392
Albums Rated
3.37
Average Rating
36%
Complete
697 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1950
Favorite Decade
Jazz
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
78
5-Star Albums
33
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cut
The Slits
|
5 | 2.71 | +2.29 |
|
Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite
Maxwell
|
5 | 2.9 | +2.1 |
|
Rapture
Anita Baker
|
5 | 2.94 | +2.06 |
|
Viva Hate
Morrissey
|
5 | 2.96 | +2.04 |
|
Dirty
Sonic Youth
|
5 | 3.11 | +1.89 |
|
Hejira
Joni Mitchell
|
5 | 3.13 | +1.87 |
|
Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
|
5 | 3.13 | +1.87 |
|
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
|
5 | 3.2 | +1.8 |
|
Kenya
Machito
|
5 | 3.27 | +1.73 |
|
Achtung Baby
U2
|
5 | 3.3 | +1.7 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
|
1 | 3.82 | -2.82 |
|
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Kanye West
|
1 | 3.41 | -2.41 |
|
Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
|
1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
|
Either Or
Elliott Smith
|
1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
|
I Should Coco
Supergrass
|
1 | 3.35 | -2.35 |
|
The College Dropout
Kanye West
|
1 | 3.31 | -2.31 |
|
Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age
|
1 | 3.3 | -2.3 |
|
S&M
Metallica
|
1 | 3.26 | -2.26 |
|
Rust In Peace
Megadeth
|
1 | 3.24 | -2.24 |
|
Permission to Land
The Darkness
|
1 | 3.15 | -2.15 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 5 | 4.8 |
| Joni Mitchell | 3 | 5 |
| U2 | 3 | 5 |
| Nick Drake | 3 | 4.67 |
| The Who | 2 | 5 |
| Paul Simon | 2 | 5 |
| Stevie Wonder | 2 | 5 |
| Led Zeppelin | 2 | 5 |
| Michael Jackson | 2 | 5 |
| Prince | 2 | 5 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 2 | 5 |
| Marvin Gaye | 2 | 5 |
| Muddy Waters | 2 | 5 |
| Morrissey | 3 | 4.33 |
| The Rolling Stones | 3 | 4.33 |
| The Doors | 3 | 4.33 |
| R.E.M. | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Kanye West | 2 | 1 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Sonic Youth | 5, 1, 4 |
| Fleetwood Mac | 2, 5 |
| Steely Dan | 2, 5 |
| The Prodigy | 4, 1 |
| Metallica | 4, 1 |
5-Star Albums (78)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Nick Drake · 4 likes
5/5
When I saw a 3rd Nick Drake album I thought, 'why!' with all the variety and rich musical content out there..and then I pressed play. Beautiful, intimate album. I was sorry it was over when the last song ended.
Adele · 2 likes
5/5
What a gem I love this girl. Her first effort and it's a masterpiece. Beautiful album from start to finish, BRAVAAA!!!! She only gets better as she ages.
Sade · 1 likes
5/5
as soon as I saw Sade .. 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 please!! this girl !! LOVELOVELOVE her, since forever - I have all the albums etc. she can do no wrong : )
Nick Drake · 1 likes
5/5
ooooh another Nick Drake, what a treat! Dreamy, wistful, thoughtful songs and sounds heavily dipped in 70s sound I loved this little trip, it was so pleasant and 'cozy' I enjoyed every single track. What a loss to only have him for a few years making such beautiful music
The Residents · 1 likes
1/5
hmm. I can always appreciate.. but I will likely never listen to this again
1-Star Albums (33)
All Ratings
Wilco
3/5
Shack
2/5
now I know who sings that first track-I remember only that one - not a bad listen, but nothing to write home about - decidedly dated early 90s sound to my ears..
Tim Buckley
4/5
I really liked this album-I knew Tim, but a whole album from a-z was perfect to get to know and appreciate him better. I LOVED his son Jeff and bought and listened to everything he made in his short career, which is why I paid any attn to Tim in the 1st place.
The Who
5/5
how did I not comment on this. in your face guitar smashing cymbal crashing brilliance - Mike and I were raised on the Who our dad loved them - I agree with everything he said in his review. Raw power personified, reminding me of Zeppelin. Fantastic.
Queen
4/5
Hey guys I need to learn how to rate albums-I clicked sthg and can't get back into it to rate B. Joel /the Stranger-it's an album from my childhood,grew up w/it in L.I. where it's the law to love him LOL - I know it by heart. I started w/you all on this day (7/31) so I've been going back on the wknds to catch up w/you! Almost done - Wilco album is on now.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
Pure poetry absolutely beautiful from start to finish
Tangerine Dream
3/5
ambient music - I didn't have time to listen to all, just 2 tracks - long, dreamy, spacey instrumental tracks
Paul Simon
5/5
Michael Kiwanuka
5/5
Michael Kiwanuka blew me away with Tell me a Tale about 10 yrs ago - he has only improved since then - 'you ain't the problem' remix is aprt of my favorite spin song list for climbs : )
Morrissey
5/5
I loved this when it came out - I still have it 😊 morrissey is such a gifted and clever songwriter it was a pleasure to revisit this one.
Beatles
5/5
As usual a masterpiece of songwriting and music from the fab 4
Sam Cooke
5/5
Sheryl Crow
3/5
This is her best effort - good album, I liked it when it came out but it's better now : )
The White Stripes
3/5
2/5
didn't love it - but appreciated it - I also didn't know them but that's the idea, right? : )
GZA
2/5
not really a rating, but I was a little disappointed by this one I lost interest halfway through as it was a bit tedious
Stevie Wonder
5/5
masterpiece - one of my 'go tos' and should be in everyone's music catalog
Led Zeppelin
5/5
I love them 😍 I can’t say anything bad about them😍
The Black Keys
4/5
LL Cool J
4/5
Been in love with LL since the 80s - and there are too many fantastic tracks on this album to count😍 round the way girl and mama said knock you out are staples in my workout classes
Michael Jackson
5/5
I know it by heart he was my fave throughout my childhood
Jethro Tull
3/5
Lana Del Rey
4/5
Love Lana !!!
Justin Timberlake
3/5
I remember this album. Lots of great, fun dancy tracks but gets repetitive after a while..
Deep Purple
2/5
ok Michael suggested I listen regardless of the love I don't feel for DP..and I can confirm that I still don't love their sound but can appreciate them - and it seems so dated to me, like Styx - for me that organ got tired after a while
Eagles
3/5
Soundgarden
4/5
One of Mike’s faves - the second I heard Chris Cornell’s voice I thought - that’s the new best male voice in rock and roll thayil always a force !
The Temptations
5/5
Neil Young
5/5
an old favorite such a beautiful album
3/5
Lots of funkadelic instrumentals I wasn’t expecting that - knew them but never got into them - that’s the point though isn’t it :)
The Rolling Stones
5/5
I have loved this album since forever ♥️♥️♥️
The Verve
4/5
I liked it so much when it came out and still like it - shame the lead singer 'wrecked' it by going solo
Sonic Youth
5/5
I forgot (but not completely) how kick ass this album is! I revisited it a few months ago when Kim turned 70 (!!!) I love them - their power, their dissonance, their talent - they were always cooler than everybody else and it seems that is still true.
fIREHOSE
3/5
I remember them but not how they sounded, I liked it!
Billy Joel
5/5
Black Sabbath
3/5
I surprised myself by actually enjoying a few tracks - not my genre at all but I finally took a moment to appreciate them and I have to say not bad.
David Bowie
4/5
Not my favorite album of his but anything Bowie is fine with me regardless 😊😎
Syd Barrett
4/5
Oooooh boy did I enjoy this!! I don't know why I've always had a soft spot/felt sorry for Syd, which may influence my affection for his distinctive sound, but this album was a real pleasure - It sounds like he was enjoying himself when he was playing. Glad this was on the list and not surprised.
Björk
2/5
I've always adored Björk, since she was a Sugar Cube. She's not always easy to listen to, but in my opinion, her voice and skill are still very impressive. I have many of her albums but didn't buy this one - I appreciate her but this one is too experimental for me to enjoy - only a couple of tracks
Koffi Olomide
3/5
I have been listening to this kind of music for years, it always puts me in a good mood. I didn't really know Koffi Olomide's work, but I enjoyed this album
Crosby, Stills & Nash
4/5
The Cars
3/5
always liked the Cars - their old stuff. this album is great from '78! I heard hints of the cure but just for a moment, catchy offbeat melodies that I am still happy to listen to - never thought they would have some staying power but they do
3/5
I discovered Brazilian music through my brother Steve and David Byrne when I was in college and became obsessed. This album was so familiar as a result, I'm not sure if I truly 'liked it so much' or if it was a reminder of my love story with Joao and Astrud Gilberto, Antonio Jobim, Milton Nascimento, Caetano Veloso (mio AMORE!) Djavan, Gal Costa and Gilberto Gil. It was super pleasant and airy background music while I cleaned up the house yesterday
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
2/5
this was like listening to clips from movie soundtracks - not altogether unpleasant, but I'd never buy this cd. I'd never heard of them
The Doors
4/5
As I 'rate' (what do I know) these albums, I am finding that there are some that I'm too emotionally attached to to properly critique - this is one of them. When I was in 7th grade I was already full on obsessed with the Doors and begged my parents to get me this album. They got me the Doors Greatest Hits (red and white cover) for xmas - I can still (!) remember sneaking into their room and finding it, wrapped and hidden - and I still feel like a sh*t bc I peeked and then rewrapped. Michael did I ever tell you I had done this .. and didn't we unwrap Pitfall and actually play it, then rewrap and pretend we were surprised? LOLLL Anyway, I love this album I love their unique sound and Break on Through is like Good Times Bad Times (Zep) - the BEST intro /opener !!! And fantastic variety, talent, inventiveness (The End) - so many classics on this 1st album I was so happy to listen to this!
R.E.M.
4/5
I love REM have been listening since they came out-they came to Rutgers once while I was a freshman we thought they were the cooooolest... this is not my favorite album but I love how nicely it flows from Finest Worksong to the One I Love - It's the End of the World is always so fun
Supergrass
1/5
not a fan, not my type of music. supergrass does have a track (NOT the one on this album that was in heaaaavy rotation for ages on the radio back in the day) called Movin' from another album that I really like, but only half of it : )
Ray Charles
2/5
I played Ray Charles in Spin class today : ) but this album's sound is just not for me. I appreciate the talent and the time, but there were a bunch of tracks that I had to skip through because I couldn't take it anymore lolll
Rod Stewart
4/5
Hanoi Rocks
1/5
no no no no
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
some great classics here - I love Maurice White (when he died Bilal singer from Philly kind of took over in terms of range - he's one of the only people who can sing like Maurice) and Philip Bailey!!! But not my favorite EW & F album. I wrote a whole big thing about Every Picture Tells a Story and how much I loved it and how I am happily enjoying keeping alive the dying art of listening to an album cover to cover - no idea what happened to it. Why can't we go back and write or edit reviews if we want hmph.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
Moby Grape
4/5
didn't enjoy this one.. meant to write about Mr Brubeck, that album is like a master class at times - I also looooove Take 5 - and this genre to me is spellbinding. This album however got a little repetitive towards the last tracks
Green Day
2/5
hopefully I'll eventually get the hang of sending my reviews to y'all..every day I make a new mistake LOL.. I'd voted 1 for Moby Grape and 4 for Brubeck. Here's my review of Green Day - I was never a fan, but I liked a couple of songs and I appreciated them. Now I can honestly say that I don't like them enough to listen to a whole album. Skillful musicianship, a couple of catchy tracks, but I was done when it all started sounding the same..
The Avalanches
3/5
Been digging them for more than 20 yrs - I love the Avalanches!! Australian kings of sampling - it's almost like a journey through their subconscious, how quickly you pass from one to the other. I actually have Since I left You in my collection. However.. 40 min of this can get tedious. They're electronic and not really singing, so I find myself wishing for one of them to start belting it out but alas..
De La Soul
5/5
Looong love fest with these guys, I've had this album (1st cassette, then cd now mp3) in some shape or form since it came out. These guys are also the sample kings and it took many many yrs to clear all the samples before they were allowed on spotify. Clever lyrics, catchy beats, fun shout outs (in 1 song Trugoy says 'why not, let's go to Laces', a roller skating rink on LI that I used to go to as a teen) that endear them ever more to me - plus they sample Steely Dan so they must be cool : )
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
So hard to rate an album by Bruce-especially this one-he's so tightly woven into childhood memories I can't possibly be objective. Love him our Dad loved him - once he went to 6 of the 10 shows Bruce was doing at the Brendan Byrne arena <3
The Slits
5/5
Man, that was fun! That raw, distinctive sound morphed into something completely different on many occasions - I got a whiff of early B52s, early Elvis Costello and some ska, it's full of surprises, a great album. The Slits were were fearless and one of the first, if not the first all girl punk band. And Neneh Cherry is a back up vocalist on this record! I'll definitely be listening again.
Emmylou Harris
4/5
Nick Drake
4/5
I had heard the name Nick Drake before but had never listened-Iloved it.I read up on him - what a talent, and what a shame. He influenced so many, including Paul Weller (lovelovelove) I really enjoyed this album
Paul Simon
5/5
what to say. masterpiece. reminds me of visiting colleges with my mom in '86, we played it nonstop in the car - I still listen to this album, who doesn't haha
The White Stripes
2/5
wasn't feeling another WS album so I'm skipping and I'll go back to it over the wknd..
5/5
Our 100th album is considered top 3 best albums of all time so... trippy, beautiful, avantgarde - clever, brilliant, future paving mastery. Also part of the social fabric of my childhood, adolescence and all the rest - What to say! Stu I can't wait to hear your review : )
Genesis
3/5
story telling 70s album w the ever present organ lol... reminds me of Styx, Kansas, etc and sounds so dated but I have always liked Genesis and I still love Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel so I have lots of praise for one of their first efforts, mostly bc I know well what their sound developed into (selling OUT by the pound?), which may be them trying to fit into radio rotation but I LOVE Genesis starting with Duke, which now sits in my mom's basement. I do like the very sweet More Fool Me and I Know What I Like - for me the best track on here (prob bc it's the most melodic)
The Blue Nile
1/5
didn't give this a fair shot - I just don't dig that sound. I stopped after track 4
Nick Drake
5/5
ooooh another Nick Drake, what a treat! Dreamy, wistful, thoughtful songs and sounds heavily dipped in 70s sound I loved this little trip, it was so pleasant and 'cozy' I enjoyed every single track. What a loss to only have him for a few years making such beautiful music
Fela Kuti
3/5
I got veeery into Fela back in the late 90s early 2000s bc his son Femi was doing loads of touring and I used to go and see him and his band all the time when they came to NYC - often til 3,4 in the morning - they were such a force! still have a flyer on my fridge for one of his shows in Bklyn : ) I actually won Fela's discography in a contest so I know his work very well - my faves often include his fantastic collabs with Ginger Baker, not this album. But man was he a force
The Cure
2/5
I love the Cure but I just can't jive with their darker, mopey stuff. I like them here, but I appreciated the band more as they evolved into a more poppy sound (sorry). So for skill, 4 but a 2.5 for sound. When we get to Head on the Door I'm all in!
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
1/5
not for me - got confused bc in my head I was thinking Spencer Davis and then heard these guys and was immediately turned off - not my scene
The Undertones
3/5
Blondie
3/5
so much fun I love blondie, such a badass!!! like kim and kelly deal, kim gordon and chrissie hynde - they'll always be so uber cool to me <3 this album cranks with the 1st 2 tracks, has a punky, sometimes a Ronnie Spector/early 60s 'bemylittlebaby', sometimes dancy feel I love the variety and her unapologetic sass - Debbie Harry was so fierce back then, one of the only 'cute little blond' chicks who you would even think of messing with. I was at a TomTom Club concert in 1989 and she was standing right in front of us - we were DYING! Royalty.
Funkadelic
2/5
how can you not love the 1st track, a pure classic - it's been sampled so much and there are so many sound bytes from it like 'feet don't fail me now' but for me the tracks all mix together as the album progresses and they end up all sounding the same.
Nick Drake
5/5
When I saw a 3rd Nick Drake album I thought, 'why!' with all the variety and rich musical content out there..and then I pressed play. Beautiful, intimate album. I was sorry it was over when the last song ended.
Le Tigre
3/5
have heard 2 tracks so far, cool! raw, growly
The 13th Floor Elevators
4/5
I dig it maaan : ) I wasn't really familiar with this band - while this particular genre gets a bit tired for me, these tracks have a lot of musical and melodic diversity that kept me entertained, mainly because they reminded me of so many other bands. At times I heard the Guess Who, early Van Morrison (Baby please don't go esp)the Kinks, the Animals, early Stones, HEAVY Pixies and Breeders /Deal sisters in 4. Don't Fall Down, Beach boyesque bubble sounds in You Don't Know. So cool. Who influenced who!
Garbage
2/5
I didn't like ANYTHING about this record until track 7, when all of a sudden I recognized sthg and started to enjoy it. Still, I wouldn't reach for this album a second time
Prince
5/5
it's Purple Rain : ) 5. No explanation needed : )
The Last Shadow Puppets
4/5
I didn't know they existed!!! Kept saying this dude sounds JUST like Alex Turner from Arctic Monkeys (LOVE) and ha ha guess what it's him with another band - read up, love the sound and that I can hear the Smiths somewhere in there as well as a load of other stuff. Loved it nice new discovery
Barry Adamson
2/5
sounds a bit like scenes from a movie throughout, especiallly with the 1st track - 60s crime thrillers for 2 and 3 (I can just see them theatrically tip toeing around lol) .. so this album kind of reminds me of the Avalanches in how sample laden it is. I appreciate the musicianship, but not feeling this one too much
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
early early Souxsie - NOT my cup of tea until Hong Kong Garden when they start to sound recognizable
Dire Straits
5/5
Gorgeous album, I see no flaws. I thoroughly enjoyed every track both old and 'new'. For me Dire Straits has such a specific, identifiable sound, you instantly know it's them - but they somehow created a different sound for almost every song. And these guys have never been a go to group for me, although I have always appreciated them - now I'm changing my mind : ) Walking in the Wild West End I didn't know it and now I can't stop listening to it
Michael Jackson
5/5
ahhhh.. one of my favorite albums of all time, since I got this album in 1979 - I know the whole thing by heart and can say nothing bad about it, it is imprinted in my DNA : ) He made this first solo album when he was just 20, bless his heart! and of course there is Rod Temperton and Quincy Jones all over this lovelovelovelove
Blood, Sweat & Tears
4/5
OMG what a lovely surprise - this band is known mostly for Spinning Wheel - and I had no idea how diverse, interesting, fun and fantastic this album was! Yeah Blood Sweat and Tears! What a talent. What a cranking jazzy bridge version of God Bless the Child. Time to read more about them
The Residents
1/5
hmm. I can always appreciate.. but I will likely never listen to this again
The Darkness
1/5
Nope. Just was not feeling this got almost halfway thru
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
I was mildly obsessed with these guys but Mike - he knows and loves them so well! This was fresh and new, they were menacing and cool and mysterious and that's how their guitars sounded too, so kick ass w Corgan growling along. What a pleasure to come back and listen from start to finish, that was great!!!
Charles Mingus
4/5
Fred Neil
4/5
who knew!! I LOVE THIS
what fun to discover that Fred Neil was behind certain tracks - the originator of what I thought was someone else's song! Really enjoyed the vibe and mood the whole album created and was very impressed by his guitar skills - great album
5/5
Bowie - so ahead of his time and so graceful in his execution lovelovelovehim
Got to listen to Dr. Octagonacologist - that was a fun ride!
Eminem
3/5
Listening now..I can already say that I hold Eminem in high esteem for his immense talent, but he always sounds angry and they lyrics are often too nasty for me, so I have never enjoyed listening to him for long - a couple of tracks here and there but that's it so I'm giving him a 3
Fleetwood Mac
2/5
LOVE them but not this album - Sara is a massive hit, so dreamy and beautiful never gets old and Tusk is a fun track.. + a few other Christine McV slower tracks but that is it - F Mac for me peaked w Rumours this album not so much
PJ Harvey
3/5
Loved her - I think I have 3 of her records - this one not a favorite, quite dark and biting - I was distracted while listening, it wasn't keeping my attn. but PJ is / was a force and shook things up - I like that : )
Little Simz
3/5
this girl! been listening to her for a while, I like her clever, game changing cadence and no apologies attitude. Her voice reminds me of Mariana Vieira/Digable Planets, perhaps an infuence? Anyway, a fun listen
Air
3/5
started listening to AIR in 2000, saw this film back in the day - and only found out that they did the soundtrack yesterday LOL .. great ambient sound they're also consistent bc subsequent albums - always better than the last
Sarah Vaughan
5/5
Sarah Vaughan is hands down my favorite vocalist of all time, her perfect pitch and simpatia on stage enchant me to the very core, I get lost in her every time. I listened through this one I think 5 or 6 times, glorious, beautiful, perfect. I LOVE her!!!!!!!
Beck
3/5
Clever, quirky, talented Beck. Got on his train with Loser and Odelay! This album is pure fun but I found myself ho-humming a bit around the halfway point. Hopefully his album Morning Phase will pop up on our radar, it's gorgeous and a tender side / sound of him I adore.
Badly Drawn Boy
4/5
I love Badly Drawn Boy-discovered him 20 sthg yrs ago when he did the soundtrack for About a Boy (2000) and it was the film opener for the 1st edition for the Tribeca Film Festival (I worked on that for a couple of yrs, so fun). I love Damon Gough's voice and his instrumental skills - he plays like 9 instruments and song arrangements, just lovely. I have a few of his records, this one is fab, I love it
Marilyn Manson
1/5
Just NO. NEVER. MM's sound is consistently nasty and hateful and makes me cringe - pure torture getting through even one song. Can I give a big fat zero
Dennis Wilson
4/5
wow. That was like being in the mind of a crazy genius, even though this is Dennis Wilson and not Brian. Moonshine reminded me a lot of Beck (!?) and I am guessing this record influenced countless others, bc I was constantly saying, that sounds just like.. 1. Beck, 2. Roger Waters, 3. Don Henley, 4. Randy Newman??? I don't think this is a matter of whether you like the music or not, whatever he was doing / expressing caught a looot of people's attention
Bob Dylan
3/5
what to say - never been a fan of Bob Dylan but I appreciate him and there are certain tracks I actually adore - especially after Scorsese's documentary the Rolling Thunder Review. But a whole album no thanks
The War On Drugs
4/5
I love this band. They are kickin it in the background of life, and remind me so much of another band like them, super talented, great songwriting, solid sound of musicians playing tg for more than 20yrs, Turin Brakes/UK - hopefully they'll be on this 1001... so much quality and a soothing sound - War on Drugs are consistent in their sound and I was happy to discover them thru headphones on an LIRR train to Garden City w a friend from 7th grade, years ago (thanks Vicki!) I happily listen to them any day, always glad they're around.
The Divine Comedy
2/5
I'd never heard of this guy-I can appreciate him, but I was disinterested after 2 tracks. He reminds me - at least at one point he did.. of Lloyd Cole, who I love, so I ended up listening to him for most of yesterday : )
Bob Dylan
5/5
I was happy to see another Dylan album so soon - I was reminded that it has always bummed me out that I never gelled with Dylan's music, and then The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan came my way, WOW and WOW! This album already had me with that sweet and tender moment captured on the cover of him in a snowy street of downtown Manhattan (he was a just a cherub!) with .. looked her up, Italian American Suze Rotolo, then I llistened - 3 times through. This album is beautiful. Just beautiful, I swear I actually heard a 'CLICK!' and just like that, I get it - I have entered the Dylanrealm LOLLL .. part of the raw beauty of these tracks (and incredibly skillful guitar playing) is bc Suze couldn't deal with his rising fame and broke up w him, moved out and over to Perugia, Italy to study art for 6mos. WHAAAT!? This made me smile bc I studied in Perugia too and lived there for 8 yrs - Mike came to stay for like 8mos back in the 90s! Loving that connection and this album. Now obsessed w/ Don't think twice, it's alright and Girl from the North country. His suffering transformed into such beautiful, intimate music.
Isaac Hayes
4/5
we know this is on the list for a reason..1st film score to win an Oscar-changed the course of movie music (go Isaac!)he was only 29. Funky jazzy grooves that captured Shaft's vibe perfectly. Ellie's reminds me a bit of the Odd Couple theme and Cafè Regio's screams Jackson 5 Never Can Say Goodbye. Shaft has long been a favorite, since forever and it is still fun to be the back up singer '.... shut yo' mouth!' (I'm talkin' bout Shaft..)
R.E.M.
4/5
r.e.m. a staple in my listening rotation since this album! a precursor of the versatility and cleverness and harmonies of these guys it is very hard to say anything negative for them
Public Enemy
3/5
Important album, but it never resonated w me, I liked but only a little bit. I do love the no BS chuck D♥️but flav gets on my nerves a bit
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
I love Kendrick and to be honest, I don't know what it is about him, it took me a while to connect but once I did..I also love that his mom named him after Eddie Kendricks :) listening now 'To Pimp a Butterfly' it seems like a prelude to the greatness that is his next album, DAMN. There are a lot of great tracks on this one, but knowing what comes after makes it pale in comparison. However! You ain't gotta lie, King Kunta and These Walls all fantastic and enjoyed heavy rotation in my spin classes. Kendrick's in another league
Various Artists
3/5
The Doors
4/5
this album has one of the most inspiring songs in rock and roll - L.A. Woman is a glorious, top down, hair blowing music blaring as loud as possible as you howl and shout-sing flying down the road. the bangers are interspaced with some pretty psychadelic stuff in between. Love Her Madly another gem and Riders on the Storm - these 3 tracks alone for me make it a 4-5
Harry Nilsson
3/5
Can’t remember what I wanted to say about Harry - I remember discovering him w a Tarantino soundtrack - put the lime in the co co nut.. clever fellow - he is out there - in a good way
Foo Fighters
4/5
Great album - I remember buying it when it came out this album was Dave ‘s therapy after Kurt’s suicide - Dave now playing guitar and singing ❤️
This is a call greaaat opener
William Orbit
3/5
so I have learned that William Orbit was behind many an album as producer, so I understand why he is on this list - knowing now, I see how influential his work was to house and acid jazz in the early 90s - listen to Madonna's Music album that's where he sounds the best
Roxy Music
2/5
this album sounded very experimental-I was repeatedly reminded of early Floyd and Genesis. Far from the dreamy and beloved 'more than this' and punchy declarations of 'love is the drug' this album surely a building block /necessary stepping stone to get where they did.
Slipknot
1/5
not judging! I checked them out yrs ago because I'd heard of the insane rotating drum kit/upside down drumming sesh.. no dice minus 100 stars is my vote. How this is music for anyone is baffling. I gave it a shot - which lasted exactly 12 seconds before turning it off. The horror! The sound they create is so disturbing and so unpleasant.. if I ever have the misfortune of hearing this again it will be too soon.
Amy Winehouse
5/5
Love her, love this album, Tears dry on their own and Addicted are among my favorite songs of all time. Every track on this album is a stunner, opening triumphantly with the fantastic Rehab, ending with the cheeky and brilliant Addicted, enchanting throughout.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
4/5
I love Tom Petty - let's just put that out there right away.. his debut album is full of promise of what is to come, shining w Breakdown and American girl. It just keeps getting better from here.
Coldplay
4/5
Old Coldplay is my favorite CP music, 1st album Parachutes was the best and this 2nd one is also great, lots of quality tracks and interesting music, they most certainly did not suffer any sophomore slump. Although I really like this album from start to finish, the Super Stand Outs for me are 3-8 from God put a Smile.. (LOVE) to Warning Sign (massive love for this one too), which I literally JUST used in class last wk as a listening exercise.
The Thrills
2/5
Irish band whose music was described as 'sunny' - because they moved to San Diego in the early 2000s and made this album there :) I didn't really know this band before - they sound tight, solid. This guy's voice immediately reminded me of the Flaming Lips and J.Mascis / Dinosaur Jr., who were both incidentally significant and influential bands at the time (funny that!) at times too pop and too whispery for me but not a bad listen - just not something I will go back to
The Verve
3/5
The Verve had soooo much promise - this isn't 'the' album for them, but it's still good. However, we both noticed that it became background noise rather quickly..
Van Morrison
4/5
We played this in college non stop for 2 yrs, used to lie on the roof and watch the stars and listen to Van M. So I am biased..I know it by heart and it's long been engraved into my brain. Into the Mystic was one of my Dad's favorite songs, I always think of him when I hear it. Seeing him at the Beacon 4th row doing Astral weeks from start to finish changed my perception, which is why I give this a 4 and not a 5 even though it probably deserves the 5 : )
Paul McCartney and Wings
4/5
What a fun band!!! I love Wings, clever Paul with such fun and interesting lyrics, fantastic music. Absolutely love Band on the Run and Jet so much that I don't care if there are a couple of mediocre tracks on here I'm throwing this one a 4
Maxwell
5/5
AHHHH this came out in '96 and thus began the massive crush on Maxwell...he reignited R&B soul crooning - the next Teddy P - I was at a Maxwell show and the women were literally !! throwing their panties on the stage. I LOVE this album and still listen to it. Fantastic sound vibe groove 1st 4 tracks are blissfully gorgeous for me, love him!
Norah Jones
4/5
Nora Jones comes from a musical background, after all her dad was Ravi Shankar! But she started out like any other, playing Mon nights at the Metropolitan cafè on 1st Ave btw 52 and 53rd - I lived upstairs - NOT ONCE did I see her, in all the times that I went there, damn!! Gorgeous not from this time voice, soothing, creamy dreamy velvety. She was a breath of fresh air whoooosh right into this genre. Great listen for a cloudy cold Sunday while you read the 480 sections of the NYTimes
Jane Weaver
1/5
not sure really why this chick is on here.. meh.. left no mark with me
Steely Dan
2/5
LOL Stu LOLLL how funny - I on the other hand LOVE THEM SO MUCH - on of my top 5 all time favorite bands.. pretzel logic has a couple of beauties but this may be their worst record, in my personal ranking ..
The Prodigy
4/5
LOVED this when it came out, still love it now - don't even care if the tracks in between 1,2 and 8 aren't as epic, but they're good and this vibe and energy was just what the dr. ordered - I needed this today : )
Boards of Canada
3/5
I liked these guys right from the get go - they are/were a Canadian collective and I got turned on to them thru Feist / Kings of Convenience - Feist was one of Boards of Canada : ) Happy Cycling (appropriately) has been in rotation for almost 20 yrs in my spin class
John Cale
3/5
totally not what i expected and all this time now I know what he sounds like LOL interesting listen
Megadeth
1/5
Didn't even open it - I am scared LOL - this genre hurts my ears so I didn't venutre this time
Prince
5/5
after listening through for a second time, his virtuosity blows my mind. It's funk, soul, unabshedly pop, R&B, raunchy, in between the sheetsy .. each song so different from the last, just awesome - whether you dig his sound or not, he is/was really all that.
Stan Getz
4/5
Thank God for Stan Getz and his trips to S America the influence each had on the other is a joy to listen to and bossa nova one of my favorite genres-I was obsessed all thru the 90s at times it was all I listened to. This album gets a 4 from me bc sometimes I am too generous as I gush over musicians I love : )
Marianne Faithfull
1/5
no no just no. mainly because I don't like her voice nor her style of singing.
The Young Rascals
2/5
Perhaps because we are in the middle of buying a house and moving stuff down south, my brain had no space for this - it didn’t resonate in the slightest - trusting I’ll learn something from you guys through your comments
Talvin Singh
4/5
I remember when this came out - I have it : ) it was so IN and new at the moment (late 90s) and this Cafè del Mar genre was exploding. A whole disc I learned is too much.. but very cool, ethereal, other worldly ambient music that fits very nicely into a playlist
Sigur Rós
3/5
I remember when these guys came out - big props to inventing their own language to sing in?! Very ambient, background film scorey, I liked it
Neil Young
4/5
Gorgeous I love walk on so it was a lovely start
Quicksilver Messenger Service
3/5
hey wait a sec!! did these guys influence the Dead? Why are they reminding me so much of them
Machito
5/5
that was WONDERFUL! Loved every minute, latin/jazz/ salsa have a special place in my heart - best music to clean your house to
Sparks
2/5
fun quirky weird, I feel like this in '74 paved the way/ served as inspiration for many other musicians but I don't have the brain power at the moment to talk about it - but I think of Pizzicato 5 in Japan and Souxie, Berlin etc - I wouldn't go back to this record but it was fun
Metallica
4/5
NOT my genre but this album opens with one of the best heavy metal tracks in existence-Enter sandman is SO AWESOME. This album is an accomplishment - how to somehow become 'mainstream' in the metal world, and pick up fans like me along the way. Too much of a menacing sound for me to listen to for more than 2 tracks, but I appreciate nonetheless and admire them and their longevity as a band. Mad props !
Talking Heads
3/5
great band - not my favorite album but I enjoyed it. I love David Byrne for myriad reasons (his Brazilian exploring in the late 80s, his painting, solo work, used to come to my gym where I taught in nyc..coolest guy. i think he is true to his art/music and that shld be rewarded, even if I didn't love this album - some is great but the rest eh? Also Tina Weymoth and her hubby - Stood next to Blondie !?!?!!? at the 'World' theater back in 1990 watching the Tom Tom club love them too!
Thin Lizzy
4/5
wow that was so enjoyable! a group that I never got into but always heard in the background and now can say appreciate.
5/5
relevant significant beautiful perfect no criticisms for this one
David Bowie
5/5
wow. rich, wistful sounds, inviting us to reflect - or to witness Bowie reflecting on death and its approach, or is it life he's reflecting on, and the end of his? either way, I felt like I was listening to beauty. It was touching, emotional, I felt privileged to be 'invited'. His songwriting in track 2 reminded me of Morrissey/Marr/the Smiths and the beginning chords of dollar days sounds just like Sing me to Sleep. Where the F did Monday go.... this album was like a master class - I loved it and of course no surprise, Bowie left us on his own beautiful terms
Nirvana
5/5
Ha! What to say. Masterpiece that changed everything. Smells like, Sthg in the Way, On a Plain.. Polly .. can I give them 2 5s
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
It's Hendrix. What can we say. Hearing his genius, inventive, spontaneous raw talent and skill wafting / or ripping through the air of the room in 2025 and still being spellbound - how'd he do it-how did he learn to play the chords upside down bc he was a lefty and there weren't guitars made for lefties yet. how does it sound otherworldy after you've heard it a million times, how is crosstown traffic ALWAYS in my head if I have to cross ANY town, lol.. Mike is a Hendrix head so I'll give 5 bc what else can you give really
Gorillaz
3/5
An innovative and interesting collective, a couple of great tracks - seems like it was a fun experiment - liked them initially, but ..
T. Rex
2/5
nothing to write home about for me.
Solange
3/5
Great title I liked this album when it came out - this is Beyoncé’s kid sis and boy is she different than Ms B - not sure yet why she’s on the list but she’s got sthg to say and this album has a msg. Cranes in the sky my fave
Adele
5/5
What a gem I love this girl. Her first effort and it's a masterpiece. Beautiful album from start to finish, BRAVAAA!!!! She only gets better as she ages.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
4/5
Wow ok then! I was never a fan of Janis, just not my sound, but man when that girl sang, you could hear and see the depths of her soul - more than anyone I can remember. Just pure love and passion and emotion and that is beautiful - I appreciate her so much, but it's just not my sound - I can do 2 tracks, then I need a break
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
4/5
I really enjoyed this, although I am not sure why - not really my genre, is it folk? Country? Bluegrass? A mix of all of them? This album felt private, intimate. Guitar picking off the charts.
Wire
2/5
hmm and they're on here because..couple of good tracks but otherwise nothing I'd listen to twice
Dolly Parton
3/5
beautiful. 3 voices to knock your socks off, all at the same time. trouble is this genre - after 2 tracks I am like STFU please and stop yer cryin love all 3 of these mighty mamas though!!!
David Bowie
3/5
I guess a cog in the machine of Bowie - not my favorite album of course but Sound & Vision is a gem
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
Love Kendrick. Not this album though, per se, as it's how he got his foot in the door..it took me a while to get into him and then it literally just clicked w a live performance at the grammys and I thought 'OHHHH I get it now, this guy is a GENIUS!' : ) Kendrick's mom loved the Temptations so she named him after Eddie Kendricks, must have brought him good luck bc this guy has massive talent.
Bobby Womack
4/5
Love him, very much part of the musical fabric of the 70s-80s. Womack and Womack songwriting was it!!
Lynyrd Skynyrd
2/5
Nope. Never really liked them-SUCH rednecks, not my sound, don't like his voice or attitude and if I ever hear Freebird again it will be too soon.
The National
3/5
I like the National - ‘thoughtful’ comes to mind when I listen to them. Interesting, emotional heartfelt sound
Van Halen
5/5
Forgot how much ass this album kicks 😊 this album gets 5 just for Hot for Teacher♥️ but it is bangbangbangin’ perfection until and including I’ll wait. This was my 1st concert, went w my dad😍 and we shared a suite at the Brendan Byrne arena w Queen?!?!? Amazing experience. I LOVED VH, esp this album - Mike and cranked it on saturday in the car so good not one bad/ mediocre track
The Killers
4/5
YES! great album, loved it when it came out and bought it immediately - they sounded new and vintage at the same time - they reminded me of Ministry, fun band from the 80s (I wanted to Tell her is still a fab song) lead singer of the Killers is Brandon Flowers and I really dig that voice. Tracks 1-4 so fantastic, clever lyrics and catchy hooks. I was disappointed with their follow up albums, but this was a GREAT 1st effort
The Jesus And Mary Chain
2/5
I remember liking these guys in Jr High but onlyh a couple of tracks - this faded into the background - and my mom said, what is that crap you're listening to .. LOL
Linkin Park
1/5
missed this one - which is good bc I have never liked Linkin Park - not sorry Lol
The Flaming Lips
4/5
love these guys! been listening since the very beginning - this is a lovely album and is a wondeful listen - Wayne reminds me sometimes of a softer sweeter J Mascis
Sade
5/5
as soon as I saw Sade .. 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 please!! this girl !! LOVELOVELOVE her, since forever - I have all the albums etc. she can do no wrong : )
Lauryn Hill
4/5
Beautiful, heartfelt - bought it when it came out and I still listen to tracks on here and use a few in spin class (guess which) she is a vocal powerhouse with a depth and richness few possess - only she could've covered Killing me Softly and only she could do the tribute last week at Flack's funeral.
Steely Dan
5/5
Stu!! Your boys! LOL.. I wrote to Mike yesterday, saying isn't it funny how what sounds like genius to some is unlistenable to others..I LOVE SD! They are/were like Gods to me. Can't buy a thrill is an album that takes you on a journey, proper 70s - I can't imagine life w/o tracks 1,2,5,6,&10
Todd Rundgren
4/5
so creative, so against the current do my own thing Todd our neighbor Billy my bbf's big brother worshipped him so we got schooled on all things Rundgren. I like him. not all of it, but I really appreciate his creativity and some tracks just super (I saw the light loooove who doesn't)
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
Love them. They are a go to and I neeever get sick of them - I listened to this 3x through while working at the computer, sublime. The songwriting the harmony the lyrics - everything they are so comforting and lovely! For Emily (this earlier version will do just fine) .. is probably the most beautiful song I have ever heard
Fela Kuti
4/5
I am partial to Fela. Been listening to him for decades and actually won his entire music catalog in a contest w Giant Step Records, Lord, 24 yrs ago! And used to see his son Femi every time he came to NYC - AMAZING LIVE SHOWS! Fela the pioneer, here one of his 1st - and a jam sesh no less w Ginger Baker - sometimes it gets tedious, but it's like the Dead - who cares I love it anyway
Elvis Presley
3/5
I see the cover and think of London Calling haha Welcome to Elvis Presley - this is so dated it's hard to get excited about, but we all know how pivotal this moment was in music - thank you Elvis for getting it started
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
although I do love me some Curtis Mayfield, I wonder why this album is on the list - bc it was so political at the time? His track So in Love is so in lovely also Hard Times so good - a Very sweet and sultry way to say we've had enought
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
I was listening to this when it came out - along w Talvin Singh, when Ibiza's Cafe del Mar was trying to take over the world haha - 'ambient music' - couple of cool tracks but I get lost in it - forget it's even on
Frank Sinatra
5/5
The man with perfect pitch - they didn't call him Chairman of the Board for nothing..a solid 5 for me, I'd give him a 6 if I could.
Queen
3/5
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Great listen
Nirvana
4/5
one of the 1st unpluggeds - and a more dramatic detachment to hear Nirvana (love Clapton but this was more intense) w/o amps. Disarming, totally new perspective on the artist. lovely
David Bowie
3/5
haven't finished listening yet but I don't love this album and am going with a 3 so far bc it's DB
Sufjan Stevens
3/5
this was interesting - like being invited to a party where sthg different is happening in every room - so much to say but no time to say it - sometimes it was sublime, fun sometimes muddled and confusing but def enjoyable
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
it's Neil Young..hard to say anything bad about him. This is a great album simply bc he made it but not my fave or a run back for a second listen - if it's playing, great !! but I agree w TightnShiny : ) Rust Live on repeat any day
Frank Zappa
3/5
wow!! that was actually really fun! so it took me 50 yrs to fig out what all the fuss was about w Frank Zappa, I learned about him when I was like 13 and Valley Girl came out w Moon Unit : ) what a badass musician!! I'll bet he was super fun to hang out with, what creativity
The Flying Burrito Brothers
2/5
wow never knew the history behind these guys, ex Byrds! Not my genre, but I appreciate - this blended into the background after a couple of tracks
Fats Domino
3/5
didn't really listen - no time today - these sound so old and dated but I know they are part of the foundation - and some are still really great
The Adverts
1/5
umm why was this on the list.. it had just about zero impact on me who were these guys again?
Elton John
2/5
I agree with Stu - side one is great - side 2 I barely remember and it ran thru twice as I worked -
Arcade Fire
2/5
the umpteenth time I just realize and admit that I do not like arcade fire...
Pixies
4/5
love them and the deal sisters lovelovelove!!!!
Sonic Youth
1/5
I understand the significance - i am a sonic youth fan but this album is too dark and depressing for me. wristslashtastic .. no thanks!
Orbital
2/5
totally missed this album while moving house!
Beatles
5/5
what else but a 5
Dire Straits
4/5
fantastic - lots of memories when they were always on mtv the radio etc - but I like older DS rather than 80s DS still a great listen
Pink Floyd
4/5
Brilliance. Tenderness. I love this album, always have but it makes me sad for Syd's demise.
Elliott Smith
1/5
why is this on the list.. did nothing for me - perhaps a nice little melody here or there for a minute, nothing more - didn't enjoy this one
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
I've always had big respect for Nick Cave. He always seems to stay true to his craft and filters the horrors of life thru his writing- some so beautiful and tender he reminds me of Leonard Cohen. Not his best album but Into My Arms is wonderful
Yes
3/5
Always liked this band! that 70s-80s styx Jethro-ish genre though is so dated and this now sounds weird but I still love the classics and Jon Anderson's voice is inimitable
Pixies
3/5
Stu I am laughing at your rating for Yes : ) this Pixies album .. uhhh.. not my fave I give them a 3 just for being them
David Bowie
3/5
kind of disappointing this one. can't put my finger on it - I didn't even realize when it had ended - the 2nd half petered out for me, although it was promising initially. I feel bad not liking a Bowie album - I'd make a horrible critic! giving him a 3
Metallica
1/5
Did not like this AT ALL reminded me a tiny bit of Trans Siberian RR - no thanks
George Harrison
4/5
love George. this gets a 4 for the songs on here that I love - my favorite beatle <3 he can do no wrong : )
David Bowie
4/5
Stu I love that you know about Luther as a background singer (?!) for YA 🥰🥰🥰
Rush
2/5
When I say I love Rush I realize that it’s Neil Peart I loved and that I ‘love’ about 10 Rush songs and that’s that. This album not the Rush sound I dig .. musicianship TOP but .. too Styx styley for me
Bill Evans Trio
5/5
SUBLIME 5 5 5 5 just beautiful
3/5
This reminds me of a fun curious time when they might be giants, Ben folds and xtc reigned supreme, I like their cleverness and creativity and unique sound
The Monks
1/5
Not sure why this is on the list did nothing for me
Marvin Gaye
5/5
Been in love w Marvin Gaye since I was a kid can't give him anything but 5s
The Velvet Underground
2/5
wish I appreciated them more, I know how influential etc but just don't (ever) listen to them.
Queens of the Stone Age
1/5
nope. never could jive w this band didn't even listen I am sorry I had to make an executive decision : )
Death In Vegas
3/5
used to listen to them a lot late 90s early 2000s some was great, the rest a bit of 'itallsoundsthesame' creative and experimental so a 3
David Ackles
1/5
don't understand the importance of this one either. didn't even resonate - only thought was did he try to steal the CSNY album cover when they're on the porch
Parliament
4/5
Theeeeey want the funk.. so they made the funk.. I met one of these guys in Bologna once, interviewed him for my radio show he was the sweeeetest guy and now I can't remember his name !??!? not my go to but thank goodness they existed - 1 big party w Parliament and GC, bootsy and the other 59 collaborators that have contributed at some point
The Doors
5/5
Stu LOLLL LOLLLL thumposaurus on mothersucker? as for this Doors album.. Peace Frog is my favorite Doors song and I agree w Mike - this album is fantastic. Land HOOOOOO!!!
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
lovelovelovethis album!!! a precursor for so much, and castles made of sand (+crosstown traffic) my fave Hendrix tune(S)
Goldfrapp
3/5
I remember this album : ) damn can she sing, quite a unique TwinPeaksy indie movie soundtrack vibe, Utopia and Lovely Head the best ones.
Iggy Pop
3/5
Iggy. Bowie's bff for a while. Iggy used to scare me when I was young, in my 14yr old mind he was 'gross' and a 'druggie'. Then, about 7-8 yrs ago, I had a translation job where I had to translate a very long interview with Pop for a book on Bowie and him in Berlin etc and in Japan, now I love him. Super lovely and now if you listen to BBC6 music you can hear his weekly show.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
5/5
this came out and blew everything up, I remember us losing our minds over every track! I was working at a place in Hoboken, saving $ to move to Italy full time and one of the bartenders was a drummer - Steve. We played it constantly while doing set up for dinner service : ) GREAT ALBUM - game changer!!
Johnny Cash
5/5
Johnny Cash = 5. What a treat to listen to him and June 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Bee Gees
2/5
we all know how important the beegees were - but trafalgar for me is a snooze fest i literally dozed off while listening. not by bee gees go to - I'm waiting for love you inside & out
U2
5/5
not a note out of place. capolavoro !! masterpiece of an album
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
Loved this. Great album, great artist, unique sound & clever lyrics. I love Elvis C, also bc he & Krall were neighbors (down the street, not the hall) when I lived in Chelsea NYC, used to see him and Diana when she was pregnant, then with their new twins <3, they always looked so exhausted at the beginning LOL. The only other acceptable Elvis : )
Black Sabbath
1/5
didn't listen. not my gig
Common
3/5
I like Common - I bought this when it came out some of this album is great but he gets tedious after a few tracks
Fugees
4/5
lovelovelove no time today to write my lame review but I love this album still listen to it
Tito Puente
4/5
one of my favorites to see live, Tito was the best!! He and Celia Cruz I looooovve them and this music - this album is great, but there are better ones... so fun to clean the house to
Missy Elliott
4/5
I pounced on this when it came out, I love M I crooked letter crooked letter Y!!! Used tracks incessantly in spin class and still do - fantastically creative, over the top innovative production and sampling with Timbaland, they are a perfect duo. Bring the Pain and Work it my favorites. Missy kicks Assy!
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
Yes. I really enjoyed this one. All we knew was Go ask Alice as kids/teens and then they did we built this city and it sucked so bad I rejected them outright. But this is the JA record that I can say makes me understand their significance. loved it!
Frank Ocean
4/5
Finally I have the chance to hear this guy - listened thru twice I guess he is all that - one needs to listen to a frank ocean album from start to finish to get a real feel, I liked it!! Lots to say but no more space
Bert Jansch
2/5
this one was lost on me, failed to resonate - well someone thought it was an important album but I did not :)
The Stooges
4/5
perfect title for anything Iggy does. One of the truest to himself and his idea/version of the art of music. Love this guy, not sure why - I think he has that effect on many.
The Beach Boys
4/5
how fitting seeing that BW just passed. after i saw the movie about Brian's life Love&Mercy (aweeeesome!!! a must see) I had a whole new perspective - when your 1st impact w rock and roll is zeppelin the who the doors the stones these guys seemed like the CHEESIEST. then i learned.. and saw and LISTENED. Genius. don't know if i love this record but i do madly appreciate them and his struggle - all geniuses are a bit crazy (they have to be) i hope he is at peace now!
Dolly Parton
4/5
marvelous. at times too 'twangy' for me, but it's Dolly and tracks 1-4 fantastic only in a way Dolly can do.
Nas
4/5
LOVED this when it came out, fanastic start to finish - I still listen to this record!! Represent represent! So good.
The Style Council
4/5
I have had a MASSIVE crush on Paul Weller since I was listening to these guys as a teen, hard to be objective here..I'd give this record a 5 just for Everchanging moods, one of my favorite songs of all time. Also You're the Best thing and Headstart for happiness, all indicative of the time but don't seem dated to me, more like old friends. I love Style Council and all the influence they had on so many so this gets a 4, even though there are a few tracks I could forget forever
Air
4/5
when this came out napster was new and I think it took me like 2 wks to download the whole album LOL If you like this genre, this is a great record!
Big Star
3/5
FINALLY I know who Alex Chilton was! been wondering about that since the Replacements song, mystery solved : ) how funny, I was already listening to Big Star and had no idea it was Chilton - and no idea they were from the 70s!!??? thought it was one of the 2000s bands at the time. Interesting album, even more interesting how many were influenced by these guys. I liked it- but the soft whispery slow ones were like 4 too many
Joni Mitchell
5/5
Joni. 5. So beautiful so effortless Blue is exquisite. I love her
The Temptations
4/5
we grew up listening to the Temptations, I feel kind of bad saying I wasn't blown away by this record but what do I know - they are fundamental and essential listening for sure, just not my favorite album
Kate Bush
3/5
I loved her so much as a teen & Running up that hill was/still is one of my fave songs. Album is great but so dated, like old Genesis - she still resonates for me, half the tracks I still enjoyed but Kate's voice gets annoying after a whole album. Maybe it's just me haha
Miles Davis
4/5
What to say. It’s bitches brew. Not my doctored miles album which I am sure we will get to 😊
Alice Cooper
1/5
.. *not my FAVORITE.. in previous comments x Miles D (doctored is a T9 casualty) as for Alice Cooper - no space for him in my world, sorry he totally grosses me out and always has, no desire to listen to his music. not for me..
The Allman Brothers Band
5/5
lovelovelove best driving music and this album is LEGEEEEND!!!
Al Green
4/5
Let's stay together is one of the most beautiful songs I know. Al Green = fabric in my musical upbringing, just hearing his voice puts me in a good mood
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
What to say - we grew up w this album and our dad played it nonstop when it came out so Mike and I basically know every note every syllable and by now all the juicy band gossip :) and have loved them ever since. I was in 3rd grade when they won the Grammy for this album and still remember that night 🥰 there isn’t one note out of place here, every track is b*alls out wonderful - dreams in my opinion one of the greatest songs ever ever ever. 1 of my top 5 faves of all time and it only gets better w age
Pere Ubu
3/5
had a lot of fun w this record : ) played it a number of times w mike in the car driving up to Bari, now it has new meaning : ) yeah!!! Pere Ubuuuuu !!! you really can hear like 9 different bands who were influenced by them while you listen
The Rolling Stones
3/5
not my favorite stones album but I still like and appreciate they were so prolific in the mid 60s it was almost comical how many albums they popped out.
Ray Charles
3/5
love Ray, but the older slower 'whiny' stuff starts to all sound the same - just a consequence of what music was being made at the time. Still Ray though :)
Kraftwerk
3/5
I know - without them.. so many wouldn't have emerged from their influence (thankyou KW if your existence guaranteed Radiohead's..) but 50yrs on this now sounds SO DATED and 9min of innovative but monotonous synth pop no thanks. Not one lyric on the whole album - I was bored after 90sec
John Prine
2/5
Initially this felt comforting and warm, almost familir and easy to listen to..but then after the 4th track I was done - it was all starting to blend tg and became mediocre.
Milton Nascimento
5/5
BELOVED !!! been listening to him and brazilian music since the 80s and am still entranced/obsessed - if you don't know Milton, you are missing out, I LOVE HIM! So so many wonderful tracks of his, but this album - track 1 Tudo o Que vocè podia ser is one of my favorite songs of all time I am guilty of playing that one on repeat like 10x in a row. lovelovelove pure enchantment
The The
2/5
I like Johnny Marr of course bc of his history with the Smiths, but this record was boring.. did not resonate and even though I tried to listen thru a 2nd time to see what I'd missed, the answer remains not much
Songhoy Blues
3/5
such a unique mix of influences and origins, great guitar work but just enough 'worldmusicsound' to keep it humble. I liked this! I want to give 3.5
The Clash
5/5
Who doesn't love this album or the Clash in general? Listening to this as an adult is such a different experience. The richness and variation, skill and expertise I never could've noticed as a young teenager. Epic record from start to finish
Incredible Bongo Band
3/5
these guys are so famous bc they opened the door to sampling in hip hop. Apache is massive - it's half an episode in the series the history of hip hop - it's been sampled countless times spanning genres. Big fun, great groove don't need a whole album of them b ut I get why they're on the list
Daft Punk
3/5
I fared better on this one. I get why DP are significant and appreciate them but am not really a fan
Taylor Swift
2/5
I tried, listened to the whole thing. I appreciate musical talent and songwriting prowess ecc but if I never hear a TS song again it will be too soon - girly bubblegum pop noooot my thing ICK.
The Cure
4/5
awe fascination appreciation - I am sure I never truly understood the Cure as a teen, but felt those things - wow are they complex. Plus even though I've always liked them I paid way more attention to the Smiths.. hey where are they on this list!
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
I'm caught btw 4 and 5 for this SP album - my brother and I both pounced on this when it came out, looooved it and it still sounds fantastic
Merle Haggard
3/5
I've learned to appreciate Merle thanks to my bff Chris Sullivan, who says the man is quite the lyricist!! While not my genre, I am grateful and happy to listen to talented musicians, even if it's country : )
Black Sabbath
3/5
Wow. I surprised myself, I can actually say I listened to the whole thing and have a new appreciation for these guys-went and read Iommi's story, amazing-he lost 2fingertips in an accident on his last day of work in a factory-to still play made a prosthetic !? and started playing lefthanded
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
I failed to see the significance - I mean I get it but I guess I don't agree..
Creedence Clearwater Revival
5/5
We were at a Springsteen show like 30yrs ago and it was pouring-Bruce and the band came out and sang Who'll Stop the Rain and that's when I realized omg Creedence! WOW. CCR!! As I age so does my appreciation for this totally kick ass band. They were always part of the social fabric at our house, but I never realized how good these guys were until I was like 25yrs old - so solid, so sure so bluesy, raunchy, raw, polished, rebellious, angry, tender, packed with classics and pure talent - they tapped into sthg that can only be explained by 'they just get it'. And they transcend - last track Keep on Chooglin' was trancelike. Love this album!
CHIC
3/5
we've all heard freak out! a billion times, but it's wroth remembering this is one of the most perfect songs ever-if you could hear this for the 1st time again you'd get goosebumps and be dancing jumping fist pumping whooping your butt off, it's a masterpiece. That's why they're on here - Niles is SO ARROGANT but he really did change things up - tidbit - 1st rap song ever sampled Chic's Good Times (rapper's delight), which Niles 1st heard on the radio!? but has since been credited on that song. Anyhooo this record bursts out of the gates but peaks with I want your love and the rest just fizzles out into mediocrity.
Country Joe & The Fish
2/5
I tried. Never been a fan. Still not a fan.
Chicago
5/5
Awesomeawesomeawesome I LOVE old early wonderful funky sassy badass Chicago! pete cetera’s 80s cheesefest almost ruined them but man do I love their old stuff, the real deal - I have days where I ‘need’ to listen to them. So so good
The Dandy Warhols
2/5
I remember them, didn't have brain space for them yesterday - listened to it but it failed to resonate.
Louis Prima
4/5
I love Louie Prima and Keely Smith. This album (and most of his others) are so much fun to listen to - listen to Closer to the Bone and tell me you aren't out of your seat bopping around!
Tracy Chapman
5/5
Beautiful from start to finish. Big love for Tracy. I have all her albums, this is only the 1st of many that are FANTSTIC from start to finish. Seeing her in concert was a musical highlight and a privilege, just thinking about it gets me teary!
Grateful Dead
4/5
It's the Dead. Live! : )
Spiritualized
1/5
Very disappointing. I remembered liking him but I must have been mistaken. No joy, didn't like at all and fail to see why it's on the list.
The Streets
3/5
I remember when this became a thing. He changed the rap game - at least in the UK, totally different style and cadence, very relatable and often funny blue collar British. A whole album of him hmmm. Mad props he plays like 8 instruments but after 3 tracks I felt like, 'Dude, shut it.' On a separate note, Stu, your reviews are awesooome I enjoy them so m uch : ) I lol every time you mention Pretzel Logic/Steely Dan
Depeche Mode
2/5
hmm.don't love this album, I do love DM - but it's always been a couple of great tracks and the rest blah on each album-Just Can't Get Enough (1981), Everything Counts (1983) are still huge favorites, + Shake the Disease - I was too busy devouring anything by the Smiths. Violator is the DM album (1990) where they start kicking ass, most of that record is KILLER! But Music for the Masses... no
Janis Joplin
2/5
never been a JJ fan, although I do appreciate. The radio stations ruin it for some tracks in general, Bobby McGee one of them.
Genesis
2/5
I was into this as a teen bc I love genesis Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins but hearing it now - nope. Too folky/weird only a few tracks like the title track that say I wouldn't mind hearing that again...
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
special place in my musical heart for Nick Cave, his heart and soul pervades thru in his music and feels like a gift for us and therapy for him, it is an emotional ride and I feel privileged to be invited on it
Tom Waits
2/5
I wish I understood this guy better, always liked Ricki Lee so much more - this album unfortunately did not resonate w me and I ditched it 3 songs in
Lorde
3/5
Pretty impressive - was this her 1st album? I liked it- knew a couple of these tracks - but what is it that gets her album on the list? I'm waiting to hear Stu's take : )
Nina Simone
4/5
Nina as usual, in charge and after 3 notes she has your attention - a master in every sense. She embodies the music, with her it's always an emotional affair. Lilac wine a particular favorite, although I also love Jeff Buckley's version.
Bauhaus
3/5
I remember these guys. Kick in the Eye & Fear of Dub my faves
Sepultura
1/5
horrendous. every song sounds the same and I literally couldn't bear to listen after about 8 seconds - WHY is this one on the list. No, no no. Minus 1
Beyoncé
4/5
Had fun with this but am in a rush today so I'm just sayin' 3-4
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
master class
Talking Heads
4/5
Hard to rate them I always feel like David Byrne is a few steps ahead & waiting for the rest of us to catch up (the love is real, met him in an elevator once & almost died trying to keep my cool).
FKA twigs
2/5
nope, didn't get this one at all who is this girl again?
Morrissey
4/5
My guy🥰 great album
The Fall
4/5
Oozing with the sounds of the bands they influenced. I remember them! Shoulder pads #1 : ) I liked their raw, Violent Femmesie Rome Voidy I'd like you better.. never say never! sound. I had not realized their impact so strong from Sonic Youth to LCD Soundsystem too I love that!! 3-4
U2
5/5
In my life and in general this album was a game changer-everything was different after this, their 3rd album - not a note out of place from start to finish, a fantastic journey that begins fiery and rebellious but ends with the soothing and reassuring 40. For me I will follow & New yrs Day are old favorites I lovelovelove this album!
Bob Dylan
4/5
Wonderful record that I’ve had for decades 4-5 for Bob!
Throbbing Gristle
1/5
what to say? so experimental it doesn't sound like music anymore. I am sure they were relevant but I don't care Lol ..
Sonic Youth
4/5
Great album, they're on top of their game here - I love Dirty Boots, Tunic & Kool Thing - used to use that all the time in Spin class
Grant Lee Buffalo
3/5
listened to him when he came out way back when, I had a cassette or 2 in the 90s. Saw him in Bologna at a little venue and it was great - a pleasant evening listening to live music and a little chat with him after he finished.
Muddy Waters
5/5
This guy. Royalty. His voice is the richest, most amazing thing, he sounds like the actual heart and soul of music. Doesn't matter what he sings, Muddy was the Man!
Radiohead
4/5
one of my absolute favorites, although Amnesiac isn't my top choice for Radiohead - on this album I think Pakt like Sardines down to I might be Wrong work great, the rest blends together, wistful and softly wailing. I still think they are brilliant whatever they do
Hookworms
3/5
pleasant, entertaining - never heard of them - nothing to write home about though.
Aerosmith
3/5
ok it's official I don't really like Aerosmith. Sweet Emotion is an epic track and there are a few others I like, but I don't see / never have seen the importance of them. 3 for their musical talents
Stevie Wonder
5/5
ha. colossal album, with massssssive hits with such variety and range, even if there are some tracks I don't 'love', this stands on its own with tracks 1,5,6,8 (tupac used this one) on disc 1 and 1,6,7 on disc 2 - As (mary J blige & george michael) & Another star have been sampled a billion times and influenced who knows how many
Kanye West
1/5
one of my least favorite humans/musicians don't like or appreciate his music, and nothing makes you less of a genius than declaring that you're a genius. Such a clown. It'd be lovely if he retired. Lost in the World only decent song on here.
Eagles
4/5
I was just listening to them the night before this posted :) the harmonies and impossible heights that Randy Meisner reaches are nothing short of stupendous. Although the radio tried to kill HC by playing it every 15 minutes for 30 yrs (another Stairway to Heaven), this is a mighty fine album is a flowy, flawless easy listen
Drive Like Jehu
3/5
failing to see the significance. railing angry guitars and he sounds like an angry J Mascis not bad though
3/5
Loretta - undeniable talent & force of nature of massive influence, but this genre makes me twitch after a bit - I had to turn her off around track 7, bless her heart
Ute Lemper
4/5
I really enjoyed this album! I knew about her growing up she seemed exotic & otherworldly - I feel like this is how Fiona Apple will sound when she’s older - superb talent, unique sound interesting musician
R.E.M.
5/5
ahh. I remember when it came out and how different it was from all the REM that preceded it, my faves try not to breathe and everybody hurts. the whole album is wonderful. feeling generous today, a big fat 5 for the boys from Athens
The Who
5/5
Masterpiece. One of my Dad's faves, Mike and I heard this a billion times as kids - with our Dad blasting it and 'conducting' from his recliner - I love that memory!
Kanye West
1/5
the one artist I don't even bother to open the album - not feeling objective enough to listen today so I'm skipping
Liz Phair
4/5
LOVE LizPhair!! Loved her so much when she came out, everyone was floored bc she was (kind of) matching Exile on Main st track for track and laid a strong feminist backbone in indie rock. This record for me is clever, cheeky, fun, funny and still so much fun to listen to. This was her debut! Hopefully Whipsmart will show up on this list too, it also kicks a**. Heartfelt 4.5-5 for Guyville
James Brown
4/5
Now, how do you rate James Brown. 5 just for being him & one of the most entertaining entertainers, ever. This album seems like a taste of what was comin' down the pike..maniacal energy, enthusiasm, spontaneity, feeling every note in the depths of his soul, just awesome
Van Halen
4/5
so fun - 1st 6 tracks fantastic, the rest is good, but Feel your Love sounds just like Panama.
Talking Heads
4/5
Fantastic. What Mike said - Byrne is a wonderful unique musical/artistic creature and this record is such a fun ride and the same time that I discovered them with once in a lifetime
Common
3/5
Common fan since he was dating Badu.. (so beautiful, he is the black Brad Pitt) seen him live and and stood next to him while Erykah did her show, same venue, the night after (SOB's in nyc) I think he is great & really like a lot of tracks on this record, but there are a few I don't like at all - giving it a 3.5
Muddy Waters
5/5
that voice! one of a kind - the original badass
Super Furry Animals
2/5
I need to read up - sounds like Damon Albarn in there - don't remember enough about them - some tracks are pleasant, most nothing special and it begs our favorite question, 'what's this doing on the list'?
Cream
4/5
never knew this title : ) funny one. what a record - so trippy, dreamy, fantastical sounding - if you DON'T smoke a fatty for this one, well, just why. I t was made for it. I feel like this is new & innovative for the moment? Why they weren't the 1st but such a good listen nonetheless
Snoop Dogg
3/5
I already know Mike's review.. ok so Snoop for me has always been a guilty pleasure, I love the guy! Early stuff disparaging or insulting women OF COURSE NO, but that BS was 30yrs ago - the music and the beat.. and Dr Dre.. and Warren G etc etc YESSS sign me up I am a huge fan of all of their stuff, but it's not a 4-5 but a 3-4
while staying true to my east coast hiphop peeps like De La & TRIBE - they get 5s for everything they do/did
Anita Baker
5/5
every time I listen to Anita I am in awe. Hers is one of the most beautiful voices I have ever heard, the effortlessness, power and command are unrivaled and what comes out of her mouth is absolute poetic beauty
Sebadoh
1/5
I remember a couple of tracks off this album - dreary and depressing - the others too angry to finish listening to
Kacey Musgraves
3/5
what a lovely record. such a pleasant listen
Beck
4/5
bought it when it came out, been a Beck fan ever since. He changed it up and music is better for it. Listen to Morning Phase it is beautiful
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Bruuuuuce love this man. I remember my friend Barbara Okeefe's big sister had the record, we were in 5th grade : ) His music has always been part of the cultural fabric of our upbringing, our Dad loved him - saw him 4 times in a row once while he was doing 10nights at the Brendan Byrne arena. His sound is authentic, real, such a good storyteller. Heartfelt beautiful album
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
oh HELL YEAH I loooove this band, saw them in concert just fantastic - all the Italian teens singing with a Sheffield accent, lolll. This is a fanTAStic record, Dancing Shoes is my fave, what a kick ass sound, so creative and edgy, great song writing. Reminds me of Morrissey (the writing, so clever) I'd give it a 5 but I want to be careful w my 5s, so 4.5 : )
ps Stu your Odelay review lolllll
The Fall
3/5
pretty cool but they sound like the Smiths and the The almost at the same time, clearly their biggest influence - which is prob why I enjoyed most of this record. Not sure who put them on the list though, no breakthroughs here
Method Man
3/5
method man is great, I like him, but in hip hop it is rare to have a whole album that is stellar from top to bottom (3ft high..de la soul, almost all of Tribe called Quest) and this is the case here - 4 or 5 tracks are great but the rest in the trash please..
Run-D.M.C.
4/5
pioneers. way ahead of the game Peter Piper is one of my all time faves.. Goddamn that DJ MADE MY DAY lovelovelove
Thelonious Monk
4/5
sublime. can't find any faults here he's effortless the music just wafts through like it's meant to be there
Mott The Hoople
3/5
funny some tracks I thought God he sounds like Bowie - turns out Bowie was closely related to them musically, gave them All the Young Dudes. Ha! Still, as influential as they may be, not my scene - but they helped turn out the Clash so a 3
Radiohead
5/5
I bought this when it came out, I LOVE them and I LOVE this album - disc 1 for me is a masterpiece straight up 5+ disc 2 too sad for me but disc 1!! lovelovelovelove 15 step, weird fishes, Jigsaw... all of it not a note out of place god bless radiohead :)
Tom Waits
2/5
Funny one this - not a fan of tom wait’s music really, but I like the idea of him? Why. Didn’t enjoy this album (I know, that’s my problem) he sounded drunk / drugged like he was about to kick the bucket any second
Aretha Franklin
5/5
how do you rate aretha. 5
Wu-Tang Clan
2/5
love method man but 70% of this album is for me unlistenable for a variety of reasons
Marvin Gaye
5/5
Marvin ♥️♥️♥️ when I lived in Harlem there was a Hennessy billboard around the corner from my house of him ♥️♥️♥️ he could sing the phone book and I’d be smitten
Elastica
4/5
so fun when it was released, I still have this record - awesome grrrl power catchy rock and roll love it 4.5
OutKast
2/5
2 or 3 stand out tracks and a lot of innovation does not make a great record, but I think Andre 3000 is a great talent who has gotten better with age - their great tracks are indeed great, but the rest I would chuck. Lots of fast talking vulgarity I can certainly do without.
Cyndi Lauper
2/5
Eh..most are covers, Girls just .. was fun at 12/13 yrs old but from 15 on, no thanks. I am not a fan - did she really influence a lot of musicians?
Yes
4/5
signature 70s organ and fantasy 'charging thru the universe' vibes, the big tracks on this album were on heavy rotate throughout my childhood - our dad liked them and rock radio had them on all the time. I like this record for its unique sound and super tracks, the sound flows like a fairytale
Fairport Convention
3/5
love the album cover and the title. sometimes reminded me of joni, joan baez and also belle & sebastian! so funny. kind of blah as a whole, but I get it - English folky 60s - it was fun!
Moby
4/5
Moby's shining moment of genius - at the time this was a game changer album, his sampling and re-use of old cotton picking songs and hymns; almost every track was used in a commercial of some sort as well. I played it so much I had to get another copy. This record is 26yrs old already!? Love it 4.5
a-ha
4/5
WOW Stu I loved your notes on PLAY!!! I still love that album, it was MASSIVE when it came out, dominated everything. On to A-HA. I loved this album when it came out, I still love the sound even if it's dated, these guys were a breath of fresh air with a different sound. This record flows and there are at least 4 kick ass tracks that we still listen to all the time. The sun always shinessss on tv..
Television
3/5
Supertramp
3/5
that was a fun musical journey - these guys were the sh. when we were kids, it was nice to be reminded
10cc
1/5
why on earth is this album on here? 10cc in the 70s maybe (I'm not in love..whisper whisper big boys don't cry) but this is from 2007 and not very enjoyable at all. someone enlighten me if I'm missing sthg?
Ride
3/5
didn't have time for this one - clicking on 3 so i can see today's ..
Coldplay
5/5
THIS debut album is the reason Coldplay is relevant - I could not stop listening to this when it came out, I downloaded it off Napster and it took like 9hrs per song. Don't Panic is still AWESOME and funnily was my alarm last wk : ) whole album is beautiful
The Kinks
3/5
60s kinks sounds so different from 70s-80s kinks. fun album, gave me the impression of 'harmless' music - calm before the 'storm' like
Beatles
4/5
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
love them always have, Ian Mcculloch is a great songwriter and this album was so nice to come back to and listen all the way thru.
SZA
2/5
ehhh..don't know how to rate her, I liked her when she came out - she's talented sure, good voice yeah - not very interesting musically but I like a couple of tracks
Morrissey
4/5
Great record bravo darling Your Arsenal is upbeat and fun not one bad track loved him - I think I can be generous w my 5s so let's say 4.5 - 5 : )
Rage Against The Machine
4/5
HELL YEAHHHHH the greatest rebel f* you I won't do what ya tell me album ever - I have seen 1st hand how people react when the dj puts Killing in the Name on in many different countries (not exaggerating, lots of travel w buddhist community) it is INSAAAANE - it's global - the power in their sound and their sound period is just GRAHHHHH how can you not jump up and down pumping your fist in the air. AWESOME. giving a 4 so I can be correct when I give a 5
Portishead
5/5
Sublime. In my opinion sounds as fresh as the day I bought it all those yrs ago Strangers is in my top 20 all time favorite songs & it could be sweet is just gorgeous lovelovelove it
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
that was fun. very clear why this album is relevant and how much influence it has had - giving a 3.5
Kate Bush
4/5
I have always loved Kate-Stu I agree, she has a special place in my heart & always will. I remember when I bought this cassette (heart heart heart) and exhausting it - strong work, full of hope and enchanting simply because it is her.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
I’d give a 5 just for good times bad times, best opener EVER and one of my all time favorite tracks. Out of nowhere they show up w this sound ‘hi we’re led zeppelin’ 🥰😍😍😍🥰 lovelovelove
Pearl Jam
4/5
That was fun! Hasn’t listened to 10 all the way thru in god knows how long. So much emotion urgency & anger and killer guitar. Great album
Joni Mitchell
5/5
This woman! Her blissfully beautiful voice, songs and stories are a gift. Help Me on almost everyone's 'favorite tracks of all time' list, Just like this Train is just gorgeous. Not a note out of place, tracks 1-8 is some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. I LOVE this album and her 4E : )
Booker T. & The MG's
2/5
Eh..background sounds of instrumental covers - I'd rather hear the original - no denying they are musicians, but I agree w Michael - too much organ !!
Iron Butterfly
2/5
sounds a bit like the Guess who. not enough here to keep me sonically interested .. yawn ho hum..
Beatles
5/5
Ka-BLAM! my favorite Beatles album? This and Sgt. Pepper. Got to get you .. Good day sunshine! I'm only sleeping, Eleonor Rigby. Dr Robert, Taxman! I use that to teach 1st conditionals in ESL class. Sheer musical genius and mastery, Every single song is AWESOME - 60yrs later. Why they are the GOATs.
Cocteau Twins
3/5
This is a hard one. I really liked them when they came out, we listened to them all the time in college, but after the 3rd song, albeit great, we'd get tired of their sound. I still like hearing certain tracks but never a whole album : )
Count Basie & His Orchestra
4/5
ok - removing the voice instrument forces you to focus on arrangement, tempo, harmony - wonderful practice in music appreciation, but Basie is /was Basie, who didn't love him or want to work w him - after all he and Frank, Ella .. who doesn't appreciate that big band sound, just fabulous and the soundtrack of a simpler time where songs weren't littered w f bombs and nothing could mask your non talent - you either had it or you didn't, no BS autotune and all that - no Britneys in the 30s and 40s. Basie's band didn't need a vocalist bc the instruments 'spoke' instead
The Chemical Brothers
2/5
relevant at the time it was released, but if I am listening to music w/o vocals I'd rather stick w Basie and his big band (interesting how they were side by side in the lineup) of actual musicians than hear soulless techno
Goldie
2/5
meh... back in the day I liked Goldie, he represented sthg different & daring - and was dating Björk, but now this music sounds SO REPETITIVE - and this is the 3rd album in a row w/o any real vocals, which didn't help..I remember his relevence 30 yrs ago, but not feeling it now - test of time? Part of the musical fabric of the time? Sure, but ..
Talking Heads
3/5
Creativity abounds and some tracks are super but as an album not so much
The Police
5/5
what to say. I LOVE the Police and I love this album. Standout tracks for me on this one ALL OF IT except Mother, never liked it but I can appreciate. Copeland is my looooove ever since the 80s (insert 1000 hearts here)
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
1/5
oh hell no. why is this on the list. so not required listening.
Brian Eno
4/5
why is this important? Eno started it all that's why - this album is 48 yrs old and I am guessing that all the ambient lounge and instrumental cafè del mar stuff all stems from here. Briano Eno has changed music in many ways and has always been a front runner. So glad he exists.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
sometimes he reminds me of Brandon Flowers/ the Killers, sometimes he sounds like David Byrne, & he always sounds quite urgent. Although I love tracks 2 and 7, most of it is just too electronic for me, not enough melody. But I do dig LCD, the good tracks are great!
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
trying w this one. maybe i don't know enough about nick but by now.. over all these years - I appreciate him so much but this record seems to have great tracks dispersed between mediocre - bad ones, inconsistent
Love
1/5
why. no.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
2/5
Elvis Presley
4/5
oh yay black leather elvis!! so much fun, esp. tracks 1,2,4,6,8,11-13 & 15 ; ) I LOVE groovy elvis and man does this record smell like Johnny Cash I hear him loud and clear as an influence 4.5 here
The Replacements
2/5
some fun tracks lots of heavy guitar that likely influenced the strokes, i hear them somehow - this album for me is repetitive though 2.5-3
Ice T
3/5
right place right time - I remember when it came out and we were all like, 'H-U-S-T-L-E-R, HUSLAAAA ' .. loved him. now all that angry F*ck tha police' just turns me off but I understand the importance and the beats work..
Faust
1/5
didn't listen all the way thru - I made it past 2 songs and that was it. mhhh.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
an album that opens w gimme shelter and ends w You can't always.. COME ON! for me Monkey Man alone gets the 5, one of my very favorites - this album is AWESOME
Elbow
3/5
Elbow ♥️ sweet tender sound and lots of lovely songs, I always enjoy listening to him /them
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
My loves! Not may fave ATCQ album, but Qtip&Phife D are master lyricists and Check the Rime & scenario are BRILLIANT tracks - can still remember dancing to Scenario when it came out and all the guys were shouting out the lyrics - nice memory.
Adele
4/5
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
Otis Redding
5/5
How do you give anything less than a 6 to Otis Redding.
The Only Ones
2/5
failed to resonate with me - they sound mediocre at best
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
fabulous. a group i grew to love and appreciate when i got older, their sound was 'too dated' when i was a kid/teen, wasn't digging it - now monday monday is sublime!
Beastie Boys
4/5
game changer. innovation and creativity abound, they are everything here - visiting many genres and making it their own. powerhouse
Kraftwerk
3/5
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
5/5
I am almost exactly as old as this album. Neil's guitar is just .. well how do you describe genius? A true master at his craft and a one of a kind sound at only 23. I like the clean track sequence too, starting with one my favorites, Cinnamon Girl - slaps you to attention & is just bangin! Then a honky track followed by super slow & quiet. Smack in the middle, 9 min of blliss w Down by the River (I'd have given a 5 just for 1,4 & 7), then honky, the slow Running dry. Close it out with the gorgeous Cowgirl in the Sand. Good lord! Just aMAZING.
Joan Baez
2/5
I was conflicted because I felt bad dissing Joan .. then I read Stu’s 😁 ‘…and all but it's all in this upper register that I can't engage with…’ EXACTLY. that was it for me, didn’t know how to phrase it (thanks Stu!) Baez falls into the group of artists I appreciate but can’t listen to
Janelle Monáe
3/5
stellar effort, very creative and I have to say I was impressed - I liked Tightrope when this came out but got sick of it quick - this is from 2010 - over the yrs she has shone more as an actor - hidden figures for ex. and I like her more on screen than as a singer
The Specials
4/5
I love the Specials (who doesn't?) such a fun ride such a great sound
The Prodigy
1/5
not the Prodigy I listened to back in the day - this album was horrid for me - didn't like even 1 song.
Mike Ladd
3/5
that was an interesting listen. who is this guy? never heard of him.
Baaba Maal
3/5
He’s not by fave but I do enjoy this genre..a couple of those tracks I could’ve done without but on the whole how’s about a 3
Ash
3/5
kind of fun, sounds familiar - some enjoyable tracks but is it essential listening? not for me
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
Like them but in small doses-moody, dreamy ethereal - their sound is unique but .. see above
Jazmine Sullivan
3/5
meh..reminds me of Miseducation of Lauryn Hill but not as good, I usually like me some Jazmine, she's a talent - just not this album.
Skepta
1/5
nope. didn't enjoy this, it's vulgar and non-melodic. don't hear how it's relevant for this list (but who am I), nothing new here.
The Smiths
5/5
Beloved
My teens - imagine how much more I love them now that I’m old enough to understand the lyrics😂