Somewhat weak start from what I remember (first 3 songs) Picks up after Longview- I see why that single was so succesful
Rolling stone is such a strong start to the album- it hits and sets up exactly Tombstone blues is filled with nonesense that is still somehow captivating and clever. Dylan is a master of delivery. It does drag on just a bit On that note, the album does seem to drag at some times (ballad of a thin man) but I feel its a stylistic choice dylan made to capture the fluctuation of moods at the times (post beatnik pre hippie) Overall- solid album, catchy tunes, and easy to listen to. Skilled instrumentation. It does drag a little in parts.
Starts out a little week. Has some strong hits (bad moon rising of course) and Jon Fogerty has a powerful voice. Really picks up steam near the end and I can see this being a good album to smoke weed and fuck too (maybe perfrct considering its 29 minute run time). Overall, a decent rock album
Ramble tamble is catchy, and starts as humorous as it is silly. Then transitions into a nice instrumental progression. This sounds much more of a "rock album" than Green River- definitely catchier songs as well, and overall less "serious". Ends on a more somber but also more soulful note with Who'l stop the rain onwards. Overall very enjoyable rock album and really solidifies CCR as versatile artists
Not really my style of rock or subject matter- lots about break ups or being cheated on. However, the songs are catchy enough and easy to listen to. Solomon and his background vocalists all sound great. I think the simplistic instrumentation style is definitely a product of the times, but is mostly effective. The vocals are really the highlight of the album though. Overall a solid Soul album, and I can see how it had a lot of influence over the early Soul and R&B genres
I am not feeling this album. The songs are repetitive, simplistic, and all kind of bleed together. Im also not a fan of Costello's singing voice in most of the songs. However- i know the simplicity and rough, unpolished sound is a deliberate stylistic choice. I can see how this album was influential on the garage rock sound. Overall, some compelling moments but just not for me
Starts with the definitive sound of early 2010s folk revival alternative. Has a listless / meloncholy sound. The singers voice is strong and has a unique timbre- it works well for the sound they are going for. The song subject is a little one note- tumultuous relationships and heartbreak. I guess thats what a lot of songs are about. The lyrics are surprisngly nonesensical at some points- its a juxtaposition to how serious the subject matter seems to be. Overall- i was initially surprised how much i enjoyed the album. But given the clear Arcade Fire influence and mt enjoyment of this style of alternative in general, it makes sense. Very solid album that I enjoyed- i could see coming back to this in morose moods in the future
Listened this morning. It was pleasant and easy to listen too. Bush's voice is enchanting, and I liked the way she plays with vocal harmony. Overall I enjoyed it, but nothing really stood out. Just a solid pop album
I went in thinking I would immediately love this album, since i had listened to a lot of it before and remember liking it. And while I did still enjoy it, I felt that the album as a whole was long strong than its heavy hitters. The hits are definitely still powerhouses though
Listened to this album on Sunday morning at a coffee house, which I think is the correct way to do it. Its nice background music for introspection. Davis's trumpet and the soft piano (Coltrane?) Play well with each other. Its easy to zone out and get carried by the music. Overall- a really nice album. Jazz isnt typically my genre of choice but I can see how this was a very influential jazz album
The instrumentation is key player here, along with the ethereal vocals. Some cool dramatic moments, but for the most part a more calm sound. Overall it was nice though not really for me
An album that is jam-packed with hit songs. While I had heard a lot of The Cars before, I didnt realize just how many of their hits came from this debut album. That being said, its hard not to notice just how similar a lot of their songs sound when you hear them back to back. Also, the songs that werent hits really dont carry their weight. Overall a good album- catchy songs but lacking any real punch.
Live the one your with is a strong opener. I actually found myself really enjoying the album- it captures the sound of the late 60s into early 70s so well. Stephen's voice sounds great and the acoustic guitar is on point. Really easy to listen to. Overall I enjoyed it- really great example of folk/soft rock
Jazz is really not my genre, and i cant say i really enjoyed this album. I can see how the musicality is appreciated- there were some parts where clarinet and piano had a nice back and forther. However, the time signatures and dischordant nature, while complex, just didnt do it for me. Overall- I can see how this woild be an influential album. But it really wasnt for me
Ive heard a couple of TV on the Radio songs before and have really enjoyed them, so I went in thinking I would really enjoy this album. However, aside from staring at the sun, im really not enjoying the sound of most songs. They seem to be going for a discordant sound that can be grating at some parts. The vocals can sound good but sometime feel like they are out of the lead singers range. The instrumentation is often really simple and kind of goes for a garage rock-y vibe. Still, I can see the makings of a strong band here, and imagine I would enjoy some of their later albums. The album ends better than it starts, and sounds a little more like their works i am familiar with
Amy's voice is striking- it immediately captivates the listener. She has am amazing range and timbre- whether singing softly or belting it out. I think the smooth, jazz-influenced songs are my favorite (though the "skat" does get old after a while). That being said, you can tell this was an early album. Some of the songs lack depth- both in subject and instrumentation. There is a lot of generic drum-machine rythym section in sounds that would be so much nicer with a real instrumental backing. The piano sounds nice in comparison. Overall- I think this album establishes Amy as a powerhouse, and opens the door for he future stardom.
I had heard this album in pieces at various stages of my life, but had never sat down and listened start to finish. It really blew me away- the clever wordplay, juxtaposed serious tone with sillier lyrics, the music sampling- the all came together to create a powerhouse. I can see how the album was so influential to so kany artists, and helped define the sound of hip hop as a genre in the 90s. Overall- a masterpiece of a hip hop album.
Starts out slow- i understand the stylistic choice (especially with the message of knocking up the earth and imagery of decay / maggots) but not the sound I look for in Funk. Album then picks up and becomes much more high-energy and fun. I liked "Hit It and Quit It" a lot. Definitely a lot of strong emotion and raw sound in this album
Dont really know how I feel about this one. Most of thr songs had a classic garage-rock type of sounds. None were bad per se, but none stood out. As I think about it, i cant really come up with any I remember. Overall- fine album, im sure people who like the genre really enjoy it, but it was very mediocre for me.
Only listened to first half. Joni's voice sounds nice but the timbre of the songs is a little too light and airy for me. Pleasant background music for a nice morning.
Anothers 70s punk / garage rock album! Weird to get two so close together. It was decent- i liked the instrumentation in a lot of songs. Nothing really stoid out as a hit. I can see how fans of the genre would enjoy it
I am blown away by this album. When you think of what a Rock concept album is trying to be and what it can accomplish, this album fits the bill. The progression of the sound and story from start to finish is amazing- it captivates your ear and makes you wonder whats coming next. The instrumentation is varied has has such a grand, unique sound. At times it evokes a baroque, regal feeling (QUEEN- get it!?) And yet at others, it is hard hitting 70s rock. And of course, Freddie Mercury's vocals are power- as are the other singers. The vocal play and harmonies are numerous and effective. Overall- I really enjoyed this one and can definitely see myself throwing it on start to finish in the future
I have heard some of Herbie Hancock before ("Rock It"). I was pleasantly surprised to realize I can heard this album before too. It was so ahead of its time- utilizing synth technology fused with jazz instrumentation. Definitely a good listen- great background music.
Sananda Maitreya, or Terence Trent D'Arby as he was formally know, has put together a captivating album. His tenor voice is powerful and complex, and is supported by instrumentatiom with funk/soul influence. The songs are pleasant and easy to listen too- a lot of catchy "poppier" songs. Overall- an enjoyable album
Made it about 3/4 the way through. Anothers 70s punk / garage rock type album. This one didnt really captivate me- a lot of childish themes. Instrumentation was mostly simple (as is typical for the style) and sometimes effective, sometimes bland. Overall it was fine but not really my thing.
Hard not to be biased on this one- a big fan of The Offspring's hit songs. I havent taken the time to listen to their albums start to finish though. This onr immediately hits hard and establishes both the sound and tone of the album early. Lots of 90s angst and weight in all the best ways. Overall- was definitely rocking out to it. Really brought back a lot of 90s nostalga for me
A really interesting concept album. I read up on it a little bit and learned thay Barry Adamson was envisioning a score to an imagenary neo-noir film that never existed. I get some of that, but I'm also struck with how much it sounds like video game music (long before full vgm albums were a thing). The songs are varied and are good at matching the theme that the title indicates. There is a lot of varied musical influences and tones (jazz, swing, classic, rock, new world). Its really nice background music. Overall- enjoyed the album. A solid imagination of a movie score
I went in with low expectations, having only heard "Hallelujah" and it being a little on the sappy side for me. I was pleasantly susprised by how many different sounds this album covers. Alt rock, balads, soft rock, gospel- it really had a lot of highs and lows. I got some hints of RHCP, or like a better Goo Goo Dolls? Lots of strong instrumentation as well. Overall- enjoyed it a lot.
I had heard a bunch of Oasis songs before- it was nice to listen to an album thay didnt contain all their bog hits. I can see how this one launched their career- it had a lot of catchy songs. They have a distinct sound for the times. Overall enjoyed it a lot- torn between 3 and 4 but going to upgrade to 4
Another 60s rock album! This one didnt captivate me as much. It had some moments of good instrumentals- i liked the inclusion of woodwinds in a way atypical of rock music at the time. But I also felt like it really dragged at parts- and was a little sappy (gypsy woman comes to mind) Overall- a fine album, not for me.
Ive made ot about halfway through this album, and Im really not feeling it. I can appreciate the stylistic choice to alter the timbre and sound of common rock instruments, and their willingness to push the envelope on having a sound be both discordant and rhythmic. However, I find myself just really not enjoying most of the songs. Overall- just not for me. I can see how it was an influential album on the alt rock of the 90s, but I dont really enjoy the sound they were going for.
Another CCR album (3 so far!) This one was again a solid showing- I like the theme but it got a little one note for me. Some hits here, some good b sides.
A really nice blend of latin sounds- it was greay music to have on in the background of my day. I can see how it was pribably very well received from enjoyers of latin dance.
Album is fine- has some real hits but also some filler songs. There are even a few songs where I question if it's really elvis. You can definitely twll he had major "influence" from black artists at the time. That being said- the songs that hit sound good- they defined his sound and I can see how it was influential on popular rock and roll
I am familiar with a few songs on this album- Suite: Judy Blue Eyes has long been a favorite driving song of mine. It was nice to get to hear the full album- the songwriting and tone really stands out. I like the lyricism, especially the use of alliteration and word play. Yhe album had lows and highs that were nice to move through. Overall- very enjoyable early "hippie rock" album.
Generally enjoyed this album. It definitely captures the sound of the late 60s British Invasion movement. Simple, catchy rock songs with a hint of psychadellic influence. Overall- a nice album
I was tenuous going into the album- Bon Jovi definitely has a cheeze factor he is known for. I actually found the albim started out really strong- I even found myself singing along to the big hits. However- I do feel like the songs started to sound very same-y toward the end of the album (especially the power ballads). I can see why the album was well received, but it had a little too much cheese and was one-note.
Madonna- its about time! I was actually really suprised by this album- it starts out really strong with "like a prayer" (a classic) but soon transitions into almost a concept album. A lot of religious overtones and songs that are less poppy and more storytelling. It surprised me, as I wasnt familiar with that side of Madonna. Overall- I enjoyed it. Probably a 3.5 but I dont think it quite got to a 4 syar for me.
Aretha's voice is just so powerful and enchanting. She really is one of the all time greats. The album itself had a nice progression- it highlighted the rral difficulties in relationships, while also capturing zuch raw emotion. Overall- I enjoyed it a lot. Probably a 4.5 star, but not quite a 5
I had heard a lot of the songs on this album growing up, and didnt realize they were all one artist! Dusty kills it- het voice is alluring and at times haunting, and I liked the themes about being an independent woman in a time where it was difficult to be one. Overall- very good motown album
I went into this album knowing a few songs. After listening to the whole thing- I think ZZ Top definitely established a signature sound and had some strong hits. But the songs did start to get a little one-note for me. Also a lot of the sex/drugs/rock and roll vibe that got old. The hits are definitely catchy though and thr instrumentation is skilled and stylized Overall- a decent rock albun
Went into this album having never heard of Maxwell. I was pleasantly surprised- a neo-soul album with a lot of jazz influence. Maxwell's voice is pleasant and powerful- he has an impressive range. The instrumentation varied from dominant to supportive. Overall a solid album- good songs but did drag a little but at parts (sometimes a little too sappy for me). I could see this being a great weekend morning album
Album starts with a horrible high pitched noise- I definitely wasnt exprcting it 😅. I am finding myself going back and forth a lot as I listen to thr album. I get what they are going for- pushing the boundaries of what rock music can be. But sometimes I feel like its being dissonant just for the sake of being "avant guard". On the other hand- when the leaned into the chaotic rock sound but without the dissonant instrumentation, I found myself really enjoying some songs. Also- even some of the more grating parts did make me laugh. Overall- a hard album to assess. Im sure it had a lot of influence on other rocks artists, but I personally wouldnt see myself putting it on again
Overall- Decent rock album. It was a little on the nose with LSD references, but I guess that was a sign of the times. I could see how it influenced the psychadelic rock genre. 2.5 stars, but i think i can see vumping it up to 3.
Hits very hard roght out the gate. It immediately establishes the tone and energy that would become a staple to Ganster Rap. Lots of really catchy songs and some humorous skits too. Loved hearing the stylistic differences between the NWA artists. Overall- great rap album. I can see how it influenced the genre so much
I had actually heard abfew songs from this album before, not even knowing the name of the band. The Klaxons have a very interesting sound- kind of a fusion of indie rock, post-punk, electronic, post-grunge. Crazy fushion- sometimes it really works, sometimes it doesnt land as well. Overall- solid album. Definitely some songs I enjoyed and would put on again.
Another Kinks album! This one has Picture Book on it- which is a song I enjoy and has been sampled and covered extensively. I like the album a lot- really pleasant background music. Definitely sounds more mainstream and less psychedelic than the last Kinks album I listened to. There were spots where I was getting major David Bowie vibes- I can see how this album influenced the direction rock went. Overall- very solid album. Probably a 3.5/5 but I feel like it deserves a bump up to 4
Knew this album well before it came up on the list, but I can never actually listened to it in full. I got immediately excited as soon as I heard the intro to hells bells. This album strokes your emotions hard and fast- it is hard not to immediately start rocking out when you listen, and it keeps those vibes going the entire time. The instrumentation is really top notch- especially the guitar solos and trills that accentuate the different stages of each song. Angus Young really understood hard rock music and how to feature the guitar. The hits on the album definitely hit, and its no wonder they became such iconic songs from the era. I will day that the overall sound did start to feel a little "same-y" toward the end of the album. It definitely started stronger than it ended. Overall- I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can see how Back in Black was a transformative album on Rock and Roll as a genre. I feel it deserves a 4.5/5 on a personal scale but can definitely feel good about bumping it up to a 5
Another Elvis Costello album. I thinm I can solidly say that Elvis Costello is just not for me. I dont really like the goofy and pointedly simple musical style, and I dont really enjoy his voice (it sounds like he puts on an affectation). No real standout hits that I can recall. Overall- fine album, but not for me.
Went in being very familiar with Alanis and this album- it was one of my sisters favorites growing up. I thought this would be an instant love for me, but I was actually surprised that there qere a lot of parts of the album that came up flat. The hits are of course still hits and theu definitely hokd up, but there were other songs where it felt like she was trying to do too much lyrically. The instrumentation on a lot of songs also felt a little flat and repetitive. Overall- still a good album and one that solidified Alanis's stardom.
My second Joni Mitchell album. I found myself enjoying this one more than the last (Blue). The songs were a little more upbeat and there was a larger variety in tone, especially toward the end of the album, which I enjoyed. Joni's voice sounded nice- she is a good singer, but I am not a big fan of the sped up brrathy singing she does a lot between stanzas. I think thats part of her signature style and I can see how fans enjoy it, but not for me. Overall- it was a nice album that was easy to listen too. I'd say 3.5/5, but not quite up to a 4.
I went into this album completely blind, and I am blown away. I cant believe I had almost zero expisure to Jurassic 5 in tbe past. They are reminiscent of A Tribe Called Quest. The album is clever, and has a strong R&B influence that blends so well with the lyricality. All of the artists have their distinct styles that come together so strongly. Overall- I really enjoyed it. I could definitely see putting this on the the future. I would say 4.5/5, but not quite at the 5 level.
Went in knowing some songs. Ended up enjoying the whole album. REM definitely has a signature sound, and it really seems to come together on this album. Plus the hits definitely hit. Overall- good album, but not quite a 4 star.
The album starts of strong and keeps the momentum going. The harmonies and vocals are as varied as the instrumentation, and even more so, the synthesizers. You can tell this is when synthesizers really started to develop as a form of instrumentation, and Prince used them a lot of this album to good effect. The hits definitely hit. But I also found myself enjoying the lesser-known songs. There is also a theme of... danger? That prevails the album even when the songs are upbeat and party vibes. I liked this juxtaposition. Overall- very good dance/party album with a lot of uniqueness. I can see how it established Prince as a powerhouse
Went into this album blind. Gound myself really enjoying it- its a beautiful blend of simplicity with strong emotion. The singers and instrumentation vary a lot, filling the album with a lot of highs and lows. A lot of catchy songs too- I even went back to re-listen to a few. Reading up on the history of the album, its a recording of unpublished Woody Guthree songs. You can hear the american folk influence- Billy Bragg does a great job capturing the sound and soul of early folk music. Overall- a nice album. A 3.5/5 for me personally but I feel like it earns a 4 star.
First time listening to an earth wind & fire album from start to finish. It is nice- Shining Star is a great opening song, and the rest of the album settles into a spulful collection of melodies. I do find myself wishing for some more energy at some points- its a little light / airy for me during some songs. But the instrumentation comes back heavy with Africano at the end. Overall- a solid listen. Probably a 3.5/5, not quite a 4
Starts out with a cacophony of sounds, and keeps that tone going for the 1st half of the album. To be honest, I almost stopped listening and was ready to write it off. But the latter half of the album was more coherent and calmer, and I felt like I was able to get a better sense of the lyricality and instrumental talent of the group. Overall- still not my favorite. I can see how people would enjoy it, but not for me
Had never heard of Pavement before. Album was interesting- kind of at the confluence of alt rock and post punk. Found myself enjoying it at parts, but mostly unremarkable. Having a hard time even remembering what I liked / didnt like
A decent pop / R&B album with soul influences. Songs were fun and upbeat, but nothing really stands out. Overall- a solid album if not a bit long / unfocused.
Its's going to be very difficult for me to remain impartial for this one. White Album was one of the first albums I owned- my sister burnt it for me when I was about 11 year old. I have heard the full album a few times over, and it has long lived in my heart as a favorite album. Listening for the first time in a while with fresh ears, its been a big nostalgia trip. There are just so many hits, so many catchy tunes, and so much variation in tone/timbre/style between songs, its hard not to find ones you are immediately drawn to. The album almost feels like the Beatles wanted to take a stab at every genre that had influenced their sound in one album. Even a song like revolution number 9 is a Beatles perspective on Avant Gard music. That isnt to say the album isnt without flaws. Now that im older and listening to the album with a new perspective, there are definitely songs that dont carry as much weight and feel like they lack depth or seriousness. The instrumentation is simplistic at times (as is kind of signature for the Beatles sound). Still, the album is very strong overall. I actually feel like I am teetering at a 4.5/5, but I think the scope and accomplishment of the album, combined with my own history, push it up to a 5 star
I hadent ever heard of Faust before this album. After listening- it was decebt but unremarkable. It had an interesting sound- kind of like progressive rock meets a more implistic style. I could see this being an influential album, but nothing really stood out to me.
I enjoyed this album a lot- soft electronic with nice vibes and lyricality. Plus sexy boy is a certified banger. Good music for driving.
Some standard mambo music- was nice as background
I was familiar with Thelonius Monk. Enjoyed the album- jazz is typically not for me but it was nice. Used it as background music for a dinner party.
Overall- fine album. It really pales in comparison to early Kanye albums though- it really does seem like he was trying really hard at this point. It does have some bops though
I had heard the song two weeks come up on my spotify many times, so I had spme expectations for the album. I am blown away by how much im enjoying it. The songs are varied an emotional- sometimes it feels like an electronic group, sometimes a true rock band, sometimes a choir- there are a lot of tone ahofts to a pleasant effect. I really enjoy their use of voc harmonies as well. Overall- a very good album. Im surprised I hadent heard any other singles from it besides Two Weeks. Enjoyed it- will definitely listen again
Hard for me to be unbiased on this one, because I was a big Strokes fan back in the 2000s. I had listened to this album back then and loved it, but now I get to hear it with fresh ears. Honestly- its good and I enjoy it, but it doesn't hit as hard as it had once before. The songs themselves are good, but the subject matter falls a little flat for me (break up, seeing your ex, and pining for someone who doesnt want you- i felt this much more in my early 20s) Still- there are some amazing hits on this album. I love the guitar work most of all- strong and catchy without being overbearing. Overall- bring me back to my youth and I really enjoy it. Id say as a more mature listener, probably a 3.5/5, but my experience with my album and occasional relisten brings it up to a 4
I had definitely heard The Smiths before- they typically had been "good" in my mind but not really for me. Gave this one two listens- its nice background music for sure. I like morrisey's vocals and the piano really excentuates the mood they are going for. Overall- similar to my previous experience with the Smiths: good, but not for me.
I have listened to Steely Dan before and have never been a big fan- their songs seem to all have a similar sound and come across a little pretentious. I actually found myself enjoying this album- there is still that quick vocal style that doesnt really mesh with tge instrumentation sometimes, but the songs were varied an enjoyable. We got to hear a lot more of the rock elements and experimentation than their hits. Overall- solid album.
I was not familiar with Superfurry Animals prior to this album. I immediately thought I had heard the singer before on first listen- his voice reminds me of Damon Albarn from Blur/Gorrilaz. The music itself was nice- a conflux of a few different styles that border the line between serious and whimsical, crossing frequently. They almost remind me of a Ween that takes itself a little more seriously. Overall- it was good and has a lit of songs that fit a rainy or brooding atmosphere. I'd say 3.5/5 stars, but not quite a 4
Enjoying this one a lot- the samples and hooks are super catchy. It touches on a lot of issues with race and makes commentary on the status of black people, specifically men, in the US at the time. Looking for some hits that stand out- I think thats the only thing this album is missing.
I had heard this album in full beforr, but not in a long long time. It was great to get to experience it again with fresh ears. Van Morrisson is a master of his craft. His songwriting speakd to a part of the human experience that everyone has a connection with. His songs are light yet compelling, and his voice punctuates at the right time. Overall- I really enjoyed it and will definitely put it on again. Id say 4.5/5 but I think it clinches the 5 spot- I can see this album having a big influence on a lot of people
I wasnt familiar witb Big Star, aside from the That 70s Show theme song. A decent rock album that captured the spirit of the 70s, but ultimately it didnt really capture me or have any standout hits that left me wanting more.
Only got about 66% of the album in. Very interesting album- a big mix of styles. Very good music for exploring a city. 3.5/5, not quite a 4
I have heard Cat Stevens before- his music is nice but typically not for me. This album was nice- his voice and songwriting style pair well together, and his songs capture part of the human experience. It was a little sappy for me, but I didnt hate it. Overall- solid album
Was surprised when I listened to this. It didnt sound like the SuperTramp O had heard in the past. It's got a great sound- very technical instrumentation and more varied lyrics and sound from song to song. I found myself enjoying it- I did find myself hoping for a standout hit. Overall- very solid album. Probably 3.5/5, but not quite a 4
I remeber hearing this album in its entirety (or close to it) when it first came out. I recall really enjoying it. On a fresh listen, I still am really enjoying it. Franz Ferdinand have such a unique sound and style- garage rock meets indie meets pop, which a spooky sort of vibe that permeates the album. The hits are definitely hits, while the other songs on the album are still compelling. I think this album does an effective job of presenting a concept and sticking to it. Overall- hovering between a 3.5 and 4, but personally I think it gets the 4 star
My second sonic youth album. This one is sitting a little better with me, but still not really my thing. I understand how much they were pushing rock music to its limits and trying to break the tropes of rock music, but i just really dont enjoy the dissonant sound and depressing tone. While technically skilled, the music just isnt for me
I dont think id ever really heard Ice T rao, despite being familiar with his music. This album was good overall- he doesnt have as technicially proficient a rap style as some other rappers Ive heard in this list, but his sound and flow is solid. Where he really shines is his messaging and the thought he puts into his songs. He has an inisghtful view on the experiences of a black youth growing up in the ghetto and his issues with incarceration and racism. Overall- solid album. Id probably give it a 3.5/5 but not quite a 4
Im a big talking head fan in general. This album was good but had a lot of songs that felt unfocused. The hits were definitely hits. Overall- enjoyable
I generally dont consider myself a david bowie fan- i enjoy some of his hits. I actually found myself enjoying this one. The album has an almost ethereal, otherwordly sound (dream-like?). Bowie's voice is a powerhouse as always and filled with drama. It did start to lose me at the end though- it felt a little too experimental and unfocused for me. Overall- solid album
A sort of mish-mash of 70s soft rock with irish folk songs and sea shanties (I think?). It was fine at parts but ultimately not for me. Still- a fine album if thats what youre looking for.
My second Joy Division album. This one I actually enjoyed a bit more. The songs had deep, goth rock undertones but the presentation was varied- sometimes more synth-i fluenced, sometimes more rock elements. Overall- a solid album.
I went into this album blind. Just based on the title, I thought it would be an emo band and I wouldnt enjoy it. I was pleasantly surprised to learn it wasnt, instead hearing a more alt-rock style. MBV has a unique sound- ethereal in places and somewhat dream-like, but with heavy rock elements that sometimes border on dissonance. Their songs are pleasant enough though- good music for driving. Overall- solid album
I was familiar with the hits from this album. Giving it a full listen- it was about what I expected. Jane's Addiction has a distinct sound but still captures a lot of thr alternative sound that I enjoy in 90s rock. Not much stood out- just a solid album with a clear sound and vision
I had heard this album many man years ago- I remember my older brother playing it when I was a kid. Going in with fresh ears, I found myself being really impressed by the tone and scope of thr album. The story Pete Townshend tells is simple yet effective, and draws you into the life of this detached boy turned realized man. The songs are varied in tone and emotion. The instrumentation keeps the pace moving and drives the story, especially the drums. The only weak point I see is the ending- Tommy is built up as a messanic figure only the end the album on a sillier note. I would have liked a more grand conclusion to a rock opera. Overall- I really enjoyed the album and could see myself listening again. Id give it a 4.5/5, but not quite a 5
This is my second Public Enemy album. I found myself really enjoying this one- the Terminator X featured songs were bangers, and Flavor Flav actually came through with some good verses rather than just small soundbites. The instrumentals were varied and catchy- at some points getting really bombastic with horns and drums, which I loved. Overall- very solid hip hop album. I could see how it solidifed Public Enemy as a force in the genre
Went in with very high expectations- Biggie is a iconic figure in the hip hop community. I would say they were mostly fulfilled. Biggies voice and lyrics are a powerhouse- he really sells whay he says and draws you into his stories and vignettes. The hits on the album are absolute gold- Juicy is top tier hip hop and a personal favorite. Where I was less taken was the skits- they didnt land for me. And of course, Puff Daddy interjecting into every song was fine- he just really doesnt add much, and his current reputation sullies the name of these old classics. Overall- very good hip hop album
Only got about 2/3 of the way through. I can see how this album was influential on the New Wave movement, but overall was just fine for me. No standouts
Pretty generic rock album. No big standouts, and overall the songs all seemed to blend together. Fine, but nothing special
I had heard parts of this album before- my brother had owned it growing up. It's a solid album- Snoop has a fun style and the hits are definitely hits (Gin and Juice is a certified banger). It did feel a little one note by the end though. 3.5/5, but not quite a 4
I remember this era of music fondly. Id listened to the Hives before, but not an entire album. I can see how they were influential- they draw a lot from alt rock, punk, and garage rock influences while still having a sound that is distinctly their own. While their sound is on the simple side, its still both effective at blurring the line between pleasant and dissonant, pop and true rock. Overall- I enjoyed it. Id probably give it a 3.5/5, but can bump it up tp a 4 based on personal preference and the infleunce of the album
I was familiar with a lot of Santana's work, specifically from this "golden era" of their work. I have to say- sitting and listening to the album start to finish was an awesome experience. The intro was relaxed and different in tone from the rest of the album, but transitioning into black magic woman and Oye Como Va back to back set the stage for the powerful instrumentation. I also found myself enjoying the lesser known songs from the album, epecially Mother's Daughter. I had to look up the vocalist Gregg Rolie, as I was enjoying his voice and it sounded familiar to me. His vocals compliment Santana's guitar work really well. Overall- thoroughly enjoyed it. Id rank it 4.5/5, but not quite 5 star for me
Somewhat interesting futuristic instrumental album- elements of house mixed with world music. I could see how it was influential on the techno genre but it didnt really wow me. Probably a 2.5/5
I had heard some of the hits from this album throughout the years, and I uave quite a few people in my life whp consider this a favorite. After giving it a listen (and some songs a re-listen), I can definitely understand the appeal. This album was a magnitudous undertaking- almost 90 mins in length and exploring a wide variety of sounds, styles, and instrumentation. And I think overall- it was successful. I am very impressed with Stevens achievement- the songs he wrote have complex time signatures, use of a variety of instruments and vocal harmonies. The music is rich and complex, and when it hits, it hits right. Still- there are some times when it feels a little unfocused. I think the album could have undergone another round or two of edits and it would have made it more effective. Overall- enjoyed it a lot. I wpuld probably put it in the 4 - 4.5 out of 5 range, but not quite a 5 star album.
Kind of a generic alt rock sound. Nothing bad but nothing really stood out
Interesting background music- feels video gamey. Ultimately, nothing really stood out
Pretty standard New Wave sound. Very 80s. I can see how this was influential to the genre, but it didnt really stand out for me. 2.5/5
Found myself enjoying it more than I thought. A nuce blend of punk, pop, and new wave
Another garage rock, punk-esque- pop-esque album from the 80s. This one was good enough but didnt do much for me personally. Overall- decent album
An album I was pretty intimately familiar with going in, though I hadent ever heard it in full. I very much enjoyed it- the vibes are enchanting and mystical, and the play between the dual vocal parts in the songs is fun and smart. The bangers were definite bangers- the Intro starts off strong and Crystalize is an amazing song. Overall- simple and effective.
Ive always been a Tom Petty fan. This was my first time listening to this album start to finish. Overall it was good- reminded me a little of Bob Dylan. He has a good way of telling a story through song. And the hits were definitely hits. Overall- solid rock album with some blues elements. Probably 3.5/5 but not quite a 4
I have always been a big Jack White fan, and I was familiar with many songs on this album. Listening to the whole album start to finish, I found myself really enjoying it. There are so many different genres that play together well- a rock album with blues roots that has a layer of pop and melodic influence. It was a big undertaking, and I think it succeeds in showing his unique musical perspective. Overall- very enjoyable album
This definitely feels like early Simon & Garfunkle- lots of Folk influence and a lot of softness/airiness in the tone of the songs. It definitely has some hits- Cecilia and The Boxer are both powerful performances. And as is the case with S&G, the songwriting is the strongest component. Overall- I enjoyed it.
The only real standout for me is Dont You Want Me- the rest of the album was just kind of generic-sounding synth pop. The songs all seemed to melt together. Overall- just fine
I wasnt familiar with Bauhaus going into this album. As someone who generally isnt a fan of post-punk, I actually enjoyed this album overall. It definitely dipped into a cocaphonous/ avant gard sound at some places, but also had some moments that were catchier. Overall- decent album.
Oh boy- does this album hit hard. My brother had this album growing up, but I dont think I have heard it in its entirety. It was a great listen- Nirvana's sound is so distinguished and intoxicating. Their songs are varied in tome from silly to serious and stylisitically different but sounding cohesive. My only gripe is that it seemed to lose just a little steam toward the end. Overall- I really liked it. Id probably give it a 4.5/5 but I think it can be bumped up to a 5
A really interesting sound- I enjoyed the blend of jazz and afro beat. I can see how this was an influential album on the Afrobeat genre as a whole. Overall- solid album
I had heard a few from the album before. I found myself really enjoying the album- their sound is mellow and understated but still captivating. I found that sometimes the songs seemed to meld into each other. Still- I found myself enjoying a lot of the songs. Overall- probably 3.5/5, but not quite a 4
Pretty generic rock music with a punk influence. I could see how this might have been an influencial album at the time, but nothing really suck out for me. Overall- fine
The debut from Foo fighters was great