go back to. They’re all equally bad in their own weird, lifeless way.
Marty Robbins
5/5
Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs by Marty Robbins is pure cowboy poetry — smooth, nostalgic, and packed with Western charm. But let’s be honest: if you’re here giving this album five stars, there’s a good chance you wandered in from the Mojave Wasteland.
Thanks to Fallout: New Vegas, tracks like “Big Iron” and “Cool Water” have taken on near-mythic status. Hearing Big Iron kick in while patrolling the desert with a revolver and questionable morals? Unmatched. Suddenly, Robbins’ rich voice and storytelling aren’t just old-school country — they’re the soundtrack to dusty showdowns and wandering loners trying to do the right thing in a broken world.
Outside the Fallout connection, the album is still a gem. Robbins was a master storyteller, and songs like “El Paso” and “The Master’s Call” hold up as classic narrative-driven country. But it’s the pop culture revival that makes this record feel alive again.
So yes, this is five stars — not just for the quality, but for the sheer atmosphere it brings to anyone who’s roamed the Mojave with Big Iron on his hip.
Daft Punk
5/5
Homework is where it all began — and what a debut. Daft Punk’s first album is a gritty, pulsing, endlessly creative slab of French house that still sounds fresh decades later. It’s rawer and more underground than their later work, but that’s part of its charm. Every track feels alive, like it’s coming straight from a smoky club at 3 a.m.
The opening track “Daftendirekt” sets the tone with a hypnotic groove that pulls you in immediately. “Rollin’ & Scratchin’” is a full-on sonic assault — distorted, relentless, and completely addictive. “Burnin’” is another standout, with its funky, loop-driven build that could soundtrack a night drive through a neon-lit city.
“Indo Silver Club” and “Alive” bring in that trance-adjacent energy — both tracks feel like something you’d hear on a modern episode of A State of Trance, blending rhythm and atmosphere in a way that’s pure Daft Punk. And honestly? There’s not a bad track here. It’s one of those rare albums where every song earns its place.
I had no idea this was their debut, but of the three Daft Punk albums I’ve heard so far, Homework is hands down my favorite. It’s raw, innovative, and effortlessly cool — a blueprint that launched an era.
Favorite song: "Rollin' and Scratchin'"
The xx
2/5
xx by The xx just confirmed what I already kinda knew — indie rock’s not really my thing. The whole album has a super minimal, moody vibe that never really goes anywhere. Every song blends into the next, and after a while it just feels like one long, slow track on repeat.
I don’t have a favorite or least favorite because, honestly, they all sound pretty much the same to me. Not terrible, just not interesting. It’s background music at best, and even then, I’m probably skipping it.
Q-Tip
4/5
I first got into A Tribe Called Quest earlier this year while going through Apple’s Top 10 Albums countdown, and I was hooked. Naturally, I had high hopes for The Renaissance, and Q-Tip definitely delivered. You can really hear his influence as the main producer — the beats are smooth, jazzy, and laid-back, just like you’d expect from him.
The whole album has a great vibe. It’s polished but never overdone, and Q-Tip’s flow is as smooth and effortless as ever. He doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel — just gives us smart, feel-good hip-hop with a ton of soul.
Also, gotta give him some bonus points for his cameo in one of the best Chappelle’s Show skits of all time: Knee High Park
Favorite Song: Will Trade
Missy Elliott
5/5
Supa Dupa Fly is a game-changing debut that exploded every expectation of what hip-hop — and hip-hop production — could sound like in the late ’90s. Missy Elliott arrived fully formed, blending futuristic style with fearless originality, and Timbaland’s production flipped the script with off-kilter beats, space-age rhythms, and deep, head-nodding grooves. Nothing else sounded like this in 1997 — and honestly, nothing really has since.
Missy’s flow is sharp, playful, and unpredictable, and she knows exactly when to flex and when to float. “Hit Em Wit Da Hee” is a bold opener that sets the tone immediately, blending haunting strings with that signature Timbo bounce. “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” remains one of the most iconic singles of the era — strange, stylish, and hypnotic, with Missy riding the beat like nobody else could. And “Friendly Skies” brings smooth R&B vibes, with Ginuwine’s silky vocals playing perfectly off Missy’s laid-back delivery.
The guest list is stacked, and every feature hits: Busta Rhymes, Aaliyah, Lil’ Kim, Da Brat, 702, Ginuwine — all of them bring heat without overshadowing the star. Missy isn’t just holding her own among big names — she’s setting the pace.
Supadupa Fly was ahead of its time and somehow still sounds like the future. Inventive, iconic, and endlessly fun — it’s a flawless introduction to one of hip-hop’s most visionary artists.
Favorite song: "Friendly Skies"
John Prine
4/5
John Prine’s self-titled debut has everything you’d expect from a ‘70s country/folk album — plenty of pedal steel, honest songwriting, and storytelling that hits just right. What really surprised me were the little touches, like the sitar effects sprinkled throughout. You can definitely still hear that late-’60s influence woven into the more traditional sounds, and it gives the album a cool, unexpected vibe.
I’m not usually big on country, but this one’s a solid listen from start to finish. “Paradise” in particular stood out — it felt like a blueprint for a lot of the stuff I love from Old Crow Medicine Show. You can hear the DNA of their music in tracks like that.
Favorite song: Sam Stone
Stan Getz
3/5
I went into Getz/Gilberto knowing exactly one thing — “The Girl from Ipanema.” And yeah, it’s a classic for a reason. Smooth, laid-back, and still catchy after all these years. The rest of the album follows that same vibe — chill, breezy bossa nova that’s easy on the ears but doesn’t leave a huge impact for me beyond the big hit.
Fun fact: Astrud Gilberto has at least one other album on this list, and I’ve checked it out already (just not on this generator yet). That one wasn’t bad either, so I’ll give her credit — she brings a cool, understated vibe to everything she touches.
Can
3/5
Tago Mago is definitely an interesting Krautrock album — experimental, unpredictable, and at times completely out there. It’s the kind of record that keeps you on your toes, even if it doesn’t always land.
“Halleluhwah” is easily the highlight. That groove is hypnotic and somehow manages to stay engaging through its long runtime. It’s weird, but in a fun, head-nodding kind of way.
On the other hand, “Aumgn” was a tough listen. It leans a little too far into abstract noise territory and kind of lost me along the way.
Overall, I respect the creativity and the influence this album clearly had, but it’s a mixed bag for me.
Iron Maiden
4/5
Finally, a NWOBHM album shows up! The Number of the Beast is a classic, and even though I don’t listen to Iron Maiden much these days, this one brings back all kinds of memories — especially blasting the title track on 06/06/2006 like every other metalhead with a sense of humor.
I had a bunch of Maiden songs loaded up on my iPod back in high school, and this album was in heavy rotation. Side 2 is absolutely stacked — “The Number of the Beast,” “Run to the Hills,” “Hallowed Be Thy Name” — just banger after banger.
Favorite track: Number of the Beast
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Didn’t hate it, didn’t love it. Just kind of floated through it like a dream you forget as soon as you wake up. I get why some folks love this one. The production is rich, the vocals are airy, and it creates a vibe. But for me, it didn’t really land.
It all kind of blended together. Nothing grabbed me or made me want to hit replay. It’s easy to have on in the background, but I doubt I’ll ever be in a hurry to hear it again.
Can
3/5
Out of 1,001 albums, I somehow managed to pull two Can albums in just four days. What are the odds? Krautrock can be interesting in small doses, but this was pushing it. That said, Future Days wasn’t terrible. It had its moments.
"Moonshake" was a standout. Short, punchy, and the closest thing to a normal song on the album.
But then there’s "Bel Air"—twenty minutes of what felt like the cymbal breakdown from "Whole Lotta Love" with some synths tossed on top. It was a bit much. Still, the album has a decent groove overall. I wouldn’t seek it out again, but I didn’t suffer through it either.
Grateful Dead
4/5
Another classic Dead Album. It's not my favorite but still has solid tracks. Truckin' is an all-time banger.
Favorite Song: Truckin'
Least Favorite Song: Candyman
Ghostface Killah
5/5
Fishscale was my first real dive into Ghostface Killah’s solo work — I’ve only heard one Wu-Tang album before this — and going in blind turned out to be the best way to experience it. From the jump, this album is immersive, detailed, and sonically rich. The Dolby Atmos mix really brings it to life — the beats hit hard, the samples are layered perfectly, and Ghost’s voice cuts through with clarity and weight.
The artist features are top-tier: Raekwon delivers as always, and unexpected appearances from Ne-Yo, Ice Cube, and even Ye add variety without stealing the spotlight. Ghostface holds it all together with his storytelling — “Whip You with a Strap” and “Momma” in particular feel like vivid scenes from a movie, personal and raw without ever dragging.
The production is fantastic throughout. I loved the use of Biggie samples, especially on “Back Like That” — it gave off Song Cry vibes until I realized it was directly nodding to it. There’s a real sense of craft behind the sampling, not just nostalgia.
“Shakey Dog” opens the album with a bang — intense narrative, killer beat — and “Champ” keeps the momentum with an energetic, funky intro that feels like vintage soul dipped in street grit. But the highlight for me? “Clipse of Doom.” That track is a monster. The energy, the flow, the instrumental — everything clicks.
There’s no filler on Fishscale. It’s sharp, consistent, and packed with personality. As a first-time listener of Ghostface solo work, I couldn’t be more impressed. Five stars, easy. Now I’m wondering what took me so long.
Favorite song: "Clipse of Doom"
The Temptations
2/5
I do enjoy some Motown jams but I’m just not a fan of The Temptations’ psychedelic era.
Elvis Presley
2/5
Without any other knowledge on this album, I feel like most of these songs have not stood the test of time, even if the album was a hit contemporaneously.
Favorite song: Such A Night
Least Favorite Song: Solder Boy
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
I like Tribe's stuff. Just good, 80s/90s hip hop. I love the samples features on this album - Hendrix, Lou Reed, Stevie Wonder, and Phil Spector.
The album is full of the word play and double entendres I've come to enjoy from their work.
Favorite song: I Left My Wallet in El Segundo
Least Favorite Song: Really not a bad song on this album.
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness isn’t just an album — it’s an epic. The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a sprawling, ambitious double LP that somehow manages to feel both grandiose and deeply personal. It swings wildly from rage to beauty, despair to hope, chaos to calm — and somehow, it all works.
“1979” is the emotional anchor — nostalgic, reflective, and effortlessly cool, it captures that sense of youth slipping away without slipping into sentimentality. “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” is pure frustration and angst, delivered with Billy Corgan’s signature snarl over a wall of crunching guitars. Then there’s “Tonight, Tonight,” a soaring orchestral masterpiece that feels cinematic in scope and timeless in message.
And let’s not forget “XYU” — an unhinged, snarling beast of a track that showcases the darker, heavier edge of the band. It’s violent, chaotic, and utterly compelling in contrast to the album’s softer moments.
With Mellon Collie, the Pumpkins took a huge creative risk and pulled it off spectacularly. It’s rare for an album this long to be so consistently strong, but every track feels like a piece of a larger emotional puzzle. A defining statement from one of the ’90s most unique bands — and one that still resonates just as deeply today.
Favorite song: XYU
New Order
3/5
MY GOD THE SYNTHESIZERS. It’s like they went Black Friday shopping at Moog and decided to use it all on this album.
A couple songs in, I was getting Cure vibes but after that, it was straight into stereotypical 80s pop. But, honestly, I don’t hate it.
Guilty Partner is a good track and the Spanish guitar is a nice feature.
Favorite song: Round and round
Various Artists
4/5
Phil Spector was a piece of shit by his Wall of Sound shines through and all the artists he produced were talented. Still on of the best rock n roll Christmas albums out there
Rod Stewart
2/5
Never been a Rod Stewart fan. I’m sure it’s held any higher acclaim overall vs my opinion but nothing special to me. I did enjoy his rendition of That’s All Right
Favorite Song: That’s All Right
Least Favorite Song: Seems Like a Long Time
Common
4/5
Some records can be hit or miss in Atmos but this one is mixed well. Really good story telling on Testify.
Haven’t listened to a lot of Common’s stuff but I’m giving him a Chappelle’s Show bump like I did with Q-Tip.
Favorite song: The Corner
Least favorite song: Faithful
Kraftwerk
3/5
It’s what I’ve come to expect from Kraftwerk.
Favorite song: Spacelab
Least favorite song: The Robots
Boards of Canada
2/5
A second day in a row of electronic music, terrific. This one just wasn’t doing it for me.
The Verve
4/5
As someone who grew up in the 90's, I can't not like Bittersweet Symphony. I can't say I'm familiar with any of there other tracks. Their other stuff is remniscient of Oasis and I think that's why I like it. "Sonnet" was really good and "The Drugs Don't Work" is a perfect sad song.
Favorite song: The Drugs Don't Work
Least Favorite Song: Weeping Willow
808 State
3/5
Three electronic albums in four days. Surely it comes to an end at some point. Never heard of this group. Sounds like pretty standard late 80s/early 90s EDM. I'm trying not to let the fact that I'm getting sick of electronic music sway my rating. I'm typing this as I listen so we'll see if my thoughts change.
The album was off to a slow start but Cobra Bora and Pacific 202 are actually pretty good. Donkey Doctor is a certified banger.
Favorite song: Donkey Doctor
Least Favorite Song: Magical Dream
The Magnetic Fields
2/5
While I appreciate and respect the specific number of songs on this album, three hours of this is a bit much. I'm deducting a star for the length. Other than that, some of the songs were good, some were not. Album #2 had the best tracks overall, in my opinion.
Favorite song: The Book of Love. This one is actually really, really good.
Least Favorite Song: Zebra
The Doors
5/5
I don’t even need to listen to L.A. Woman to know it’s a five-star album — but I’m going to anyway, because it’s just that good. This is The Doors at their rawest, loosest, and most locked-in, and as a final statement with Jim Morrison, it hits even harder. RIP Jim — you went out with a masterpiece.
What really stands out on every listen is Jerry Scheff’s bass work. He’s the unsung hero of this record, grounding every track with smooth, melodic lines that add real depth and groove. And Robby Krieger’s slide guitar on “Been Down So Long”? Absolutely filthy in the best way — gritty, bluesy, and perfectly unpolished.
From the title track’s hypnotic drive to the eerie sprawl of “Riders on the Storm,” L.A. Woman is a classic from front to back. Raw, soulful, and timeless. Automatic 5 stars.
Favorite song: Love Her Madly. Scheff's bass really shines through here.
Prince
3/5
Prince is one of those artists where you can see the talent from a mile away. The guy could write, produce, perform, and probably fix your car while shredding a solo. But no matter how many times I try, his music just doesn’t click with me.
1999 has its moments. The title track is fun, and “Little Red Corvette” still holds up. But as a whole, it feels like something I respect more than actually enjoy
Favorite song: 1999
Least favorite song: Automatic
Marvin Gaye
2/5
Look, I get that Marvin Gaye is a legend. But a full album of slow-burning love ballads just isn’t for me. It’s basically 30 minutes of bedroom music, and that’s being generous with the variety. Every track feels like it’s stuck in the same mood, and after a while, it all blends together.
That said, I’ll give Marvin credit for keeping it short. He got in, whispered sweet nothings, and got out. For the short runtime alone, I’ll bump it up a star.
Favorite Song: Let's Get It On
Least Favorite Song: You Sure Love To Ball
Sonic Youth
4/5
I had to spin this one twice just to figure out where I landed on it. First time through, I honestly thought this was some gritty late 70s or early 80s punk album. The raw energy, the feedback, the vocals... none of it screamed 1990 to me.
Turns out it's Goo by Sonic Youth, and yeah, it surprised me. The first nine tracks are actually really solid. There’s this weird, fuzzy, chaotic charm that grows on you the more you let it play. It’s loud, messy, and a little disjointed, but in a way that makes sense once you’re in the right headspace for it. Not what I expected at all, and that’s part of why I ended up liking it.
Favorite song: Mote
Least favorite song: Titanium Expose
Linkin Park
5/5
Hybrid Theory is more than just an album — it’s a time capsule. I can’t count how many times I listened to this CD in middle school, and it still hits just as hard today. Linkin Park nailed something special here: a perfect blend of nu-metal aggression, hip-hop rhythm, and emotional vulnerability that spoke directly to a generation caught between angst and identity.
Every track feels massive, from the explosive “Papercut” to the anthemic “In the End.” Chester’s raw vocals paired with Mike’s sharp verses created a dynamic that was fresh and unforgettable. Songs like “Crawling,” “Points of Authority,” and “One Step Closer” became instant classics — powerful, cathartic, and endlessly replayable.
Whether you were blasting it through headphones or burning it into your first CD-R mix, Hybrid Theory was the soundtrack to growing up in the early 2000s. A flawless debut and a defining album that earned every bit of its legacy. Five stars, then and now.
Favorite song: Points of Authority
Mike Oldfield
3/5
Well, it definitely delivers on the title. There are plenty of tubular bells. I’ve got a lot of respect for Mike Oldfield—dude played just about every instrument on this thing. That’s impressive, no question.
As for the music itself, it’s decent background noise. Kinda meanders in places, but it’s got that cinematic, almost spooky vibe that works in the right setting. I wouldn’t put it on intentionally, but I’m giving it an extra star for its iconic use in The Exorcist. That connection alone makes it more memorable than it might’ve been otherwise.
Japan
2/5
New wave just doesn't do it for me, and this album didn’t change my mind. Most of the songs feel overly polished and kind of bland. I didn’t connect with much of it, and I doubt I’ll ever feel the need to give it another spin.
That said, “All Tomorrow’s Parties” stood out. It leans more psychedelic rock than new wave, and it’s easily the best track here. If the whole album had followed that vibe, I might’ve felt differently. But as it stands, one good song isn’t enough to save it.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
I went into this expecting to hate it, but it wasn’t bad at all. Kind of soft-spoken, kind of quirky, but not in an annoying way. The vocals are delicate, the lyrics are smart, and the whole thing has a quiet charm that sneaks up on you if you’re not paying attention.
It’s definitely not something I’d blast in the car, but for a chill afternoon or background noise while doing something else, it works.
Favorite song: Expectations
Least Favorite song: The State I Am In
Dr. Dre
4/5
This is peak early 90s hip hop. Smooth beats, heavy G-funk, and a vibe that’s unmistakably West Coast. I’ve always had a soft spot for this era, and The Chronic holds up. It’s raw, laid-back, and confident without trying too hard.
One thing I really miss in today’s rap albums is the skits. They gave personality, pacing, and helped shape a story. This one’s full of them, and they still hit. Is it the best album of the era? Not quite, at least not for me. But it’s close enough to earn a solid 4 stars.
Favorite song: Stranded on Death Row
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Physical Graffiti is Led Zeppelin at their most expansive, ambitious, and completely untouchable. This double album isn’t just a collection of songs — it’s a full showcase of everything the band could do, and they do all of it at the highest level.
“In My Time of Dying” is an 11-minute blues-rock epic, and Jimmy Page’s slide guitar work is absolutely feral — raw, haunting, and hypnotic. It’s one of the heaviest and most soulful tracks they ever recorded. “Houses of the Holy” brings groove and swagger, a funk-inflected rocker that somehow didn’t make the album it was named after but feels right at home here.
“Kashmir” is the crown jewel — massive, majestic, and totally unique. That hypnotic riff, Bonham’s thunderous drumming, and Plant’s commanding vocal performance all swirl into something that feels mythic. And then there’s “Bron-Yr-Aur”, a short acoustic interlude that adds a moment of serenity — delicate, earthy, and beautifully played.
From bombastic rockers to tender acoustic moments, this has it all. It’s not just a great Led Zeppelin album — it’s the Led Zeppelin album for those who want to hear the full scope of what the band was capable of.
Favorite song: In My Time of Dying
Elbow
4/5
Went into this completely blind and had no idea what to expect — but I was pleasantly surprised. It’s got some really solid songs on it, way more emotional depth and cool arrangements than I thought going in.
The vocals take a minute to get used to, but once you're in the groove, it works. A few tracks hit harder than others, but overall it's a well-put-together album with a good mix of moody, dramatic, and melodic moments. Definitely made me curious to check out more of Elbow’s stuff.
Favorite song: The Bones of You
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
4/5
The Chirping Crickets is pure rock 'n' roll history. It’s short, sweet, and packed with that early, innocent energy that helped shape everything that came after. Buddy Holly's voice is smooth, the songwriting is catchy, and the band keeps things tight without ever overdoing it.
Sure, by today’s standards some of it might feel a little dated, but there's a charm here that still works. Songs like "That’ll Be the Day" and "Not Fade Away" are classics for a reason.
RIP Buddy — gone way too soon, but left behind a debut that still holds up.
Sisters Of Mercy
2/5
I can get down with some Gothic Rock, but this just ain't it. Most of the album feels like it's stuck in slow motion — overly dramatic without much payoff. The mood is there, sure, but it kind of drags without delivering anything that really sticks.
That said, "Lucretia My Reflection" is a total banger. Great groove, cool vibe, and actually feels alive compared to the rest of the album. If the whole record had that energy, this would be a totally different review.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
2/5
Time Out is one of those albums that probably blew minds when it dropped — odd time signatures, cool jazz vibe, all that. But listening to it now? It just doesn’t hit the same. I can respect what the Dave Brubeck Quartet was going for, but in my opinion, it just hasn’t stood the test of time.
It feels more like background music than something that really grabs you. Technically solid, sure, but there’s not much here that makes me want to come back to it. Maybe it was groundbreaking in its day, but now it mostly just feels dated and kind of flat.
Miles Davis
3/5
This is one of those albums that you kind of have to be in the right mood for. It’s not a bad listen at all — smooth, spacey, and definitely doing something different from your typical jazz record.
For me, Side Two was the standout. The groove settles in better, the playing feels more connected, and it just flows in a way that pulled me in more than the first half did. There’s some real beauty in how minimal and patient the whole thing is.
Not something I’d throw on all the time, but a solid listen when you want something low-key and a little out there.
Bob Dylan
4/5
I didn’t really get into Bob Dylan until college, but Blonde on Blonde was one of the albums that pulled me in. It’s packed with the kind of clever, rambling, poetic songwriting that makes you want to dig deeper into his catalog.
“Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again” is a personal favorite — somehow over 10 minutes long but never feels it. The lyrics are sharp, the groove is great, and it just rolls. On the flip side, “Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands” definitely feels like a 12-minute song. Not bad, just a bit of a slow burn.
“Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” is a fun one — goofy, chaotic, and a perfect opener to set the tone. Overall, the album is weird, witty, and way ahead of its time. Not every track hits the same, but there’s more than enough here to understand why this record is such a big deal.
Favorite Song: Rainy Day Women #12 & 35
Alanis Morissette
4/5
Alanis Morissette completely dominated the 90's with this album. Even though it’s not really my type of music, I gotta admit, there’s no denying the talent here.
The songwriting is sharp, emotional, and brutally honest. She brought a raw edge to pop-rock that wasn’t really out there at the time, and you can hear the influence all over later artists. Tracks like “You Oughta Know” and “Ironic” are classics, but even the deeper cuts hit harder than you’d expect.
Favorite song: Head Over Feet
David Crosby
3/5
This one’s an interesting listen, but I’ve always preferred David Crosby when he was working with The Byrds or CSNY. His solo stuff has some great musicianship and a few cool moments, but a lot of it just kind of floats by without much sticking.
The whole album feels mellow and spacey, like you're hanging out in a studio with everyone high and seeing where the instruments take them. It sets a mood, sure, but not one I feel the need to revisit often. It's more of a vibe than a collection of songs I’d go back to.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
2/5
Once again, indie rock just isn’t for me. I gave this one a fair shot, but it mostly felt like noise with a trendy haircut. Karen O’s vocals bounce between cool and chaotic, but the songs just don’t land.
There’s an energy here, sure, but it’s the kind that makes me check how many songs are left. I get why it has a fanbase. It’s loud, raw, and edgy in that early 2000s way. Still, I’ll pass.
Chicago
3/5
This one's a bit all over the place. Some tracks hit hard with those horns and punchy rhythms. Others feel like the band forgot to end the song and just kept noodling around.
You can hear the prog rock influence, especially in the longer tracks. It’s not bad, but you need some patience. Luckily, the radio-friendly songs help break things up. They're tight, catchy, and show why Chicago got so big.
Favorite Song: I'm a Man
Least Favorite Song: Liberation
Sparks
1/5
I’m not exactly sure what I just listened but I can tell you it wasn’t good music. It’s like Sparks threw a bunch of ideas at the wall — falsetto vocals, glam rock riffs, weird theatrical flair — and somehow decided to keep all of them, even the bad ones.
The whole thing feels like a joke I wasn’t in on. The songs are all over the place, the vocals are borderline unbearable, and nothing sticks. It’s chaotic in a way that’s more annoying than interesting, like being trapped in a musical written by aliens trying to imitate Earth pop culture.
Cocteau Twins
1/5
This album sounds like someone locked a banshee in a cathedral and recorded her trying to remember the lyrics to a song she heard once in a dream. It’s like they handed a reverb pedal a record deal and said, “Go nuts.”
I don’t know what language the singer is using—maybe Elvish? Maybe baby talk? Either way, it’s not working. Every track blends together into a swirl of unintelligible wailing and echo-soaked guitar noodles. It's the musical equivalent of trying to read a foggy mirror.
I know some folks call this “ethereal.” I call it “unlistenable.” Just awful. No other way to describe it.
Jethro Tull
4/5
This one’s a fun ride. Aqualung manages to be heavy, weird, and somehow classy all at the same time. And let’s be honest, the flute absolutely steals the show. I didn’t know I needed more flute in my rock music until now, but here we are.
“Aqualung” and “Locomotive Breath” are the obvious bangers, but the slower, acoustic tracks add some nice balance too. It drags a little in places, but overall, it’s a great mix of grit and prog with a flair that only Jethro Tull could pull off.
Green Day
4/5
Dookie is stacked with pop-punk classics that still hold up decades later. Green Day really found their sweet spot here — catchy hooks, snotty vocals, and just enough angst to soundtrack a teenager slamming the bedroom door.
"Welcome to Paradise" might technically be a re-release, but it's still an all-time banger. "Basket Case" takes the top spot for me though — and not just because of the Roll Tide energy. If there’s a weak link, it’s probably “In The End,” which feels more filler than fire. Still, this album helped define a genre, and it earns its four stars easy.
Tom Waits
1/5
Rain Dogs was straight-up miserable to get through. I know Tom Waits has a cult following and people swear by this album, but honestly? I have no idea why. It sounds like a drunk pirate muttering nonsense over trash can percussion and broken accordions. The whole thing feels like it’s trying way too hard to be weird for the sake of being weird.
There’s no flow, no real melody to hang onto — just a mess of clanking sounds and gravelly rambling that made me feel like I was losing my mind. I kept hoping it would turn a corner or give me something to latch onto, but it never happened. Every track just made me more annoyed that I was still listening.
AC/DC
4/5
Highway to Hell is straight-up solid classic rock — no frills, no filler, just riffs and attitude. The title track is iconic for a reason, and Bon Scott’s vocals hit that perfect mix of grit and swagger. The whole album is loud, punchy, and built for blasting with the windows down.
It’s not as polished as Back in Black, but that’s kind of the point. This is raw, barroom rock at its best. AC/DC knew exactly what lane they were in, and they floored it.
Favorite song: If You Want Blood (You Got It)
4/5
Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water might be the most early-2000s album title ever, but man, Limp Bizkit delivered. Say what you want about Fred Durst and the band's image, but this album has bangers front to back. “Take a Look Around” is an all-timer — that Mission: Impossible riff hits hard every time.
People love to clown on Limp Bizkit, but if you actually listen, there’s a lot to like here. It’s loud, it’s dumb, it’s catchy — and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
Favorite song: Take A Look Around
Least Favorite Song: Hold On
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
Jack Takes the Floor was a nice change of pace from some of the heavier stuff I've been listening to. You can definitely hear how this kind of stripped-down folk could’ve influenced bands like Old Crow Medicine Show. It’s got that raw, rootsy vibe that feels genuine.
That said, it’s not something I’d throw on regularly — more of a once-in-a-while listen. Still, I’d take this over most of what passes for modern country any day.
Favorite Song - East Texas Talking Blues
Least Favorite song - Bed Bug Blues
The Auteurs
3/5
Never heard of The Auteurs before, so I went into New Wave with no expectations. The first couple of tracks didn’t do much for me, but things started to pick up around “American Guitars,” which had a solid hook. “Don’t Trust the Stars” is another standout, and the strings on “How Could I Be Wrong” add a nice touch of depth.
“Idiot Brother” gave off some definite Dylan vibes in the lyrics and delivery, which was a cool surprise. Overall, a mixed bag — some solid songs, a few forgettable ones, but not a bad listen for a band I knew nothing about.
Favorite Song: Early Years
Least Favorite song: Home Again
Guns N' Roses
5/5
Axl might be a dick but Appetite for Destruction is straight-up flawless. This isn’t just a great debut album; it’s one of the greatest rock albums ever recorded. It’s loud, dirty, unhinged, and absolutely bursting with energy from the first riff to the last scream. Guns N’ Roses sounded like a band with nothing to lose and everything to prove — and they proved it in 12 tracks.
“Welcome to the Jungle” is a masterclass in opening an album — explosive, menacing, and iconic. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” brought melody and vulnerability without losing any of the band’s grit, and “Paradise City” is a full-blown anthem that somehow gets better the louder you crank it. Then there’s “Nightrain” — a whiskey-soaked, riff-heavy banger that perfectly captures the band’s reckless charm and relentless drive.
Even the deep cuts go hard. “Mr. Brownstone,” “My Michelle,” “Rocket Queen” — there’s not a weak moment on the entire album. And let’s not forget Slash’s guitar work, which is nothing short of legendary throughout.
Axl may bring the drama, but he also brings the fire. Appetite for Destruction is pure, unfiltered rock and roll — dangerous, unpredictable, and absolutely essential.
Favorite song: Nighttrain
Aerosmith
4/5
I don’t dive into a lot of Aerosmith beyond the greatest hits and whatever blasts while I’m strapped into the Rockin’ Rollercoaster, but Rocks was a pleasant surprise. Gritty, loud, and packed with swagger, it’s got more to offer than just the radio singles.
Tracks like “Back in the Saddle” and “Last Child” still hit hard, and the whole album has that raw, bluesy edge that defined their early years. Bonus star just for being part of one of the best rides Disney ever put together. Fast, fun, and loud — just like this album.
Favorite song: Rats in the Cellar
Least Favorite song: Last Child
Sonic Youth
2/5
Sonic Youth’s Evol has its moments, but they’re buried under a heap of noise and art-school pretension. I get why Kurt Cobain liked them — they were edgy, weird, and doing something different — but different doesn’t always mean good.
There are a few catchy songs here that break through the fuzz, but the rest just sort of meanders aimlessly. It’s like they’re trying really hard to be avant-garde but forgot to bring the hooks. Not the worst thing I’ve ever heard, but nowhere near the hype.
Curtis Mayfield
5/5
I probably wouldn’t have listened to Superfly on my own — but I’m really glad I did. This album is really, really good. Curtis Mayfield’s talent as a songwriter and producer in the ’70s is undeniable, and Superfly is proof of just how prolific and ahead of his time he truly was.
There isn’t a single bad song on this album. Every track feels intentional, groove-heavy, and filled with purpose. “Freddie’s Dead” is an absolute banger — funky, haunting, and full of social commentary without ever losing its swagger. But the real standout for me was “Think.” It’s so different from anything else I’ve heard from Curtis — atmospheric, intense, and rhythmically gripping. It shows just how much range he had.
Superfly isn’t just a soundtrack — it’s a statement. It captures a moment, elevates it, and still sounds fresh and relevant today. Five stars, no hesitation.
Favorite song: Think
Lightning Bolt
1/5
Congratulations to Wonderful Rainbow for setting a new low bar. I didn’t think it was possible to make Rain Dogs and Bone Machine sound like masterpieces, but here we are. This isn’t music — it’s what I imagine a blender full of forks sounds like when you drop it down a flight of stairs.
If there was any artistic message buried in the feedback and noise, it got completely lost somewhere between my growing headache and the overwhelming urge to throw my speakers out the window. A truly wonderful waste of time.
Traffic
4/5
I went into Traffic not knowing a single thing about the band, but this one really caught me off guard — in a good way. It’s a solid psychedelic rock album from start to finish. Trippy melodies, some jazzy touches, and that late '60s vibe that never gets old.
Nothing felt too overdone, and even the weirder moments worked within the overall sound. Definitely one of those albums that makes you wonder why the band isn’t mentioned more in classic rock convos.
Favorite track: Pearly Queen
Genesis
4/5
Went into Selling England by the Pound completely blind — not really a Genesis fan — but I was pleasantly surprised. "I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)" was easily the standout for me. I’ve always been a sucker for when bands sneak sitar into Western rock, and it works really well here.
That said, “Battle of Epping Forest” lost me. It’s just too long to be doing all those goofy voices — felt like I was trapped in a Renaissance fair skit. Still, as far as prog rock goes, this album makes a pretty strong case for why Genesis is so highly regarded.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Born in the U.S.A. is peak Springsteen — stadium rock anthems, working-class grit, and more synthesizers than you'd expect from the Boss. A lot of his biggest songs are packed into this one album, and even if you're only casually familiar with his music, you'll probably recognize half the tracklist.
"Born in the U.S.A." stands out as a favorite — a protest song that somehow still gets played at cookouts like it's pure patriotism. Either way, it's a classic. This album may not be flawless, but it's iconic for a reason.
R.E.M.
3/5
Automatic for the People is one of those albums I want to like more than I actually do. I get why people love it — it’s moody, introspective, and full of emotion — but I’ve just never been able to get into R.E.M.
There are definitely some solid songs here, and I respect the craftsmanship, but it doesn’t do much for me personally. Just not my vibe.
Favorite Song: Man on the Moon
The xx
2/5
Ah yes, I See You — the perfect album if you enjoy whisper-singing over moody elevator music. Once again, The xx delivers their signature blend of emotional detachment and background noise.
If you've heard one xx song, you've pretty much heard them all. Still don’t like anything by this band, but hey — at least they’re consistent.
Pulp
4/5
Different Class is a big step up from This Is Hardcore. It’s got way more energy and better hooks all around. I liked several of the tracks — they’re catchy without being too polished, and Jarvis Cocker’s lyrics are clever in a weird, voyeuristic kind of way.
“I Spy” stood out in particular — felt very Pink Floyd-esque with its slow build and moody tension. Not something I expected from Pulp, but it totally worked. Overall, a solid Britpop album with some real high points.
Favorite Song: Common People
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Led Zeppelin IV is the band’s magnum opus — the perfect storm of power, precision, and musical ambition. From the very first snarling riff of “Black Dog,” this album goes hard, pulling no punches and wasting no time. It doesn’t even think about slowing down until the third track, and by then, you’re already all in.
For 20 years, “Black Dog” has been my personal favorite — a snarling, swaggering beast of a song with that iconic call-and-response between Robert Plant and Jimmy Page. It’s the ultimate opener, setting the tone for an album that doesn’t stick to one lane. Zeppelin stretches out across genres like it’s nothing — from the bluesy stomp of “Rock and Roll” to the mystical folk of “The Battle of Evermore,” the prog-leaning grandeur of “Stairway to Heaven,” and the backwoods groove of “Going to California.”
Every member is in peak form here — Page’s riffs, Bonham’s thunderous drumming, Jones’s subtle but essential textures, and Plant’s golden god vocals. IV is proof that Led Zeppelin could do it all — and do it better than anyone else.
It’s not just one of their best albums. It’s one of the greatest rock albums ever. A towering achievement that still sounds massive decades later.
Yes
3/5
I recognized "Roundabout" right away — that bassline and guitar work are iconic. Easily the standout track and probably the reason most people know the album. The rest of Fragile is kind of a journey, but not always one I wanted to take. It’s like they had a contest to see who could cram the most technical stuff into a single song.
Don’t get me wrong — the musicianship is next level. You can tell every member of Yes is insanely talented. But some of the tracks just feel like prog rock for prog rock’s sake
2Pac
3/5
No doubt 2Pac is one of the greatest to ever do it, but Me Against the World didn’t hit as hard for me as some of his other work. There’s a lot of introspection and emotional depth here, which I respect, but the overall vibe just didn’t stick with me like All Eyez on Me or Makaveli.
Still, tracks like “Dear Mama” are classics, and the album has its moments. It’s a solid record, just not my favorite in his discography.
Favorite song: Death Around The Corner
The Cure
3/5
Seventeen Seconds is moody, atmospheric, and a solid early entry into the goth rock scene—but if I’m being honest, I’ve always preferred The Smiths when it comes to gloomy British music. The Cure leans heavier into the brooding and minimalism here, which is fine, but a lot of the songs tend to blend together after a while.
There’s definitely a vibe, and tracks like “A Forest” stand out for a reason, but overall, it didn’t leave a huge impression. Not bad, just not my go-to when I’m in the mood for this genre.
Favorite song: Seventeen Seconds
Snoop Dogg
4/5
Doggystyle is peak early 90s West Coast rap. The production is smooth as hell—classic G-funk courtesy of Dr. Dre—and Snoop Dogg’s laid-back delivery just glides over every beat. It's the kind of album that sounds just as good cruising with the windows down today as it did in '93.
The skits sprinkled throughout the album are hilarious and somehow don’t feel like filler, which is rare. They actually help with the pacing and vibe. Tracks like “Gin and Juice,” “Who Am I (What’s My Name?),” and “Tha Shiznit” are obvious standouts, but even the deeper cuts stay strong. It’s a perfect mix of gritty storytelling, party tracks, and straight-up swagger.
This was Snoop at his hungriest and most creative.
Favorite song: Lodi Dodi
Small Faces
2/5
As a big fan of psychedelic rock, I thought I'd be all over Ogden's Nut Gone Flake—but nah. This one just didn’t hit for me. The concept is weird in a not-fun way, and the whole thing felt more gimmicky than groovy. That spoken-word fairy tale stuff in the second half? Borderline unbearable.
I get that the Small Faces were trying something different here, but it didn’t land. It has a few cool musical moments, but most of the time I felt like I was waiting for it to be over. One of the few psychedelic rock albums I don’t see myself revisiting.
Louis Prima
3/5
The Wildest! definitely lives up to its name—it’s all over the place in the best kind of way. Louis Prima’s chaotic energy and big band flair give it that old Vegas lounge feel, and for some reason, it instantly made me think of the Fallout game series. Maybe it's the retro, swingin’ vibe or the way it sounds like something blasting from a rusty radio in the post-apocalypse.
It’s fun, it’s loud, and it’s got personality. Not something I’d play all the time, but it was a good time while it lasted.
Favorite song: "Jump, Jive, an' Wail"
Brian Eno
2/5
Well, that was weird. Another Green World felt like the musical equivalent of staring at abstract art and wondering if you’re just not smart enough to get it.
That said, “Everything Merges With the Night” was actually really good—beautiful, even. If the rest of the album had followed that vibe, I might’ve enjoyed it more. Instead, most of it just sounded like background music for a sci-fi film where nothing happens.
Justin Timberlake
2/5
Here we go—early 2000s pop in full force. Justified feels more like a time capsule than a must-hear album. I’m honestly baffled as to why this made it onto any "albums to hear before you die" list unless it’s just to appreciate how far we've come.
I’ll give it some credit: “Nothin’ Else” has a nice little 60s soul vibe that actually worked. But then you’ve got “Never Again,” which lives up to its name—because I genuinely hope I never have to hear it again. Ever.
Metallica
5/5
If you're a Metallica fan, S&M is an absolute masterpiece — a perfect fusion of metal and orchestral grandeur that showcases the band at their most ambitious and, frankly, James at his vocal peak. His delivery throughout this live performance is powerful, controlled, and emotionally charged in a way that elevates the entire experience.
I still get chills listening to the opening with “Ecstasy of Gold” — it’s the perfect way to get pumped for any Metallica show. That buildup, that energy — it never gets old. It sets the stage like no other, and by the time the band kicks in with the orchestra behind them, it’s full-body goosebumps.
And then there’s “No Leaf Clover.” Hands down their best deep cut for a live show — and it’s not even close. The dynamic shift between clean verses and the explosive chorus, all layered with that cinematic orchestration, makes it one of the most unique and powerful tracks in their catalog. It’s a crime it doesn’t show up more in regular setlists.
I tried to go to S&M2 six years ago and couldn’t get tickets, and listening to this only deepens that regret. S&M isn’t just a live album — it’s a statement of how far metal can go when it’s pushed beyond its boundaries.
Favorite song: No Leaf Clover
The Flaming Lips
3/5
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots is... fine. It's quirky, weird, and sonically creative—but also very, very indie rock, which isn't exactly a selling point for me. The Flaming Lips definitely have a unique sound, and I can respect the ambition here, even if it’s not something I’d ever go out of my way to listen to again.
Points for originality and the occasional cool instrumental moment. But overall, it just reinforces that me and indie rock are not meant to be.
Tim Buckley
2/5
Goodbye and Hello sounds like what happens when mediocre folk music takes a wrong turn into a head shop and never comes back out. It's like someone said, “What if we combined the most pretentious parts of ‘60s poetry with the most chaotic parts of psychedelic experimentation?” and everyone else in the room just nodded instead of calling the police.
There’s talent here somewhere, buried under layers of overambitious arrangements and lyrical rambling. But mostly, it feels like you're stuck in a Renaissance Faire where everyone's really into incense and existential dread.
Steely Dan
4/5
Dennis Dias didn’t have to go that hard with the electric sitar solo on “Do It Again,” but he did—and honestly, we’re all better off because of it. Can’t Buy a Thrill kicks off strong and rarely lets up.
“Only a Fool Would Say That” was a surprise standout, and of course, “Reelin’ In The Years” is still an all-time banger with one of the best guitar solos of the '70s. Steely Dan really came out swinging with their debut—smooth, sharp, and way cooler than it has any right to be.
Favorite song: Reelin In The Years
James Brown
3/5
I’m not the biggest James Brown fan, but I’ve got to give credit where it’s due—his energy on Live at the Apollo is off the charts. The crowd’s hype, the band is tight, and James Brown clearly knew how to put on a show.
That said, it didn’t totally pull me in. The performance is impressive, but if you're not already a fan of his style, it might wear a little thin. Still, a historic live recording that helped shape soul and funk.
LL Cool J
3/5
I’m a fan of early 90s rap, and this album definitely brings that classic sound—with hard beats, battle-ready bars, and a confident delivery. But LL Cool J just isn’t really my guy.
“Mama Said Knock You Out” is a legendary track and still hits hard, but beyond that, most of the album didn’t leave a lasting impression. Solid for what it is, just not something I’d come back to often.
a-ha
3/5
Hunting High and Low is peak 80s synth-pop, for better or worse. "Take On Me" is obviously the standout, but thanks to Family Guy, it's impossible to take seriously anymore—and maybe that’s okay.
The first half of the album kind of dragged, aside from the iconic opener. But I was surprised by how much I liked the second half. It had more depth and atmosphere than I expected. Not something I’d listen to all the time, but definitely worth a spin for a dose of 80s nostalgia.
Favorite song: Take On Me
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Axis: Bold as Love is a dazzling, kaleidoscopic journey that proves Jimi Hendrix wasn’t just a guitar god — he was a visionary songwriter and sonic architect. Coming off the raw power of Are You Experienced, this album dives deeper into color, emotion, and imagination, showing Hendrix and the Experience expanding their sound in every direction without losing their edge.
“Spanish Castle Magic” kicks the door open with grinding riffs and a psychedelic swagger that grabs you instantly. “If 6 Was 9” is defiant and weird in the best way — Hendrix’s anthem for the outsiders, full of fuzzed-out rebellion and cosmic cool. “Castles Made of Sand” is one of his most poignant, poetic tracks — delicate, tragic, and deeply human, showing his storytelling at its most refined.
Then there’s “Bold as Love”, the perfect closer — a swirling, majestic finale that ends the album in a blaze of feedback and feeling. It’s Hendrix painting with sound, turning emotion into melody and distortion.
Axis: Bold as Love isn’t just about guitar fireworks — though there are plenty. It’s about mood, texture, and depth. A true masterpiece that proves Hendrix could do everything, and make it all sound effortless.
Favorite song: "Castles Made of Sand"
Ramones
5/5
The Ramones' debut album is a punch to the face in the best way possible. Fast, loud, and stripped down to the essentials, this is the record that kicked the door open for punk rock. No solos, no filler, no nonsense — just raw energy and attitude.
This was one of the bands that got me into punk, and this album still holds up as one of the genre’s blueprints. “Blitzkrieg Bop” is the anthem, no question — simple, catchy, and impossible not to shout along to. “Judy Is a Punk” flies by in under two minutes but leaves a lasting mark, and “I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend” shows they could slow it down and still keep it cool. Then there's “Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue” — pure chaos, pure punk, and somehow totally relatable in its own ridiculous way.
Favorite song: Blitzkrieg Bop
OutKast
5/5
There was a time when Southern rap ruled the radio, and Stankonia was the soundtrack. OutKast didn’t just drop hits — they changed the whole vibe of rap in the late 90s and early 2000s. This album is loud, weird, smart, and way ahead of its time. It’s peak OutKast, and it still sounds just as good now.
There are a bunch of guest features throughout the album, and every one of them fits right in. No one steals the spotlight from André 3000 and Big Boi, though. They’re both locked in, trading wild flows and clever lines like it’s effortless.
“Gasoline Dreams” kicks things off with a ton of energy. “Ms. Jackson” is the classic — emotional and catchy, and somehow still not overplayed. “So Fresh, So Clean” is pure cool, and “B.O.B.” is just insane. That beat is lightning fast and still gets me hyped. I used to jam out to it playing Mat Hoffman’s Pro BMX on my PlayStation, and it made both the song and the game even better.
Favorite song: BOB
Youssou N'Dour
2/5
I can appreciate the cultural importance of Immigrés and what Youssou N'Dour represents, but musically, this just didn’t do much for me. The rhythms were interesting at first, but the album quickly started to feel repetitive, and I found myself zoning out more than vibing.
Maybe it's one of those “you had to be there” albums—or at least understand the lyrics. I respect what he was trying to do, but overall, it didn’t connect with me.
Elliott Smith
2/5
Either/Or? More like Either/Nor. This album is like if someone whispered their feelings into a tin can and called it lo-fi brilliance. I get that Elliott Smith was going for raw and emotional, but somewhere between the barely-there vocals and the lullaby-level energy, I almost forgot I was listening to music and not the sound of someone sighing in the next room.
Sure, it’s introspective, but so is staring at a beige wall. Two stars because I respect sad guy guitar music in theory—but this one just bored me to tears.
Frank Black
3/5
I had no idea Frank Black was the lead singer of the Pixies, but knowing that now makes this album click a bit more. Teenager of the Year is packed with quirky lyrics, off-kilter melodies, and that signature rawness you'd expect from someone with Pixies roots.
There are definitely some solid moments scattered throughout, but it’s a long album and not everything lands. Some songs feel a bit like filler, while others are surprisingly catchy and fun. It’s worth a listen for fans of alt-rock weirdness, but it didn’t quite blow me away.
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
Everything Must Go isn’t a great album, but it’s not unlistenable either. It just feels like Steely Dan running on cruise control—clean, polished, but kind of forgettable. The jazz-rock fusion is still there, but the spark is a little dimmer than on their classic albums.
“Everything Must Go” as a concept sounds promising, but most of the tracks blur together. The one that stood out to me was “Australia”—catchier and with a bit more energy. Overall, it’s fine background music, but not one I’ll be coming back to often.
Favorite song: Australia
Sarah Vaughan
4/5
At Mr. Kelly’s is a great live showcase of Sarah Vaughan’s insane vocal talent. She sounds effortless up there—like she could sing the phone book and still make it swing. Her tone, phrasing, and control are just on another level.
It’s a stripped-down setting, but that only highlights how powerful and smooth her voice is. You get the sense that the audience knew they were witnessing something special. Easily one of the best live jazz vocal albums out there. Man, she was really talented.
Willie Nelson
4/5
Stardust is a great example of Willie Nelson doing what he does best—making any song his own. It’s pretty cool to hear his laid-back, soulful take on classic pop standards like “Georgia on My Mind” and “Blue Skies.” His phrasing and delivery are so relaxed it feels like he’s singing just for you on a porch somewhere with a glass of something strong in hand.
The arrangements are stripped down, but that’s part of the charm—nothing gets in the way of Willie’s voice or the emotion behind each lyric. It’s not your typical country record, but it works surprisingly well. You can tell this was a passion project, and it’s one of those albums that grows on you the more you listen. A solid, timeless listen front to back.
Beach House
2/5
Teen Dream was definitely an interesting listen, but it just wasn’t for me. The dreamy, atmospheric vibe is cool in small doses, but the whole album started to blend together after a while.
I can see why some people are into it—it’s well-produced and has a unique sound—but personally, it didn’t really grab me or make me want to come back for more. Just not my style.
Ministry
5/5
Psalm 69 is industrial metal at its absolute peak. Ministry found the perfect mix of heavy guitars, pounding drums, and mechanical chaos — and made it all work together. The sound is loud, aggressive, and completely in your face from the start.
“Jesus Built My Hot Rod” is pure madness in the best way. It’s fast, noisy, and full of wild energy. You can barely keep up — and that’s the point. Then there’s “Just One Fix,” which hits hard with a dark, pulsing groove and razor-sharp riffs. It’s heavy, it’s angry, and it doesn’t let up.
Every track on this album feels like it was made to push limits. The mix of metal and industrial noise is raw but controlled, and the energy never drops. This isn’t background music — it’s something you feel when you listen to it.
Favorite song: Just One Fix
The Who
3/5
Live at Leeds is often called the greatest live rock album of all time, and while I get why some fans feel that way, it just didn’t blow me away. The energy is raw, the playing is tight, and The Who definitely bring some fire to the stage. You can hear how much fun they’re having with the extended jams and the heavier, rougher versions of their studio tracks.
But for someone who isn’t a massive Who fan, it didn’t quite hit the same. It’s not bad by any means—it’s a solid live album with some standout moments—but overall, it just felt like a decent recording of a good show. Not quite legendary status in my book, but I can respect why it’s so highly regarded.
Bee Gees
4/5
Odessa is peak pre-disco Bee Gees—dramatic, orchestral, and full of ambitious songwriting. Before they were ruling the dance floor, they were crafting moody, baroque pop epics like this. The title track sets the tone with its haunting strings, and the rest of the album keeps that grand, melancholic vibe rolling.
It’s definitely a weird one, but in the best way. Proof that the Bee Gees were more than just falsettos and gold chains.
Favorite song: I Laugh In Your Face
Sam Cooke
4/5
Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963 is raw, electric, and full of soul. Sam Cooke didn’t just perform—he commanded the room. The energy in this set is miles away from his polished studio recordings, and that’s what makes it so good. The crowd is into it, Sam is giving it everything, and it’s clear he knew how to work a room.
RIP to one of the greatest voices in music history. This live album is a reminder of how powerful and dynamic he really was.
Favorite song: Nothing Can Change This Love
The Beach Boys
4/5
urf’s Up was a surprise for me—I didn’t recognize most of the songs going in, but I ended up really enjoying it. You can definitely hear the Pet Sounds influence in the arrangements and harmonies. It’s moody, reflective, and has that emotional depth that the Beach Boys started leaning into during their later years.
It’s not their best work overall, but tracks like “’Til I Die” and the title track really stood out. The album has a more mature, melancholic vibe than their early stuff, and I appreciated the shift. Definitely worth a listen if you're a fan of their more introspective era..
Favorite song: Student Demonstration Time
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) is raw, gritty, and iconic. Wu-Tang Clan really came in swinging and proved they were absolutely nothing to f*** with. The beats are dusty and menacing, the verses are sharp, and the personalities are larger than life. It’s like getting mugged by a group of lyrical ninjas in a Shaolin dojo—and honestly, you kind of enjoy it.
Standout tracks like “C.R.E.A.M.,” “Protect Ya Neck,” and “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta F’ Wit” are untouchable. RZA’s production is dark and stripped down, giving the MCs all the room they need to go off—and they do. Not every track hits equally, but when it does, it really does.
It’s chaotic, sometimes messy, but that’s part of the charm. A must-listen for any hip-hop fan, and a strong 4 stars for one of the most influential rap albums ever made.
Favorite song: Wu-Tang Clain Ain't Nuthing ta F' Wit
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2/5
This has beautiful harmonies, no doubt, but after a few tracks it just started to feel like I was stuck in the intro of The Lion King for 40 minutes. Peaceful? Sure. Memorable? Not really.
It’s not bad music—it just didn’t hold my attention. I appreciate the cultural importance, but it’s not something I’d revisit.
Songhoy Blues
4/5
I have no idea what they were saying on Music in Exile—but honestly, who cares when the music slaps this hard? The grooves are tight, the rhythm section is on point, and every track pulls you in whether you understand the lyrics or not.
It’s one of those albums that proves you don’t need to speak the language to feel the vibe. Great energy, great musicianship, and a sound that sticks with you.
Favorite song: Soubour
Fela Kuti
2/5
I get that Zombie is a culturally important album, and I respect Fela Kuti's influence—but this just wasn’t for me. The groove is there, sure, but the songs drag on forever with not a whole lot of variation.
If you're really into Afrobeat or political protest music, this might hit harder. But for a casual listener like me, it felt more like background noise than something I’d actively want to play again.
Madonna
3/5
Madonna’s Music didn’t do a whole lot for me, but I’ll give it credit where it’s due—“Runaway Lover” was a legit highlight. Maybe I’ve got a soft spot for early 2000s EDM vibes after all.
The rest of the album felt a bit dated, and not in a fun nostalgic way. More like a reminder of when auto-tune started taking over pop music and everyone thought it sounded futuristic. Not terrible, but not something I’d revisit often.
Justice
4/5
Cross by Justice was a fun surprise. After calling out an EDM track as my favorite yesterday, the algorithm must’ve read my mind and hit me with a full album of it. And honestly? Not mad about it.
This thing is loud, glitchy, funky, and somehow still smooth. Tracks like “D.A.N.C.E.” and “Genesis” are absolute standouts, and even the deeper cuts keep the energy going without feeling repetitive. It's like Daft Punk’s gritty little cousin rolled in neon. Good album all around.
Favorite song: Phantom
Arrested Development
3/5
3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days in the Life Of... has a chill, jazzy vibe that definitely reminds me of A Tribe Called Quest — just not quite as polished or memorable. The positive messages are cool, and there’s no denying Arrested Development had a unique sound when this came out. But overall, the album feels a little uneven and hasn’t aged as well as some of its early ‘90s hip hop peers. Still, a solid listen if you're into conscious rap with a laid-back flow.
That said, tracks like “Tennessee” and “Mr. Wendal” still hold up and offer a nice dose of nostalgia. It’s clear they were trying to do something different in a genre that was heading in a more aggressive direction, and I respect that. I just wish the rest of the album packed the same punch those standout songs did.
The Temptations
4/5
All Directions is a strong showing from The Temptations during their psychedelic soul phase. “Run Charlie Run” is catchy with a biting social commentary that still feels relevant, and their version of “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” is nothing short of legendary — the atmosphere, the groove, that iconic bassline. It’s a slow burn that totally pays off.
The rest of the album doesn’t quite hit the same highs, but there’s still plenty of solid material here. It’s a bold, experimental record that shows just how much The Temptations evolved from their earlier Motown days. Definitely worth a listen if you want to hear a group pushing their sound in new directions.
Favorite song: Papa Was a Rollin Stone
Nas
4/5
Illmatic goes hard for a debut album. Nas showed up with top-tier bars, killer flow, and production that still sounds great today. “N.Y. State of Mind” and “The World Is Yours” hit especially hard, and the whole thing is tight with no filler. It’s not something I play on repeat, but you gotta respect the craftsmanship. Solid 4 stars.
Favorite song: "The World Is Yours"
3/5
Classic Loretta Lynn — raw, bold, and not afraid to call it like she sees it. Her husband must’ve been a real piece of work, because the frustration and sass in these songs feel very personal. The title track is the clear standout, and while the rest of the album doesn’t quite reach the same level, it still packs plenty of attitude.
The Notorious B.I.G.
3/5
Ready to Die is a solid example of early '90s rap, and I get why it’s considered a classic. But personally, I’ve never been a huge Biggie fan. Some of the tracks hit hard, but the album as a whole just feels a little too long. The skits especially drag things down — they’re more distracting than entertaining. There are definitely some strong moments, but for me, it doesn’t quite live up to the hype from start to finish.
Favorite song: Big Poppa
Klaxons
4/5
Never heard of Klaxons before this, but Myths of the Near Future really surprised me. I went in totally blind and came out a fan. It’s chaotic in a good way — like a mix of indie rock, dance punk, and some weird cosmic energy. The whole thing has a raw, energetic vibe that keeps it interesting from start to finish. The songs bleed into each other with a kind of manic cohesion that somehow works. It’s not something I’d normally seek out, but I’m glad I gave it a shot — definitely a hidden gem.
Favorite song: Two Receivers.
Dion
3/5
I’ve always enjoyed Dion’s doo-wop era, so I was curious to hear Born to Be with You. It’s interesting that this one got rediscovered in the ’90s and picked up a cult following — probably more for its backstory than the music itself. For me, it was fine. Nothing particularly stood out, but it wasn’t bad either. Just kind of… there. I’ll bump it up a star out of respect for his earlier work and the fact that some of those older tracks found a second life in Fallout.
Favorite song: "Your Own Back Yard"
The Stooges
4/5
Raw, loud, and sloppy in all the right ways — The Stooges is one of the great progenitors of punk rock. Iggy Pop’s unhinged vocals and the band’s garage rock chaos laid the groundwork for a whole movement. "I Wanna Be Your Dog" is still an absolute beast of a track. It’s not polished, and that’s the whole point. This album didn’t care about being perfect — it just wanted to make noise and leave a mark. Mission accomplished.
Favorite song: I Wanna Be Your Dog
The Doors
4/5
Morrison Hotel is a return to form for The Doors. Jim Morrison might’ve been a wild card, but he was also one of the great songwriters of the 20th century, and it really shows here. The album leans more into blues rock, and the band sounds tighter and more grounded than on some of their previous work. “Roadhouse Blues” is a classic, and the rest of the album holds its own with gritty vocals, strong riffs, and that signature Doors vibe.
Favorite song: Roadhouse Blues
Beatles
4/5
With The Beatles isn’t my favorite Beatles album, but you can definitely hear them starting to come into their own. Their original songs are stronger here than on Please Please Me, and even the cover songs—though not what you'd call essential listening today—are still well done and full of energy. It’s a solid early effort that shows the band leveling up and hinting at what’s to come.
Ray Charles
3/5
Ray Charles is undeniably one of the greats, but The Genius of Ray Charles leans a little too hard into the Big Band sound for my taste. The arrangements feel a bit dated, and while his talent shines through, this earlier work doesn't quite hit the same as his later, more stripped-down stuff. It's got its moments, but overall, it’s not something I’d come back to often. More historical appreciation than personal enjoyment.
Favorite song: Let The Good Times Roll
MGMT
2/5
I saw "psychedelic pop" and thought I was in for something trippy and rock-influenced—maybe even a little mind-bending. Instead, Oracular Spectacular felt more like a synthy indie-pop mixtape with a few catchy hooks. I recognized "Time to Pretend" and "Electric Feel," but beyond that, it just didn’t hit. If you're expecting anything close to actual psychedelic rock, this isn’t it.
Happy Mondays
2/5
Well, Bummed sure is a fitting title — because that’s exactly how I felt after sitting through it. It’s like someone mashed up a bunch of half-baked ideas, added some chaotic energy, and said, “Good enough.” Most of the album sounds like a group of people arguing over what genre they're trying to be while tripping on something questionable. “Lazyitis” was the one moment I actually thought, Hey, maybe they know what they’re doing. But then it was right back to the mess.
Steely Dan
3/5
Aja is smooth, polished, and full of that signature Steely Dan precision — maybe too much of it. It’s technically impressive, no doubt, but it doesn’t hit the same for me as some of their other albums. That said, “Deacon Blues” is an absolute banger and easily the standout track here. The rest kind of blends together into a well-produced, jazz-tinged blur. Not bad, just not their best.
Kings of Leon
3/5
Only By The Night is peak late 2000s alt rock, for better or worse. Back then, you couldn’t escape “Sex On Fire” or “Use Somebody” — they were everywhere. Listening again now, it’s not terrible, just not really my thing. I’ve never been big on 2000s alt rock, and this album didn’t change that.
That said, the bass line on “Use Somebody” hits different in headphones — easily the highlight for me.
Favorite song: "Use Somebody"
OutKast
4/5
This is one of those albums that just keeps getting better the deeper you go — and honestly, some of the best tracks never even hit the radio. Everyone remembers “Hey Ya!” and “The Way You Move,” but it's the deeper cuts that really show how ahead of their time Outkast was.
The guest features are stacked: Jay-Z, Lil Jon, Ludacris — the early 2000s rap dream team — and each brings a different kind of energy that makes this double album feel like two unique worlds that somehow still work perfectly together. It even edges out Stankonia for me.
Favorite song: Church
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
Siembra kind of gave me flashbacks to playing the Tropico games — laid-back, tropical vibes with a political edge hiding underneath. The mix of salsa, funk, and commentary works well, and the musicianship is solid. It’s got a smooth, chill sound that makes for great background music, even if it didn’t completely blow me away. Definitely a cool listen, just not something I’d keep on heavy rotation.
Machito
2/5
If Siembra is a party, Kenya is the awkward cousin standing in the corner trying to groove but missing the beat. Sure, the musicians can play, but the whole thing feels flat and lifeless. It’s like they followed a recipe and still somehow made it bland. Not the worst thing I’ve ever heard, but I wouldn’t put it on again unless someone dared me.
Pixies
4/5
Doolittle is a solid album and you can definitely hear how much it influenced Nirvana and a ton of other '90s alternative bands. It's chaotic in the best way—loud, weird, catchy, and full of energy. The quiet-loud-quiet dynamic the Pixies leaned into helped define a generation of rock music.
Songs like “Debaser” and “Monkey Gone to Heaven” are standouts, but even the deeper cuts have their charm. Not every track is a hit, but the album’s raw edge and offbeat personality keep it interesting all the way through.
Favorite song: Wave of Mutilation
Bob Dylan
4/5
Blood on the Tracks is one of the better Dylan albums I've listened to—and I say that as someone who already considers himself a Dylan fan. I knew a handful of the songs going in, but this was my first time hearing the full album start to finish. It’s raw, emotional, and lyrically sharp in that classic Dylan way. There’s a depth here that sticks with you, and even the songs I hadn’t heard before hit hard. Solid listen all the way through.
Favorite Song: Idiot Wind
Keith Jarrett
2/5
The Köln Concert might be legendary in jazz circles, but to me it just sounded like any other piano recital. Sure, it’s technically impressive and has its moments, but overall, it was just decent background music. Nothing I’d actively throw on or revisit. I get why some people love it, but it didn’t do much for me beyond filling the silence.
Grizzly Bear
2/5
I found this pretty boring. It kind of just drifted by without anything really grabbing me. The production is clean and the harmonies are nice, but the songs all sort of blended together into one long, sleepy listen. Maybe it’s meant to be more of a mood album, but for me, it just didn’t leave much of an impression.
Tracy Chapman
4/5
Tracy Chapman’s debut album is a powerful mix of soul, folk, and social commentary. Her alto voice is warm and steady — the kind of voice that instantly pulls you in. I grew up hearing “Fast Car” constantly on the radio, and even though it’s the big hit, the rest of the album proves she’s far from a one-song wonder.
“Behind the Wall” is a chilling a cappella track that still gives me goosebumps, and “Why?” keeps that thread of activism going with some biting questions about injustice. There are several really strong songs here, both musically and lyrically. It’s a thoughtful, emotional album that holds up decades later.
Favorite song: "Fast Car"
The Mars Volta
3/5
De-Loused in the Comatorium is... fine, I guess. For all the hype it gets, it mostly just sounds like another early 2000s alt-rock album with some extra weirdness thrown in for effect. It’s not bad — there are moments of interesting musicianship and atmosphere — but it didn’t really grab me or leave much of a lasting impression. Definitely not the mind-blowing experience some fans make it out to be. Just kinda meh.
The Darkness
5/5
Permission to Land is a loud, fun, and totally over-the-top rock album. I remember when “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” was everywhere, but I never paid attention to who the band was. This was my first time hearing The Darkness — and now I’m wondering what took me so long.
The hit single is great, but honestly, it’s not even the third or fourth best song here. This whole album is packed with high-energy rock that sounds like it came straight out of the ’80s — and I mean that in the best way. You can hear the Brian May and Angus Young influence in the guitars, and the singer’s voice is wild — powerful and full of range, just like the best glam rock frontmen.
My favorite song is “Givin’ Up.” It’s got killer riffs, a catchy chorus, and the kind of energy that makes you want to play it on repeat. From start to finish, the album is just fun. No filler, no slow parts — just pure rock and roll.
David Bowie
2/5
I know Bowie is considered one of the all-time greats, but Young Americans just didn’t do it for me. I can respect the shift into “plastic soul” and how experimental this was for him, but most of it felt flat. “Fame” is alright — probably the only track I’d revisit — but the rest just kind of blends together in a way that didn’t stick. And I have to dock a star for his version of “Across the Universe.” Some things are better left untouched, and that cover didn’t do Lennon/McCartney any favors.
Antony and the Johnsons
1/5
This album is as dumb as the singer's fake female alto.
It's like an overlong experimental art piece that forgot to include the "music" part. The songs dragged, the pacing was all over the place, and the whole thing felt like it was trying way too hard to be profound.
The lone bright spots? “What Can I Do?” and “Spiralling” — and let’s be honest, that’s entirely thanks to Rufus Wainwright and Devendra Banhart showing up to briefly salvage the mess.
SZA
4/5
Didn’t really give SZA a shot until recently, but CTRL changed that. Her vocals are smooth, emotional, and totally unique. For a debut album, this is seriously impressive—especially with standout features like Travis Scott and Kendrick Lamar adding extra fire. The production is clean, the vibe is consistent, and she balances vulnerability and confidence effortlessly. Solid listen from start to finish.
Favorite song: "Doves In The Wind"
Depeche Mode
4/5
Music for the Masses is peak '80s in the best way. Synth-heavy, moody, and dramatic without feeling overdone. Depeche Mode really found their groove here—way more compelling than that a-ha album I suffered through last month. Standouts like “Strangelove” and “Never Let Me Down Again” still hold up today. It’s dark, danceable, and deserves the praise.
Favorite Song: "Behind The Wheel"
Cat Stevens
3/5
Tea for the Tillerman is… fine. Not bad, not great. Just a solid “meh” from start to finish. Cat Stevens has a nice voice and there’s some solid songwriting here, but nothing really grabbed me or made me want to hit repeat. It's one of those albums that’s easy to listen to but even easier to forget
Favorite song: "Father and Son"
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
1/5
Ghosteen is a snoozefest of epic proportions. It’s like Nick Cave set out to make a more depressing, slower, and somehow less engaging version of Leonard Cohen’s You Want It Darker — and totally missed the mark.
The whole thing just drags on in a haze of whispery musings and ambient filler. Good thing I was mowing the lawn while listening or I’d have passed out. Easily one of the most lifeless albums I’ve sat through.
Devendra Banhart
1/5
Two days in a row of albums that make watching paint dry feel thrilling. Rejoicing in the Hands was a snoozefest from start to finish. Whispery vocals, meandering melodies, and absolutely zero moments that made me want to hit replay — or even keep listening.
If this is what rejoicing sounds like, I’d rather sit in silence. Hard pass.
Elvis Presley
2/5
Elvis might be the King of Rock and Roll, but let’s be honest — he was more of a singles guy than an album artist. This debut has its moments, sure, but most of it doesn’t hold up all that well today.
That said, “Tutti Frutti” and “Blue Suede Shoes” still pack a punch, and his version of “Blue Moon” is surprisingly solid. Credit where it’s due — he helped bring Black music to a wider (and whiter) audience, even if that’s a complicated legacy.
At the time, this might’ve been groundbreaking. Now, it’s mostly a history lesson
Everything But The Girl
4/5
Went into Idlewild expecting more synth-pop and was fully braced for disappointment — so being pleasantly surprised definitely helped boost this one.
Tracey Thorn’s voice is a real standout, and Ben Watt’s guitar playing had this warm, melodic quality that honestly reminded me a bit of George Harrison’s 1979 solo work. “Apron Strings” hit me hard — not just emotionally, but musically too. That acoustic line gave me “In My Life” vibes in the best way.
Not likely an album that I'd listen to again save for a few songs but I'm still going to give it 4 stars instead of 3.
Kings of Leon
2/5
Still not a Kings of Leon fan after Aha Shake Heartbreak. Most of it just felt like run-of-the-mill early 2000s alt rock — nothing that really stood out or made me want to revisit it.
The lone bright spot was “The Bucket,” which actually had a solid hook and some energy. Other than that, it kind of blurred together.
The lone bright spot was "Bucket"
Eagles
4/5
The Dude may hate the Eagles, but their debut album is actually pretty good. “Take It Easy” is an all-time banger and a hell of a way to kick things off — just pure good vibes and great harmonies.
The first half of the album is super solid, though it does taper off a bit on the back end. Still, “Chug All Night” was a nice surprise I hadn’t heard before and ended up really liking it. All in all, not a perfect album, but a strong debut and a good listen front to back.
Favorite Song: "Take It Easy"
Rush
4/5
Today I learned that basically every Rush song I know is on Moving Pictures. “Tom Sawyer,” “Limelight,” “YYZ” — all bangers, all on the same album.
This one’s packed with tight musicianship, weird time signatures, and just enough nerdy charm to make it work. I’m not the world’s biggest Rush fan, but even I have to admit this album slaps.
Favorite song: “Red Barchetta”
Ali Farka Touré
2/5
Talking Timbuktu didn’t do much for me overall — kind of boring, to be honest. That said, it did make for a pretty relaxing soundtrack on a long road trip.
It’s chill background music, but not something I’d actively choose to listen to again.
The Byrds
4/5
I’ve always been a fan of The Byrds, but Younger Than Yesterday wasn’t one I was super familiar with outside of “My Back Pages.” That said, it’s a solid album that shows the band branching out a bit.
Chris Hillman really steps up here with multiple writing credits, and you can start to hear the early seeds of what would become the Flying Burrito Brothers. The country-rock influence is creeping in, blending nicely with their signature jangle-pop and psychedelic touches. It might not be their most iconic record, but it’s a strong, underrated piece of the Byrds’ evolution.
Favorite Song: "So You Want To Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star"
Supertramp
3/5
Crime of the Century sounds like your standard issue 70s rock album — well-produced, decent musicianship, but nothing that really jumps out or sticks with you.
It’s not bad by any means, just kind of... there. If you’re a big Supertramp fan, I’m sure it hits differently, but for me, it just blended in with a lot of other albums from the era.
ZZ Top
3/5
There was a time when I was all about some ZZ Top — but that time has come and gone. Eliminator definitely has a few catchy tracks and some iconic synth-guitar grooves, but nothing on here really hits “great” status for me anymore.
It’s fun in a nostalgic, radio-hit kind of way, but not something I find myself going back to often.
Favorite song: "Sharp Dressed Man"
Oasis
4/5
Oasis was everywhere when I was younger, but I didn’t really get into them until the past couple of years — and Definitely Maybe was a great place to start. For a debut album, it’s solid from front to back.
The Gallagher brothers were clearly onto something early on — full of swagger, hooks, and that raw Britpop energy. You can feel the attitude in every track, and honestly, it holds up really well.
Favorite song: "Cigarettes & Alcohol"
The Pogues
2/5
This is an album that swings between brilliance and chaos, often landing in the latter. While the band’s signature fusion of Irish folk and punk energy is still intact, much of the album feels uneven and unfocused. Shane MacGowan's slurred delivery, while charming in doses, wears thin across an album that lacks the cohesion or spark of their earlier work.
The production can be muddy, the pacing erratic, and too many tracks feel like filler rather than folk-punk fire. That said, "Fairytale of New York" is the clear standout — a bittersweet, beautifully messy duet that captures everything the band is capable of when they hit the mark. Unfortunately, it’s the rare gem in a collection that otherwise struggles to leave a lasting impression.
Favorite song: Fairytale of New York"
Deep Purple
4/5
I do enjoy some Deep Purple, but their self-titled debut isn’t quite on the same level as what came later. That said, it’s still a solid listen, especially when you remember it’s their first crack at it.
You can hear the pieces starting to come together — the organ-heavy sound, the mix of hard rock and psych — but it doesn’t hit as hard as Machine Head or In Rock. Still, it’s got charm, some cool moments, and the foundation of a band that would go on to be legends.
Favorite song: "Flight of the Rat"
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
Actually by the Pet Shop Boys is a synth-pop slog. "What Have I Done To Deserve This?" is what everyone is asking after they have to listen to this album.
There’s not really a standout track to save it. Everything blends into one long, overly polished, emotionally flat ride through the most sterile parts of the ‘80s. It’s background music for a scene in a movie you forgot you watched.
Isaac Hayes
1/5
Look, I get that Shaft is iconic as a movie — but having the soundtrack show up on an all-time albums list feels like a stretch. Aside from the theme song (which is admittedly catchy in a kitschy way), the rest plays out like background music you'd hear in an elevator that thinks it’s cooler than it is.
It’s fine if you’re throwing a 70s-themed party, but for everyday listening? Hard pass.
Coldplay
3/5
Parachutes is a solid, if somewhat sleepy, debut from Coldplay. The first half of the album takes its time finding momentum — with the notable exception of "Shiver," which injects some much-needed urgency early on. Chris Martin's vocals are emotive, but several of the early tracks blur together in a haze of acoustic melancholy.
Things pick up considerably around "Yellow," where the band starts to show more range and confidence. From that point forward, the album builds a more compelling atmosphere, with stronger melodies and better dynamics. "High Speed" stands out as a personal favorite — a moody, understated track that hints at the more layered, ambient direction they'd explore in later albums.
Overall, Parachutes is an uneven but promising introduction, better remembered for its highlights than its cohesion.
Favorite song: "High Speed"
The Only Ones
3/5
The Only Ones’ self-titled debut walks a fine line between punk attitude and classic rock sensibility — a blend that probably felt fresh and adventurous when it dropped in 1978. In hindsight, it doesn’t hit quite as hard as some of its punk contemporaries. The band leaned more into melody and musicianship than raw energy or rebellion, which gives the album a unique identity, but also makes it feel slightly out of step with the genre’s most defining moments.
"Another Girl, Another Planet" is easily the standout — a near-perfect power pop track that still holds up decades later. It’s punchy, romantic, and effortlessly cool. The closer, "As My Wife Says," also lands well, giving the album a thoughtful, almost cinematic finish. The rest of the tracklist, however, struggles to match those peaks. It's not a bad record — just one that feels more like a time capsule than a timeless statement.
Favorite Song: "Another Girl, Another Planet"
John Grant
4/5
I went in with low expectations and came out floored by John Grant’s honesty, wit, and the sheer variety of styles he pulls off. The album walks a fine line between emotional devastation and sharp, often hilarious storytelling — and it does so with grace.
The lyrics are eclectic, deeply personal, and at times completely unfiltered, bringing to mind the fearless songwriting of Sufjan Stevens. Nowhere is that more clear than on “Sigourney Weaver,” a surreal, oddly touching track that blends sci-fi and self-doubt with ease. “Where Dreams Go to Die” is heartbreaking and cinematic, “Jesus Hates Faggots” is gut-punch blunt in the best way, and the title track, “Queen of Denmark,” is a towering, sarcastic anthem of rejection and defiance.
The album’s genre-hopping — from lush ballads to synthy weirdness — might not be for everyone, but it works. Grant’s voice, both literal and lyrical, holds it all together. This is one of those records that earns your attention and rewards it over time.
Hawkwind
3/5
Space Ritual is a wild, swirling dive into cosmic chaos — part live album, part spaced-out fever dream. When it works, it really works. Tracks like “Brainstorm,” “Time We Left This World Today,” and “Master of the Universe” tap into a heavy, hypnotic groove that feels like the soundtrack to a sci-fi trip gone sideways. The energy is raw, the ambition is huge, and the atmosphere is thick with fuzz and phasers.
But then there are the moments that pull you right out of the experience. The vocals, at times, veer into full Dr. Frank-N-Furter territory — theatrical, campy, and unintentionally hilarious. Some of the interludes and spoken-word bits sound less like serious space rock and more like a glam metal parody on a sketch comedy show.
There’s something admirable about how far Hawkwind leans into the madness, but it’s a double-edged sword. Space Ritual is a fascinating listen, but not always for the reasons it intends. Great in doses, exhausting in others.
Favorite song: Master Of The Universe
John Coltrane
3/5
A Love Supreme is clearly the work of a brilliant musician at the height of his creative powers. John Coltrane’s technical mastery and emotional intensity shine throughout the album, and there’s no denying the spiritual weight behind the performance. It’s ambitious, deeply personal, and influential — a cornerstone of jazz history.
That said, while the musicianship is top-tier, the album doesn’t fully hold up for casual listening. The entirely instrumental format, though impressive, lacks the variety or accessibility that makes some other classic records stand the test of time a bit more easily. For those already invested in jazz, it’s a rewarding experience. But for others, it can feel distant — more of an intellectual achievement than something you’d return to often.
A Love Supreme deserves respect for what it is, but it may not resonate as deeply across all listeners or generations
The Jesus And Mary Chain
2/5
Psychocandy is often praised for its influence and boldness, but as a listening experience, it’s a tough sell. The album buries its pop sensibilities under a relentless wall of distortion, feedback, and static — what the band likely saw as avant-garde now feels more like self-sabotage.
Songs are drenched in noise to the point where melodies struggle to breathe. It’s like trying to enjoy a great song through an AM radio station that’s just out of range — you think there’s something good underneath, but the interference wears you down. The combination of sweet vocal lines with ear-piercing feedback is jarring, and not always in an interesting way.
Credit where it’s due: they were doing something different. But different doesn’t always mean enjoyable. This might be a landmark in noise-pop, but that doesn’t make it easy — or pleasant — to sit through.
Ice Cube
4/5
The Predator is Ice Cube at his sharpest — politically charged, aggressive, and lyrically fearless. Dropping in the wake of the L.A. riots, this album doesn’t pull any punches. It’s intense, angry, and still incredibly relevant. Ice Cube uses his voice as both a weapon and a warning, delivering some of the most potent verses of his career.
Standouts like “When Will They Shoot” and “Now I Gotta Wet Cha” hit hard with gritty production and focused rage, showing Cube’s ability to balance street realism with razor-sharp commentary. “It Was a Good Day” is the album’s most iconic track — smooth, reflective, and a rare moment of calm in an otherwise hard-edged record. “Say Hi to the Bad Guy” closes things out with a defiant swagger, cementing Cube’s image as hip-hop’s unapologetic antihero.
While a few tracks don’t quite hit the same mark, The Predator holds up as one of Ice Cube’s strongest solo efforts — a powerful mix of storytelling, social critique, and West Coast attitude. A must-listen for anyone serious about ‘90s hip-hop.
Favorite Track: "It Was a Good Day"
Beatles
4/5
A Hard Day’s Night isn’t The Beatles at their absolute best — but it’s the sound of them getting there fast. Their third album, and the first to feature only original songs, marks a major step forward in their songwriting and confidence. The band was starting to evolve past their early pop roots, and you can hear the ambition beginning to take shape.
The title track explodes out of the gate with one of the most iconic opening chords in rock history — a sonic announcement that this is a band leveling up. “If I Fell” is a standout ballad, tender and beautifully crafted, with that trademark Lennon/McCartney harmony melting perfectly in the chorus. “Tell Me Why” brings energy and urgency, while “And I Love Her” is a soft, heartfelt moment that shows McCartney’s melodic gifts were already in full bloom.
It’s not their deepest or most adventurous work, but A Hard Day’s Night captures The Beatles on the rise — sharper, more cohesive, and ready to change the world.
Primal Scream
3/5
Vanishing Point is a moody, genre-blending trip from Primal Scream that never quite finds its destination. It’s atmospheric, dubby, and drenched in reverb — more about vibe than structure, and often more interested in texture than hooks. There’s ambition here, and plenty of cool moments, but the album sometimes drifts too far into its own haze to fully connect.
Tracks slide between trip-hop, dub, and psych-rock, with varying success. Some songs feel sharp and immersive, while others lose momentum in long stretches of mood without much payoff. It's a bold step forward from Give Out But Don’t Give Up, but not as immediate or iconic as Screamadelica.
Overall, Vanishing Point is interesting, often compelling, but not always memorable. A good headphone album for a specific mood, but not one you’ll be reaching for every time.
Donald Fagen
2/5
This feels like a watered-down, overly polished version of Steely Dan — all the slick production, none of the edge. If you’re a Steely Dan fan and thought, “What if this sounded cheesier and less interesting?” — well, this is the album for you.
The whole thing is soaked in that unmistakable early ’80s gloss: synthetic drums, clean-as-a-whistle horns, and a general vibe that sounds like the background music in a corporate training video. The musicianship is solid — it is Donald Fagen, after all — but the soul just isn't there.
That said, the title track is legitimately great. It's the one moment where the smooth production actually works in the album's favor — nostalgic, well-written, and atmospheric in all the right ways. But aside from that, most of the album blurs together in a sea of sterile grooves and elevator-funk.
If you're here for Steely Dan’s sharp wit and gritty cool, The Nightfly will leave you wanting. Two stars for effort and one standout track
CHIC
2/5
This might be a classic in some circles, but for me, it’s a tough listen. If you enjoy hearing the same phrases repeated over and over for four minutes straight — long before EDM made that kind of repetition feel cool — then this might be your thing. But for anyone looking for variety or depth, this album wears out its welcome fast.
Most tracks feel like extended loops with very little payoff, and the vocals often come off as background noise rather than anything truly engaging. It’s glossy, danceable, and polished, but it all starts to blur together pretty quickly.
The one real highlight is “Savoir Faire” — a smooth instrumental that lets Nile Rodgers’ guitar work shine.
Blur
2/5
I once read that you're either an Oasis person or a Blur person — and after listening to Parklife, I can say without a doubt I'm firmly in the Oasis camp. Always have been, still am. There's just no comparison.
Parklife feels all over the place. It's quirky, sure, and I get why people say it's clever, but most of the time it just comes off as smug and trying too hard to be artsy. The songs bounce between styles without much cohesion, and while there's some catchy stuff here and there, nothing really sticks with me.
If I had heard this back in 1994 or 1995, I'd have shrugged and gone right back to Definitely Maybe. Blur might have been critical darlings, but Oasis had the soul, the swagger, and the songs that hit you in the chest
Fatboy Slim
4/5
You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby is just a fun album, plain and simple. It’s not something I’d throw on for deep, focused listening, but as background music? It’s perfect. It keeps the energy up without getting in the way — great for driving, cleaning, or just vibing out.
“Rockafeller Skank” is still a total banger and basically impossible not to nod along to. “Praise You” has that weird charm that sticks with you, and “Kalifornia” brings a nice groove with some grit. The whole album’s got that late-90s big beat thing going strong, and Fatboy Slim knows exactly what he’s doing behind the boards.
Some of the tracks can blur together a bit, but honestly, that’s part of the charm; It’s not trying to be overly serious.
Favorite song: Kalifornia
Boston
5/5
Boston’s debut album is straight-up one of the best first albums a band has ever dropped. It’s packed with hits, and honestly, every single track is solid. It doesn’t feel like a debut — it feels like a band already at their peak.
Everyone knows “More Than a Feeling,” and yeah, it still rules. But “Smokin’” might be the most fun track on the whole album. That organ solo? Absolute fire. It gives the song this cool, old-school vibe that just rips.
Tom Scholz’s guitar tone is instantly recognizable, and Brad Delp’s vocals are insanely good from top to bottom. The whole thing is clean, tight, and somehow still sounds huge after all these years.
Favorite song - Smokin
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Rumours is one of those rare albums where the music is just as legendary as the drama behind it. Fleetwood Mac was falling apart while making this thing — cheating, breakups, shouting matches — total chaos. And somehow, out of all that personal wreckage, they put together a near-perfect record.
It should have been a lesson for John McVie and Lindsey Buckingham not to shit where they eat… but hey, it worked out for them. The tension, the heartbreak, the spite — it's all baked into the songs, and that's exactly what makes the album hit so hard.
“Secondhand News” kicks it off with a jolt of energy and bitterness. “Go Your Own Way” is a breakup anthem that somehow sounds both sad and stadium-sized. And “You Make Loving Fun” is smooth, joyful, and dripping with irony given everything going on behind the scenes.
Every track is tight, emotionally raw, and endlessly replayable. Rumours is messy in the best way.
Favorite song: Go Your Own Way
Dolly Parton
2/5
Look, I’ve got nothing but respect for Dolly Parton. She’s insanely talented, sharp as hell, and probably one of the most generous people on the planet. But when it comes to Coat of Many Colors, the music just hasn’t aged all that well.
Yeah, the title track is heartfelt and personal, and I get why it’s important in her catalog. But a lot of the rest of the album feels dated — super simple arrangements, old-school country storytelling that doesn’t quite land the same way today. It’s more charming than compelling, and after a few songs, it kind of blurs together.
Dolly’s voice is great, and you can tell she was already a strong songwriter, but as an album, this one’s more of a time capsule than something I’d go back to often.
Napalm Death
1/5
I love metal. I love old-school punk. And I especially love the anti-establishment, middle-finger-to-the-system attitude that came with early punk. I can respect what Napalm Death was trying to do with Scum — pushing boundaries, pioneering grindcore, doing something nobody else was doing at the time. But man... this album just sounds like straight-up noise.
The songs are so fast and chaotic they barely register before they're over, and when they do stick around for more than 30 seconds, it’s just a wall of blast beats, distortion, and guttural shouting that never lets up.
I tried to give it a fair shot, but even my eight-year-old asked, “Why are we listening to dogs barking?” And honestly, I didn’t have a good answer.
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
2/5
Music from the Penguin Cafe feels like the kind of album that exists mainly to be used in quirky radio intros or as background music for a BBC nature doc. And apparently, that’s kind of their thing — odd, artsy, slightly off-center instrumentals. Which is fine… for what it is.
There are bits and pieces that are kind of catchy or interesting, but nothing that really sticks. It all just kind of floats by. Harmless, a little charming at times, but not something I’d ever throw on again.
If you’re into music that sounds like it should be playing while someone explains how a hedgehog hibernates, this might be for you.
The Who
4/5
When you think of The Who, it’s hard not to bring up The Beatles and The Stones in the same breath. They were all part of that same British Invasion wave, but each went in their own direction. At the time My Generation dropped, The Beatles were already veering toward psychedelia, and The Stones were still doing mostly covers with a few originals sprinkled in. Looking back, I’d still rank The Who third behind those two, but what they were doing with this debut was bold and seriously influential.
The title track, “My Generation,” has aged into a full-on anthem — raw, rebellious, and way ahead of its time. “The Kids Are Alright” shows a more melodic side, with that jangly 12-string Rickenbacker that sounds a lot like what The Byrds would be doing just a few months later on the other side of the Atlantic. And then you’ve got a handful of tracks that are bursting with early punk energy — rough, fast, and not afraid to get a little messy.
Meat Loaf
4/5
With a name like Meat Loaf, you kind of know you’re in for something a little over-the-top — and Bat Out of Hell definitely delivers. It’s theatrical, bombastic, and totally not afraid to lean into the drama, but that’s what makes it so fun. You get the sense that Meat Loaf didn’t take himself too seriously, and honestly, the album’s better for it.
The title track is a great opener — epic in every sense of the word. “You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth” is super catchy and hard not to sing along with, and “All Revved Up with No Place to Go” throws in a sax solo that gives it a cool, unexpected twist.
It’s a weird mix of rock, Broadway, and straight-up camp, but it works.
Favorite song: Bat Out of Hell
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
Beyond Skin was just… weird. I went in not knowing much and came out kind of confused. It jumps between so many styles and sounds that it’s hard to get a feel for what the album is even trying to be. There are moments that almost click, but then it veers off into something totally different and loses me again.
The Prodigy
4/5
The Fat of the Land sounds like pure, peak '90s electronica — loud, aggressive, and totally unapologetic. It captures that chaotic energy of the era with pounding beats and distorted vocals, and somehow it all works.
One of the things I liked most was how the songs flow into each other. It’s not just a bunch of singles thrown together — the whole album feels connected, kind of like what Pink Floyd did with The Wall or Dark Side of the Moon. Obviously a different genre, but the same idea: a full experience from start to finish.
Favorite song: Fuel My Fire
Carpenters
3/5
Close to You is a solid album, even if it’s not totally my thing. Karen Carpenter’s voice is undeniable — super smooth and full of emotion — but most of the music just doesn’t hit for me personally. A little too soft and polished for my usual taste.
That said, I’ve got to give her props for the covers. Their versions of “Help” and “Reason to Believe” were both really well done — honestly, I think they pulled off the latter better than Rod Stewart did, which I wasn’t expecting.
Animal Collective
3/5
Merriweather Post Pavilion falls squarely in the “not great, not bad” category for me. It’s got a unique sound for sure — very layered and trippy — but it didn’t really blow me away. That said, there were definitely a few tracks I liked.
“Lion in a Coma” had a cool groove to it, and “Brother Sport” brought some solid energy to the back half of the album. Those two stood out the most and gave the record a much-needed boost.
Also, shoutout to the album cover — that optical illusion look is pretty wild and definitely one of the more memorable visuals I’ve seen on an album in a while.
Favorite song: Lion in a Coma
Garbage
3/5
Garbage’s self-titled album is a solid slice of classic '90s alternative. I didn’t hate it at all — in fact, that gritty, moody sound brought back some serious nostalgia. It just didn’t do quite enough to make me want to come back for another listen.
I definitely recognized “Only Happy When It Rains” and “Stupid Girl” from back in the day — they still hold up and were the clear highlights for me. The rest of the album had its moments but kind of blended together after a while.
If you're into that era and sound, it’s worth a listen.
Iron Butterfly
4/5
As a big fan of psychedelic rock, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida hits the spot. It’s got all the fuzzy guitars, swirling organ, and trippy vibes you could want — basically a time machine to 1968.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the title track. Yeah, it’s over 17 minutes long. And yeah, some people in the reviews are probably going to complain about that. But those people are wrong. It’s a straight-up banger — hypnotic, heavy, and worth every second. That drum solo alone earns it a spot in the psych-rock hall of fame.
The rest of the album is solid too, but let’s be real: this thing lives and dies by its title track, and thankfully, it lives.
The Yardbirds
4/5
Roger the Engineer is a great showcase of everything that made the Yardbirds such an important band — especially when it comes to guitar work. It’s hard not to respect a group that helped launch the careers of guys like Clapton, Beck, and Page. That legacy alone gives the album some serious weight.
You can hear the blues roots all over this record, but what’s really cool is how a few tracks start leaning into psychedelic territory. It’s like they’re standing right on the edge of the musical shift that was about to explode in the late ’60s.
Favorite song: Lost Woman
Television
2/5
Marquee Moon gets tossed around as a punk album, but I’m just not seeing it. “See No Evil” has a bit of that punk edge, and maybe “Torn Curtain” leans in that direction, but overall? This feels way more like early indie rock than anything close to the raw energy of real punk and I’ve made it clear in earlier reviews how I feel about indie rock. (Spoiler: not a fan.)
Television may have influenced some legit punk bands down the line, but this album itself doesn’t scratch that itch. It’s clean, drawn-out, and a little too polished for what I expect from punk.
Points for influence, I guess, but this just wasn’t for me.
Joy Division
2/5
Unknown Pleasures gets a ton of praise, but it didn’t do much for me. I’ll give “New Dawn Fades” some credit — it had a cool, moody heaviness that almost felt like a nod to Black Sabbath — but that was about it.
The rest of the album felt flat and repetitive. I get that Joy Division helped shape post-punk, but influence doesn’t always equal enjoyable. Just wasn’t my vibe.
Eels
4/5
Beautiful Freak is exactly what '90s alternative should sound like — weird, emotional, a little rough around the edges, and completely its own thing. “Susan’s House” especially nails that vibe with its spoken-word verses and laid-back groove. It’s like grunge’s introspective cousin who reads poetry and watches the rain.
The whole album has this strange charm to it — quirky but honest, dark but not trying too hard. It’s not quite a five-star classic, but it’s definitely a strong, memorable listen.
Earth, Wind & Fire
4/5
That’s the Way of the World is smooth, soulful, and just plain easy to enjoy. If there were a Mt. Rushmore of Yacht Rock, Earth, Wind & Fire would absolutely have a spot carved out — maybe even front and center. This album is the definition of laid-back listening, but it’s never boring.
The grooves are tight, the harmonies are buttery, and it’s got just the right mix of funk, soul, and soft rock to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of record you can put on and just vibe to — whether you're cruising down the highway or just relaxing at home.
Favorite song: Shining Star
Jurassic 5
4/5
Power In Numbers is a solid entry in the world of alternative hip hop. Jurassic 5 brings smart lyrics, tight production, and a real appreciation for the old-school vibe without sounding stuck in the past.
Tracks like “If You Only Knew,” “One of Them,” and “High Fidelity” stood out the most — catchy, clever, and delivered with confidence. The group’s chemistry shines through, and the beats are clean but still pack a punch.
Favorite song: One Of Them
Meat Puppets
4/5
Meat Puppets II is weird, messy, and kind of brilliant — in other words, classic underground punk. If The Brothers Meat are good enough for Kurt Cobain, they’re good enough for me.
Hearing the original versions of “Plateau,” “Oh, Me,” and “Lake of Fire” is a trip after knowing the Nirvana Unplugged versions so well. They’ve got this spaced-out, twangy vibe that’s totally their own — part punk, part country, part whatever-the-hell-they-feel-like.
The Blue Nile
2/5
A Walk Across the Rooftops feels like someone took every 80s pop cliché — glossy synths, moody vocals, dramatic pacing — and crammed them into one album. If that’s your thing, great. But for me, it just didn’t hit.
It’s not unlistenable, but it’s definitely not memorable either.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
Bridge Over Troubled Water may have marked the end of Simon & Garfunkel, but what a way to go out. This album is packed with great songs — the title track is iconic, “Cecilia” brings the fun, and even their cover of “Bye Bye Love” holds its own.
But the real standout for me is “The Boxer.” Easily one of their top 3 songs ever for me — emotional, haunting, and beautifully arranged. That slow build and the “lie-la-lie” chorus still hit just as hard today.
It’s a bittersweet swan song, but also one of the best folk-pop records ever made.
Favorite song: The Boxer
Alice Cooper
4/5
Billion Dollar Babies is peak Alice Cooper — theatrical, loud, and weird in the best way possible. It’s like a haunted house you willingly walk into because the riffs are just that good. Songs like “Elected” and the title track go hard, and the whole thing has that sleazy, glammy swagger that defined Alice’s prime.
Also, bonus points for cultural significance: the man gave us one of the most unexpectedly wholesome cameos in Wayne’s World history.
“Actually, it’s pronounced mill-e-wah-que, which is Algonquin for 'the good land.’”
An all-time moment.
And if you can listen to this album and not think of “Hundred Dollar Baby” from Always Sunny... well, you’re doing it wrong.
Holger Czukay
1/5
I’ve already sat through more Krautrock on this list than any human should reasonably have to, but Movies somehow managed to be the worst of the bunch. That’s saying something, because at least the other albums in the genre were tolerable.
This one felt like a test of patience — repetitive, meandering, and completely lacking any payoff. It’s like someone threw a bunch of synths and half-baked ideas into a blender and hit “loop.” If this is considered a standout in Krautrock, I want off this ride immediately.
The Beach Boys
5/5
Pet Sounds is an easy 5-star album — and honestly, it earns that just off the strength of “God Only Knows,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” and “Sloop John B.” alone. Those tracks are timeless, emotional, and beautifully arranged. But the whole album is packed with layers that still feel fresh today.
It’s wild to think this was Brian Wilson’s response to Rubber Soul and a little experimentation with psychedelics. Whatever sparked it, the result was a game-changer in pop music. The harmonies, the production, the emotional depth — it’s all top tier.
Just more proof that LSD should probably be legal. RIP to a true genius, Brian Wilson.
Favorite song: God Only Knows
Frank Ocean
3/5
Channel Orange is kind of all over the place — R&B? Rap? Pop? I honestly don’t know what box to put it in, and maybe that’s the point. Genre confusion aside, it’s a solid album with a lot of ambition.
Mad respect to Frank Ocean for pulling in big names like Andre 3000 and John Mayer — both features were definite highlights. There are a few standout tracks that really hit, but there are also some that felt a little too laid back or experimental for me to stay fully engaged.
Tortoise
1/5
Millions Now Living Will Never Die? More like Millions Now Regretting They Hit Play. Starting your album with a 21-minute instrumental is less “bold artistic statement” and more “cruel endurance test.” It’s like being stuck in traffic while someone softly noodles on a guitar in the passenger seat.
Sure, maybe there’s some experimental charm buried in there somewhere — but I didn’t have the time or patience to dig it out. If your opener is longer than most EPs, you better make it worth it. This didn’t even come close.
Circle Jerks
4/5
Group Sex might catch some flak, but if you know what old school punk is supposed to sound like, this album delivers. It’s fast, it’s loud, it’s short, and it’s got that sneering, middle-finger attitude that defined early hardcore.
At just about 15 minutes, it doesn’t waste time — every track punches you in the face and moves on. No polish, no filler, just raw energy and aggression. That’s the charm.
It’s not for everyone, but if you're into the roots of hardcore punk, Group Sex is a blast of pure, chaotic fun.
Favorite song: Deny Everything
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
I went into Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not thinking it wasn’t going to be my thing — maybe because I vaguely remembered liking AM but never followed up on it. Turns out, I should’ve given these guys more credit.
Yeah, they get labeled as indie rock, but there’s a gritty, punk energy running through this album that keeps it from sounding too polished or pretentious. Tracks like “The Red Light Indicates” and “From the Ritz to the Rubble” really stood out — sharp lyrics, frantic pace, and a raw edge that makes you want to hit repeat.
It exceeded expectations and reminded me that indie rock doesn’t have to be boring
Favorite song: From the Ritz to the Rubble
Talking Heads
3/5
More Songs About Buildings and Food didn’t leave a huge impression on me overall, but I’ve got to give credit where it’s due. The cover of “Take Me to the River” is definitely the standout — groovy, weird in the best way, and a clear high point.
The rest of the album? Honestly kind of forgettable. Nothing bad, just nothing that really stuck with me after it ended. That said, one thing I do respect is how ahead of its time it sounds. For something released in the late ’70s, it doesn’t feel stuck in that era. It still has a modern, quirky edge that a lot of newer bands try to emulate.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Henry’s Dream is my second Nick Cave album from this list, and unfortunately, it didn’t do much to change my mind after sitting through Ghosteen (which earned a solid 1 star from me).
That said, this one isn’t quite as painful. A few tracks had some surprisingly catchy moments that kept me from fully tuning out. It’s still not really my thing — a bit too dramatic and uneven overall — but at least parts of it had enough of a pulse to save it from a 1 star rating.
The Hives
4/5
Went into Your New Favourite Band thinking I was in for more indie rock, but got hit with some gritty garage punk instead — and I’m not mad about it. My only previous exposure to The Hives was Weird Al jamming part of the opener in “Angry White Boy Polka,” so this was a fun discovery.
What really stood out was how strong the back half of the album is. From “AKA IDIOT” to the final track, it just rips. You can definitely hear the influence of bands like NOFX, Bad Religion, and early Blink-182, but with a cool Swedish twist. “Die, All Right!” was a standout too. These guys might not be my new favorite band, but they’re definitely in the rotation now.
Jack White
4/5
I owe Jack White an apology. I was never into The White Stripes, so I just kind of assumed his solo work wouldn't be for me either. Turns out Blunderbuss is a solid album. The title track has this unexpected pedal steel part that really works, and from “Weep Themselves to Sleep” onward, it’s just banger after banger. The second half of the album especially surprised me — way more soulful and melodic than I expected. Definitely changed my opinion on Jack White.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
5/5
Hypocrisy Is the Greatest Luxury blew me away. I’d never heard of The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy before, but this album hit hard—musically and lyrically. It’s packed with sharp political commentary that’s somehow even more relevant now than it was in 1992.
Back then, they were calling out systemic racism, media brainwashing, violence, and attacks on women’s rights. Fast forward to today—those same issues are still making headlines. On abortion rights, they were already shouting about government control over women’s bodies before Roe v. Wade had even been seriously challenged. Violence? Still everywhere, whether it’s mass shootings or police brutality. And their track “Television, the Drug of the Nation” feels prophetic—swap out TVs for phones and social media and it nails how addicted and manipulated we are by our screens today.
While 90s gangster rap often focused on street life and personal survival, these guys went macro—pointing fingers at the system, the politicians, and the media. And honestly, political rap like this feels more vital than ever.
The Doors
5/5
I didn’t even need to re-listen to The Doors to know it’s a 5-star album—but I did anyway because it’s just that good. This is hands down my favorite Doors record, and it’s wild how many legendary tracks they packed into a debut album.
"Break on Through" kicks the door open (pun intended), and I’ll never forget hearing it for the first time on Tony Hawk’s Underground 2—as a high schooler, it was the moment I realized oldies could actually be cool. Then you’ve got "Light My Fire" with that iconic organ solo, the chaotic and theatrical "The End," the bizarre but brilliant "Alabama Song," and underrated bangers like "Take It as It Comes."
It’s psychedelic, dark, poetic, and just straight-up badass. A debut like this doesn't happen often—The Doors came in fully formed and ready to burn the house down.
Favorite song: Light My Fire
Elton John
3/5
I love Elton John's music, but Madman Across the Water just reinforces my belief that he’s more of a singles artist than an album artist—Goodbye Yellow Brick Road being the big exception. “Tiny Dancer” and “Levon” are absolutely great and easily the high points here.
The rest of the album isn’t bad, but it definitely tapers off. Nothing else really sticks with me the way those first two tracks do.
New York Dolls
3/5
I get why this album matters. In the middle of all the polished rock coming out in the early 70s, the New York Dolls were loud, messy, and didn’t care what anyone thought. You can hear the early seeds of punk all over this thing. And for that alone, I have a lot of respect for what they were doing.
That said, it's not really something I’d revisit. Outside of “Personality Crisis,” none of the tracks really stood out.
Destiny's Child
3/5
I still remember when the first three songs on this album completely ruled the radio and MTV. Hearing them now definitely brings back that early 2000s nostalgia.
But after those first three tracks, it starts to lose steam. The rest of the album has some solid moments but nothing that hits quite the same. Still, there’s no denying Destiny Child's talent or how massive they were at the time.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I get the intention behind The Rising and respect it. The tributes to 9/11 are heartfelt, and Bruce Springsteen clearly poured a lot of emotion into this one. There are some moving moments, and the themes hit the right notes.
That said, I couldn't get past the fake Southern accent he puts on in a few tracks. Bruce is Jersey through and through, so hearing him try to twang his way through songs just felt off. As someone from the Deep South, it came across more like a bad impression than authentic. The album has heart, but the delivery didn’t sit right with me.
Radiohead
4/5
Of the two Radiohead albums I know, this one is far superior to Kid A. OK Computer is loaded with solid tracks from start to finish, and it never really lets up.
“Subterranean Homesick Alien” stands out as a really cool nod to Dylan, both in name and attitude. The album as a whole has this moody, futuristic vibe, but it’s still grounded by great songwriting and a lot of emotional punch.
Even if you’re not the world’s biggest Radiohead fan, it’s easy to see why this record gets so much praise. Every song feels intentional, and it all holds up years later.
Sleater-Kinney
2/5
2 stars – Dig Me Out
This wasn’t the kind of Seattle sound I was hoping for. I was thinking grunge or something a little more raw and heavy. Instead, I got enough vibrato to make it sound like a goat choir.
I get that Sleater-Kinney has a big following and a lot of influence, but this one didn’t land for me. Felt more like noise than music at times. Not the worst thing I’ve ever heard, but I won’t be coming back to it.
Billy Joel
5/5
Today I learned that basically every Billy Joel song I know—other than "Piano Man"—is on this album. And now it makes total sense why The Stranger blew up the way it did. Even as someone who doesn’t call himself a Billy Joel fan, I have to give credit where it’s due. The man knows how to write a song.
He’s a master at painting scenes with words. Whether it’s the bittersweet story in "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant" or the raw honesty in "Vienna," you can see every moment play out like a movie. And then there's "Only the Good Die Young" and "Movin’ Out" which both still hit like they just came out yesterday. He’s got the voice, the piano chops, and the storytelling. Honestly, it’s rare to find all three in one artist.
Favorite song: Movin' Out
Kanye West
5/5
Anyone born in the past 15 to 20 years probably only knows Kanye West as a right-wing conspiracy theorist and cultural pariah. But from 2005 to 2011, he wasn’t just a rapper. He was a force. And My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is him at the absolute peak of his powers.
This album is loud, dramatic, beautiful, and deeply chaotic. It’s part therapy session, part flex, and part art project. The list of guest features is stacked—Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj, Bon Iver, Kid Cudi, Rihanna—and every one of them brings something solid. Even Chris Rock shows up. And somehow, in the middle of all that star power, Kanye still manages to be the gravitational center.
It’s wild that this was his comeback album after the Taylor Swift fallout. Most artists would’ve laid low. Kanye dropped one of the best albums of the decade.
Favorite song: Runaway
Metallica
5/5
AJFA is Metallica at their most technical and complex. It’s long, aggressive, and at times borderline exhausting—in the best way possible. If Master of Puppets is peak Metallica, then AJFA is them flexing their songwriting and riff-crafting muscles like lunatics in a dungeon full of time signature changes.
"Blackened" kicks the door open like a controlled explosion. That reverse intro into the main riff still gives me chills, especially when they open with it live. “Harvester of Sorrow” might be the shortest track here, but it hits like a tank. It’s also a sign of where they were headed—more groove, more crunch, less speed. That song crawled so "Sad But True" and "King Nothing" could stomp.
Lyrically, they kept the heat turned up. If MoP flirted with political and religious themes, AJFA dives in headfirst. It’s pissed-off, cynical, and feels just as relevant today.
Billy Bragg
4/5
I went in blind on this one. Never heard of Billy Bragg and figured I’d hate it. Turns out his Essex accent and razor-sharp take on politics give it a real punk edge. The songs cut right to the chase on social issues. You can’t help but nod along when he rails against the system.
His words still hit home. Tax hikes, inequality, civil rights....track after track, it feels just as relevant now. Between the "Chimes of Freedom"-inspired chorus and jangly electric guitar, "Ideology" is a clever wink to both Bob Dylan and the Byrds without feeling like a rip-off.
Favorite song: Help Save The Youth of America
Billy Bragg
4/5
Funny timing, hearing Billy Bragg two days in a row. This one was a surprise. Pairing him up with Wilco to breathe new life into Woody Guthrie’s unused lyrics is such a cool concept, and they actually pulled it off.
It doesn’t feel like some museum piece or forced tribute either. The songs sound natural and fresh, like they were written last week instead of decades ago. Bragg’s grit and Wilco’s laid-back alt-country vibe balance each other out in a way that works way better than I expected.
It’s got heart, it’s got soul, and it somehow manages to connect three generations of music without sounding like a history lesson. Solid album with a cool story behind it.
Beatles
5/5
I know the Beatles haters are going to show up here, but let’s be real. This is one of their best albums, recorded at a time when the band was falling apart. Somehow, they put all that aside and made something incredible.
George Harrison absolutely shines. “Something” is the best love song ever written in my opinion, and “Here Comes the Sun” is one of the most universally loved songs in their catalog. Those two tracks alone are better than most bands’ entire careers.
The second side medley is just plain fun. It jumps between ideas like a musical collage, but it works. It’s catchy, weird, beautiful, and somehow flows perfectly. “Oh! Darling” is Paul’s throwback to doo-wop and soul, and John’s “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” digs into darker, heavier territory that hints at early prog rock.
George also invited Billy Preston to sit in during the Let It Be sessions, and you can hear how much that paid off here. His keyboard playing gives the album extra texture and personality.
This isn’t just a great Beatles album. It’s one of the best albums of all time.
Grateful Dead
2/5
I like some Grateful Dead songs but sitting through this album felt impossible. It’s full of long, meandering jams that blend into each other. You need serious patience or some chemical help to enjoy it.
The 8 minute long “Feedback” that was literally just guitar feedback was the final straw for me. I love acid rock and psychedelia but this leans too far into jazz noodling for my taste. The band clearly thrived on the live experience. But as a listening session? You feel every minute.
Maybe give it a spin if you want a deep dive into Dead history. Or if you plan to light up and let the world melt. For straight listening, though, I’d pass. There are better ways to spend your time.
Best song on the album was “And We Bid You Goodnight”; mercifully, it was only 35 seconds long and ended the album.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
I remember listening to Tigermilk earlier this year and walking away with a big ol’ shrug. If You're Feeling Sinister didn’t change that much for me. It’s not bad, just kind of there.
Stuart Murdoch's voice has that soft, wispy thing going on, but it feels more fragile than compelling. Honestly, he sounds like a knockoff Nick Drake who couldn’t quite seal the deal. The songs are pleasant, and there’s a quiet charm in the arrangements, but nothing really grabs you and holds on.
It’s the kind of album that floats in the background while you do something else. Not annoying enough to skip, but not strong enough to demand attention either.
Lauryn Hill
4/5
It's wild to think this is Lauryn Hill’s only solo studio album. For a debut, it hits harder than most artists’ entire discographies. Listening to this, I'm left wondering what else she could’ve done if she’d kept going.
The production is sharp, the lyrics are personal, and the mix of soul, hip hop, and R&B still sounds fresh decades later. She brought in some big names too; when “To Zion” started, I remember thinking the guitar felt familiar. Sure enough, it was Santana.
“Doo Wop (That Thing)” is the hit, and yeah, it still bangs. But her version of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”? Totally unexpected and absolutely brilliant. She takes a classic and flips it into something new without losing the heart of it.
This is one of those albums that earned its hype.
TV On The Radio
2/5
Another 2000s alt rock album that blends into the rest. It’s got that moody, artsy vibe that tries to feel important but ends up just kind of meandering.
I kept waiting for something to jump out or grab my attention. It never did. Nothing was outright terrible, just very forgettable. If you’ve heard one alt rock album from this era, you’ve basically heard this one too
Muddy Waters
4/5
I haven’t looked at the average rating yet, but I’m guessing this one probably lands below 3 stars. That wouldn’t surprise me. Blues albums don’t always get much credit, especially on lists filled with flashier genres.
Still, I’ve always liked blues and this album reminded me why. Muddy Waters sounds like a man who still has something to prove. His voice is raw and steady, and his band backs him up with grit and swagger. "Mannish Boy" kicks things off strong and sets the tone for the rest of the album.
The Pharcyde
3/5
his one was fun. Right out of the gate, it had that playful energy that reminded me a lot of De La Soul or A Tribe Called Quest. The humor, the wordplay, the laid-back flow — all of that works really well, especially in the first few tracks.
But somewhere along the way, it started to lose steam. The beats kind of blurred together and it shifted into background music. Not bad, just not as gripping as I wanted. Tribe keeps me engaged from start to finish. This one didn't quite stick the landing, but it's still a solid listen.
The White Stripes
3/5
I like Jack White a lot more as a solo artist than I do in The White Stripes. This album just didn’t do much for me. It’s raw, it’s gritty, and I get why people love the garage rock energy, but most of it felt kind of flat.
"Fell In Love With a Girl" is the clear standout. It’s short, punchy, and actually pretty fun. Bonus points for Weird Al giving it some love with his Lego-style parody. Outside of that, though, not much stuck with me. I respect what they were going for, but it’s just not something I’d go back to often.
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
2/5
This one just felt like paint-by-numbers 80s pop. Slick production, jangly guitars, a little bit of moodiness tossed in for good measure—nothing bad exactly, but nothing that really stood out either.
If you told me this was one of a hundred similar albums from the era, I’d believe you.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
3/5
This one was a bit of a mixed bag. I’ll give credit where it’s due—Scott LaFaro and Bill Evans usually get all the shine, but Paul Motian deserves props for trying something different here. He blends jazz, bop, free improv, and even a little touch of blues and doo-wop. That doo-wop flair toward the end of "Gloria’s Step" actually caught me off guard in a good way.
The opening track had a cool groove and set the stage nicely, but unfortunately, the rest of the album just faded into background noise. I didn’t dislike it, but I never felt pulled in either
Bill Evans Trio
3/5
I'm not a jazz expert, so maybe the finer points of this one flew over my head. To me, it just sounded like, well... jazz. Not bad, not mind-blowing, just solid, classic-sounding stuff.
I had it playing while I was working and it made for a nice backdrop. The musicianship is clearly top-tier, but nothing really grabbed me.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
Another middle-of-the-road 80s pop/alternative album. It’s not bad, just... fine. There’s some atmosphere here, and a few moments where the strings give things a little lift, but nothing that really sticks.
It feels like the kind of album that gets praised more for its aesthetic than its actual songs. The vocals are dramatic, the production is moody, and the whole thing tries hard to feel important, but most of it just floats by without leaving much behind.
Ravi Shankar
4/5
This probably isn’t going to be a crowd favorite, and that’s fine. It’s not background music, and it doesn’t try to be. But even if it doesn’t land on your personal playlist, there’s no denying the impact Ravi Shankar had through albums like this.
This record is a primer on Indian classical music, delivered by one of its most important figures. Ravi didn’t just play the sitar—he opened a door for the rest of the world to hear it. Without him, there’s a good chance George Harrison never picks one up, and we never get songs like “Norwegian Wood.” Ravi taught George personally and later partnered with him to create the Concert for Bangladesh, which helped set the blueprint for the modern charity concert.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
I had no idea who Michael Kiwanuka was before this, but what a pleasant surprise. His voice is like velvet: smooth, rich, and easy on the ears. The whole album feels like it was made to be played on vinyl, maybe with a whiskey in hand and no plans for the rest of the day.
There’s a warm, soulful energy running through the entire record. Even when the songs stretch out a bit, they never drag or overstay their welcome. It blends classic soul with modern touches in a way that feels natural and confident.
If you're into Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers, or anything with a touch of vintage warmth, this is worth a listen
Suzanne Vega
2/5
More 80s pop that blends right into the crowd. Nothing here really stands out. The songs are fine on a surface level, but they all feel like variations of the same idea, and that idea has already been done better elsewhere.
Her voice is pleasant enough, but the melodies and arrangements never push beyond safe or familiar. It's the kind of album that plays in a coffee shop and no one bothers to ask what it is.
Not terrible, just incredibly generic.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
There’s way more hate in the reviews than I expected. Yeah, some of the lyrics are edgy by today’s standards, but acting like "Under My Thumb" or "Stupid Girl" is a manifesto instead of tongue-in-cheek storytelling misses the point entirely. It’s rock and roll, not a TED Talk.
"Paint It, Black" is an all-time top 10 song for me. That opening sitar riff is instantly recognizable and still sounds great. I’d probably slot "Under My Thumb" into my top 50 too. The groove is tight, the delivery is cool, and the song just works.
Not every track is a banger, but there's enough classic Stones energy here to make it worthy of 4 stars.
Minor Threat
4/5
Loud, fast, and short. Just the way hardcore punk should be.
Minor Threat doesn’t waste a second here. The songs hit hard, make their point, and get out before you can catch your breath. It’s raw without being sloppy and angry without losing control.
Black Sabbath
4/5
Ozzy’s voice sounds as sharp as ever on this one. The whole album leans into that heavy, hazy Sabbath groove, and it delivers. “Snowblind” is the obvious standout, still a banger after all these years, but “Changes” hits differently now. Knowing we’ve lost Ozzy gives that track a weight it didn’t carry before.
This album may not get as much love as Paranoid or Master of Reality. It’s darker, weirder, and a little more uneven, but that’s part of the charm.
Props to Alexander for making an exception to the algorithm. RIP to the Prince of Darkness.
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
Cyndi Lauper isn't really my thing, but I've gotta give credit where credit is due. Having multiple singles from your debut album still widely recognized 40 years later is pretty impressive.
"She Bop" was a fun, tongue-in-cheek song I hadn't heard before, and I appreciated the humor. Also, it took some guts to come out swinging in the early '80s with a Prince cover, but she pulled it off.
Even if Lauper's style doesn't fully click with me, the impact and staying power of this album are undeniable.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
4/5
Pretty solid debut. You've got "Breakdown" and "American Girl" leading the way, and both are still instantly recognizable nearly 50 years later. That kind of staying power doesn't come from luck. The songs are just that good.
The rest of the album isn't packed with radio staples, but it has enough energy and heart to keep things interesting. Petty's voice already had that laid-back, everyman charm, and the band plays with confidence throughout. The album closes strong with "American Girl," which might be one of the best final tracks on any debut rock album.
The Go-Betweens
3/5
This one was nice enough, but it didn’t really stick with me. There are a few catchy tunes and some pleasant guitar work, but nothing grabbed my attention for long. The album has an easy, mellow feel, good for background listening or a slow afternoon.
It never goes off the rails or tries anything risky, which makes it inoffensive but also a little forgettable. If you like gentle indie pop, you might get more out of it, but for me it was just alright.
The War On Drugs
2/5
Damn it, I knew this was going to be an indie band the second I saw the name and the album cover. Sure enough, that’s exactly what I got. If anything, going through this list has made me dislike indie bands even more.
The whole album is a washed-out blur of reverb, mellow vocals, and endless mid-tempo tracks that go nowhere. The only thing that stood out was the guitar work on “An Ocean Between the Waves.” Everything else just melted together in a puddle of forgettable background noise. I was bored before it was halfway over.
Fatboy Slim
4/5
This was a fun surprise. Fatboy Slim’s debut delivers a mix of big beats, funky samples, and just enough weirdness to keep things interesting. You can hear the early blueprint for what would become his signature sound later on.
Tracks like “Santa Cruz” and “Everybody Needs a 303” bring a lot of energy, and the album keeps a good pace throughout. It’s a snapshot of late ‘90s electronic music before it really exploded.
Even if you’re not big on electronic stuff, there’s enough variety and groove here to keep you engaged
The Associates
3/5
This one didn’t do much for me, but it wasn’t bad either. The production is glossy and there’s plenty of that early '80s new wave vibe, but the songs just never grabbed me. A few moments stand out here and there, but nothing I felt like coming back to.
If you’re into synth-heavy pop with a dramatic flair, you might enjoy it more. For me, it ended up being just okay.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
Before this album, I honestly couldn't name a single Elvis Costello song. It wasn't what I expected, but that's not a bad thing.
"Accidents Will Happen" is an excellent opener that immediately grabs your attention. "Oliver's Army" manages to tackle a pretty serious subject in a surprisingly fun and catchy way. Costello clearly knows how to mix clever songwriting with memorable hooks.
From what I've read, his previous two albums were more punk rock influenced, so I'm definitely interested in checking those out next.
Paul Simon
4/5
For the most part, Simon and Garfunkel as an act were greater than the sum of their parts. That’s the Paul Simon I prefer, but Graceland still holds up as a solid solo album.
“You Can Call Me Al” remains a timeless classic, and the title track, “Graceland,” delivers exactly what you'd expect from Simon’s songwriting. “Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes” also caught my ear with that memorable, distinctive intro.
While it doesn’t quite reach the heights Simon achieved with Garfunkel, this record is catchy, thoughtful, and undeniably well-made.
Minutemen
2/5
I’ll give Minutemen credit for being influential in the 80s punk scene, but this album was just way too much. A 43-song double LP is a tall order even if the music is varied, and here it all kind of blurs together. After a while, every track started to sound the same, and instead of feeling exciting, it just felt overwhelming.
There are definitely flashes of talent and energy, and I can see why the album gets respect for pushing boundaries in punk. But as a listening experience, it was exhausting. Short, sharp songs are great, but packing 43 of them into one record makes it hard to stay invested.
Aerosmith
5/5
First off, can we appreciate the fact that Pump was Aerosmith’s tenth studio album and it still landed with this much punch? That’s impressive, especially for a band releasing it in '89.
“Young Lust” kicks it off as a straight-up '80s metal banger, setting the tone for what's ahead. Then you've got classics like “Love in an Elevator” and “Janie’s Got a Gun,” two songs burned into my memory from growing up.
“Dulcimer Stomp” stood out as a killer intro to “The Other Side.” It honestly gave me Zeppelin vibes, which I didn't see coming from an Aerosmith record.
Bonus points because some of these songs are featured on Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, arguably the coolest way to experience Aerosmith's music.
3/5
It was alright. You can definitely hear the early punk rock influence, which kept things interesting. "Shangri-La," "Nothing to Say," and "Arthur" stood out as the better tracks for me.
Overall, it’s a decent listen with some solid moments, but nothing that made me want to hit repeat. Worth checking out if you’re curious about where a lot of later British rock got its sound.
Turbonegro
5/5
Not gonna lie, I did not expect a Turbonegro album to end up on a list of the top 1,001 albums to hear before you die, but I’m here for it. This took me straight back to high school, just jamming out with no shame. I haven’t even bothered to check what the critics think. I can already tell this one probably gets some hate, but honestly, I loved it.
“The Age of Pamparius” slapped, and “Don’t Say Motherfucker, Motherfucker” plus “Monkey On Your Back” are just solid, rowdy tracks all the way through. And let’s be real, who can hate on a song called “Good Head”? Isn’t that what everyone wants?
Special shoutout to Pal Pot Pamparius and that tambourine, which was on point throughout the whole album. That’s an extremely underutilized instrument these days
Syd Barrett
4/5
You can’t help but feel bad for Syd Barrett and everything he went through with his mental health. It’s bittersweet listening to this, knowing what could have been if he’d stayed with Pink Floyd. But if Syd never left and stayed on as a non-touring member, would Gilmour have had enough influence for albums like The Wall or Dark Side of the Moon? That’s hard to say.
The Madcap Laughs is a pretty solid album that reminds you of Pink Floyd’s early days. If you enjoy true psychedelia, you’ll really love this one. “Terrapin” is a strong opener that sets the tone. Do any of these tracks make sense? No, and that’s okay because they’re not supposed to. The charm comes from the chaos.
1/5
Out of the 392 albums I’ve listened to on this list so far, this one easily lands at the bottom. I couldn’t find a single redeeming quality. Every track is an absolute mess, loaded with obnoxious noise and directionless chaos. It sounds like a group of people trying to make music for the first time and failing miserably.
The whole album is grating, pretentious, and downright unpleasant. I actually felt irritated listening to it. If this is what passes for experimental, I want nothing to do with it. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.
The Stooges
4/5
Iggy Pop remains one of the greatest frontmen of all time, and The Stooges absolutely live up to the album’s title here. Raw Power is gritty, unpolished, and hits like a punch to the face in the best way possible.
“Search and Destroy” is still a banger, and it was actually my first introduction to The Stooges back in high school thanks to the Tony Hawk franchise. The rest of the album keeps that same reckless energy, proving why this band has been so influential to punk and rock in general.
It is chaotic, loud, and unapologetic, exactly what you want from The Stooges.
The Undertones
4/5
A solid example of early punk rock done right. Sixteen songs in 35 minutes, all fast and loud with zero wasted time. “Teenage Kicks” is the obvious highlight, still buzzing with the same raw energy decades later, and “Get Over You” keeps that momentum going without missing a beat.
The hooks are sharp, the attitude feels genuine, and the whole thing is over before you’re ready to stop listening. This is punk rock exactly how it should be.
TLC
5/5
I have a few confessions about this album. First, I honestly thought it came out much later in the 90s. In my memory, “Waterfalls” was still all over the radio well into the second half of the decade. Second, I had no idea TLC was still an active group. And third, while this wouldn’t be a five-star album for me personally, it absolutely earns that rating when I step back and look at it objectively.
The roster behind it is stacked. You have heavy hitters like Jermaine Dupri, Chuck Thompson, and Diddy (in his pre-scandal days) on production, plus guest spots from André 3000 and Busta Rhymes. TLC was one of the most dominant acts of the 90s, and this album shows why.
The whole thing oozes nostalgia, with smooth, slow-burn tracks that feel tailor-made for late-night listening. “Red Light Special” makes its intentions crystal clear, and the closing stretch is a nice change of pace. “Switch” is pure fun, and “Sumthin Wicked This Way Comes” closes things out with some great guitar work that I could have sworn was sampled from somewhere, though I could never find proof.
This is TLC at their peak, and even if it is not in my personal all-time top tier, it is a landmark album that deserves the recognition.
Beck
4/5
A solid post-grunge rock album with plenty of Beck’s quirky fingerprints all over it. I have never been a huge fan of his work, but I also do not dislike it, and Odelay makes a strong case for why so many people do love him.
“Where It’s At” instantly takes me back, a definite nostalgia hit for anyone who grew up in the 80s and 90s. The mix of rock, funk, and offbeat samples gives the whole album a loose, unpredictable energy that somehow still holds together.
Even if Beck is not your go-to artist, Odelay is packed with enough personality and creativity to make it worth revisiting. It is a snapshot of the 90s alternative scene at its weird, confident peak.
Gang Starr
3/5
I usually enjoy early 90s rap, but this one didn’t do much for me. The beats and rhymes are solid enough, but they just didn’t click in a way that made me want to come back to it. It felt more like a history lesson in the genre than an album I’d throw on repeat.
That said, “Beyond Comprehension” stood out. The sample from Up on Cripple Creek was a nice touch and gave the track some extra flavor. Moments like that show the creativity Gang Starr was capable of, even if the rest of the album didn’t land as strongly for me.
Overall, it’s not a bad record by any means, but it didn’t grab me the way I hoped
The Icarus Line
2/5
I really wanted to like this album. Hardcore and rock are usually right in my wheelhouse, but this one just did not land at all. Instead of feeling powerful or raw, it leaned too far into the noise rock side of things without the depth or craft needed to pull it off.
The problem is not the chaos itself but the lack of direction. Good noise rock, like what Sonic Youth managed to do, has an edge of talent and structure behind the mess. Penance Soiree feels like it’s trying to go for that vibe but ends up sounding sloppy and hollow.
Thundercat
5/5
This one was pure fun. Twenty-three tracks packed into just 51 minutes, and it flies by at breakneck speed. Thundercat bounces across genres with ease, pulling in hip hop, rock, psychedelia, pop, jazz, and funk, sometimes all within the same song. It is chaotic in the best way possible, like flipping through radio stations where everything somehow clicks.
The guest list alone is wild. Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald show up for a smooth throwback moment, Kendrick Lamar brings his usual fire, and Wiz Khalifa and Pharrell both leave their stamp. The collaborations never feel forced, they just add more layers to the rollercoaster.
Of course, “Them Changes” is instantly recognizable, especially after it blew up on TikTok, but there is plenty more to love here. Every track feels alive and unpredictable...I went in expecting a quirky listen, and I walked away wanting to dig deeper into his catalog. This is an album that never takes itself too seriously but still delivers something brilliant.
Parliament
4/5
This was the album I did not know I needed to kick off my Friday. It is psychedelic, groovy, funky, and everything you would expect from a mid-70s funk and soul masterpiece. Parliament knows exactly how to lock into a groove and ride it until you cannot sit still.
Every track is dripping with personality, swagger, and that larger-than-life energy that makes you feel like you have been invited aboard the mothership yourself. By the time it is over, you are fully in the zone and ready to get funked up.
A perfect soundtrack for starting the weekend right.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
4/5
If someone asked me what the 90s sounded like, this album would be a strong answer. It hooked me right away with that unexpected country-meets-rap combo, and from there it just kept mixing things up. You get flashes of country, rock, blues, and even some jazz sprinkled in across the record.
The variety makes it a really fun listen, especially coming from a band I had never heard of before. It captures that offbeat 90s spirit where genres got blended without apology, and it actually works.
Björk
2/5
This album is everything I dislike about Björk wrapped into one package. Most of it is just her singing a bunch of nonsense, broken up by guttural noises that sound more like a modern-day Yoko Ono performance piece than anything resembling an actual song. I would have given this one star if it weren’t for “Oceania,” which is the only track that shows what she’s capable of when she reins it in. That one was genuinely good.
What makes it worse is that Björk actually is talented. She has a unique voice and has proven she can deliver powerful, moving music. Instead, here she chooses to string together random sounds and words like someone dared Lana Del Rey to just start mumbling into a mic for an hour.
This is my first Björk album on this list, but sadly not my first encounter with her music. I can only hope this is the last one here, though my gut tells me I won’t be that lucky. Listening to this felt more like a punishment than an experience.
Big Star
3/5
This was my second Big Star album, and once again, nothing really stuck with me. The songs are fine in the moment, but once the album ended, I struggled to remember much of it. It feels more like a collection of fragments than a fully realized record, which makes sense given the chaotic way it was put together.
That said, I did catch some proto-KISS vibes in a few of the early tracks. There is a certain swagger and grit in places that feels ahead of its time. You can hear the band leaning into something rawer, but it never fully lands with the punch it seems to promise.
Overall, it is not a bad listen, just underwhelming. Big Star clearly influenced a lot of artists who came after, but for me, this album feels more like a historical artifact than something I want to spin again. Three stars for the glimpses of greatness, even if they never fully come together.
Stereolab
2/5
The only thing that saved this album from a one-star rating was “The Noise of the Carpet,” which was actually a solid track. It had structure, energy, and gave me something to latch onto. Unfortunately, that was the exception, not the rule.
Everything else sounded like a wall of noise with little payoff. The songs meander without purpose, and the occasional lyrics are either in French or delivered in such garbled English that they might as well be meaningless. Instead of feeling experimental or forward-thinking, most of it just felt irritating and empty.
I can see how some listeners might label this “artsy” or “avant-garde,” but for me it came across as indulgent and messy. One good track does not carry an entire album, and the rest was a chore to sit through.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
I have no idea how I already ended up with three Nick Cave albums on this list, but somehow here we are. Out of the bunch, this one was definitely the least painful to sit through. I’ll admit it though, I’m a sucker for concept albums, and at least this one fully commits to the whole “murder” theme.
The stories are dark, over-the-top, and kind of ridiculous in a fun way. Cave leans all the way into the theatrics, and sometimes it works, sometimes it feels like he’s trying way too hard. A few tracks drag and get stuck in their own gloom, which makes the album feel heavier than it needs to be.
Still, I have to give credit where it’s due. Murder Ballads is ambitious and weird enough to stand out, even if it’s not something I’d put on repeat. Out of the Nick Cave stuff I’ve heard so far, this one at least made me crack a smile while shaking my head.
Favorite song: Stagger Lee
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
This album was a lot better than m b v, which I slogged through last year. Maybe it’s just the era this one came out in, but it gave me some strong Smashing Pumpkins vibes at times. The guitars and keyboards are thick and layered, and they carry most of the weight here. I guess that’s the point, since the backing music feels like it’s meant to be the main focus instead of the vocals.
The problem is the lyrics are basically impossible to hear. They’re buried so deep in the mix that they may as well not exist. If that’s your thing, cool, but for me it gets frustrating. I like a good wall of sound, but not when it completely steamrolls everything else.
Still, I have to give credit where it’s due. The atmosphere is strong, and the band definitely nailed a unique sound. It’s not something I’d listen to on repeat, but compared to m b v, this one was a much easier ride.
Favorite song: Only Shallow
Adam & The Ants
3/5
I’m not much of a new wave fan, but this one wasn’t terrible. There’s definitely more personality here than I expected, and I could hear some UK punk energy bleeding through the sound. That edge kept it from feeling too polished or overly quirky like a lot of new wave tends to.
“Antmusic” was easily one of the highlights, catchy and fun without being annoying. “Don’t Be Square” had a solid groove too, showing that Adam and the Ants could pull off something playful while still keeping a bite to it.
Overall, it is not really my style, but I can see why people connected with it at the time. The tribal drumming and punk influence give it a unique character, even if it is not an album I’d reach for again.
Favorite song: Antmusic
Common
4/5
Common really brought it on this one. The album has a smooth but sharp feel to it, mixing thoughtful lyrics with strong production that still sounds fresh. He’s always been a solid rapper, but here it feels like everything clicked into place.
The collaborations help a lot too. Having artists like Mos Def, Erykah Badu, Cee-Lo Green, and Macy Gray pop up gives the record a ton of range and personality. Each guest adds their own spark without taking the spotlight away from Common. It feels like a community effort in the best way possible.
And bonus points for this era being immortalized on Chappelle’s Show. That connection just makes the album feel even more rooted in the culture of its time.
Donovan
4/5
This album is mostly carried by its two heavy hitters, but those tracks are strong enough to make the whole record worth noticing. The title track, “Sunshine Superman,” is pure psychedelic pop brilliance, catchy and colorful without losing its edge. It is the kind of song that defines an era and still holds up today.
“Season of the Witch” seals the deal. Moody, trippy, and full of atmosphere, it has that perfect mix of mystery and groove that keeps it timeless. Those two songs alone justify giving this album a solid rating.
The rest of the album does not always rise to the same level, but with songs this iconic, the highs outweigh the lows. Sunshine Superman earns its place as a cornerstone of 60s psychedelia.
Favorite song: Sunshine Superman
The Band
4/5
For a group of Canadians and New Yorkers, The Band nailed Southern Americana in a way that still feels authentic. The whole album sounds earthy and lived-in, mixing folk, country, and rock into something that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in tradition.
“The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” is the emotional centerpiece, a haunting take on loss and history that remains one of their defining songs. “Up on Cripple Creek” shows the other side of their charm, playful and funky with Levon Helm’s voice carrying it perfectly. Then there is “King Harvest (Has Surely Come),” a gritty closer that seals the album with honesty and grit.
Together, these tracks highlight The Band’s unique ability to blend storytelling with musicianship, making them sound like they had lived every story they sang even if they hadn’t. It is a record that proves sincerity and heart matter more than where you are from.
Favorite song: Up On Cripple Creek
Tom Waits
3/5
Maybe I am being generous here, but compared to the other Tom Waits albums I have had to sit through, this one was actually okay. It is still rough around the edges, but it feels a little more grounded than some of his more out-there stuff.
The title track is a gritty opener that sets the mood right away, and there are moments where Waits’s gravelly delivery works with the material instead of overwhelming it. A few songs stumble into rambling territory, but at least there is some consistency in tone that makes the album easier to follow.
Overall, it is not something I would play often, but it was a decent listen. For a Tom Waits record, that is saying something.
Joan Baez
4/5
It blows my mind that Joan Baez was only 19 when she put this out. Her voice already had this power and maturity that most singers never get to, and she made it sound effortless.
Her version of “House of the Rising Sun” is really good. It is stripped down, raw, and you can feel the weight behind it. Then she goes and closes the album by singing completely in Spanish, which was both bold and impressive. That takes guts for a teenager stepping into the folk scene.
It is no wonder Bob Dylan was into her. From this debut alone you can tell she had the talent and confidence to stand out, and it set the stage for everything that came after. Simple, strong, and memorable.
Digital Underground
4/5
Everybody knows “The Humpty Dance,” but honestly before listening to this I couldn’t have told you a thing about who even sang it. Turns out, the whole album is just as wild as that one track, and in a good way. These guys were a horny bunch, no doubt about it, but they leaned into it with humor and creativity that keeps it fun.
I cracked up at “Gutfest ’89,” and both “Sex Packets” and “Packet Man” are just ridiculous in the best way. Who else is writing full-on concept songs about illegally selling pills that give you realistic sex dreams? You gotta be on some good stuff to come up with that idea, but they pulled it off with style.
“Doowutchyalike” was another highlight, especially the way they broke the fourth wall and just messed around with the audience. It feels loose, playful, and ahead of its time in a lot of ways. Overall, it’s a hilarious and surprisingly smart record, even if the whole thing is wrapped up in absurdity.
Favorite song: Gutfest '89
Kate Bush
3/5
“Running Up That Hill” is an incredible opener, no question about it. It is powerful, catchy, and probably one of the strongest tracks Kate Bush ever wrote. The problem is the rest of the album just did not hold me the same way. The production is ambitious and layered, but it often felt more overwhelming than engaging, and I found myself losing interest halfway through.
That said, I have to give credit where it is due. The record is unique, and Kate Bush’s vision is clear, even if it does not fully connect with me. Her willingness to experiment is admirable, even if it sometimes comes across as a little too out there.
Bonus points for the way this album blew up again almost 40 years later thanks to Stranger Things. That resurgence gave a whole new generation a chance to discover her, and it proves how timeless “Running Up That Hill” really is. For me, though, outside of that track, it is just an okay listen.
Favorite song: Running Up That Hill
Buzzcocks
4/5
This album is straight-up 70s punk, no question about it. Fifteen songs in 44 minutes, and not a second wasted. It’s fast, raw, and carries that restless energy that defined the era.
The Buzzcocks keep everything tight and punchy, with just enough melody tucked into the chaos to make the tracks memorable. It’s not as polished as later punk-inspired albums, but that’s part of its charm. You can feel the urgency and attitude in every riff and shout.
It might not reach the iconic status of Never Mind the Bollocks, but it holds its own as a pure punk statement. Loud, scrappy, and over before you even know it, which is exactly how it should be.
Favorite song: Orgasm Addict
Bonnie Raitt
4/5
I never really thought of myself as a Bonnie Raitt fan. I knew a few of her big hits, but this album showed me she had way more talent than I gave her credit for. Right out of the gate, the title track “Nick of Time” plays like a yacht rock style banger, smooth and polished, then she flips it immediately into Southern rock with “Thing Called Love.” That one really stood out, especially because she absolutely tears it up on slide guitar. I can always respect a guitarist who knows their way around a slide, and she nails it.
The musicianship across the record is impressive on its own, but the guest list makes it even stronger. Having Herbie Hancock, David Crosby, and Graham Nash involved adds some serious star power, and you can feel the quality shine through in the arrangements and production.
This album has a nice mix of polish and grit, and it gave me a new appreciation for Raitt outside of the singles I was already familiar with. It’s the sound of an artist really stepping into her prime, and she makes it look easy.
Favorite song: Nick of Time
Richard Hawley
4/5
I went into this one not knowing Richard Hawley at all, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. He takes that old-school lounge and crooner style and gives it a modern spin that feels both timeless and fresh. His voice is smooth and confident, the kind of tone that fits perfectly with this kind of music.
The album is also surprisingly easy to sit with. I had it on in the background while working, and it set a calm and steady mood without ever fading into forgettable noise. The production is lush but never overdone, and it suits Hawley’s delivery perfectly.
It is not an album packed with obvious singles, but that is not really the goal. The focus is on creating atmosphere and letting Hawley’s vocals carry it, and in that sense it succeeds. A solid introduction to an artist I had not heard of before, and one that shows this classic style still has a place today.
Favorite song: Born Under a Bad Sign
Todd Rundgren
3/5
Nothing on this album really stood out to me, but it was still an interesting listen. Todd Rundgren clearly had psychedelics on the brain when he made this, and you can hear that trippy influence all over the place. The album jumps around so much that it sometimes feels more like a sketchbook of ideas than a fully fleshed-out record.
That said, the medley of 60s songs was pretty cool. It had a fun, nostalgic vibe and showed off Rundgren’s ability to reinterpret familiar material in his own style. Those moments gave the album some character and broke up the chaos in a good way.
Overall, it is a mixed bag. I can respect the ambition and the psychedelic spirit behind it, but as a whole, it just did not grab me. Interesting in parts, forgettable in others.
Kelela
3/5
I have to admit, I am just not a fan of R&B, so this album was always going to be a tough sell for me. That said, Kelela is clearly a talented singer. Her voice is smooth and confident, and the production has a sleek, modern polish that fits the genre perfectly.
For me, most of the songs blended together without leaving much behind. The vibe is consistent and stylish, but since R&B is not my thing, it felt more like background music than something I would come back to.
Still, credit where it is due. Kelela is skilled, and people who enjoy this style will likely get a lot more out of Take Me Apart than I did. It is fine, just not for me.
Nanci Griffith
2/5
This one was just too heavy on that 80s country sound for me. The production has that polished, twangy feel that defines the era, and it ends up drowning out a lot of what could have been more engaging material.
There are flashes of strong songwriting and Emmylou Harris-style vibes, but the overall sound leans so hard into the glossy Nashville formula that it wore me down pretty quickly. Instead of feeling timeless, it feels locked in its decade.
I can respect the talent behind it, but the slick 80s country production is something I just cannot get into. For me, it was more of a chore to sit through than an album I would ever revisit.
The National
4/5
This is one of those albums that actually makes a case for indie rock being worth the hype. The National crafted something here that feels both moody and expansive, with a sound that grows on you the more you sit with it.
“Bloodbuzz Ohio” is the obvious highlight, a driving and hypnotic track that sticks in your head long after it ends. “Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks” closes things out beautifully, a poignant and emotional moment that shows just how much range the band really has. That one hit harder than I expected.
Not every track grabs you right away, but as a whole, the album flows together in a way that keeps you pulled into its atmosphere. High Violet balances darkness with warmth, and for indie rock, that is a tough line to walk. This one nailed it.
Favorite song: Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks
Gang Of Four
2/5
I can appreciate the influence this album had, especially with its post-punk sound that would go on to inspire a lot of early grunge and alternative bands. You can hear the rawness and angular energy in the riffs, and I get why it mattered historically.
That said, outside of the influence, there was not much here that I could really get behind. The songs feel sharp and aggressive, but they never pulled me in or stuck with me after the fact. It is more interesting to think about its place in music history than to actually sit down and listen to it all the way through.
For me, this one works better as an artifact of the post-punk movement than as something I would want to revisit. Respect for the impact, but not much enjoyment in the moment.
Dire Straits
2/5
Not gonna lie, I was pretty disappointed with this one. “Sultans of Swing” is such a banger, and it set my expectations way too high. I figured the rest of the album would have that same magic, but it just didn’t click for me.
The musicianship is solid and Mark Knopfler’s guitar work is always impressive, but the songs outside of the big hit felt flat and forgettable. They lack the same punch and swagger that made “Sultans of Swing” so timeless.
I wanted to like it more, but in the end this album felt like a one-song wonder. Great single, underwhelming record.
The Triffids
3/5
I didn’t hate this one, but nothing really stuck with me either. It’s got a clean, polished sound and you can tell The Triffids knew what they were going for, but it just kind of rolled by without leaving much of an impression.
The atmosphere is there, and the songs are fine, but they play it pretty safe. I kept waiting for a track to really jump out or hook me, and it never happened. It’s listenable, but not something I’d reach for again.
David Holmes
4/5
If I have learned anything from going through albums on this list, it is that I really enjoy a good trip hop record. This one nails the vibe with that mix of laid-back grooves and gritty atmosphere that keeps you hooked without trying too hard.
The tracks flow together in a way that feels like a nighttime soundtrack, something you put on when the world is quiet and you just want to sink into the mood. Bonus points for slipping in that James Bond theme sample on “Radio 7,” which was such a slick touch and one of the highlights of the whole album.
Overall, Let’s Get Killed turned out to be a cool surprise. It might not have the fame of bigger trip hop names, but it holds its own and gave me exactly what I want out of the genre.
Favorite song: Radio 7"
Gillian Welch
4/5
I would not normally find myself listening to Gillian Welch, but this album really surprised me. Her singing and songwriting have a raw, rootsy feel that reminded me a lot of Old Crow Medicine Show. That connection made it click with me in a way I did not expect. It has that same kind of timeless Americana sound that feels both traditional and modern at once.
The title track “Revelator” is a gem, understated but powerful, and it sets the tone for the whole record. Then there is “I Dream a Highway,” which runs over 14 minutes but never feels bloated. It is hypnotic, slow-burning, and somehow keeps you locked in the entire time. Most songs that long lose steam, but this one had me until the last note.
What stands out most is how unhurried the album feels. Welch and David Rawlings let every song breathe, creating space for the lyrics and guitar work to shine.
Favorite song: Revelator
Fugazi
3/5
This album definitely had that cool grungy sound that defined the early 90s, even though Fugazi came out of the East Coast scene instead of the Pacific Northwest. The raw energy and attitude are there, and you can hear how they helped shape the underground sound that bands later ran with.
The problem for me is that no one song really stuck out. It all blended together in a way that made it hard to find a track I wanted to go back and revisit. The vibe is consistent, but it lacks those standout moments that make you hit repeat.
Overall, Repeater is solid in style and influence, but it felt more like an important piece of the puzzle than an album I would want to spin again. Respect for the grit, but not much staying power for me.
Talking Heads
2/5
I am not sure what the Talking Heads’ schtick is supposed to be, but nothing on this album really grabbed me. The songs are quirky and offbeat, but they never hit that point where I felt hooked or wanted to come back for another listen.
Maybe it is a me problem, because I have never been much of a fan of that 80s new wave sound they pioneered. The mix of odd rhythms, twitchy vocals, and angular guitars just does not click with me.
I get that the Talking Heads were influential, and I can respect their place in music history, but Fear of Music was more of a chore than an enjoyable listen.
KISS
2/5
As a self-described metalhead, KISS just is not it for me. They lean hard into glam rock, and that has never really scratched the itch I look for in heavier music. The makeup, the theatrics, and the big hooks might have been groundbreaking 50 years ago, but today it all feels a little too pop-oriented for my taste.
“Detroit Rock City” and “Shout It Out Loud” have some energy, but nothing here comes close to the intensity or grit that real metal bands were cranking out around the same time. It is polished, catchy, and made for arenas, which is fine if that is what you want, but it is not what I look for.
Maybe I would feel different if I had heard this when it first came out, but listening now, Destroyer feels more like spectacle than substance
Solomon Burke
3/5
This one was nice to throw on, mostly because I like getting more 60s rock, R&B, and soul albums in the mix. It’s got that warm, classic vibe that just feels easy to listen to, and the mix of styles kept things moving.
The downside is nothing really jumped out. There weren’t any songs that made me stop what I was doing or want to go back and play them again. It worked best as background music while I was doing other stuff.
Overall, Rock n’ Soul was fine. Not bad at all, just not super memorable either. It’s the kind of album you don’t mind having on, but you probably won’t be talking about it afterward.
Ozomatli
4/5
This one was a lot cooler than I expected. I hit play thinking I’d check it out once and move on, but I ended up running through the whole thing again right after. It’s got a great mix of energy and flow that keeps you hooked.
“Love and Hope” stood out right away, catchy without being cheesy, and “Who Discovered America” hit just as hard with its mix of sound and meaning. Both of those tracks really carried the album for me, but the rest wasn’t filler either—it all kept the vibe going.
Overall, Street Signs is the kind of album that sneaks up on you. Fun to listen to, easy to replay, and strong enough that I’d come back to it again.
Favorite song: Love and Hope
Ian Dury
2/5
The last thing I needed today was a man with a Cockney accent telling me to make love to him.
The Shamen
3/5
I’ve actually enjoyed most of the electronic albums I’ve hit on this list so far, but this one felt kind of plain. It never really hit that spark that makes electronic music exciting.
Part of the record sounded like it was reaching toward Krautrock, but it never fully committed to that direction. The rest just played out like run-of-the-mill early 90s techno, the kind of stuff you’d expect to hear in the background at a rave but not something you’d go back to on its own.
It’s not terrible, and there are moments that almost click, but overall En-Tact didn’t leave much of an impression. Decent enough for what it is, but nothing I’d be eager to revisit.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
3/5
This one landed just a little better than En-Tact, but not by much. I think it’s the synth-pop side of electronic music that rubs me the wrong way. The sound is polished and very of its time, but it does not really pull me in the way other electronic albums have on this list.
To be fair, the last two tracks were solid and ended the album on a stronger note. Those gave me something to hold onto, but the rest of the record felt like background music that never quite took off.
Overall, Architecture & Morality was a “meh” listen. Not awful, not amazing, just kind of there. Slightly better than the album I listened to right before it, but nothing I see myself revisiting.
Nirvana
5/5
There is not a single bad song on this album. It is one of those rare records where every track has its own punch, and it holds up just as strong now as it did when it first came out. Everyone knows “Smells Like Teen Spirit” will go down as one of the most recognized songs in history, but honestly, it is not even the best song here.
Back in high school, “Lithium” and “Come As You Are” were my favorites. These days, “Breed,” “In Bloom,” and “On a Plain” all feel like equal contenders for the top spot. They are absolute classics that never lose their edge. The album then closes with “Something in the Way,” a slightly exaggerated take on Kurt’s struggles with housing insecurity, but still a raw and haunting glimpse into the darkness of his mind.
This is a great album from one of the all-time great bands. Nirvana captured lightning in a bottle with Nevermind, and decades later it still sounds just as vital and powerful.
Lana Del Rey
3/5
My only point of reference for Lana Del Rey before this was Norman F**ing Rockwell*, and I cannot say I liked this one as much. Chemtrails Over the Country Club has the same dreamy, atmospheric quality she is known for, but it felt a little too muted and slow for me to fully get into.
The title track had some nice moments, and her voice is always strong, but a lot of the songs just blended together without much to separate them. It is more background mood than an album that grabbed my attention.
Crowded House
4/5
Crowded House might be Australian, but they really give off Beatles vibes, like what the Fab Four could have sounded like if they were still around in the late 80s or early 90s. The melodies are catchy, the harmonies are smooth, and the whole thing has this easy, feel-good flow.
“Weather With You” and “Fall at Your Feet” are the big standouts, both packed with hooks that stick in your head without getting annoying. The Finn brothers have great chemistry, and you can hear it in how natural the songs feel.
All in all, Woodface is just a really solid album. Nothing too flashy, just smart songwriting and great execution. It’s the kind of record you can throw on anytime and enjoy from start to finish.
Favorite song: Italian Plastic
Wire
3/5
This is another solid punk record, and by default any derivative of punk is usually going to start out as at least a 4-star listen for me. Pink Flag has all the right ingredients: raw energy, short blasts of attitude, and that stripped-down style that makes punk what it is.
The issue here is that nothing really stood out as a favorite track. The songs blur together, and while that works for building a consistent mood, it also means I never found that one moment I wanted to hit repeat on.
Gram Parsons
4/5
Gram Parsons already wins some points just for being a Byrd and a Flying Burrito Brother, so I figured this one would be worth a spin. Turns out it’s a really solid solo album too.
The title track is a standout, with that perfect country-rock mix that shows why Gram was such a big deal in shaping Americana. His cover of “Love Hurts” really hit me though—it’s raw, heartfelt, and way more emotional than the more polished versions you usually hear.
Overall, Grievous Angel is a strong listen. Nothing too flashy, just honest songwriting and great delivery. Gram had the kind of voice that made even simple songs feel meaningful, and that’s what carries the album.
RIP Gone way too soon...
Favorite song: Love Hurt
Elvis Costello
5/5
I was really surprised to see that this was Elvis Costello’s debut album. It already sounds so sharp and fully formed, like he had been at it for years. If pop-punk had existed in the 70s, this record would have been a perfect fit. Some of the songs don’t even sound tied to that era—they feel way ahead of their time.
“Blame It on Cain,” “I’m Not Angry,” and “Waiting for the End of the World” all stood out as highlights. “Waiting for the End of the World” especially caught my ear, with guitar and drum parts that felt like a throwback to the psychedelic rock of the late 60s. It gave the record some extra texture without losing its punch.
Overall, My Aim Is True is a killer debut that set the stage for Costello’s career. Fast, clever, and packed with energy, it feels just as fresh today as it must have back then.
Favorite song: Waiting for the End of the World
Elastica
4/5
I wasn’t super impressed with the first few tracks, but as the album went on it really locked into that perfect 90s punk sound. Once it hit its stride, the raw energy and punchy riffs made the whole thing come alive.
What I really liked was how lean the record felt. Sixteen songs in under 40 minutes is exactly how this kind of album should be—fast, scrappy, and straight to the point. It keeps the momentum going without ever dragging.
Favorite song: 2:1
Charles Mingus
2/5
This one just dragged for me. Honestly, it sounded like any other jazz record, and nothing about it stood out in a way that made me want to stick around. For something that’s only 39 minutes long, it felt like the longest 39 minutes ever.
I get that Charles Mingus is a legend and this album has a lot of respect in jazz circles, but as a straight-up listening experience, I was just ready for it to end. It’s dense, it’s chaotic, and instead of pulling me in, it just wore me down.
Glad I can say I listened to it once, but I would not go back to it. Two stars for the effort, but this one was not for me at all.
Hole
4/5
This was a solid album from start to finish. Hole really hit that late 90s sweet spot where alternative rock was getting a bit shinier but still had some bite to it. The whole thing feels confident and well put together without losing attitude.
Favorite song: Celebrity Skin
It is also pretty cool that Billy Corgan was involved as a guest writer and artist. You can definitely hear his influence in some of the melodies and structure. The title track stands out right away and sounds exactly like the opening song to just about every late 90s or early 2000s teen movie, and I mean that in the best way possible.
Brian Eno
3/5
If I took psychedelics and someone handed me a Moog synthesizer, I could probably produce something similar to this. Brian Eno clearly knew what he was doing, but this album feels more like controlled chaos than anything structured. It’s weird, messy, and kind of fascinating all at once.
There are definitely moments where it clicks and the experiment pays off, but there are just as many that sound like random noise stitched together. It’s creative, sure, but not always enjoyable. You have to be in the right mood—or maybe the right state of mind—to really get into it.
Neil Young
5/5
I never understood why Harvest gets all the attention when After the Gold Rush is easily the better album. There really isn’t a weak spot here, and side one especially hits perfectly. Neil Young just nails that mix of simple songwriting and pure emotion that never gets old.
The flugelhorn on the title track is such a cool surprise, especially since horns aren’t something you usually hear in his music. “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” is short and simple, but it still hits hard. And “Southern Man” has this raw energy and conviction that makes you feel like he meant every single word.
I didn’t listen to the whole album until last year, but every time I go back to it, I love it more.
Favorite song: I have a tie....Only Love Can Break Your Hear/Southern Man
Skunk Anansie
4/5
Apple Music had this tagged as Indie, so my expectations were way down going in, but this album went hard. It’s the best mix of trip-hop, post-grunge, punk, and hard rock all rolled together. It’s got attitude, groove, and just enough weirdness to keep things interesting.
The guitars hit heavy, the vocals are strong, and the production gives it this dark, cinematic feel that fits perfectly with the sound. And honestly, any Western album that opens with a sitar is going to get props from me. That was an unexpected but awesome touch.
Overall, Post Orgasmic Chill was a really good surprise. It hits hard, keeps the energy up, and proves that labels don’t always know what they’re talking about.
Favorite song: We Don't Need Who You Think You Are
Miles Davis
3/5
It was solid, but for me it mostly worked as background music. Miles Davis and his crew clearly knew what they were doing, and I can respect how influential this album was for jazz as a genre. The sound is smooth, classy, and easy to have on while doing other things.
That said, jazz just kind of blends together for me. No matter how talented the players are, one track tends to sound a lot like the next. I never really found that one moment or song that stood out from the rest.
Motörhead
4/5
Motörhead was basically thrash before thrash was a thing. The raw speed and grit on this album still hit hard today, and you can hear how much it influenced the metal and punk scenes that followed. Lemmy’s vocals and that grinding bass tone give the whole record a rough edge that just works.
The title track is the obvious standout. I think it’s a go-to song for every middle schooler just getting into heavy metal, and honestly, it holds up for adults too. It was also part of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 soundtrack back in the day, which is probably how I first heard it.
Overall, Ace of Spades is loud, fast, and unapologetically raw. It’s not just a classic metal record, it’s the blueprint for everything that came after.
The Clash
2/5
It’s really hard for me to give a 70s punk album only two stars. REALLY hard. But this one just dragged. Nineteen songs over an hour is a lot, and by the halfway point I was honestly ready for it to be done. I get that it’s a classic and super influential, but it felt more like work than fun.
I tend to lean more toward the raw, aggressive punk sound like the Sex Pistols, not the ska-leaning stuff The Clash leaned into here. Outside of “London Calling,” “Guns of Brixton,” and “Spanish Bombs,” nothing really grabbed me. The rest kind of blurred together, and it lost the punch that good punk albums usually have.
I can respect what The Clash did for the genre, but London Calling just didn’t do it for me. Too long, too uneven, and not enough energy to keep me locked in.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
I’ve never been a big Joni Mitchell fan. Nothing against her at all, she’s clearly a talented artist, but her style just doesn’t click with me. I think it’s her syncopated vocal phrasing that throws me off more than anything. It always feels like she’s singing just ahead or behind the beat, and it kind of pulls me out of the groove.
That said, Court and Spark definitely has its moments. “Raised on Robbery” was fun and upbeat, and “Twisted” closed things out with a cool jazzy flair that I really liked. Those two songs showed a different side of her that worked better for me.
Overall, it’s a well-made album and I get why people love it, but it’s just not my jam. Respect for the artistry, but this one probably won’t stay in my rotation.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
This album earns its praise for “Proud Mary” and “Born on the Bayou” alone. Those two tracks are absolute classics that helped define Creedence Clearwater Revival’s sound and cemented their place in rock history. The energy, tone, and storytelling are all spot on.
What really stands out is how John Fogerty, a guy from Northern California, managed to write such vivid and believable songs about Southern life. The way he captures the swampy, gritty atmosphere makes it easy to forget he was nowhere near the bayou when he wrote them.
It’s not my personal favorite CCR album, but it’s still an impressive one. Bayou Country is short, punchy, and full of character. It’s the sound of a band finding their stride and creating something that still feels authentic decades later.
Favorite song: Proud Mary
Weather Report
4/5
I was hesitant to give this one 4 stars since I literally just gave the same rating to Bayou Country, but halfway through the opening track I caught myself nodding along. This album is weird in a good way, the kind of record that surprises you with how much it grows on you.
The mix of jazz, funk, and rock elements gives it a cool, unpredictable energy. It’s a fusion record that actually feels like a fusion instead of just showing off technical skill. Every instrument has room to breathe, and the groove never really lets up once it kicks in.
Overall, Heavy Weather turned out to be a really fun listen. It’s experimental without being inaccessible, and it’s got enough rhythm and personality to pull you in even if jazz isn’t your usual go-to.
I wasn’t familiar with Faces before this, but the second I heard the vocals I instantly recognized Rod Stewart. His voice has that distinct grit and swagger that gives the whole record its character. This album has that loose, barroom rock feel that just works perfectly for the band’s style.
The musicianship is top-notch, and Ronnie Wood absolutely killed it on pedal steel. His playing adds this warm, rootsy touch that makes the songs hit even harder. You can tell the band was just having fun in the studio, and that energy bleeds through every track.
Overall, A Nod Is As Good As a Wink...is a solid rock record that feels both tight and effortless at the same time. It’s messy in the best way, with enough attitude and soul to keep you coming back for another listen.
Favorite song: Memphis
Ice T
4/5
Before this, I mostly knew Ice-T from his Body Count days, but his rap hits just as hard. O.G. Original Gangster shows how sharp and versatile he really is, blending street storytelling with killer beats and a ton of confidence.
“New Jack Hustler” stands out as one of the best tracks here, with Ice-T at his most focused and intense. I also loved the samples in “Body Count,” especially the guitar riff from Black Sabbath’s self-titled song and John Bonham’s drums from “When the Levee Breaks.” Those touches gave it a gritty, rock-infused edge that tied perfectly to his crossover with Body Count. The Halloween theme sample in “The Tower” was another awesome surprise that fit the dark tone perfectly.
Favorite song: Body Count
3/5
Solid punk album. Wild Gift captures that raw, early 80s energy perfectly and fits 13 tracks into a tight 34-minute runtime, which I’ll always give credit for. The songs hit quick and hard without overstaying their welcome.
It kind of reminds me of something The Stooges would have done—gritty, stripped-down, and right on that line between late 70s punk and the post-punk sound that came just before hardcore took over. There’s a looseness to it that feels authentic and fun, even if nothing completely blew me away.
Overall, Wild Gift is a solid listen. It’s fast, sharp, and captures a moment in punk’s evolution that still feels alive today.
Buck Owens
3/5
I like a lot of Buck Owens’ work, and this one’s a solid record, especially for being only about half an hour long. It’s short, catchy, and has that signature Bakersfield twang that set Buck apart from the smoother Nashville sound of the time.
The first half of the album holds up really well, keeping a fun, lively pace that’s easy to get into. Things start to slow down on the back half though. Aside from “Memphis,” the ballads drag a bit and lose the spark that makes the earlier tracks so enjoyable.
Despite the uneven pacing, Tiger by the Tail still shows Buck doing what he does best. It’s not his strongest album, but it’s a solid snapshot of why he became such a key figure in country music.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
Not only is this my fourth Nick Cave album on the list, but of course it had to be a double album too. I really wanted to like this one more, especially after such a strong start. “Get Ready for Love” was fantastic and easily one of the best Nick Cave songs I have heard so far. It had energy, grit, and that gospel-punk intensity that pulled me right in.
Unfortunately, after that opening track, the album slid right back into typical Nick Cave territory. The pacing slowed, the mood got overly dramatic, and it turned into another long, brooding listen that felt more exhausting than engaging. The second disc did not help much either, just more of the same drawn-out gloom.
The first song alone saves it from being a total miss. Abattoir Blues had the potential to be something great, but outside of that killer opener, it felt like a lot of filler spread across way too many tracks.
Björk
2/5
I’m just not going to like Björk. It’s not going to happen. Her music always feels like a jumble of sounds and ideas that never come together for me.
The only reason this album gets 2 stars is because she actually is a talented singer. Her voice is unique and powerful, and you can tell she has real control and emotion behind it. The problem is everything else surrounding it—the production, the pacing, the weird sound choices—just feels like a mess.
I can respect the creativity and experimentation, but Vespertine is one of those albums I was happy to finish and move on from.
Neneh Cherry
3/5
This one sounded like your prototypical 80s pop and R&B album, which is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s got that clean production, punchy beats, and catchy choruses that define the era. Nothing groundbreaking, but it hits that nostalgic sweet spot if you’re in the mood for it.
“Buffalo Stance” is easily the standout track. It’s slick, fun, and still holds up as one of the best examples of late 80s pop done right. “My Bitch” was another solid one with some attitude that gave the record a little more bite.
Other than that, the rest of the album blends together a bit, but it’s a smooth, easy listen. Raw Like Sushi might not reinvent the wheel, but it nails the sound of its time and delivers a few tracks worth coming back to.
The Soft Boys
4/5
This one was a really fun listen. It felt like a mix of surf rock, punk, and psychedelic rock all rolled into one, and it somehow worked perfectly. The energy is high, the guitars have that jangly edge, and the whole thing feels both weird and catchy in the best way.
The title track stood out right away, and songs like “I Got the Hots,” “I Wanna Destroy You,” and “Positive Vibrations” kept the momentum going. The sitar in “Positive Vibrations” was an awesome surprise and added a cool twist that set it apart from the rest.
Underwater Moonlight is one of those albums that grows on you as it goes. It’s fun, unpredictable, and full of personality. Definitely one of the cooler surprises from this list so far.
Def Leppard
3/5
I’m plenty familiar with Def Leppard’s stuff, and while I can respect what they did for rock in the 80s, hair metal in general just doesn’t do it for me. Everything’s big, glossy, and built for arenas, which is fine, but it loses some of the grit I like in rock.
That said, the opening track was pretty good and kicked the album off strong. You can tell the band knew how to write hooks that stick, and the production is top-notch for its time. There’s no denying the talent, even if the overall style isn’t my thing.
Pyromania is solid for what it is, but it’s not something I’d reach for often. If you’re into that big 80s sound, this is right up your alley. For me, it’s just a decent listen that reminds me why I never fully got into the genre.
The Fall
3/5
The album started out pretty strong, and I liked the post-punk sound right off the bat. It has that gritty, experimental edge that made The Fall stand out from other bands of the time. There’s a rawness to it that works really well in the beginning.
About halfway through, though, it started to wear me down. The songs blur together after a while, and the album just goes on longer than it needs to. It loses some of that early momentum and starts to feel repetitive instead of unpredictable.
Still, there’s no denying the band’s influence and unique sound. This Nation’s Saving Grace has its moments, but trimming it down a bit would have made it hit a lot harder.
The Sonics
3/5
This was a pretty fun listen for what it is. The Sonics put together some solid covers of the rock and R&B standards from that era, and they played them with way more grit and energy than most bands were doing at the time. You can tell they were rough around the edges, but that’s part of the charm.
What stood out most was their original material. It’s raw, loud, and messy, but in a good way. You could argue it laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the Seattle sound. The attitude, distortion, and looseness all feel like early hints of grunge decades before it blew up.
Here Come The Sonics might not be a perfect record, but it’s an important one. It bridges the gap between early garage rock and what came much later, and it’s got enough punch to still sound exciting today.
Electric Light Orchestra
4/5
I’ll give Jeff Lynne some bonus points right off the bat for being pals with George Harrison. That alone makes him cooler in my book. Luckily, the music here backs it up. Out of the Blue is full of the big, orchestral rock sound that ELO was known for, and it still sounds impressive today.
“It’s Over,” “Jungle,” and “Mr. Blue Sky” were the standouts for me. “Mr. Blue Sky” especially is one of those feel-good tracks that never gets old. You can hear how much work went into the arrangements, from the layered harmonies to the strings and quirky sound effects that make the songs pop.
Even though it runs a little long in places, the quality stays consistent. Out of the Blue shows just how ambitious and creative Jeff Lynne was at his peak. It is fun, colorful, and packed with hooks that hold up decades later.
Favorite song: Mr. Blue Sky
Isaac Hayes
4/5
Right away, I recognized “Walk On By” from the Ludacris classic Southern Fried Intro, which was a cool surprise. That track alone hooked me, but the rest of the album kept me in. From start to finish, it’s smooth, soulful, and just plain easy to listen to.
Isaac Hayes’ voice is as rich and calming as the music behind it. The arrangements feel warm and full, and even though the final track runs a whopping 18 minutes, it never drags. Somehow, he manages to keep it interesting the whole way through.
Hot Buttered Soul is the definition of a chill record. Hayes took soul to a deeper, more cinematic place, and it works beautifully. It’s relaxing, confident, and timeless.
Favorite song: Walk on By
Sepultura
5/5
This album blew me away. You can literally hear “Desperate Cry” slip from straight-up thrash into the doom and sludge realm for a bit, and it’s awesome. That kind of shift shows how much range Sepultura had even in their early days.
“Murder” might be the textbook definition of a thrash song. It’s fast, aggressive, and tight from start to finish. It honestly sounds like something Slayer would write if Tom Araya skipped the intro screaming and just let the riffs do the talking.
Before this, my only real experience with Sepultura was Roots and a few scattered songs, but after hearing Arise, I wish I’d started way sooner. This album rips from start to finish, perfectly balanced between chaos and control. Early Sepultura deserves way more credit than it gets.
Favorite song: Desperate Cry
Heaven 17
2/5
This album felt like everything bad and stereotypical about 80s pop got tossed together and left to ferment. The synths are over the top, the production is glossy to the point of being plastic, and the vocals sound like they’re trying way too hard to be edgy or futuristic.
There might be a few moments that hint at something interesting, but they get buried under layers of cheesy electronics and awkward funk rhythms. It’s the kind of album that makes you appreciate how far production has come since the 80s.
In short, Penthouse and Pavement just isn’t for me. It’s a product of its time in the worst way possible, and by the end I was ready to move on to something with a little less artificial polish.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
This album hit right at the perfect moment where post-punk started blending into new wave, and you can really hear that transition in the sound. It’s got that dark, moody atmosphere typical of early 80s post-punk, but with just enough melody and polish to make it accessible.
The production feels big without being overdone, and the guitars have that cold, echoing tone that gives the whole record its edge. It’s not the kind of album that grabs you right away, but there’s something interesting about how it bridges two styles that would soon take very different directions.
Porcupine might not be full of standouts, but it captures a cool point in time when music was shifting from raw punk to something more textured. It’s a solid listen if you’re into that early 80s sound.
R.E.M.
4/5
I’ve never really been much of an R.E.M. fan. Their sound is so distinct that most of their songs end up blending together for me. That said, I actually enjoyed Green a lot more than I expected. It feels like they found a good balance between their quirky alt-rock roots and a more polished sound.
“Pop Song 89” and “Stand” were the real highlights. Both are catchy without feeling overdone and show how R.E.M. could write memorable hooks when they wanted to. The castanets on “World Leader Pretend” were also a fun touch. I’m a big fan of hearing non-traditional instruments pop up in Western rock, and that detail really stood out.
This album gave me a new appreciation for the band. It still sounds like classic R.E.M., but there’s a playfulness and creativity here that makes it one of their most enjoyable records.
The Prodigy
3/5
I don’t mind techno or house music, and this was a decent listen overall. It works well as background music while you’re doing something else, with enough energy to keep you moving but not enough to fully grab your attention.
Like a lot of techno albums, though, it all kind of blended together after a while. The beats and textures were cool, but nothing really stood out or stuck with me once it was over. It’s consistent, just not particularly memorable.
Music for the Jilted Generation is fine for what it is. It has that 90s rave energy and solid production, but it’s more of a mood piece than something I’d actively want to come back to.
Prefab Sprout
2/5
This one just did nothing for me. It sounds like every other bland 80s English pop album out there. Same sterile production, same soft vocals, same forgettable hooks. It’s technically fine, but it has zero personality.
The only track worth mentioning is “When the Angels,” and that’s partly because it meant the album was almost over. To be fair, it’s a legit banger with some life in it, which only makes the rest of the record sound even more lifeless.
Honestly, Steve McQueen feels like background music for people too afraid to turn up the volume. It’s polite, predictable, and about as exciting as a beige wall.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
I’ve never been a huge Leonard Cohen fan, aside from You Want It Darker, which actually hit me pretty hard. Songs From a Room is fine, just not something I’d ever go out of my way to listen to again. It’s quiet, sparse, and poetic in that Cohen kind of way, but it drags in spots.
There’s no denying the man could write. The lyrics are strong, and you can tell every word was chosen carefully. The problem is, the delivery is so subdued that it starts to feel sleepy after a while. It’s the kind of album that’s easy to respect but hard to stay engaged with.
So yeah, three stars. I get why people love it, but it’s just not my thing. If I want Cohen, I’ll stick with You Want It Darker and skip the rest.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
2/5
The only reason this album isn’t getting a single star is out of respect for how prolific this guy was. The man was a legend, no question about it. But Love and Devotion was rough to get through. I enjoy a lot of Eastern music and artists like Ravi Shankar, but this one just didn’t work for me.
Every track blended together until it felt like the same song looping for over an hour straight. I get that Qawwali is built around repetition and vocal phrasing, but there’s a fine line between hypnotic and exhausting, and this album crossed it.
I can appreciate the artistry and vocal skill, but as a listening experience, but this felt endless. Respect for the man, not for this record.
The Band
3/5
This one was fine, but I think I liked The Band’s debut album a lot more. The Big Pink has that same mix of roots rock and Americana vibes, but it doesn’t quite hit with the same energy or charm. It feels more polished, which takes away some of the raw magic that made their first record so great.
There are still some solid moments here, though. The musicianship is as tight as ever, and the harmonies are strong. It just lacks that spark that made Music from Big Pink stand out. After a few tracks, it starts to blur together a bit.
Not a bad album by any means, just not one that stuck with me. It’s good, but compared to their debut, it feels like a step down.
Brian Wilson
4/5
Brian Wilson really was one of the great writing and composing wizards of the 20th century. You can tell every note and harmony on Smile was meticulously crafted, but it still manages to feel warm and organic. It’s ambitious without being pretentious, which is rare for something this layered and complex.
The Beach Boys’ vocal work shines here, as always, but it’s Wilson’s arrangements that steal the show. He somehow made pop music sound like a symphony without losing its charm. Even with all the experimentation, it’s catchy and weirdly comforting at the same time.
Smile might not be an easy listen for everyone, but it’s a creative triumph. It’s proof that Brian Wilson was playing in a completely different league, both musically and emotionally.
Favorite song: Heroes and Villains
John Cale
4/5
I honestly don’t get why this one tends to get lower ratings, because I thought it was great. John Cale surprised me with how good his singing is, especially considering how intense and experimental his Velvet Underground work was. His voice fits perfectly with the lush, almost orchestral feel of this album.
The concept behind Paris 1919 is really interesting, and that sense of historical melancholy runs through the whole record. Cale’s Welsh accent adds a little extra depth and character too, giving the songs a kind of old-world charm that matches the theme perfectly.
Child’s Christmas in Wales, Paris 1919, and Half Past France were the big standouts for me. Half Past France especially hit hard; it’s beautifully written and really poignant. This one’s a gem that deserves more love than it gets.
Favorite Song: Paris 1919
Miles Davis
2/5
I know this album is supposed to be a groundbreaking masterpiece, but honestly, it’s really hard to sit through almost two hours of instrumental-only jazz. I can appreciate Miles Davis’ talent and what he did for the genre, but that doesn’t make it any easier to enjoy from start to finish.
There are a few cool moments where everything locks in, with great grooves and flashes of brilliance, but they’re buried under what feels like endless jamming. After a while, it stops feeling experimental and just starts feeling exhausting.
I get why Bitches Brew is respected, but it’s not something I’d ever want to listen to again. It’s more of a historical milestone than an album I’d actually enjoy putting on.
Christina Aguilera
2/5
Did not have a Christina Aguilera album on my bingo card for this list, but here we are. She’s got serious pipes, no denying that, but this just isn’t my kind of music. It didn’t do much for me back in the early 2000s, and it still doesn’t now.
I’ll admit, Fighter still hits. It’s got attitude, a good hook, and it’s fun to turn up for a minute. The rest of the album, though, just feels like overproduced pop fluff. Way too much filler and not enough bite to keep me interested.
4/5
I kinda want to dislike U2 because of that South Park episode where Bono is literally a giant turd, but I gotta admit, this is a good album. It’s packed with all the songs I actually know, and hearing them together just works. You can tell why this one made them huge.
Where the Streets Have No Name, I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, and With or Without You are all classics, but Bullet the Blue Sky was new to me, and it ended up being one of my favorites. It’s darker, heavier, and way cooler than I expected.
As much as I’d love to roast Bono, The Joshua Tree earns its reputation. It’s emotional, powerful, and full of songs that still sound massive today.
Favorite song: Bullet the Blue Sky
Björk
2/5
If you’ve heard one Björk song, you’ve pretty much heard them all. Vulnicura is no different. It’s full of the same scattered beats, string-heavy arrangements, and her trademark “is this singing or is she just making sounds” delivery.
I’ll give her credit for being consistent, and she’s clearly talented, but man, this album is tough to get through. It’s like listening to Yoko Ono but with less warbling and slightly better production. The emotion’s there, but it’s buried under layers of weirdness.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
3/5
I legit thought this was going to be some 60s country and western album based on the title and cover art, so I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be psychedelic rock instead. That twist alone made it more interesting right from the start.
The playing is tight, and the band really leans into those extended jams with some wild guitar work and trippy vibes. It’s definitely got that late 60s energy where everyone was experimenting with sound and stretching songs way past the radio-friendly mark.
That said, the instrumentals ran a little too long for my taste. After a while, it starts to feel more like background noise than something I want to actively listen to.
Everything But The Girl
4/5
This one was a nice surprise. I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did, but it really worked. If this list has taught me anything, it’s that I’ve got a soft spot for trip hop. The vibe here is smooth, chill, and just different enough to stand out.
The first track threw me off a little since the vocals were buried in the mix, but after that, it clicked. The beats, the electronic touches, the laid-back vocals all blended together in a really cool way.
It makes for great background music and definitely something I’ll throw in again.
Favorite song: Wrong
Stan Getz
3/5
Not really my thing, but I gotta say, it was pretty relaxing. Threw it on while I was driving and it set a really mellow vibe. I probably won’t listen again, but it went down easy and did its job.
Blondie
4/5
This one was a fun listen from start to finish. Debbie Harry absolutely carries the album, and her voice fits that perfect middle ground between punk edge and disco groove. It’s got attitude, energy, and just enough polish to make everything click.
The mix of styles keeps it interesting too. One minute it’s sharp and fast, the next it’s smooth and danceable. You can tell Blondie was firing on all cylinders here. Parallel Lines is just one of those records that makes you want to turn it up and let it play through.
Favorite song: One Way or Another
Teenage Fanclub
5/5
Man, this one was a blast. I went in knowing absolutely nothing about it, and it hooked me right from the start. The opener sounded like something that came before early 2000s pop punk or emo, with those killer guitar solos and tight vocal harmonies.
“December” had serious proto-Oasis or Radiohead vibes, and “Sidewinder” felt straight-up Beatles-esque—like it could’ve been on Help! or Rubber Soul. The bassist crushed it on that one and on “Star Sign,” giving both songs a great groove that pulled everything together.
I wasn’t expecting much, but this record totally won me over. If the rest of Teenage Fanclub’s stuff sounds anything like Bandwagonesque, I’m definitely checking out more.
Favorite song: The Concept
Deee-Lite
3/5
This one was an interesting blend of pop and techno. I didn’t dislike it, but I never really got into it either. It kind of hovered in that middle space where it was fine to have on while I was working, but nothing about it grabbed me enough to pay closer attention.
It has a cool vibe here and there, and the production is solid, but for me it ended up being more background noise than something I’d return to.
Kacey Musgraves
4/5
I’m not a country fan at all, but Kacey Musgraves is one of the few artists I actually enjoy. You can hear the pop influence in a lot of these tracks, and that definitely softens the country edge, but honestly her voice is what makes this album work. She sounds smooth and effortless on every song.
The whole album just has this warm, floaty vibe that’s really easy to sink into. Even when the production leans more country, it never turns into that twangy stuff that usually makes me check out fast.
For someone who normally avoids the genre, I ended up liking this a lot. Kacey just has a way of making everything sound better.
Favorite song: Happy & Sad
3/5
Pretty interesting proto punk album. It’s definitely a lot heavier and louder than most stuff coming out in the late 60s, and you can hear how it helped shape the punk sound that followed.
Rufus Wainwright
4/5
The first thing that hit me was how smooth Rufus Wainwright’s voice is. He sounds effortless, and that alone makes the album easy to fall into.
The songs flow well, the production is clean, and the whole thing has this calm vibe that’s just nice to have on. Simple, solid, and a really easy album to enjoy.
Favorite song: I Don’t Know What It Is
Dead Kennedys
4/5
This album isn’t going to get great reviews but it checks every box for what I love about punk. It’s loud, fast, and irreverent.
One thing I have always liked is how Holiday in Cambodia basically sounds like a surf rock song in a minor key. It gives the whole track this twisted beach vibe that makes the message hit even harder.
Jello Biafra is totally unhinged, the guitars are buzzing nonstop, and even their “Viva Las Vegas” cover gets new lyrics to make it more cynical.
LCD Soundsystem
2/5
There’s really not much to say about this one. It is 21st century techno that somehow sounds like it came from the 90s, but without any of the charm that made 90s electronic music fun.
The Gun Club
4/5
I had never heard of The Gun Club before this, and honestly, this album was a blast. Pure psychobilly with punk speed, and it hits right away. Eleven tracks in forty minutes is the sweet spot for this kind of thing.
What really sold me was the slide guitar running through so many of the songs. It gives everything this gritty, bluesy bite, and I will always give bonus points when a rock band knows how to use slide right.
It felt raw, fun, and way more interesting than I expected. I’ll definitely be checking out more of their stuff.
Favorite song: She’s Like Heroin to Me
Judas Priest
3/5
I’ve never been a big NWOBHM fan aside from Diamond Head and going on an Iron Maiden kick in high school. Just never really got into Judas Priest other than listening to a few songs.
Rob Halford was always the real deal though. His vocals absolutely carry this album, and there are a handful of tracks that genuinely hit. This didn’t convert me into a Priest fan, but I get why people love it.
Nick Drake
4/5
Man, Nick Drake was such a talented guitarist. Gone way too soon.
I've really only listened to Pink Moon, so hearing him with full backing instruments here was a nice change. The strings on “Introduction” were beautiful and sat perfectly under his guitar. And “Hazey Jane II” might be the most upbeat I have ever heard him, which was a fun surprise.
It just feels warm, easy to listen to, and really shows off how talented he was.
Favorite song: Hazey Jane II
Bee Gees
3/5
Pretty decent pre disco Bee Gees album. The vocals are smooth, the songs are easy to listen to, and it has that early 70s vibe that works when you are in the right mood.
But honestly, I still like their debut from the same era a lot more. This one is fine, just not as memorable.
N.W.A.
4/5
When this one popped up, my immediate reaction was “hell yeah.” You can’t go wrong with this much hip hop firepower in one place. Dre, Cube, Eazy… it is stacked.
Even after all these years, it still goes harder than most modern rap.
Favorite song: I Ain’t The One
Joni Mitchell
3/5
This is my third Joni Mitchell album and I get why people like her but she just isn’t for me. I think it’s the syncopation between the lyrics and music. It’s like listening to spoken word.
Also, I don’t think I’ve heard the phaser guitar effect used so much in one album since the last time I listened to George Harrison’s self-titled album (which is criminally underrated btw)
Culture Club
3/5
Not a fan of New Wave but Karma Chameleon was and still is a banger.
Britney Spears
3/5
Man, middle school me was smitten with Britney when this came out. I still remember a good bit of the songs on this album. This was a total paradigm shift for female pop at the time so I get why it was important.
Not my type of music but the nostalgia was nice.
Michael Jackson
5/5
The grip Michael Jackson had on pop music in the 80s was unreal. Even if you’re not a huge fan, like me, it’s almost impossible not to sing along once these songs start. There really isn’t a bad track on this album.
Listening to it again just reminded me how massive this record actually was. The production, the hooks, the vocals, all of it still holds up. And bonus points for the Macca and Van Halen collabs.
Favorite song(s): Thriller/Beat It/Billie Jean/PYT
Wilco
1/5
I have no clue what genre they were even aiming for here. It felt like indie, folk, noise, and whatever else all thrown in a blender with no real direction. I listened to it while driving for Thanksgiving, and I was honestly thankful when it was finally over.
Nothing grabbed me, nothing stuck, and it just dragged the whole way through.
Lucinda Williams
3/5
This is not really my kind of music, but I can give credit where it is due. The album has a solid vibe, and Lucinda Williams clearly knows what she is doing as a songwriter. It has that dusty, Southern storytelling feel that a lot of people love.
What really pulled me in was the slide guitar. Every time it showed up, the songs instantly got more interesting. It added grit, emotion, and honestly carried a few tracks that might have felt flat without it. I am a sucker for good slide work, and this album delivered on that front.
Outside of the guitar moments, the album was just alright for me. Not bad, not great, but definitely easy to sit with once it gets rolling.
Van Halen
4/5
Eddie was one of a kind. There’s no telling how many guitarists picked up the instrument because of this album alone. His tone and those tapping solos still sound unreal.
The showmanship between him and David Lee Roth basically set a standard for all the 80s hair metal bands to follow.
Favorite song: On Fire
Beck
4/5
I never really got into Beck growing up even though he was huge, but this album was honestly pretty cool. The whole southwestern vibe caught me off guard in a good way, and it gave the record an edge that I didn’t expect from what little I know about him.
I’ve been getting a lot of albums lately that use slide guitar or dobro, and I am fully here for it. Beck really nailed the slide parts on this one. It added this dusty, desert feel that made the songs way more interesting.
Favorite song: Farewell Ride
Dizzee Rascal
2/5
There are a lot of good rap albums on this list, but this is not one of them. Most of the tracks just did not land for me at all, and the production felt messy in a way that did not help anything.
The only thing keeping this from being a one star is “Jezebel.” That track is actually catchy and shows what the album could have been if the rest of it had the same energy.
Outside of that one song, though, this just was not it.
Fred Neil
3/5
Hard to go wrong with a 60s psychedelic album, and this one was a solid listen. I instantly recognized Everybody’s Talkin which was a nice surprise, and Sweet Cocaine was a straight up banger. Fred Neil had a cool, laid back style that fit the era perfectly.
The wild card was Cynicrustpetefredjohn Raga. That was a pretty unhinged way to end the album, but honestly it added to the charm.
Nirvana
5/5
Sonically, this is Kurt at his best. He gave the industry what they wanted with Nevermind and then they team up with Steve Albini to lean heavy into noise again.
Heart-Shaped Box is a love song written only the way Kurt could. You’ve got a nice little jab at the industry with Radio Friendly Unit Shifter (admittedly a banger). They get edgy with Rape Me. Also, Serve The Servants is severely underrated.
Just a great album. The one knock I would give is I think Dave’s drum fills took a step back but I think that’s the production more than anything else. Nevermind was just full of really neat fills.
Favorite songs: Radio Friendly Unit Shifter/Heart-Shaped Box/All Apologies
Silver Jews
2/5
God I dislike indie music, and this album did nothing to change that. The Nashville sound they mixed in was a nice touch, but it still felt like I was listening to a country version of the Crash Test Dummies the whole time.
There were a couple moments where the vibe almost worked for me, but overall it just dragged. Not completely terrible, just definitely not for me.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
4/5
I love psychedelic/acid rock. Janis Joplin was on another level, and this album is a perfect reminder of how much raw talent she had. Her voice is wild and powerful in a way almost no one else can pull off. Another talent gone way too soon.
The wailing guitar throughout the album gives it that gritty, psychedelic edge that fits the era perfectly. It is messy, loud, and full of character, which is exactly what you want from late 60s rock.
Overall, this is just a great psychedelic record with one of the best vocalists of the 60s. And the fake crowd noise they added to make it sound like a live album was a neat touch.
The Crusaders
3/5
Kind of hard to go wrong with a jazz album, and this one was a pretty relaxing listen from start to finish. Smooth playing, easy vibe, and nothing that got in the way of just zoning out for a bit.
It did not blow me away, but it was solid background music and stayed enjoyable the whole way through.
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
I’m not even sure how to review this one. It may be the first time I didn’t listen to something all the way through. I try to make a good faith effort but I was done halfway through.
Neil Young
4/5
This isnt my favorite Neil Young album in terms of the actual track list, but the star power here is undeniable. You have James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, and the rest of CSNY popping in, which already gives the album a huge lift.
The orchestral arrangement on “A Man Needs a Maid” is phenomenal. It hits way harder than you expect and feels almost cinematic. And Ben Keith’s pedal steel throughout the album is unreal. He adds so much warmth and texture that it ends up being one of the highlights of the whole record.
Even if it is not my personal top Neil Young album, it’s still a classic for a reason. I slept on Neil Young for way too long throughout my life. Definitely didn’t appreciate his work until recently.
Moby
4/5
This was the album I didn’t know I needed yesterday morning at work. Just a smooth, easy listen that set the vibe right away.
Run On was a fun surprise. I didn’t expect a remix of God’s Gonna Cut You Down, but it totally worked. And I immediately recognized Flower from Gone in Sixty Seconds, which gave me a nice little nostalgia hit.
Some of the slower instrumentals cracked me up because tracks like Rushing sound exactly like the background music for a soft core scene on the Playboy Channel in the 90s. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.
Overall, super mellow, super listenable, and way better than I expected.
Favorite song: Flower
The Boo Radleys
3/5
This was a pretty mixed listen for me, but there were a couple moments that stood out. “Upon 9th and Fairchild” had some really nice guitar riffs and a cool reggae feel that worked way better than I expected.
“The White Noise Revisited” was another highlight. The outro instantly reminded me of the end of “All You Need Is Love,” trumpet and all, which was a fun surprise.
I didn’t dislike the album, it just ran a little too long for me.
Norah Jones
3/5
This is a hell of a debut album, especially for her to be 23. It was a relaxing listen, she’s got a really nice voice.
Not really my type of music so I doubt I’ll go back to it but it was nice to have as background music while I was working
Gil Scott-Heron
3/5
This one was a smooth, easy listen from start to finish. Nothing flashy, just a laid back vibe that worked well in the background.
A Very Precious Time stood out for me and was the best track on the album. H2O Gate Blues was a nice bit of political commentary too. The rest of it was solid but didn’t really grab me.
Honestly, I’m surprised it was this album that made the list and not The Revolution Will Not Be Televised. I like that one better, personally.
Love
3/5
I listen to a lot of 60s music, so I definitely recognized a few of these songs. I just never realized Love was the band behind them. That part was kind of a cool surprise.
The Spanish style guitars and the Latin trumpet parts sprinkled throughout were a nice touch and gave the album its own flavor.
Pretty solid listen while I spent the afternoon working in the yard but I don’t see myself going back to it.
David Bowie
2/5
I know I’m going to catch some flack for this, but I just can’t get into David Bowie. It’s not him, it’s me. This album actually started off pretty strong, and for a minute I thought this might be the one that finally clicks.
Then the second half hit, and it kind of lost me. Once it turns into mostly synthesizers and atmosphere, my interest just dropped off. I get what he was going for, and I understand why people respect it, but it just didn’t do much for me as a listener.
I respect Bowie’s influence and creativity, but this ended up being more of a chore than an enjoyable listen.
Joanna Newsom
2/5
At first, this one kind of pulled me in because it was so unique. I was getting a Battle of Evermore vibe, or like I accidentally put on an Elder Scrolls soundtrack. That novelty was cool for a minute, but it wore off pretty fast.
I get the artistry, but I can also see why the harp peaked about 500 years ago. The syncopation between the vocals and the music felt off to me, and it made the whole thing harder to enjoy instead of more interesting.
Madness
3/5
I don’t really get why this one catches so many negative reviews. It’s not bad at all. It’s catchy, quirky, and easy to listen to, even if it’s a little uneven.
Our House alone does a lot of the heavy lifting here. That song is a straight up classic in my book and still holds up really well.
Not an album I’d spin constantly, but it’s way better than the reviews make it out to be.
Femi Kuti
3/5
This was a pretty relaxing listen overall. The grooves are steady and it is easy to let the album play without needing to focus too hard on it.
I also liked the message behind the music. Even when the tracks run a bit long, it feels like there is purpose there, not just repetition for the sake of it.
It didn’t fully pull me in, but it was solid and enjoyable while it was on.
Thin Lizzy
3/5
This was a pretty decent live album. The band sounded good, had plenty of energy, and ran through most of their standards, which is really all you can ask for from a live record.
The performances were solid and captured the band well in a live setting. Nothing felt sloppy, and the crowd energy came through nicely.
My only real disappointment was that they didn’t play Whiskey in the Jar.
Santana
3/5
This was a solid listen, but nothing that really blew me away. Black Magic Woman is obviously a classic and still sounds great, and Samba Pa Ti was surprisingly good for an instrumental. Carlos Santana’s guitar tone is smooth and instantly recognizable.
The rest of the album kind of settles into a groove that’s nice but doesn’t really go anywhere for me. It’s enjoyable while it’s on, just not something I felt pulled back to once it ended.
The The
3/5
This one leans way too hard into the 80s sound for me. I’m not 100% sure if they fall under New Wave or something adjacent, but either way the synthesizers are just a bit much. It feels very locked into its era, and not in a way that aged especially well.
The Mercy Beat was the lone bright spot for me. Without that song, this would have easily been a two star album for me.
Jean-Michel Jarre
4/5
Not gonna lie, I was on a string of 10 or so straight average-to-below-average albums, so I was kind of pissed when I saw this pop up. I had no idea what it was.
Then I started the first track and thought "Man, this sounds like that one radio station on Grand Theft Auto IV". Then I got to Oxygène Part IV, and thought "Man, this IS from that one radio station on Grand Theft Auto IV!"
In the end, it was pretty badass. Made me want to hop on GTA IV and go to one of those internet cafes.
Favorite song: Oxygène Part IV
Megadeth
5/5
Thrash metal is my element, and this album absolutely rips. This sits right in the middle of an insane run Dave Mustaine had from the late 80s into the mid 90s.
This being the first album with Marty Friedman was huge. You could make a strong argument that he’s the best guitarist out of Megadeth's many guitarists, and his playing all over this record backs that up. The riffs are sharp, the solos are wild, and nothing feels wasted.
I also love how several songs have two "acts". Holy Wars turning into Punishment Due, Rust in Peace flowing into Polaris, and Hangar 18 just going on an absolute tear. The song lengths are probably a turn off for most but I think that’s part of what makes it great. If someone wants to get into thrash metal, this is absolutely a must-listen.
Favorite songs: Holy Wars...Punishment Due/Rust in Peace...Polaris/Hangar 18
The Saints
3/5
This was a decent early punk album, but nothing really jumped out at me. It has the raw energy and attitude you expect from punk of that era, and it moves along at a good pace.
That said, there wasn’t a track that made me stop and think, yeah, this is the one. Everything kind of blended together once it was over.
Nico
4/5
I really liked this one. After hearing her work with the Velvet Underground, this album felt like a natural continuation of that world, especially knowing how much they contributed to it. The atmosphere is soft, moody, and very much of that late 60s art rock space.
Her contralto voice is the real star here. It is haunting and beautiful in a way that sticks with you long after the album ends. There is a calm sadness running through the whole thing that really works.
It is not flashy, but it is quietly powerful. Definitely an album I could see myself coming back to.
Pixies
3/5
I was familiar with the Pixies but had never really sat down and listened to one of their albums before this. It was an interesting listen, and I can hear why they were such a big influence on a lot of bands that came after them.
The whole thing has this grungy, slightly weird sound that feels like it’s sitting right between alternative rock and what would later turn into full-on grunge. Some cool moments for sure, but nothing that totally hooked me.
De La Soul
4/5
I didn’t discover De La Soul until last year, and man, I’ve been missing out. This album is clever, playful, and packed with creativity. The samples are everywhere, and they make it all work without sounding cluttered.
What really stood out was how smart the writing is. The double entendres, the humor, and the constant wordplay are on another level. tThey were clearly a horny bunch when they made this album, but they handled it with wit instead of just being crude.
Favorite song: Jenifa Taught Me (Derwin's Revenge)
Scritti Politti
2/5
This one just sounded like a generic 80s pop album to me. Clean production, synths everywhere, and nothing that really stood out or grabbed my attention.
It wasn’t bad, just forgettable. By the time it ended, I couldn’t tell you a single moment that stuck with me.
The Adverts
4/5
I’d never heard of the Adverts before this, but this turned out to be a solid little punk album. It’s fast, sharp, and gets in and out without wasting time, which I always appreciate with punk.
The songs have bite, the energy stays high, and it never feels bloated. Nothing flashy, just good, straightforward punk done right.
Definitely a cool discovery and an easy album to enjoy front to back.
Favorite song: One Chord Wonders
Siouxsie And The Banshees
4/5
Another day, another late 70s punk album, and honestly, I can’t complain. This was a pretty interesting listen, especially since I wasn’t familiar with the band at all going in.
It’s raw, energetic, and has that early punk feel where everything sounds urgent and slightly out of control. Nothing fancy, just attitude and momentum the whole way through.
Favorite song: Jigsaw Feeling
Gary Numan
4/5
I generally don’t love albums that lean this hard on synthesizers, but this one worked for me. It has a clean, moody sound that stays interesting instead of feeling overdone.
Cars is obviously an all-time classic and still sounds great. Asylum really stood out too. It has that spooky, eerie vibe that feels like it could slide right into a Michael Myers movie soundtrack.
This would otherwise be three stars but bonus star for Cars.
The Who
3/5
I get why people like this one. The pirate radio concept is cool and it definitely feels creative for its time. You can tell they were trying something different, and I respect that.
That said, I have just never been able to fully get into The Who. Even with a cool idea like this, the music itself doesn’t really grab me the way it seems to for everyone else.
The Residents
1/5
I honestly have no idea what is going on here. It feels random for the sake of being random, and not in a fun or clever way.
Nothing connected, nothing stuck, and the whole thing just sounded like noise pretending to be art.
Love
3/5
This was a decent listen, but it didn’t hit me the same way Forever Changes did. I just listened to that one a few weeks ago, and it definitely left a stronger impression.
There are some cool moments here and you can hear the band finding their sound, but it feels a little less focused overall.
Nightmares On Wax
3/5
This one caught a lot of bad reviews, but it was pretty decent. Laid back, hazy, and easy to let run without needing to pay close attention.
I can definitely see how this album would be even more delightful if you were smoking something while listening to it.
Goldfrapp
4/5
I had no idea what to expect going into this one, and it ended up being pretty cool. The first half especially surprised me with that 50s and 60s cabaret vibe.
Human sounded like it could have been pulled straight out of an old James Bond film. Super slick and dramatic. And Oompah Radar gave me strong Eyes Wide Shut feeling. Creepy, stylish, and just a little unsettling.
This album felt like a full mood more than a collection of songs, and it worked for me. Definitely one I enjoyed more than I expected.
The Youngbloods
3/5
Fun Fact - this is the second day in a row I've had "mountain" in my album title. Yesterday was Felt Mountain.
Elephant Mountain didn't stick out as much though. Normally 60s pop and rock is right in my wheelhouse. It has the right ingredients and the right era vibe, but nothing really jumped out and grabbed me.
There are some pleasant moments and the album flows well enough, it just never fully stands out from everything else from that time period.
Liz Phair
4/5
This one surprised me in a good way. It has that rough post punk sound and honestly reminded me a lot of Courtney Love, in terms of attitude and delivery. There is a rawness here that feels intentional and confident.
Eighteen songs in fifty five minutes gives it that punk rock pace where things move fast and rarely overstay their welcome. Mesmerizing, Fuck and Run, and Divorce Song were the clear standouts for me and really carried the album.
Favorite song: Mesmerizing
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
This was a solid listen, especially if you’re in the mood for late 60s psychedelia. It has that hazy, exploratory feel where the songs drift more than they drive, which can be cool depending on your headspace.
There are some interesting moments and textures throughout, but nothing really jumped out and demanded a replay for me. It felt more like an album you put on for the vibe rather than individual tracks.
Overall, it was enjoyable while it was on, just not especially memorable once it ended.
Don McLean
4/5
The title track alone earns this album a lot of credit. American Pie is one of the ultimate American summer songs. It's been a long time since I've listened to the full length version and it's still just as good.
I Crossroads stood out for me, too. There is a nice mix of storytelling and energy throughout.
It might not be something I play all the time, but when I do, it hits exactly the way it should.
Favorite Song: American Pie
Fairport Convention
2/5
The ren fair vibes on this one were a little too strong for me. I get the historical and folk importance, but it felt more like background music for a medieval festival than something I actually wanted to sit and listen to.
That said, the medley was pretty cool and easily the best part of the album. It showed some real skill and creativity, even if the overall sound just wasn’t my thing.
Steely Dan
3/5
This one started off really strong and had me thinking it might end up higher.
“Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” is obviously a banger and still holds up. I was also surprised by “Night by Night.” I had never heard it before, and honestly, it might be the best song on the album. That track alone gave this record a nice boost for me.
The second half is where it kind of lost me. It’s not bad, it just does not keep the same momentum. Still very much a yacht rock album…if it was the summer and I was on a lake, it would probably be rated higher. Rainy day on the back porch might’ve killed the vibe.
Robbie Williams
4/5
It’s honestly been over twenty years since I last heard Angels, so that alone was a nice blast from the past. I forgot how good that song was.
Outside of that, I’d never really listened to Robbie Williams before. I kept getting an Oasis kind of vibe, especially in the attitude and melodies, which I wasn’t expecting at all.
Overall, this was a lot more enjoyable than I thought it would be. Solid songs, good energy, and way better than I had it pegged in my head.
Favorite song: Angels
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
5/5
This album is a straight up masterpiece. Every member is firing on all cylinders...you can really hear how strong the songwriting is across the board, and the vocal harmonies are incredible. Teach Your Children is a perfect example. It sounds like something Gram Parsons could have written just as easily as Graham Nash, and Jerry Garcia’s pedal steel on it is phenomenal. That song hits even harder since I've become a parent.
Nash’s writing really shines throughout the album and gives it a lot of its heart. David Crosby’s songs are great too and honestly feel like a continuation of Buffalo Springfield. Considering Neil Young dropped After the Gold Rush less than a year later, you can tell he might have been holding a little back. Still, Country Girl is strong, and that organ part is pretty badass
Little Richard
3/5
I’ve always loved Little Richard’s energy, and that is still the best part of this album. His vocals are wild and completely fearless. You can hear how much fun he was having, and that spirit still comes through.
That said, almost seventy years later, a lot of these songs sound pretty dated. Still, there is no denying the influence he had on rock music once it really exploded in the 60s.
The Afghan Whigs
3/5
I liked the grungy, post punk sound right away. It has a dark, moody vibe that works and feels very much of its time. The attitude is there, and the album definitely commits to that bleak tone.
That said, nothing really stuck with me once it was over. No song jumped out that made me want to immediately go back and replay it.
It was a solid listen while it was on, just not especially memorable.
Joe Ely
3/5
I am not much of a country fan, but 70s country is usually easier for me to handle, and this one fit right into that lane. Nothing offensive, nothing amazing, just solid songwriting and a relaxed vibe.
It worked well as background music while I was working. I did not feel the urge to skip anything, but I also was not stopping what I was doing to pay closer attention.
Overall, it was decent and easy to sit with, even if it did not really pull me in.
Randy Newman
3/5
Randy Newman seems to catch a lot of hate, but this really wasn’t a terrible album. His songwriting is sharp, and the humor comes through pretty clearly if you’re paying attention. His voice can just be hard to get past.
The title track was the highlight for me. The tongue in cheek delivery is really well done, and it’s one of those songs where the sarcasm sneaks up on you.
It didn’t totally win me over, but it was better than I expected.
The Police
3/5
The Police - Synchronicity - 3/5
Pretty chill album but just not my bag. Wrapped Around My Finger and Every Breathe You Take are really good though.
Anthrax
3/5
This is easily going to be my lowest rated thrash album on the list. Anthrax has always been the one band from the Big Four that I just couldn’t get into, no matter how many times I tried.
That said, there are still plenty of good riffs and solid vocals throughout the album. You can hear the talent, and I get why people love it, it just never fully clicks for me. Caught In A Mosh and One World are bangers though.
PJ Harvey
3/5
I liked the post punkish vibe right away. It’s raw and tense in a way that works, even if it’s not something I’d actively come back to once it’s over.
There are definitely some cool moments. The bass line in “Victory” is really sweet, and “Sheela-na-gig” has some solid riffs that stood out. I also had to Google what the title meant, and once I did, I appreciated the writing a lot more. That was a smart touch.
Elvis Presley
2/5
This one definitely sounds less dated than some of his other albums on here, but it still didn’t do much for me overall. I get it, he’s Elvis, and I respect what he did for rock and roll, it’s just not my thing.
The two stars are basically one each for “In the Ghetto” and “Suspicious Minds.” Those songs are genuinely great and still hold up. Everything else just kind of passed by without leaving much of an impression.
Peter Frampton
3/5
I do love the energy of a live album, and this one definitely has that going for it. You can hear the crowd, the excitement, and how locked in the band is. That part works.
That said, I’m just not really a Peter Frampton fan. Even with the live setting, most of it didn’t pull me in. “Show Me the Way” and “Baby, I Love Your Way” were decent and easily the highlights, but the rest kind of blended together for me.
It’s a solid live record if you’re into him, but it didn’t convert me
Supergrass
4/5
I had no idea what to expect going into this one, but after about eight or nine straight days of two and three star albums, this felt like a breath of fresh air. It grabbed me pretty quickly and didn’t let go.
Richard III is a straight banger. It’s got that perfect mid 90s post grunge energy and just rips. But what really pushed this album up for me were the little touches. The bongos near the end of Sun Hits the Sky were a really cool surprise, and the tablas toward the end of Sometimes I Make You Sad caught my ear right away. I love hearing Eastern instruments worked into Western rock when it’s done well.
Overall, this was a great change of pace and way more interesting than I expected.
Favorite song: Richard III
Coldcut
2/5
This one already wasn’t doing much for me musically, and then I had to hunt it down on YouTube since it’s not on any streaming services. That alone knocked a star off. If I have to go out of my way to find an album, it better be worth it. This wasn’t.
The music itself just didn’t click. Nothing stood out, nothing made me want to replay a track, and it all kind of blurred together.
Adele
3/5
Adele is ridiculously talented, so I refuse to give her anything less than three stars. Her voice is still incredible, and there’s no denying how good of a performer and writer she is, especially at such a young age. That alone deserves respect.
That said, this album just didn’t hit me the same way 21 did. Nothing here grabbed me or stuck around once it was over, even though everything is polished and well done.
Elton John
4/5
Being a double LP, this one kind of splits itself in half for me. Album one is easily five stars on its own, while album two is more like a solid three. That said, the highs here are really high.
The first four songs alone are ridiculous. Most artists would kill to have a run like that across their entire career, let alone right out of the gate on one album. This is Exhibit A for why Bernie and Elton are one of the best songwriting duos of the 20th century. The ballads are beautiful, and when they decide to rock, they really rock.
It does lose a little steam as it goes on, but the sheer quality of the best moments carries the whole thing.
Favorite song: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.
Richard Thompson
2/5
I wanted to like this more than I did, but it just never really clicked. Most of the album felt flat to me, even though I can tell there’s skill behind it. It just didn’t grab my attention or give me much reason to stay invested.
The lone bright spot was the Together Again bonus track, which is also telling since it’s the one song not written by either Thompson.
Throwing Muses
4/5
Not gonna lie, it was a hassle getting this figured out it was a decent album The female vocals kind of reminded me of Radio Vago or Sonic Youth. There are a lot of good post-punk albums on this list.
Favorite song: (America) She Can't Say No
Nina Simone
3/5
I listened to this once before on Apple's GOAT album countdown and didn't really like it. But I took more time to listen to it this time around and it's actually a pretty decent album. That rare contralto voice is almost haunting, especially paired with her lyrics that are reflecting the race/gender attitudes of the time.
My delineation between a 3 and 4 is: would I actively want to go back and listen to it? In this case, no, but I wouldn't mind hearing it again if I'm going through another list and it is better than the multitude of other 3 star albums I've been stuck with lately.
Steve Winwood
4/5
I’m not familiar enough with Steve Winwood’s catalog to confidently call this yacht rock, but it definitely lives in that smooth, breezy neighborhood. The whole album has a polished, laid back feel that makes it really easy to listen to without fading into background noise.
While You See a Chance is still a straight up banger. It also might be one of the best uses of synth before the 80s completely wore that sound out. Everything feels tasteful and restrained instead of flashy.
Clean production, strong songwriting, and a vibe that holds up better than I expected.
Gene Clark
2/5
Man, I love the Byrds but Gene Clark’s solo album just didn’t do it for me.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
I’m really loathe to hate on Simon and Garfunkel, but this album didn’t do much for me overall. I get the concept and I respect what they were going for, it just didn’t connect the way I expected it to.
Honestly, the only songs that really worked for me were the last three. Mrs. Robinson, A Hazy Shade of Winter, and At the Zoo are all solid, and I’ll also give some credit to the Bookends Theme reprise. Those tracks saved the album from a lower rating.
As a full listen, though, it felt uneven. I respect the legacy, but this one didn’t hit the way some of their other work does.
Jamiroquai
5/5
I went into this with low expectations and holy crap, this album blew me away. It’s a straight up badass record. The soul and funk protest vibes had me thinking of a Curtis Mayfield album, just filtered through the early 90s. It’s groovy, political, and actually says something without feeling preachy.
I also had no idea the lead vocalist was a guy. That falsetto is seriously impressive and works perfectly with the funk-heavy sound. The band is locked in the whole way through, and the grooves hit hard.
Revolution 1993 is an absolute banger and the social commentary on When You Gonna Learn and Too Young to Die still resonates today. This was a huge surprise and an easy five stars for me.
Ms. Dynamite
3/5
This was a decent listen, but it didn’t really blow me away. The themes are strong and there’s clearly something being said, which I respect, but musically it didn’t always pull me in.
There are moments where it clicks and feels confident, but a lot of it just kind of passed by without sticking.
Radiohead
3/5
I still can’t really get behind the Radiohead hype so far. OK Computer was a masterpiece for me, Kid A was a dud, and this one lands somewhere in the middle. Musically, it’s a solid album, but it never fully pulls me in.
A big part of that is how much of it feels like Thom Yorke whispering over the music. I know that’s kind of his thing, but after a while it just blends together. That said, “Bodysnatchers” and “Jigsaw Falling Into Place” were legitimately great and showed flashes of what I wish the whole album leaned into.
Honestly, I mostly remember this album because of the whole “pay what you want” release. Digital music was still figuring itself out at the time, and that move was way more interesting to me than most of the songs
Sugar
4/5
This was a really solid listen. Hearing this kind of Brit rock sound while the Seattle scene was dominating the radio made it stand out more than I expected. It feels like it was doing its own thing instead of chasing trends, which I appreciated.
The “she said, she said” refrain in Good Idea immediately reminded me of Breed off Nevermind, and that hooked me right away. There’s also a sort of pre Coldplay vibe floating around here, but with more edge and grit.
Fortune Teller gave me early Foo Fighters energy, especially in the way it builds and drives forward. This album had way more going for it than I thought it would.
Favorite song: Good Idea
Barry Adamson
2/5
This one will be short. Really don't know why a soundtrack for a non-existent movie is even necessary. It was decent background music but what the heck.
The Young Rascals
3/5
This is the kind of 60s album that is usually right up my alley, so I was a little surprised it didn’t click more. It’s pleasant and well made, just very safe.
Nothing really jumped out or stuck with me once it was over. It all blended together in a way that made it easy to listen to, but also easy to forget.
Rocket From The Crypt
3/5
This one gave me a hit of nostalgia right away. I remember Rocket from the Crypt from the old Vans Off the Wall compilation CDs and from the Tony Hawk Pro Skater soundtrack, so that alone earned some bonus points.
That said, nothing on this album really stuck out for me. It’s solid, energetic punk rock, but once it was over, I didn’t feel the urge to go back and replay anything.
Still, it was a fun listen overall. Also, side note, we seriously need to start a movement to bring back the Vans Off the Wall albums. Those things were legendary.
4/5
This album hit me with a big wave of nostalgia right away. I instantly remembered Knights of Cydonia from Guitar Hero back in college...still a banger. That song alone sets the tone for how ambitious and over the top this record wants to be.
The back half of the album is incredible; City of Delusion stood out with its Spanish and Mediterranean flair, especially the castanets, guitar runs, and trumpet touches. It gives the song a dramatic, almost cinematic feel. Assassin goes hard in a different way, darker and more aggressive, while still keeping things tight and focused.
Muse really leaned into those European influences here, and it paid off. The blend of rock with Spanish, Italian, and Mediterranean elements gave the album a personality that separates it from a lot of mid 2000s alt rock.
Bill Callahan
2/5
I really tried with this one, but it just bored me to death. The whole album feels slow, muted, and stuck in neutral. Nothing grabbed me, nothing surprised me, and nothing made me want to lean in.
It has that soft, introspective singer songwriter vibe, but for me it never builds or goes anywhere interesting. Every track kind of blends into the next until it all turns into background noise.
I get that some people probably find this thoughtful or meditative, but it did absolutely nothing for me.
Kraftwerk
4/5
Trans-Europe Express
Trans-Europe Express
Trans-Europe Express
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Trans-Europe Express
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Trans-Europe Express
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Trans-Europe Express
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Trans-Europe Express
Trans-Europe Express
Trans-Europe Express
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Cornershop
3/5
This one was a pretty interesting listen. The Eastern style music and instruments were easily the highlight for me. Whenever those sounds came in, the album felt more alive and a lot more unique than your standard 90s alternative record.
Even the album title is a clear nod to Eastern philosophy and religion, which fits the whole vibe. That cultural blend is what makes this project stand out. The mix of rock with Indian influences gives it personality, even if not every song fully lands.
The Fall
3/5
This was a pretty decent post punk album. It’s rough around the edges in a way that works, and it doesn’t try too hard to be polished.
The attitude is what stood out the most. It reminded me a lot of the Sex Pistols or The Clash, just that sneering, slightly unhinged energy running through everything. You can tell they cared more about vibe and statement than perfection.
Nothing blew me away, but it was a solid listen with some real bite.
Django Django
3/5
This was decent enough while it was on. It has a cool, slightly quirky indie vibe and some interesting production choices that keep it from feeling totally generic.
That said, nothing really stuck out. It worked fine as background music, but once it ended, I couldn’t point to a track I was dying to replay.
Simply Red
2/5
This one just sounded like a generic 80s pop album to me. Clean production, smooth vocals, and nothing that really stood out or felt unique.
It wasn’t terrible, just kind of bland. By the time it ended, I couldn’t remember much about it besides the overall vibe.
Eminem
5/5
I can understand the bad reviews based on musical taste but people leaving bad reviews because they’re offended by lyrics are missing the nuance of a persona. It’s akin to believing GWAR and Slayer were serious in some of their lyrics.
Even in the lead off track, he literally tells us “God sent me to piss the world off.” When his music hit the radio, boy did it, and that was the point. I was in middle school when Eminem blew up so our parents hating him made me and my friends want to hear his music even more.
I’m not a huge Eminem fan by any means but the work on his early albums has it all: shock value, diss tracks, great rhymes, and a chip on his shoulder. Some of the references are dated eg, “she’s older than George Burns”, “brain dead like Jim Brady”, etc. but pretty sharp for the time.
Favorite track: Guilty Conscience w/Dr Dre
Haircut 100
2/5
Not sure how many generic pop albums can be on this list. The same guitar riffs on almost every song and bass lines left over from the disco era.
Blue Cheer
4/5
I’ve seen plenty of people call this the first true metal album. I’m not sure I’d go that far, but it’s definitely a progenitor of acid rock and you can hear how it paved the way for stoner and sludge metal. The fuzz, the volume, the heaviness, it’s all there.
It’s raw and blown out in the best way. Nothing subtle about it. You can tell this thing must have rattled speakers in 1968.
I immediately recognized their version of Summertime Blues, which still hits hard. For its time, this had to sound insane.
Favorite song: Summertime Blues
Jazmine Sullivan
4/5
I’m not really an R&B guy, so I went in with low expectations. This ended up being surprisingly good. The production is smooth without being boring, and the songwriting feels honest instead of manufactured.
What really stood out were the spoken word interludes. They felt candid and unfiltered, almost like overhearing a group chat. As a white dude who’s married with kids, it was interesting hearing dating, hookups, and everyday life from a Black female perspective in that raw way. It felt personal and real.
New Order
2/5
This mostly felt like generic 80s synth pop on autopilot. The production is glossy, the drum machines are stiff, and the keyboards dominate everything to the point where it starts to feel sterile. There’s barely any grit or urgency.
A lot of the tracks blur together, and by the midpoint it feels like you’ve already heard everything the album has to offer. It’s not bold, it’s not risky, it just kind of exists. For a band that gets as much praise as New Order does, this was pretty underwhelming.
The only redeeming moments were the last two songs, which finally showed some life and atmosphere. If the rest of the album had that energy, it might’ve been a different story.
The Beau Brummels
3/5
Sixties and psychedelic rock are usually right in my wheelhouse, so this one had a head start with me. It’s got that mellow, slightly dreamy late 60s feel and flows pretty well from track to track.
Nothing really jumped out as amazing, though. It’s consistent and pleasant, just not especially memorable. There were definitely times that the singer’s voice reminded me of Bob Dylan.
Little Simz
4/5
This one really impressed me. The flow of Brit hop is different from American rap, but in a good way.
Wounds stood out with those beats and that short string section that comes in and just hangs there in a haunting way. It gives the track some real emotional weight. Venom was another highlight for me. It had strong trip hop vibes and a darker, moodier atmosphere that worked really well.
Favorite track: Venom
Pink Floyd
3/5
I refuse to give Pink Floyd anything less than three stars, but their early stuff just isn’t my favorite. You can hear the creativity and the experimentation, but it feels way more chaotic than the later albums I love.
I’m usually a fan of what a little LSD can do for a musician, just look at Pet Sounds or Sgt. Pepper’s. But here, it feels like Syd might’ve been going a little overboard. Some of it is playful and inventive, and some of it just sounds unhinged.
Lambchop
3/5
This was a solid listen, just not one that really grabbed me. It’s got that mellow, almost alt country meets lounge vibe that works in the background but doesn’t demand your attention.
The songwriting feels thoughtful and the arrangements are clean, but a lot of it blends together. Nothing really jumped out as a must replay track.
It’s the kind of album that’s nice to have on while you’re doing something else. Respectable, just not something I’m itching to revisit.
Pink Floyd
5/5
In middle school, I mostly grabbed onto it as the home of a cool protest song. As an adult, the album hits different because the symbolism stops being a vague “society is bad” poster and more about how self protection can turn into self imprisonment while you still insist you are doing fine.
I normally don't get this deep or dark with my reviews but this is the first time I've listened to The Wall critically as an adult and not just to have as background music. I ended up listening to it twice lying in bed and had to break my thoughts down for some of the songs where the lyrics just grabbed me. I didn't fully appreciate as a teen vs as an adult.
Another Brick in the Wall, Part 1
Teen: “Oh, this is where the school stuff starts.”
Adult: The first brick comes well before school. It can start with loss.
Another Brick in the Wall, Part 3
Teen: Short, intense, keeps the rebellion theme going.
Adult: This is the point where “leave me alone” becomes a lifestyle.
The Show Must Go On
Teen: Circus-y, quartet, Beach Boys vibe. (Which makes sense now that I know Bruce Johnston contributes to the song)
Adult: Performing while falling apart. What high functioning misery or depression sounds like.
The Trial
Teen: Wild, theatrical, basically a rock opera centerpiece.
Adult: Self prosecution. Every voice is a coping mechanism turned into a judge of how you've lived and treated people. The only solution (ie punishment) is to open up and admit your need help. But this also requires exposing your feelings.
Outside the Wall
Teen: “okay, the story is over.”
Adult: There are people out there willing to help but they're human too. They get so tired of "banging their hearts against some mad buggers wall" that they give up on you.
I'm not a pysch expert by any means but maybe that's why this album is so great. I'm sure there are many ways you can interpret it. Man this album is way darker than I remember it.
On a lighter note, the call and response between Gilmour and Waters on this album, like in Mother and Comfortably Numb, is elite. And after all this time, it hit me that Another Brick Pt 2 is basically a disco song with the bass line and guitar riffs. Roger Waters bass work on that track is awesome.
The Libertines
2/5
It’s not them, it’s me. I have a long history of disliking 2000's indie rock and this didn’t do much to change my mind. I can hear why people like it, it’s got that sloppy, chaotic charm to it, but most of it just kind of ran together for me.
I don’t even think it’s bad, just not my thing at all. It feels like one of those albums where if you already love this style, there’s probably a lot to latch onto. For me, though, it was more “yeah, I get it” than something I actually wanted to come back to.
Dexys Midnight Runners
2/5
It’s not a bad record, but 80s Brit pop just isn’t my lane. A lot of it hit me like theater kid soul music, super dramatic, super committed, and the vocalist gets into this borderline yodel thing on a few tracks that kept pulling me out of it.
That said, I’ll give it this: the little “Werewolves of London” nod was pretty slick, that was the one moment where I was like “okay, that’s fun.”
Red Hot Chili Peppers
1/5
How To Be the Red Hot Chili Peppers
1) Come up with nonsensical lyrics for 90% of your songs
2) Apply a "sing/talk the verse, sing the chorus" formula to those songs
3) ??????
4) Somehow they profited massively off that
If Anthony Keidis just sang each song normally, this could be a great album.
Otherside, Californication, Easily are legitimately good songs, as much as I hate to admit it.
Lou Reed
4/5
If there’s something this generator has taught me to appreciate, it’s the Velvet Underground and associated acts, and Transformer feels like the perfect next step. It’s got that cool, grimy confidence, but it’s also weirdly warm in spots. The songs are sharp without trying too hard, and the whole thing just has a vibe that sticks.
“Walk on the Wild Side” and “Perfect Day are both great, and “Satellite of Love” is one of those songs you can catch yourself humming later.
Favorite song: Perfect Day
Buffalo Springfield
4/5
This is one of those albums that makes you forget Buffalo Springfield was a band with a pretty short runway. It came out a year after their debut and then 7 months later, they breakup and release their final album. It’s got that late 60s mix of folk rock, psychedelia, and bite, but it doesn’t feel like it’s wandering around aimlessly. The songwriting is just plain strong, which is expected when you've got half of CSNY.
It’s not flawless front to back, but the highs are legit. It’s the kind of record where you can hear a bunch of future branches of rock getting sketched out in real time, and it still holds up.
Favorite song: Mr. Soul
Le Tigre
2/5
I get what they’re going for, but it just didn’t work for me. The DIY electro punk thing has attitude for days, and I’m into the idea of it more than the actual listening experience. A lot of the songs feel like they’re built around slogans and energy first, and I kept wishing the hooks were a little stronger.
There are moments that are genuinely fun, and I can totally see this being a “you had to be there” classic for some people. For me, it wore thin pretty fast.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
4/5
This album’s got way more going on than just the title track. The vibe is classic early hip hop, raw and simple, but it still feels sharp, especially when it leans into storytelling and personality instead of just party stuff.
“Scorpio” was a really cool track, that one stuck out for me, and “Dreamin’” cracked me up. I did not have a love song dedicated to Stevie Wonder on my bingo card for yesterday lol.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
3/5
didn’t dislike this at all. I’m a huge Old Crow Medicine Show fan, so bluegrass and old time country are absolutely in my wheelhouse. There’s a lot to appreciate here, and it’s cool hearing the legends and the younger band trading songs like it’s one long front porch session.
That said, it’s also a lot. Two hours of classic country and bluegrass is just more than I’m usually looking for in one sit down, even when I like the style.
Julian Cope
3/5
Decent album, it just runs a little long for me. I do like how it bounces around stylistically, it doesn’t feel stuck in one lane, and that kept it interesting even when my attention started drifting.
“Hanging Out & Hung Up on the Line” is a straight banger, easily my favorite thing here. And “Head” genuinely it sounded like something you’d hear from Sublime. If this thing was trimmed down a bit, I’d probably come back to it more.
Mercury Rev
4/5
This album feels like a late night drive with the windows down, a little dreamy, a little weird, and somehow still warm. It’s got that big, cinematic glow without feeling corny, and the arrangements keep pulling you along even when the songs get slow.
A few details really made it for me. The guitar solo on “Hudson Line” keeps reminding me of another solo, but I can’t place it, my best guess is something George Harrison-ish from Abbey Road or Let It Be. The bass line on “Funny Bird” is seriously good, it’s doing more work than you notice at first. And I love the maracas on “Tonite It Shows,” that tiny texture adds so much swagger to a song that’s already gorgeous.
I had no idea what to expect with this one so I'll definitely check out more of his stuff.
Favorite song: Hudson Line
Sonic Youth
3/5
This one’s weird, even by Sonic Youth standards, at least compared to the stuff I’m more used to from them. It’s got plenty of that jagged, off kilter energy, but it didn’t feel as locked in or immediately memorable for me as their later records.
It’s not bad at all though. I just didn’t connect with it the way I do with Goo. So yeah, not as good as Goo, but not terrible