Not even fair to get 36 chambers as my first album. A classic. While I appreciate 90’s hip hop, more recent hip hop tends to resonate with me more. That said, you’ve gotta appreciate one of the main albums that defined that 90’s sound. This was probably only my 3rd or 4th listen straight through this album and I tend to like the hits more than the album as a whole (which is rare for me). Some of the shock tracks fall a little flat for me. Overall, it was nice to revisit this one and I appreciate it for what it is and what it did, but it’s not one I’ll go back and listen straight through too often. Still a great album. Highlights: Bring Da Ruckus 7th Chamber Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta F’ Wit C.R.E.A.M

Groovy. I knew a couple of these tracks (I Want to Take You Higher, Everyday People) and had seen their Woodstock set but don’t think I’d ever listened to this album straight through. The groove is infectious. I’ve been dancing around all morning making my breakfast. Love those horns. This feels like funk perfected. There’s definitely some misses for me though (Somebody’s Watching You). And sure there’s some social commentary here, but let’s be honest, it’s not the album to seek out for lyrical content (“scooby dooby dooby” is literally a lyric), but the vibes are on point. If not for the few misses, it would be a 5 for sure. 4/5 Highlights: Don’t Call Me Nigger, Whitey I Want to Take You Higher Sing a Simple Song Sex Machine - one of the hardest grooves I’ve ever heard

Oh Eminem. Settle in dear reader; I’ve got some things to say on this one. I’ve often struggled with how to feel about Eminem (particularly his early work). But I guess that’s kind of the point. On the one hand, all the criticisms of his music are valid. Shocking and Unsettling? Sure. Violent? Yep. Sophomoric, homophobic, and misogynistic? That and more. Best kept out of the headphones of impressionable youth? Probably. But to stop there is to do his artistry (and music as an art form) a disservice. Because all the praises of his work are valid as well. Lyrical genius? Undeniably. Razor sharp wit and hilarious, often self deprecating, sense of humor? No doubt. Unmatched flow? Self-evident. Crafter of layered and nuanced rhythms and rhymes meticulously pieced together throughout the album to create a challenging but satisfying final product? Well you just listened to the album, didn’t you? So what do we do when we’re left with an artist that’s equal parts brash and brilliant? Shocking and sublime? Well…as far as I’m concerned, we appreciate the art of course. Sure that might require dissection and analysis and coming to terms with some of the rougher edges. But art in all its forms has a long history of requiring work on the part of the appreciator. All that said, to just leave it at, “it’s art - it’s supposed to be challenging.” is letting Em off the hook a little here. Particularly when it comes to this album which has more than a few tracks that are uninspired, to say the least. The thing is, Em never set out to teach a lesson. He never set out to create a towering piece of art with some kernel of eternal wisdom at its core. He never even set out to make a perfect record. He was just a skinny white kid with a gift and A LOT to say. And when Dre gave him a chance with this record, he took that chance and fired both barrels. What came out could be described as a proper mess, but EVERYONE was listening. To those who didn’t live through this time, it’ll be hard to explain and impossible to overstate how much of a cultural phenomenon Eminem became following the release of this album. He was inescapable. And not just for the shock factor and public enemy number 1 persona. It was also that his music was really really good…in an undeniable (and often infuriating) way. No, the Slim Shady LP wasn’t perfect, but it gave the world glimpses of the Em that would come. The one who would make the hip hop masterpiece that is TMMLP. But with SSLP, Em announced himself to the world and made it clear you could love him or hate him, but the one thing he wouldn’t let you do was ignore him. So how do we come to terms with Eminem? What do we do with this angry kid from Detroit? Can we look past the homophobia and misogyny and violent rhetoric? Especially in today’s hyper-aware socially conscious landscape? I wouldn’t fault others who can’t, but I can because I choose to listen within the context that the tracks were written. I recently saw an interview where, when asked about the album and the controversy around it, Eminem stated, “The kids take it for what it’s worth - see it for what it’s worth.” When the interviewer followed up and asked, “What is it worth?”, Em laughed and responded, “Nothing.” That’s the thing… it’s all a big joke. And if you let yourself in on the joke, there’s a whole lot to enjoy. So pick your descriptor: Brilliant. Shocking. Game changing. Unsettling. Masterful. Problematic. Enigmatic. Yep, that’s…Eminem. Highlights: My Name Is Guilty Conscience Role Model Just Don’t Give a Fuck Still Don’t Give a Fuck

I love this era of country and western music and most of these songs are familiar favorites for me. So much so that when I happened to stop in El Paso on a work trip, I couldn’t help but make my way to Rosa’s Cantina to watch Felina whirl. I’ve always enjoyed the story telling that was a staple of this era. And the themes are as old as time itself: love, death, rebellion, redemption, regret. I know this type of music isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I’ve always felt like everyone’s got a little cowboy in them, and if you let them, these songs just might speak to that part of you. 4/5

We get it…you can hit high notes on the trumpet. I understand that it’s technically impressive, but I don’t find it especially enjoyable to listen to (particularly when it’s not the right note which seemed to be the case a few times). But honestly, that’s one of my few criticisms of this album. Other than that, I found it thoroughly enjoyable, especially after reading up on the context of the show and how it basically saved Duke’s career (and big band jazz in the process). I don’t consider myself qualified enough to really judge this on a theory level, so I’ll just give it a 4/5 based almost entirely on the vibes. Stay jazzy.

Sure, I’ve heard the hits, but I’ve never really sat down to dig into any of Prince’s music. And I knew it was long overdue. I figured I’d love it and I did. Not a bad track on here. 5/5 Highlights: Let’s Go Crazy Darling Nikki Purple Rain

This album is already on my personal list of top 20 or so albums, so no surprises here. But always good to go back and revisit a familiar favorite. Moonlight Mile is one of my all-time favorite songs. 🎶”I got silence on my radio. Let the air waves flow. Let the air waves flow.”🎶 5/5 Highlights: Can’t You Hear Me Knocking You Gotta Move I Got The Blues

Saw someone else say this is the soundtrack of suburban dads in socks and sandals, and they’re not wrong. They rated it 1/5, but I think there’s a little more to appreciate here than they’re giving it credit for. Some tracks are funky and fun. Some cool vocal harmonies, melodies, and guitar solos. It was on in the background and I was never once bothered by it but also rarely had any reason to listen closer. I’m sure this is someone’s favorite album, but I’m having a hard time seeing it as anything other than benign yacht rock. 3/5 Highlights: Night by Night Pretzel Logic Monkey in Your Soul

Stranger Things up in here. This album is wonderfully weird, and I thoroughly dig it. Truly not a bad song on here. One of my new favorite albums. Highlights: Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God) Hounds of Love The Big Sky Waking the Witch Watching You Without Me Jig Of Life

I feel like if early Goo Goo Dolls were super Irish, it’d end up sounding something kinda like this. I don’t hate it, and it was enjoyable enough to have on in the background, but I can’t see myself coming back to this one with the exception of a few songs. 3/5 Highlights: Sweet Thing When Will We Be Married - 1987 Recording

Idk this one kinda missed the mark for me. I felt about it the same way I’ve felt about other Bjork songs I’ve heard in the past. They’re weird and sometimes it works but sometimes it doesn’t. Some of the tracks here came off as though she was trying a little too hard to be weird. It wasn’t unenjoyable, but I just found it ok. I probably listened through this album 4 or 5 times seeing if maybe it would start to pay off, but it left me feeling about the same each time. Just meh. 3/5

Pretty much every song on this album is so iconic that’s it’s easy to forget this was a debut album (!!!) and not a greatest hits compilation. Jimi was the king and was gone far too soon. Damn near perfect album. What else is there to say? 5/5

I used to think I really liked U2, but I’m starting to think it’s more that I just liked the documentary “It Might Get Loud”. These days, I find U2 pretty boring. I’ll still give this album a 3 because I didn’t actively dislike it, but it was kinda lame and definitely cheesy at times. A couple good tracks, though. 3/5 Highlights: Beautiful Day Elevation

I used to not care for Bruce much. All I’d heard were the big hits and it always felt like it was too repetitive and droning, but two things changed my mind. First, I saw his Western Skies documentary and realized he was a thoughtful dude with a lot of soul and not the mindless patriotic wanker I thought he was. Second, I heard the song Racing in the Street from this album, which might be one of the most hauntingly beautiful songs I’ve ever heard. From then on, I’ve been appreciating Bruce more and more. And I’m loving everything about this album. The guitar solos, the keys, the harmonica, the saxophone, and especially the lyrics. These are lyrics I don’t think I would’ve appreciated much when I was younger, but as life goes on, those themes of love, loss, redemption, and regret start to hit a little differently. Like on Something in the Night - there’s just something about the idea of getting in a car and running the road out, chasing something in the night, that has a little more depth the older you get. I think this is the kind of album you need to listen to twice. Once on some big speakers so you can just rock out and enjoy what’s going at the musical level. Then again on a good pair of headphones so you can really catch the lyrics and appreciate the intimacy of some of the quieter and more poignant moments. Not a perfect album (there are some misses), but definitely 5 stars. 5/5 Highlights: Adam Raised a Cain Something in the Night Racing in the Street The Promised Land Darkness on the Edge of Town

This album comes out rocking and rarely slows down. I enjoyed it for the most part, but there were elements I could have done without like the extended drum solos, vocal screeches (between songs), and some of the more experimental synth effects. Maybe I’m just getting old, but I think it would be a stronger album without that stuff. This is partially why I usually don’t get too into live albums. There’s a degree of excess and carrying on that works well at a live performance, but doesn’t always translate to the recording. Overall, there were a lot of fun grooves and some songs I’ll revisit. Good but not great record is how I’ll classify this one. 3/5 Highlights: Highway Star Child in Time Lazy

I’ve always struggled with these 70’s/80’s prog bands. As big of a music fan as I am, I’ve just never “gotten it”. That said, Rush is one of those bands that are beloved by a lot of people I respect - musician’s musicians, they say. So I resigned myself to give this album a really honest effort. And I tried, guys. I really did. But I just can’t convince myself that I like this. Idk if it’s Lee’s voice or something else, but this is the first album in this project that I actively dislike. Up until now, there have been albums that I thought were just ok, but this is the first album that I will rate below a 3. Maybe just chalk it up to me not being enough of an real musician to appreciate what they’re doing, but I’m sorry…this was just unpleasant to listen to. Also, hearing YYZ gave me PTSD remembering the countless hours spent in my teens trying to beat that song on Expert on Guitar Hero (I eventually got it). 2/5 Highlights: Tom Sawyer (I guess?)

I think my productivity at work was 14% higher while listening to this album. Can’t say I’d go seek this one out again to put on, but it was cool for what it was. 4/5

No complaints with this one. Easy listening, fun, and groovy. 4/5 Highlights: Hey Grandma Come in the Morning Omaha Ain’t No Use

After reading about Ian Curtis’s tragic life and death, it’s hard to listen to this album without hearing it as something between a half-hearted cry for help and a long-form suicide note of sorts. Clearly the lyrics of someone tortured by powerful demons. But that’s the way it goes sometimes - art and depression going hand in hand, the one influencing the other for better and for worse. But there’s a lot to love here. And the sad story behind the band’s frontman adds depth and significance to the album. I read a description of Joy Division on their Spotify bio that I think sums it up perfectly, “a quiet storm of musical restraint and emotive power.” 4/5 Highlights: Disorder Day of the Lords Shadowplay Interzone

I’ve always liked TVOTR’s vibe, but I’ve given up trying to find any meaning in their lyrics. Maybe some can decipher them, but it’s damn near gibberish to me. That said, it’s impossible not to “feel” this music. It’s energetic, weird, funky, groovy, unique, and dance-y. Although I can’t say this is a particularly memorable album, its bright spots and notable lack of any true misses warrants a 4. 4/5 Highlights: Halfway Home Crying Shout Me Out DLZ

Lovely change of pace. Dolly’s a treasure and this album was delightful. A little too one-note to be 5 stars, but it’s definitely a high 4. Not a bad track on here. 4/5 Highlights: Coat of Many Colors Traveling Man She Never Met a Man (She Didn’t Like) Early Morning Breeze Here I Am

I think this is the first time I’ve ever knowingly listened to Depeche Mode. It’s not what I expected. I expected more industrial noises and metallic clanks (I suspect other DM albums might deliver on that or maybe my notions of DM are just off). I’m pleasantly surprised. It’s very subdued without being boring. I really dig it. Will definitely get revisiting this one. 4/5 Highlights: Sweetest Perfection Waiting for the Night Policy of Truth

This one really grew on me. I started out with unpleasant memories of suffering through Rush and was thinking “oh great…it’s another self-indulgent prog rock circle jerk.” But I have to say Yes won me over with this album and may have just restored my faith in prog rock in the process. As the album started, I was starting to wonder if maybe I just don’t like prog rock. And I’ll admit, there’s still an element of self-importance that I find a bit off-putting. But each time I wanted to write it off, there was some groove or tonal shift or vocal run that kept me engaged. Finally, I decided to just lean in and ignore the part of me that wanted to dislike this, and when I did, I found myself starting to bob my head, then tap my foot, and before I knew it, I was full on air drumming. And as the album progressed (and certainly upon repeated listens), there was a very pure enjoyment to be found. I wouldn’t count this among my favorite records, but I’d gladly admit I’m a fan. Close to the Edge plays almost like a symphony and I find that quite interesting. And I think the band really nails the more intimate movements like “I Get Up I Get Down” and especially “And You and I” (which reminds me a lot of LZ’s “That’s the Way”). Overall, I’d definitely revisit this one, and I look forward to other Yes installments. 4/5 Highlights: I Get Up I Get Down And You and I

Well this was fun. Every once in a while, you just need some fast tempos, distorted guitars, and mindless lyrics. Late 90’s in a bottle. Not quite interesting enough for a 5, but definitely enjoyable enough for a 4. 4/5 Highlights: In it for the Money Tonight Sun Hits the Sky Going Out

This is the kind of album I need to be in the right frame of mind to enjoy, and I’d probably rate it differently from one day to another. I’d put it at either a 3 or a 4, but it just so happens it’s finding me on the right day. “I wouldn’t trade one stupid decision for another 5 years of life.” Love that line. 4/5 Highlights: All My Friends New York, I Love You but You’re Bringing Me Down

“Blur” is how I’d describe this album. A long, boring, uninspired, and ultimately forgettable blur. Not bad per se, but I’m struggling to understand why I should care about this album. I finished it and immediately forgot everything I’d just heard. Even attempts to do something somewhat interesting like (rather blatantly) channeling Bowie on Look Inside America and Strange News from Another Star fall mostly flat. But some credit given for trying. A couple cool tracks, but ultimately this album is a low 3 for me and one I don’t plan to revisit. 3/5 Highlights: Beetlebum Song 2 Look Inside America Strange News from Another Star Essex Dogs

I think all the people rating this lowly are overthinking it. Don’t take yourself or your music so seriously. This isn’t an album to think about. It’s an album to feel and groove to. 5/5 Highlights: Some Kind of Kink The Rough and The Quick They’re Hanging Me Tonight

This album was fine. Just fine. A couple fun tracks but not particularly memorable. Also, I kinda hate the song Summer Breeze. It’s just so boring and brainless. And the fact that it’s not even an original song for the Isley Brothers bothers me even more. In the equation of my rating of this album, 3+3 = 3. 3/5 Highlights: That Lady (Pt 2) Sunshine (Go Away Today)

This was enjoyable enough, but wasn’t particularly interesting. Maybe I’ll come back and give it a little more attention at some point. 3/5 Highlights: Split Myself in Two I’m a Mindless Idiot

Now this is something interesting. A particularly stark contrast having just finished listening to the mostly brainless disco yacht rock bore that was the Isley Brothers’ 3+3. This album, on the other hand, commands a listen. The opening track is particularly grabbing. At times, this was a bit too meandering and morose for my tastes, but I was interested the whole time and kept looking forward to what might come next. Wonderfully weird with plenty of unexpected but delightful twists and turns. Reminds me a lot of Radiohead, which is never a bad thing in my book. 4/5 Highlights: Agnus Dei Memphis Skyline Waiting for a Dream Old Whore’s Diet

I’ve always been partial to singer-drummers and Levon is on my Mount Rushmore in that category. While Rock of Ages remains my favorite album by The Band (which is unusual for me as I typically don’t care much for live albums), this album (The Band) is still The Band at their best. Groovy, unique, heartfelt, nostalgic. This is it. 5/5 Highlights: Up on Cripple Creek Rockin’ Chair King Harvest (Has Surely Come)

White girl’s got soul. You can’t not like this. 5/5 Highlights: Mama Said You Don’t Own Me My Colouring Book Every Day I Have to Cry Can I Get a Witness Summer Is Over

FYI: the 1001 generator page points to a version of this album where most songs are unavailable. The 30th anniversary version has all songs available: https://open.spotify.com/album/5GoqzAwIz3px7nSHXDOb3X Such a pleasant change of pace. I don’t know what they’re saying, but I find it comforting and hopeful. So much beauty in these voices, harmonies, and tones. I need more of this in my life. Easy 5 stars. 5/5 Highlights: Unomathemba Hello My Baby King of Kings Lomhlaba Kawunoni Ikhaya Lamaqhawe This Little Light of Mine

Makes me wanna dance. Some tracks are just so-so and I don’t think this really warrants any deep analysis, but on the whole, quite enjoyable. 4/5 Highlights: Love is a Stranger I Could Give You (A Mirror) Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) Jennifer This Is the House

I was excited to get this album because I know it’s a highly respected and beloved album, but I’m just not loving it as much as I expected. I don’t dislike it by any means, but I thought it would be an instant favorite for me and I’m not finding that to be the case. Perhaps my high expectations are causing me to be a bit more critical than I would otherwise be. I found myself enjoying the hits (which are powerhouses, no doubt) but mostly being underwhelmed by the other tracks. If I’m being honest with myself, I don’t love it enough to give it a 5. Interestingly, I found the second LP to be much stronger than the first (which I don’t often find to be the case for double albums). Overall, an enjoyable musical journey, but it’s a low 4 for me. Another Star is a straight banger though. 4/5 Highlights: Sir Duke Pastime Paradise Isn’t she lovely Black Man If It’s Magic As Another Star

If this were to catch me on a different day, I might appreciate it a little more. Didn’t really catch my attention, but I didn’t give it as much attention/thought as I tropically do, to be fair. 3/5

Fun and catchy. Did I really need to hear it before I died? Probably not, but I’m not mad about it. I enjoyed this era of music when riff-driven pop rock made a comeback. Some of these hooks are so catchy, but ultimately, the tracks start to sound a little same-y. The only one that really stands out is the hit Take Me Out, and that’s mostly because it was played to absolute death during its heyday (it has 17x more Spotify plays than the next highest track on the album). Aside: I have memories of my old Pandora stations getting seemingly fixated on a song and playing it ALL THE TIME. It always had the effect of making me kinda hate the song. Take Me Out was one of those tracks. So was Wild Horses, for whatever reason. Anyway, this album’s enjoyable enough for a low 4, but nowhere near interesting enough for anything higher. 4/5 Highlights: Take Me Out (god help me) Come On Home 40’

I think Aimee is at her best here during the more subdued moments (4th of July, I Know There’s a Word, I’ve Had It). The more upbeat tracks didn’t do too much for me, but I suppose without some more lively songs, this album would be quite a somber affair. Anyway, this was pleasant enough, but I felt no burning desire to play it again (as I usually do) or to rate it any higher than a 3 (as I seem more inclined than many to do). Whatever, indeed. 3/5 Highlights: 4th of July Mr. Harris I Know There’s a Word I’ve Had It

This is the shit, right here. 5/5 Highlights: Cosmic Dancer Monolith Lean Woman Blues Get It On The King of the Mountain Cometh - B Side

I don’t know what rock I’ve been living under, but I’ve never heard of this guy. The latter half of this album is absolutely killer. If not for the first half being a bit of a bore, this would be 5 stars. 4/5 Highlights: Strawberry Letter 23 Sweet Thang Freedom Flight

When I read that Bowie was so high while making this album that he barely remembers it, I expected some coked-out nonsense. But this was super enjoyable. Interesting and weird while still keeping the reins on. 4/5 Highlights: Stay

This has always been my favorite Radiohead album (I know I know, sue me) and makes my top 5 of all time list. This is one of those albums that is/was so ever-present that it’s sometimes met with more eye rolls than accolades. But if you can just put all that aside and approach it like it’s your first listen, I contend it’s damn near impossible *not* to dig this. The guitars, the vocals, the track list effortlessly bouncing between light and shade. It’s weird, ambitious, occasionally creepy, occasionally beautiful, occasionally rocking tf out. Perfect album, IMO. 5/5 Highlights: Fake Plastic Trees Bones (Nice Dream) My Iron Lung Bullet Proof…I Wish I Was Black Star Street Spirit (Fade Out)

I pride myself on keeping a really open mind when it comes to music, and I try to just appreciate what I’m hearing without getting hung up on whether it’s culturally significant or derivative. But I’m starting to think this 1001 list is going to beat that out of me when it comes to indie brit pop/rock bands from the early 2000’s. It was an era comprised mostly of enjoyable-enough tunes to have in your headphones while you went about your day…not albums I need to hear before I die. These albums served their purpose…20 years ago. Am I really supposed to pretend there’s some staying power here? That said, enjoyable-enough album. Not even moderately interesting, but enjoyable. 4/5 Highlights: Gravity’s Rainbow Forgotten Works

I’m a huge Led Zeppelin fan. In some ways, I think I experienced them the way many early fans did, so they’ve always had a special place in my heart. To explain what I mean, settle in for a little story time: Growing up in a very religious household, and having a pretty sheltered existence until high school, music like Led Zeppelin was out of the question. It’s not even that it wasn’t allowed. It was just so far from my realm of awareness that it didn’t even need to be disallowed. But once I got to high school (a public school for the first time in my life…how scandalous), I started to be exposed to “secular” music. I learned that music wasn’t just what the Christian music industry was pumping out at that point: adult contemporary snooze fests, brainless Christian rock bands peddling soulless and blatant stylistic rip offs of whatever was “cool” in the secular industry, and, god save us all, Christian rap. But now, for the first time in my life, I realized that music could be something else. It could crack the world open. It could mean everything. It *was* everything. I had my friends burn me endless CDs and I just couldn’t get enough. There was so much out there to explore. And it didn’t always have the cheery “god is great” undertones. Sometimes it was vulgar. Sometimes it was sad and depressing. Sometimes it was dark and disturbing. And I loved it all. Throughout high school, my music tastes expanded, but I mostly found myself digging into the emo and pop punk genres that were so popular in the mid 2000’s. So it wasn’t until I got to college that I started making my way around to classic rock. And of course, once you dip your toe into the classic rock waters, sooner or later, you’re gonna get knocked over with a big wave of Led Zeppelin. And that’s exactly what happened. I became obsessed. Not so much in the “I’ve got the shirt and the poster” and “I’m cool and retro because I like LZ” poser kind of way (I don’t like to gatekeep, but you know the type). It was about the music, man. For months, it was almost exclusively a rotation of Zeppelin albums coming over my speakers. It was fast. It was loud. It was mystical and mysterious. It was sexy. It could be experimental. It could be bluesy. It was edgy. In short, it fucking rocked. And that’s where I think I can relate to early fans of the band. I remember reading one of the biographies of the band and they highlighted how much of a change of tone Led Zeppelin was in the late 60’s. Sure, there were other bands doing some similar stuff around this time, but LZ helped usher in a new era of rock (dare I even call it metal?) that was a notable departure from the relatively tame and reserved artists of the early 60’s and certainly 50’s. Led Zeppelin was rock n roll. They were the devil’s music. They sang about sex. They partied hard and took over towns. They were seductive. For god’s sake, Robert’s dick was practically a fifth member of the band. But above all, they played LOUD. And they were a nightmare for all the conservative parents out there (like my own) who couldn’t stand that the kids were digging these long haired sinners from England. If you were to ask me what my favorite Led Zeppelin album is, it’ll probably change by the day, but the one I’ll probably say more often than any other is II. It just rocks so hard. It’s probably the best embodiment of all those things I described that drew me into the band in the first place. It’s fast, loud, groovy, bluesy, sexy, and in-your-face. All these years later, I still never get tired of it. 5/5 Highlights: Whole Lotta Love The Lemon Song Ramble On Moby Dick Bring it On Home

I’ve always been aware of Morrissey but never actually listened. I really enjoyed this introduction to his catalog. Thoroughly enjoyable. Moody and morose without ever becoming insufferable. I look forward to hearing more from him. 4/5 Highlights: You’re Gonna Need Someone On Your Side Glamorous Glue

Yacht rock, for sure. But I kinda fuck with it. 4/5 Highlights: Aja I Got the News

Spotify is missing several tracks from this album; was able to find it on YouTube. Funky bass. Had me moving and grooving. 4/5 Highlights: Penthouse & Pavement

Wow. This was a totally unexpected, but welcome, surprise. Has a little bit of a 80’s country twang that feels very nostalgic for me, but with that 80’s pop/alternative quality. There’s a few misses (Open For You, Holy Water) which detract a little, but overall a great album. 4/5 Highlights: Bury Me Deep in Love A Trick of the Light Hometown Farewell Kiss Unmade Love Vagabond Holes

God, I love the blues. I don’t know of any other type of music, other than maybe jazz, than can so instantly hit you right in the soul. But unlike jazz, with the blues, you always know exactly where it’s going, but you never know how it’s going to get there. And that’s what makes it instantly accessible and familiar but eternally fresh. And B.B. King live at the regal is about as good as it gets. And as good as he is, the band might even be better. The best of the best at their best. 5/5 Highlights: It’s My Own Fault How Blue Can You Get? Worry, Worry

Pleasant enough background music. Didn’t really catch my attention too often. 3/5 Highlights: Crying’ To Be Heard Medicated Goo

This was pretty cool. A little goofy at times, but groovy enough to hold it together. Quite reminiscent of The Who. 4/5 Highlights: Zig Zag Wanderer Electricity

R&B is probably one of my least explored genres, but after living in Dallas where Erykah Badu is a local icon, I was looking forward to this album. Love her vocals. Songs are a little same-y to me but I still love the mellow grooves. 4/5 Highlights: Booty Orange Moon In Love With You Bag Lady - Cheeba Sac Radio Edit

On a different day, this may not have done as much for me. But today, on a lazy and cozy Saturday morning with the fall weather turning crisp outside, this was hitting just right. Just right, indeed. 4/5 Highlights: Let’s Stay Together So You’re Leaving Old Time Lovin’ I’ve Never Found a Girl How Can YouI Mend a Broken Heart

I was excited to get another Yes album after being so pleasantly surprised by Close to the Edge, and I ended up liking this one even more. Not a perfect album (there’s a random live track in the middle of it - not sure I’ve ever seen that), but I really enjoyed this. So dynamic and full of unexpected twists and turns. The acoustic guitar in the quieter moments of I’ve Seen All Good People sounds amazing. The production is so ambitious and occasionally goofy (in an endearing, early 70’s way). Proud to admit I’m a full on Yes fan at this point. 4/5 Highlights: Yours Is No Disgrace Starship Trooper I’ve Seen All Good People

It’s hard for me to take disco too seriously, but that’s ok. Not all music needs to be taken seriously. Sometimes you just need to turn your brain off and enjoy the groove. “He’s the greatest dancerrrrrr”🕺 4/5 Highlights: Thinking of You

I’m probably being a little more generous to this album than it deserves, because I’ve been dying for anything even remotely resembling punk on this list. This isn’t quite it, but it’ll do for today. 4/5 Highlights: Riddle of the Eighties Vastopol The Softest Hammer

“Have you ever paid money to hear music performed by California funk-rock band the Red Hot Chili Peppers?” “Yo, the Chilis? I saw them in concert like 50 times. I once got arrested trying to steal Flea’s bass guitar.” Hate all you want, but these dudes know how to make a hit. First half of the album is much stronger than the latter half. It definitely goes on longer than it should and the lyrics are occasionally (if not often) painfully braindead, but its tent pole tracks salvage it. 4/5 Highlights: Around the World Parallel Universe Scar Tissue Otherside

The highs on this album are fun but the lows are pretty low (Old Before I Die is almost single-handedly responsible for knocking off a full star - what a stupid song). Not mad I listened, but not in a rush to revisit. 3/5 Highlights: Ego Agogo South of the Border Let Me Entertain You

I guess I’m getting old cause S&G is finally starting to hit just right. Beautiful harmonies. Complex and thoughtful lyrics. Sublime acoustic arrangements. 4/5 Highlights: Scarborough Fair / Canticle Patterns A Simple Desultory Philippic A Poem on the Underground Wall

So you’re telling me this wasn’t the same song 12 times in a row? There being a founding member of the Clash in this group is probably the only thing keeping me from being even more critical about it. Ultimately, there are a couple catchy tunes, but I have a feeling the band had more fun making this record than I had listening to it. 3/5 Highlights: 80’s Life Three Changes Green Fields

Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion, but if you don’t like this album, your opinion is wrong. 5/5 Highlights: Immigrant Song Since I’ve Been Loving You Gallows Pole Tangerine That’s the Way

I’m usually not one to clutch my pearls over song lyrics, especially ones from decades ago, but the first track has a couple lines that make me wince. We’ll just chalk it up to a different era. In general, the lyrics on this album are lacking and occasionally problematic, but the instrumentation makes up for it. 4/5 Highlights: That’s All Right Tomorrow Is A Long Time (I Know) I’m Losing You

I like these instrumental albums. Always a nice change of pace and I think my productivity at work increases by 14%. Although I’ll admit, on the 3rd listen through the album, it started getting annoying. 3/5

Entirely underwhelming. I absolutely love Disintegration but had never listened to much else from The Cure, so I was excited to get this album. But this is just so boring. And then it just ends… I really thought I’d love this but instead I found myself looking for any reason not to give it my second ever 2/5 rating. 3/5 Highlights: A Forest

This might be the polar opposite of the album I got yesterday, Seventeen Seconds by The Cure. While Seventeen Seconds was whisper-quiet, one-note, and pretentious, Next is loud, ambitious, and entirely unserious. Ironic that the album blurb on the 1001 site has a quote from Robert Smith about this album. Next is all over the place, but I’m here for it. I feel like I’m getting a glimpse into the frenetic mind of Alex Harvey, and I like what I see. Notes of Hendrix, The Stones, Sabbath, Zeppelin, and…show tunes? Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t, but I applaud the effort. Love the drums and guitar on Vambo Marble Eye. Also, wtf is going on with the stereo mix on Last of the Teenage Idols? Proper mess of a musical journey, but in a good way, ya know? High 4. 4/5 Highlights: Swampsnake Next Vambo Marble Eye The Last of the Teenage Idols

Damn, this is just so smooth. Easiest 5 star I’ve given out yet. I could see some listeners being turned off by the choir as it’s certainly a sound of a time gone by that’s fallen out of fashion, but as a fan of classic country and western music, I’m desensitized to it at this point. The horns are to die for, especially on Half As Much. And that’s the best version of Your Cheating’ Heart I’ve ever heard. 5/5 Highlights: You Don’t Know Me Half As Much I Love You So Much It Hurts Worried Mind I Can’t Stop Loving You Your Cheatin’ Heart

I know I’m *supposed* to like the Ramones, and I do respect them for essentially birthing punk, but this album didn’t do it for me. Every track sounds EXACTLY the same, and its 29 minute runtime somehow ends up feeling 3 times longer than that. Tbh, this is barely clinging to a 3/5 from me. Punk got a lot better. I said what I said. 3/5 Highlights: Blitzkrieg Bop

Coldplay is one of those bands that got a lot of what I always thought was unwarranted hate from music snobs. Sure, they’re a little boring, but they make pleasant, and occasionally great, music. 4/5 Highlights: Shiver Yellow Everything’s Not Lost

Oh give me a break. Coldplay yesterday. The Killers today. The author of this book clearly made no effort to account for recency bias when making this list. It’s almost hard to judge this album objectively because many of these songs were inescapable when the album was popular (some of them are still inescapable). Still, there’s some really catchy songs on here. I don’t even particularly care for Mr. Brightside, but it gets an honorary “Highlights” nod as one of the anthems of the Millennial generation (2.4 billion streams don’t lie). I guess this album was/is so popular that it’s justified being on the list, but I can’t help but feel like there’s not enough staying power here to call this album “important”. I just find popular music from this era so boring and uninteresting. Catchy enough, nonetheless. Take my 4 and be gone, Soul Soldier. 4/5 Highlights: Mr. Brightside All These Things That I’ve Done

I expected to like this album more, given the band’s incredibly loyal following, but it’s hard for me to take it seriously. It’s not that I can’t handle harder music/metal - it’s just that this feels so sterile. Everything feels too tight. Where’s the soul? This is about as interesting as a concrete business park from the 80’s. I feel like I gave this a really honest effort over the course of multiple listens, but came up empty each time. Maybe I’ll enjoy other Metallica albums more. I almost gave this a 2, but I’ve given out 3’s to other albums that are even less interesting (and certainly less impactful to an entire genre), so a 3 feels only fair here. 3/5 Highlights: Master of Puppets Damage, Inc.

The only Black Sabbath album I’ve ever listened to was Paranoid, and I thoroughly loved it, so I was excited to get this one. And it did not disappoint. I had Metallica Master of Puppets yesterday, but Black Sabbath album has exactly what I was looking for, but missing, on Master of Puppets - some damn heart and soul. Make it messy. Make it dark. Make it sexy. Ozzy gets it. MoP was so uptight - honestly not sure why people like it. But this is a Black Sabbath review, so enough about that. I read this album was almost entirely recorded in a single day and released on Friday the 13th. Everything about this album is perfectly suited to be the starting point for Black Sabbath and all associated lore. Really enjoyed it. 4/5 Highlights: Black Sabbath The Wizard

I’ve always loved this album. It’s the one I recommend to people who are aware of Billy Joel only as “the Piano Man” guy. Such a solid record. Not a bad track on here. Few songs are more perfect than Vienna. A career-defining masterpiece, in my opinion. “I’d rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints. The sinners are much more fun. You know that only the good die young.” ✌️ 5/5 Highlights: Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song) Vienna Only the Good Die Young

Everyone trashing Kanye because they can’t get past him as a person or just generally don’t like hip hop are depriving themselves of so much inspired and influential art. There is SO MUCH to appreciate if you let yourself dig into his catalog. Also, with this album in particular, many are missing the fact that this album was supposed to be harsh and abrasive - that was literally his goal. I’ll admit it’s not exactly ear-candy, but it’s worth considering the context of the album: Two albums prior to Yeezus, Kanye was on the verge of being permanently cancelled for disrespecting Taylor Swift, America’s sweetheart. He went into seclusion while the critics (and even some fans) relished in the certain demise of his career. But Ye emerged from his hiding to release the masterpiece that is My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - arguably a top 5 of all time hip hop album. The record received near unanimous praise. Career saved. Back in the limelight and the good graces of the music industry and public at large. So what does an artist like Ye do? Well, he told us: “Soon as they like you, make them unlike you.” Instead of riding the high of MBDTF and enjoying his renewed image, Ye recoiled at the thought of being the music industry’s reformed black darling, after they had spurned him and left him for dead. He proved he *could* still do it, but had no interest in doing it again. Instead, he put out Yeezus which leaves the soaring melodies and choruses of MBDTF behind - way behind. It’s an intentionally harsh and abrasive album. One without any discernible single. It delivered a frantic, stuttering, and unflinching glance into the abyss that is Ye’s deepest, darkest, most depressed, aggressive, manic, and troubled psyche. Many didn’t “get it”, but for those that did, it was brilliant. This has never been my favorite Kanye album, and if you were to ask me prior to this listen what my rating will be, I wouldn’t have said 5. But listening again, with new ears and an open mind, it won me over. The brashness. The industrial quality. The beats. It all just works. 5/5 Highlights: Black Skinheah Hold My Liquor Blood On The Leaves

I liked this more the more I listened to it. Nice to see some punk representation on the list. Better than the Ramones. Fight me. 4/5 Highlights: Let’s Lynch The Landlord Chemical Warfare Viva Las Vegas

I’ve always liked The Doors, but I have to admit I’ve never taken them as seriously as some of their contemporaries. I’ve always thought of them sort of like the Smashmouth of their time. Catchy songs and fun to listen to, but no one’s really taking them seriously, right? Well I can’t say this album completely changed my mind, but it started chipping away at that perception. There’s some really solid stuff here. Roadhouse Blues is as fun of blues groove as you’ll find, and it made me wish harmonica would make a comeback in modern music. Peace Frog is a really great track. And the subdued elegance of Indian Summer really caught me off guard. 4/5 Highlights: Roadhouse Blues Peace Frog Indian Summer

Of all the blues rock bands coming out of San Francisco around this time, a few good ones were bound to slip through the cracks. I feel like that's what happened with Flamin' Groovies. Not nearly as popular as some other acts from around this time, but they could easily go toe-to-toe with the best of them. This album goes on about 3 or 4 songs too long, but it's enjoyable enough that I'm not going to complain too much about that. 4/5 Highlights: Shakin' All Over Louie Louie

I know a lot of music fans (snobs) look down on pop, but I’ve never been that way. There’s no trophies for writing off an entire genre of music that’s scientifically designed to be catchy and pleasing to the ear. This album was solid. Just enjoy the damn music! 🎶“Music makes the people come together.” 🎶 — 4/5 Highlights: I Deserve It Don’t Tell Me Paradise (Not For Me)

Wow, this is good. I don’t think I'd heard a single song on this record prior to this, but there's not a miss on here. 35 minutes long, but I could (and did) listen to this for hours. 5/5 Highlights: Billy Jack So In Love

This is my second favorite Phil Collins album. 4/5 Highlights: Big Time In Your Eyes

This is reminiscent of Orville Peck (or the other way around, I guess). Right up my alley. — 4/5 Highlights: The Old Man’s Back Again Get Behind Me