Sep 04 2024
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Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
4
Sep 05 2024
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Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
3.5 maybe leaning more towards a 3 but eventually could be a 4
The first half of the album i definitely preferred. Felt very home grown band making music in a wood panel studio (mean that in best regards)
First 5 tracks were stellar and really enjoy “Jealous Again” and the guitar riff on the outro and some of the slower bluesy ballads like “Sister Luck”
Least favourite song is “Hard to Handle” not into this cover and “She Talks to Angels” is a great song but might be ruined for me personally by a person I know singing it at karaoke (will say it’s a nice pace changer after all the heavy blues rockers
3
Sep 06 2024
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Guero
Beck
Jordan - 3.5/5 it’s a really good Beck album and lots a variety. He just has a few better albums that I personally can’t go to a 4
3
Sep 09 2024
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The Atomic Mr Basie
Count Basie & His Orchestra
Started off strong but lost me little less than half way through. Thought it be more of a Jazz album but seemed more into the BIG BAND style
Standout tracks were - After Supper, Teddy the Toad (great melody) , Midnite Blue was decent and the album ends on a great note with Lil’ Darlin’ which is beautiful and you could sing over the instrumental
Least fav was Double O and Splanky (was almost falling asleep in my car )
Some of the songs seemed to remind me of background music in Adam West Batman.
When it comes to “Jazz” I like things to be either more adventurous or really smooth ballads. This as said before leans more into big band and swing.
Overall probably a 3/5 (leaning more towards a 2.5 personally, but for what it is can see it being a classic album and a 4 or 5 for certain people )
3
Sep 10 2024
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James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
I went into this album expecting a 2 star record and I have to say I wasn’t swayed from that assessment.
Live albums and I have a hard history together. I can probably count on 1 hand thee amount of LIVE ALBUMS I enjoy (two of which are by Nirvana)
This record is 8 tracks. 1 which is basically an intro. So that’s 7 songs of music and they fair pretty average to poor. Best track is “Try Me” which has a sorta “Earth Angel” feel. It also doesn’t have an over bearing James Brown voice. “I Don’t Mind” is another good slow jam
The biggest issue with this Live record
Is the mixing of Mr. Browns vocals. They are way too loud in the mix. When he gets Screaming and yelling it almost hurts the ears. Obviously he has a powerful voice but sometimes less is more.
The crowd is very loud as well. They have those Beatlemania type girl screams (without the great songs to back it up)
Now this album could have been saved by a decent live album of some late 50s early 60s style of music but is let down by the 10 and half minute dirge that is “Lost Someone”.
“Lost Someone” is a nothing song and I swear is only here to increase run time of this concert. This track might have been a nice fun slow jam Live, and if you were at the show this probably was amazing to see in person. However on an album it’s nothing spectacular and goes on far too long. It’s a perfect mixture of James Browns screeches and the audience doing the same, YES it’s all TOO MUCH (make sure volume isn’t up all the way)
If Living in America is like this with James Brown then Kick me out of the Apollo Theatre and let me be like Apollo Creed after Drago knocked the life out of him
2/5
My Star Rating
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would listen again, Pretty good
4* - like it/ Love it
5* - Love It & is for Sure a Classic album
2
Sep 11 2024
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The Idiot
Iggy Pop
Culturally I see this albums significance. This album has those pre Post-Punk vibes that would influence a lot of late 70s Post Punk/Early New Wave Bands
First track “Sister Midnight” starts off good but then goes full David Bowie and is hit and miss with me.
This album is more so the David Bowie show. Him being the Producer is definitely the driving force behind the sound and style of music being played. Feel
It made Iggy take risks he may not of normally taken.
The best section of music is “Baby”, “China Girl”,and “Dum Dum Boys”
“Baby” has a little eerie thing going on but is a good groove based slower song. Not much to say I just like it
“China Girl” is the most pop song on here and is a great change of pace. Definitely prefer this version to the later Bowie version in 80’s
“Dum Dum Boys” has a fun spoken word Intro and is all about getting lost in the feel of it and its distorted guitar. This song is 7 min of repetition
“Tiny Girls” is just a short Lou Reed rip off song hands down. If you didn’t tell me this was Iggy Pop I’d mistake it immediately. Short and sweet number either way.
Last track “Mass Production” is the track I feel needs most multiple listens. It probably is something but it comes too close after “Dum Dum Boys” to appreciate its long 8 min Run time. On its own this track has most potential to be a real grower
Overall this albums seems to have a lot of musical history attached to it and influence. However that doesn’t mean the songs are the best thing out there. “Lust For Life” the second David Bowie produced Iggy Pop solo album has better songs and fits this artist aesthetic more. It just isn’t as experimental as “The Idiot”. It’s very much Apples and Oranges
3/5 (could see me returning to it to fully GET IT)
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would listen Again (Good)
4* - Like It/Love it
5* - Love It & is A Classic album
3
Sep 12 2024
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I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin isn’t usually in my wheel house but here I Am on the “1001 albums to Listen to….”
Now of course I knew “Respect” going into this and it is definitely good song.Its not the songs fault that it’s a tad overplayed by today’s standards. I almost consider this a song used for Movie/TV soundtracks. Great opening but glad it was out of the way to get into the meat of the album
Next up we have “Drown In My Own Tears”and is a more gospel break up song. The horn section is stellar on here.
Title track is more of the same and kinda Meh. It’s not terrible but nothing mind blowing. Beyoncé based her entire career off this ONE SONG
“Soul Serenade” has a amazing outro and another driving horn section keeping everything together
“Don’t Let Me Lose This Dream” sounds like another song but can’t put my finger on. It’s definitely one of the BEST SONGS on here. It just Might be my favourite.
“Dr. Feelgood….” & more so “Good Times” are a couple upbeat Duds. They seem innocent and fun enough but definitely preferring the Ballads. They are no “Respect” ,and I shall show these tracks none. It’s understandable that we need a couple more lively numbers but these just are not cutting the mustard
“Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” is back on track can’t say it fully works but the chorus is really good.
“A Change is Gonna Come” is a perfect way to end this album and makes up for a few rough spots. However this has Nothing on Sam Cooke version, sorry Aretha Franklin
In the end this album had a chance at 3.5/5 (maybe even a 4) but that middle section/ most of the second half of the album was just decent. Solid 3/5
(It should be noted the backing vocals are just as amazing at Aretha herself)
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would listen Again (Good)
4* - Like It/Love it
5* - Love It & is A Classic album
3
Sep 13 2024
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Music for the Masses
Depeche Mode
“Never Let Me Down Again” is one of the
best Depeche Mode singles and has a dark gothic feel. This song isn’t just slogging along, it really keeps you invested and where it will go. Love the lyric “Promises me I'm as safe as houses
As long as I remember who's wearing the trousers”
Stand out Tracks
“The Things You Said “
“Sacred”
“To Have and To Hold”
“Nothing”
The Last track “Pimpf” is almost psychological horror sounding and leaves the album on a haunting note.
This album overall is definitely up my alley and one of Depeche Modes best.
It’s losing the more synth pop style of earlier releases and going into an even Darker direction. It’s personally not my favourite by them, but it has enough here for me to see its Merit on this list. You can’t deny the power of both lead vocalist.
4/5
4
Sep 14 2024
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Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley , ah what can be said
The cover art is iconic and love that the The Clash used it for “London Calling”
“Blue Suede Shoes” is classic Rock’n’Roll
The 4th track “One Sided Love Affair” is pretty decent ,though the “Elvisisms” get a bit much
“I LOVE YOU BECAUSE” is plain awful. The beginning whistle , the crooning, and high pitch Elvis parts are so annoying. He annunciates words weird and elongates them to make those young girls Swoon. The lyric
“I Love You Because Your YOU” is what most boy bands would base their whole careers off of.
“Just Because” is the better of the Because songs, but that’s not saying much
“Tutti Fruitti” is a good song. It’s another classic, might just be a tad better by on of the songwriters (LR)
I think the next great moment is “Blue Moon”. Though this song has been done better by other artists and production here is pretty sparse
( side Note His falsetto makes Tiny Tim look good)
In the end I went into this a not an Elvis Presley Fan, and can’t say The King swayed me. Overall I prefer most other 50’s Rock’N’Rollers (Buddy Holly (my favourite), Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Chubby Checker etc etc)
I understand the importance of this album for influencing many artists. It really was a starting point for many to jump into the genre. However this just isn’t a great “album” by today standards. It isn’t even a good album by what it would truly mean 10 years later. He still is THE KING , just not one I think has all that much royalty
2/5 (1 by my standard, giving it a 2 for historical reasons)
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would listen Again (Good)
4* - Like It/Love it
5* - Love It & is A Classic album
2
Sep 15 2024
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Slayed?
Slade
Pretty good straight Up Glam Rock with a hint of Hardrock. The lead singer has a voice that really fits the music but definitely have to be in the mood for this one. Right now it’s a 3/5 but gonna give it another listen soon
3
Sep 16 2024
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New Forms
Roni Size
This one is gonna be hard to rate . Drum & Bass is not a genre I'm all that familiar with. Now I do love me some 80s/90s House and Techno music. I’m not stranger to this style of music Per se. Anyways time to listen and rate it
Stand Out Tracks
Brown Paper Bag
Heroes
Watching Windows
Destination
Share The Fall
It’s very hard to rate this. As with most Electronic music in this vain it’s all about “Feeling” and Grooves .
It’s an either I like this track or this one isn’t as good
On most of my days this would be a
2.5, but if I’m in the mood for this kind of music and for what it is I’d say it’s a 4
On that note I’ll meet it in the middle. Think the biggest deterrent is the almost 3 hours run time. The version I listened had a couple extra tracks and with songs ranging between 7 mins that’s a long time to commit to one album. This was a journey and a challenge but I came out the other side. Will listen again but definitely in snippets
3/5
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would Listen Again (Good)
4* - Like It/Love It
5* - LOVE IT AND IT IS A CLASSIC ALBUM
3
Sep 17 2024
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The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie
I’ve never been the hugest David Bowie fan but understand his importance and he has influenced some of my favourite artists.
This album is definitely very good and Bowies voice doesn’t annoy me like in some of his other releases. His singing is pretty decent and the songs are all pretty good. Nothing eye rolling or Nothing screamed TURN THIS OFF
Stand Out Tracks
Five Years
Starman
Lady Stardust (one of my favourites here)
Star
Ziggy Stardust
It’s not my total cup of tea so I can’t give it a 4 but I also don’t think it’s just good for a 3. It definitely deserves to be here and is a classic for his fans. Even if I’m not falling head over heels for it I bet it was ground breaking in the 70s
3.5/5
3
Sep 18 2024
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Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
This album is pure Disco and Funk. For 1979 This is taking little bit of this and little bit of that and creating something fresh around it.
The Biggest thing is even with it taking from those sounds it’s written some AMAZING songs around them.
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a 5/5 Disco Pop Song and will always get people moving. It almost swirls around you with those strings.
“Rock With You” is so smooth but literally has a chorus you could scream with passion. I’d almost like to see an Alternative Rock version of this track done by someone. This is the HIGHLIGHT of the album (6/5 )
“Off the Wall” another great track. Just makes you want to live your life and not worry about the “real world” while it’s playing. It’s a title track to make an album proud
Next track “Girlfriend” is just an ok standard pop song to change mood. Getting a Kenny Rogers vibe, don’t know why. It’s not the best
but I See its purpose here
"She's Out Of My Life" is the soft sung Ballad. Never been huge on his songs in this vain. He eventually would sing about saving the earth and the children. Just has an icky feel associated with later tracks.
The album gets back on a better pace “I Can’t Help It” which is similar to last track but Done WAY BETTER
In the end this one of the best albums we have had so far on this list. As much as Michael Jackson has things said about him in later years that may damage his image , you can’t deny his musical sensibilities. His voice on this album is perfect in the mix and not over done MJ isms he would use later on.His voice is one with the instrumentals.
4.5/5
4
Sep 19 2024
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Twelve Dreams Of Dr. Sardonicus
Spirit
This is a great album that I forget about. Obviously with album artwork like that it’s hard to forget it. This is perfect mix of Psychedelic Rock, hint of Progressive and fun Songwriting (I’m looking at you Animal Zoo)
This makes me want to come back to this one way more than I have in the past. This is just substantial PSYCHEDELIA. With this genre there comes a territory where a band gets forgotten about amongst the other heavy hitters. SPIRIT deserved better
Stand Out tracks
Prelude - Nothing to Hide
NATURES WAY (beautiful )
Animal Zoo (Sounds kind of like Traffic)
Love Has Found Away
Space Child (spookyish instrumental but one to get lost in)
Life Has Just Begun
The First side of the album is definitely the stronger side with the “Songs” but the second half still keeps the flow going and has some interesting ideas
4/5
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would Listen Again (Good)
4* - Like It/Love It
5* - LOVE IT AND IT IS A CLASSIC ALBUM
4
Sep 20 2024
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Superfuzz Bigmuff
Mudhoney
Listening to the Deluxe Edition. I’ve always wanted to listen to more Mudhoney. This band are known to me for 2 reasons
ONE They influenced Nirvana
&
TWO and This is most important thing they Appeared in the Chris Farley/David Spade movie “Black Sheep”
Even though I’m listening to Deluxe version. I will judge this mainly on its Original release and comment on other tracks later
Song wise there isn’t much to say. It’s really good garage rock, grunge, alt rock. Whatever you want to call it. I like the sound but nothing is jumping at me song wise
3/5
3
Sep 21 2024
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Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
I’ve listened a few times and I don’t hate it but I don’t really like it either. Just seems like background noise for some reason. My mind just won’t focus in on it. I will say I thought they’d be “Heavier” and this almost was more 1970s Prog Rock with some “Heavy” influences.
Stand Out Tracks
Phantom Of The Opera
Strange World
2.5/5 it has merit but not my style of music. Even though I gave it a 2.5 could still see myself coming back to this to GET IT. Some albums need more time
2
Sep 22 2024
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Another Green World
Brian Eno
3
Sep 23 2024
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Moby Grape
Moby Grape
This is just some great Psychedelic 60s rock. Though it just some good songwriting overall. It’s psychedelic in the vaguest ways.
Stand out Tracks
Hey Grandma
8:05 (Beautiful Ballad, should be played on radio)
Come In The Morning
Naked , If I want to (short ditty and nice melody)
Sitting By The Window
This is right up my alley it’s so close to a 5/5 but the second side dives a little
To hard into those “San Francisco” vibes
4/5
4
Sep 24 2024
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Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
Stand Out Tracks
Dreams - one of the best songs ever written
Never Going Back Again
Don’t Stop - it grew on me a bit
The Chain
You Make Loving Fun - second favourite on here
Not sure I love the whole album but the Two songs I like I LOVE
4/5
4
Sep 25 2024
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The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
This is better than their first album. This is what I think of when I think 80’s metal. Now it’s not my preferred genre but for what it is definitely a solid 3.5/5
3
Sep 26 2024
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Timeless
Goldie
Before I put this on I’m praying it’s better than Roni Size (gave that a 3 and should of been a 2)
This is definitely more soothing and chill. Other than length of the album I really enjoy it. Light 3 could’ve moved up more if it was condensed into best tracks
3
Sep 27 2024
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The Dreaming
Kate Bush
Actually really enjoyed this and want to come back to it more. It’s a little experimental but those things over time will become normal. Kate’s style on this album reminds me of Yoko Ono (if she didn’t suck).
Even the last track with being almost scary after a few listens it is amazing.Her voice does all these little characters . The sound effects that is done with her singing is a bit mind blowing
4/5
4
Sep 28 2024
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Tapestry
Carole King
Well it has finally happened
The songs on here are so beautiful and well written. Folk songwriting , Singer Songwriter. Whatever you want to call it this is Top Notch
“Way Over Yonder” has to be one of my favorite songs of all time
First side doesn’t have a bad track!
Now side 2 has some lesser songs but they are still well written and nothing is bad at all.
This just flows so well and is not a choir to listen to. This is comfort food of music. It’s just beautiful nothing more nothing less . Carol King you’re on of the greats
5/5
1* - Not Good
2* - Has Merit
3* - Would Listen Again (Good)
4* - Like It/Love It
5* - LOVE IT AND IT IS A CLASSIC ALBUM
5
Sep 29 2024
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Hunky Dory
David Bowie
I liked this a a lot more than “Ziggy Stardust….” Just had a lot better songs. First 5 tracks alone is banger after banger.
Right now it’s a light 3.5/5. Could move up more on multiple listens
3
Sep 30 2024
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Electric
The Cult
Pretty decent Rock music. The vocalist doesn’t over do it and is in the nice mid range and the songs Rock. It’s on the tin (kinda has a Billy Idol vibe on some songs)
3/5
3
Oct 01 2024
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...And Justice For All
Metallica
Well never really Listened to Metallica that much before so let’s see if this is any good in my books. Always assumed this album came out int the 90’s but I stand mistaken
Anyways this is definitely not for me. It all is WAY TO LONG and all sounds very similar. This is probably great for Fans of Metallica but it’s pretty average to me. It’s not bad but it’s not something I’m getting much enjoyment out off.
“One” is the best song on here
2/5
2
Oct 02 2024
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Illmatic
Nas
This is really great. It’s Been years since I listened to this. Now I haven’t gone deep
Into the lyrics so that could change how I perceive this. However the beats and music is classic Hip-Hop. This flows extremely well and IS A CLASSIC ALBUM
Stand out tracks
N.Y State Of Mind
The World Is Yours
Life’s a Bitch
Memory Lane
5/5
5
Oct 03 2024
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New Wave
The Auteurs
This album is right in my wheel house.
Being a huge “Britpop” fan it’s cool to find lesser known bands in the genre. Though this band hated the term its “style” is all over this record. The songs are pleasant to listen to and love the guitar tone. Almost has a bit of Psychedelic feel (very minor) with the way the singer sings. It’s if Kula Shaker/Eels melted into a band
Stand out Tracks
Bailed Out
American Guitars
Starstruck
Idiot Brother
3.5/5 (could turn to a light 4)
3
Oct 04 2024
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More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
This is very interesting and the music seems to have layers. No songs are jumping out at me really but it’s a good album that seems to be another grower. Musically I really enjoy it but the vocals arnt my favourite thing in the world
3.5/5
3
Oct 05 2024
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
This is really good album very Blues based in spots. Definitely easy to listen to but their arnt as many stand out tracks that are on later CCR albums. Doesn’t mean it isn’t great but I’d say my favorite songs are
Born on a Bayou
Penthouse Pauper
Proud Mary being the true stand out. It’s not my favorite single by them but is the stand out here
3.5/5
3
Oct 06 2024
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Transformer
Lou Reed
I’ve always been a Lou Reed fan. I haven’t gone total hardcore but have heard my fair share of his stuff and this classic album is no exception.
This is Probably considered his most commercially successful and gets highest praise (with some Velvet Underground)
“Satellite Of Love” is my favourite track on here. Even Though I am not the biggest Bowie fan , his backing vocals at the tail end of the song is so infectious. 6/5 SONG
Other stand out tracks
Vicious
Perfect Day
Hangin ‘Round (chorus such a sing along)
WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
New York Telephone Conversation
GOOD NIGHT LADIES closes the album on a Lounge singer vibe in Lou Reed style. Leaving a Neon bar in New York City
4.5/5
4
Oct 07 2024
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Whatever
Aimee Mann
Aimee Mann is an artist I’ve never got into much. Literally only knew one song called “Wise Up” I heard in tv show “Community”. Well here’s my chance to hear a whole
Album by her
Stand Out Tracks
I Should’ve Known
Fifty Years after the fair
Mr. Harris
This album is fine almost has a Joni Mitchell vibe but with a 90s sound. It also has that CD era album length. It’s pretty good but beside a few songs can’t see me coming back to it. it has merit but isn’t anything above a high 2
2.5/5
2
Oct 08 2024
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
This is very easy Listening. I’ve listened to this record before but it’s an album I haven’t come back to often. Well this list is here to rectify that. I know it’s good but how good is it. Well I’m gonna say it’s a 3.5/5 . The two big Singles “Coconut” and “Without You” are definitely my favourite songs here. Everything else is good but these two are a cut above the rest
3
Oct 09 2024
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Greetings From L.A.
Tim Buckley
Was decent nothing spectacular but had a really good sound. First track “Move With Me” reminded me of The Doors during this same era without Jim Morrison. Rest of it was all decent but some songs went on for a bit. However with it only being 7 tracks it is passable. Only song that was a little rough but got better was “Hong Kong Bar”.
This is a light 3/5
(Bonus to learn this was Jeff Buckley’s Dad, both died way to young)
3
Oct 10 2024
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Vulnicura
Björk
This really started off like I was really going to like it. First 3 (and maybe 4 songs) had me invested. Then it kinda just went a little too hard off the deep end and being artsy. Had a Radiohead feeling in some of the tracks.
3/5. I’d say I liked this more Stylistically then I did song wise
3
Oct 11 2024
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Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
I enjoyed this more than I thought. Still at this point consider Queen a singles act. However this did have a flow and songs segued into one another. Also was nice that most songs were on the short side so they didn’t over stay their welcome.
First track I didn’t like, and Killer Queen is one of my least favourite singles. After that the album picked up for me
Light 3/5
3
Oct 12 2024
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Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
The Jimi Hendrix Experience. We’ll
My view on double albums has always been I’m not a huge fan. I can count probably one hand how many I actually like. Well this is ONE OF THEM.
Stand Out Tracks
Have you ever been (To Electric Ladyland)
Crosstown Traffic (probably catchiest song here)
Little Miss Strange (sung by Noel Redding)
Gypsy Eyes
1983... (A Merman I Should Turn to Be)
and of course the great Bob Dylan cover
“All Along The Watchtower”
This album is one of Hendrix’s best and though there is some fat that could be trimmed it all adds to the mood and feel.
4/5
4
Oct 13 2024
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White Ladder
David Gray
4.5/5
4
Oct 14 2024
View Album
The Next Day
David Bowie
This is my third David Bowie album
On this list. Here we go. My wife owns it on vinyl so maybe it’ll sound really good.
Standout tracks
The Stars (Are Out Tonight)
Where Are We Now?
Valentines Day
If You Can See Me
You Feel So Lonely You Could Die
This was pretty decent. Falls in range of just Below a 4. Sorry Bowie I’m liking you a bit more with each listen but you just don’t have that LOVE FACTOR yet. Think Hunky Dory will be hard to beat. This is pretty decent for a late album by an artist
3.5/5
3
Oct 15 2024
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Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
If I had to pick one Bob Dylan album it would be “Blood On The Tracks”. It’s a heartfelt break up album at its core. It also features in my opinion Dylan’s best composition “Simple Twist Of Fate”
Stand Out Tracks
Tangled Up In Blue
Simple Twist Of Fate
You’re a Big Girl Now
IDIOT WIND
You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go
Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts
Shelter From The Storm
This is a classic album and may have a few songs that are now as amazing as the ones mentioned above but it all flows well and mainly sticks to the theme of heartbreak, loss and trying to find yourself again
5/5
5
Oct 16 2024
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Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
I’m a decent Radiohead fan. When I’m in the mood they can be a great band. Though I will say they are a group Id probably never want to see Live , they are definition of listening to experimental melancholy music at home. They just don't conduct to many sing along numbers
Now of all Radiohead
Discography this is probably the one I rank lowest (besides “Pablo Honey” which I should give another listen too) , yes I’m one of the crazy fans that loves “The King Of Limbs)
This record is still decent but it’s kinda scattered brained (no relation the song haha) and it’s a little drawn out
Standout Tracks
2+2 = 5
SIT DOWN, STAND UP (favourite song on here)
Sail To The Moon
Backdrifts
Where I End and You Begin
We Suck Young Blood (works better as a standalone song)
There , There
I Will
Myxomatosis ((works better as a standalone song)
A Wolf At The Door
In hindsight this everything Radiohead does well but is not taking the material to that next level. It’s not even that experimental by their standards. It’s a record that wants to do everything and in the end accomplishes almost nothing
3/5.
(If I was to listen to each track on a song by song basis then it could be a 4 but with them all here in one BIG PACKAGE It doesn’t work as a body of work.)
3
Oct 17 2024
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Dust
Screaming Trees
This album I listened to a few times and there isn’t much a can pin point about it. I just liked the overall sound and would definitely keep this in rotation
4/5
4
Oct 18 2024
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3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of...
Arrested Development
Pretty decent album
3
Oct 19 2024
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Urban Hymns
The Verve
This album gets super high praise but it’s never been one I come back to much. I love all the singles. Maybe this time it’ll be different
This time
It really grew on me. It is a little
Long in spots but this is a good album.
3.5/5 (could be a light 4)
4
Oct 20 2024
View Album
Sulk
The Associates
Musically it’s ok in spots but the vocals really don’t do it for me. My ears have adjusted to his sound and sometimes it pleasant enough and then he gets out of hand. This is very dated and has some experimentation for the time but does not hold up well. Songs just arnt there and the David Bowie wannabe vocals leave much to be desired
2/5
Better than I thought but can’t see being more than a light 3 with future listens
2
Oct 21 2024
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Ace of Spades
Motörhead
They basically write the same song over and over. Usually that be a deal breaker but it’s very enjoyable. Not something I’d put on all the time but it’s definitely a good time
3/5
3
Oct 22 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
Listened to the vinyl version so some of the tracks were a little shorter in length. Either way really good songs and flowed extremely well.
4/5
4
Oct 23 2024
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Africa Brasil
Jorge Ben Jor
This was super enjoyable and maybe because I couldn’t understand the language (I’m usually a lyrical person) . I was just going with the feel of the music and the sound of his voice
.It seemed like he was saying something emotional or meaningful. For all I know the lyrics are m trash but the music certainly wasn’t.
4/5
4
Oct 24 2024
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Your Arsenal
Morrissey
Sometimes knowing an artist helps and it is certainly true here. Now I’m more familiar with his work with The Smiths but this still has some of the trademarks. The music seems to be done in a similar vain and of course it’s still his wonderful lyrics
“Well Let You Know” is a stand out song and almost feels like it should come later in track listing but either way it leaves its impact. Beautiful music and words
Is the an album for everyone, probably not but if you like The Smiths than you should enjoy this
4/5
4
Oct 25 2024
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My Aim Is True
Elvis Costello
This started off as a 2 but is now a light 3. There are some good songs but something about “Elvis Costello” seems kinda lame to me.
3
Oct 26 2024
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Imagine
John Lennon
John Lennon is my favourite artist. Now this isn’t the best of his solo albums but it’s definitely very high up. This album is a classic.
Stand out tracks
Imagine
Crippled Inside
JEALOUS GUY
it’s So Hard
How Do You Sleep
HOW?
Oh YOKO
(The 3 other tracks are also really good just ones mentioned above are the ones I like the most)
This is basically as good as it gets. Not sure I can go the full 5 because I like a couple Lennon albums more , but this is definitely
A strong 4.5/5
(Side note I recently went to New York
City and one of my goals was to go to Central Park and see the Strawberry Fields (memorial)
What I did not know was the Dakota Building was very close to it.
I told myself I’d never want to see the place where he was murdered.However on our bike tour that was one of the stops and our guide says to this day people still stand outside his old apartment building.
Anyways when he handed me the pamphlet of what we see on the tour and it showed old newspaper clippings on the day he died, it was all too much and I broke down in tears.
It’s been over 40 years since Johns been gone and I wasn’t even alive when he died.
Yet for someone I never knew ,
Let alone was around when they left this world to have this great of an effect on me Must mean something. I leave this now with these famous lines “All You Need Is Love, Love Is All You Need”
4
Oct 27 2024
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Henry's Dream
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
This was really good and definitely will get a few more listens. 4/5
4
Oct 28 2024
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High Violet
The National
First track wasn’t really a fan of but the album gets a better after that the next couple tracks “Sorrow” & “Anyone’s Ghost” are really good
This album is pretty one note and maybe a tad hipster pretentious but if the mood is right for this type of music I’d listen again. Probably more so in if a song came on but if I had to listen to the whole album I could get into it’s feeling if I dig deep
These type of vocals arnt my type of thing but there is some nice experimentation and production with the music. If this was produced a little different I think I’d dislike it more. Either way it’s a light 3
3
Oct 29 2024
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Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
This is definitely for someone it’s just not for me. When I give something a 2 it means it has merit for someone but to me this was mostly a slog and again not for me. Her voice is hit or miss with my ears. The vibrato is a bit much.
2
Oct 30 2024
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Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
This was another album that could be classified under World Music (South America I believe). Besides not understand the lyrics this was also very enjoyable. Even with its 21 run time there was no points I was wishing it be over.
Standout Track is the title track. It is beyond beautiful and will be the song I came back to over and over
3.5/5
3
Oct 31 2024
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Architecture And Morality
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
4
Nov 01 2024
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Here's Little Richard
Little Richard
For what this is it’s a 4 or 5 out of 5
Compared to all the music I’d listen I’d give it a 3.5/5
Still some great tracks!
3
Nov 02 2024
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Ten
Pearl Jam
Not to compare but I’m
Definitely more a Nirvana guy. Of the big four Grunge bands Pearl Jam might be dead last. However it’s been years since I’ve listened to this so let’s see.
Well I feel a hint bad for above statements as it’s not right to compare two bands. I can’t deny this was a good listen and very well produced. Would I put it on all the time probably not but it deserves the praise it gets 4/5
4
Nov 03 2024
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Goodbye And Hello
Tim Buckley
Really really enjoyed this. Obviously I’d have to be in the mood for this because some of the songs are long . However the psychedelic vibes mixed with folk elements is music too my ears. It’s a slow burn in a way but very rewarding.
There are a couple standard tracks that are really great in “Once I Was” and final Track “Morning Glory” to break up the overall sound of this album.
This was surprising as his other album on this list I thought was just ok. This is a strong 4/5. Can’t wait to listen again
4
Nov 04 2024
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Peggy Suicide
Julian Cope
We are on a pretty great run of albums. This keeps you guessing where it’s gonna go and definitely seems in its own realm. This is taking from so many little genres but making its own. It’s a little long being a Double Album but it’s the kinda music I really love. It’s Experimental but still has stand out Songwriting and Melody . It treads that fine line well.
“Safesurfer” is the definitive stand out
4/5
4
Nov 05 2024
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25
Adele
This is just not my style of genre and this mostly does nothing for me. The first two singles are not my thing for different reasons. The overreaching ballad of “Hello” and her voice being to loud in mix(plus it was overplayed). The next track “Send My Love” is everything I hate about “Indie Pop” music. “Roots” feel without any soul. Reminds me Lorde
There’s a few gems here and there “Water Under The Bridge” being the standout and after this point the album gets more tolerable. Second half definitely makes up a bit for first half.
This will be high for others but overall I find this boring and production is to sparse and yet overbearing with her vocals
2.5/5 (it has merit but not my thing, if a song came on I’d be fine ,but a whole Album of this style is a bit much)
2
Nov 06 2024
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Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix Experience. This has so many versions Original UK track listing and US. With most copies now including tracks that weren’t on each other. I think most people listen to the 17 track version now and really it’s the way to go.
This is Hendrix at his simplest songs in a way everything is tight and even with 17 tracks on the newer editions it’s doesn’t clock over the hour mark. These songs pack a punch and has a different psychedelic edge that only Hendrix can provide
4/5
4
Nov 07 2024
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Tanto Tempo
Bebel Gilberto
Very decent would listen again. Definitely kinda had it on in background but it was overall enjoyable. 3/5 (could move up too a 3.5/5)
3
Nov 08 2024
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Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
This isn’t the best Neil Young album but it’s still classic Neil Young and Crazy Horse (they give it that extra rock vibe) some of the songs are long but their musicianship keep it interesting. Probably be other Neil Young records id play first but this just shows how great an artist he is in his prime because this is a 4/5
4
Nov 09 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Simple and too the point old school Country album. With a little grit played by Willies fingers. It has a theme and songs that pop in and out of the tracklist
Beautiful for all the wrong reasons. His voice tells a story and he tells it like it is.
4/5
4
Nov 10 2024
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Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes
TV On The Radio
Pretty decent will say first half had me more the second half is good but the backing vocals were getting in the way I felt. Really like the sound of this album. If anything you can say this band is experimenting while still having some song structures.
3
Nov 11 2024
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Psychocandy
The Jesus And Mary Chain
The album title perfectly describes the music within it.
Psycho - Is for the heavy distortion that engulfs
These songs and creates it own maddening sound
Candy - for the beautiful melodies and pop songs underneath all its LOUD Noise
First track “Just Like Honey” gives you a little more Candy than Psycho. But other tracks lean heavier on that first word!
4/5
PS - album features later lead singer of Primal Scream Bobby Gillespie on drums. Just thought I’d add that
4
Nov 12 2024
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Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
High 3.5/5
This isn’t a double album but two different albums in 1. Liked both but preferred the Second One. This would need a lot of listens but definitely could go up to a 4/5 eventually
3
Nov 13 2024
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90
808 State
This is definitely up my alley. Manchester band, late 80’s early 90s House Music. So many great tracks but “Pacific 202” is the highlight (where has this track been all my life
4/5 (going to listen to US version with extra tracks might even be better)
4
Nov 14 2024
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Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes
3.5/5 (could move up to a 4 or maybe just a 3) getting some Lou Reed vibes threw some of this
3
Nov 15 2024
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Fire Of Love
The Gun Club
3.5/5 (could be a 4 needs more listens)
3
Nov 16 2024
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
I hate Led Zeppelin and always will. Couple of decent instrumental moments and Robert Plant on first track was ok and then at the end he did his screech voice. This is a 2/5 for me (I assume all their albums will be this) for others it’s probably a 3 or 4 among Led Zeppelin fans.
This has got to be Top Ten Bands I don’t get. It’s fine but it’s not pleasant to my ears. Yes they can play but I don’t like their songs and this kinda 70s rock (or I guess 1969 rock)
2
Nov 17 2024
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All Hope Is Gone
Slipknot
This isn’t something I’d normally put on but overall I enjoyed it. Some really decent nu-metal
3.5/5
3
Nov 18 2024
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Savane
Ali Farka Touré
This was pretty good but not something I’d put on all the time. This is a light 3/5. It definitely has merit but not something I could listen to all the time
3
Nov 19 2024
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
I’ve always had a little hard time with this band. On one hand they have some really decent moments but they also come off a tad pretentious. The harmonies are good but are a little overbearing every track. It seems roots sounding but a little contrived.
This is a band who I enjoy seldom but I feel they still get a solid 3/5 even with my reservation. It’s not my thing totally but kinda understand it’s high praise. Definitely got better on later albums
Ps - this also came out in a time when I was in high school and this was a real “Hipster” band. In the end Fleet Foxes real problem might be just bad timing of when I was introduced
3
Nov 20 2024
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Emergency On Planet Earth
Jamiroquai
This was really good. Only thing is some of the tracks could be cut down a bit and make the run time more smooth. This has a great instrumental background. It’s blends Funk with some Jazz and Dance Elements. This is something you put on lay back , close your eyes and let the music paint whatever picture comes to mind
3.5/5 (could be a 4, will take future listens)
3
Nov 21 2024
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The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
The Incredible String Band
There previous album is way better at incorporating Folk with Psychedelic sounds. However this does have some good sounds (maybe though it doesn’t translate into songs) it’s experimental and definitely another you’d have to be in a mood to listen too. This is a light 3/5. Definitely think people should check this band out.
3
Nov 22 2024
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Like A Prayer
Madonna
Not my style of genre it was listenable. Last 2 tracks kinda lost me a bit. 2.5 if I’m generous 3/5
3
Nov 23 2024
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Dire Straits
Dire Straits
This was even better than the other Dire Straits album we had. Really
Chill and they really sound like the Bob Dylan of the 80s .
Obviously Dylan made music in the 80s but not like this
4/5
4
Nov 24 2024
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Back to Basics
Christina Aguilera
Pop music isn’t my thing and never will be especially this era of 2000s music. Now there were still some decent cuts.
“Understand”
“Thank You (Deduction to Fans…)
“Save Me From Myself”
It was never boring or making me roll my eyes but it’s just not made for me. Really enjoyed the overall theme it had with having an old school sound.
3/5 (2.5 by my standards because beside a few tracks I wouldn’t listen again)
3
Nov 25 2024
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Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
I’ve always considered this album a tad overrated and more about the Cover Art than the actual music at this point in culture . However this is an album you gotta listen to on headphones and let the rhythm section take you places, hear the simple yet effective guitar and really take in Ian Curtis’s Vocals and Lyrics.
Besides opening track “Disorder” (the most fast punk rocker) the album immediately descends into Darker territory musically. This is a really good album and deserves a few listens. Obviously being down and out helps
4/5
The only thing to be said is the follow up “Closer” is even Better and will be getting a 5/5 (MASTERPIECE)
In some ways it’s sad what happened with Ian Curtis, as we got no more Joy Division albums. On the flip side the lyrics were so depressing and hopeless that there was no where for them to go. Until the went on and became New Order
4
Nov 26 2024
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This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
This is really good old school Rock’n’Roll
3.5/5
3
Nov 27 2024
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Everything Must Go
Manic Street Preachers
This was really good. Can see this a real grower. It’s heavy but has almost rock pop element. As a huge Britpop fan and this is up my avenue. Really can’t go wrong with 90s British rock
4/5
4
Nov 28 2024
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The College Dropout
Kanye West
First 9 tracks are really really great. Then the middle kinda lost me and not a big fan of skits. However last 3 redeemed the album
3.5/5 (could be a 4)
3
Nov 29 2024
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Let's Stay Together
Al Green
Enjoyed this a lot and will be giving it some more listens 3.5/5 (could move up to a 4/5)
First half definitely better than second half but it’s a short album so it doesn’t wreck the experience
3
Nov 30 2024
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Low-Life
New Order
When this came up was extremely excited because Joy Division/New Order are two bands I love (and I consider them One and the same).
This album opens amazing with “Love Vigilantes” which is such a great opener and super catchy. The follow up “The Perfect Kiss” is my favourite song by this group (though will say I prefer the Longer single version)
After this the album never reaches the HIGHS again with those two songs. It’s still extremely enjoyable but nothing AMAZING, besides maybe the instrumental “Elegia” which almost screams Joy Division in its dark tone.
As much as I love New Order and this is still one of their better albums I think I’m gonna go with a High 3.5/5 (wish it could be a 4)
However those 3 songs I’ve mentioned are WORTH price of Admission and don’t skip on them
3
Dec 01 2024
View Album
MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
.
This one is gonna be hard but it is probably a 5/5 but I almost don’t consider this a Nirvana album because its own thing and half the track listing is covers.
That being said there are some AMAZING covers here -
“Jesus Doesn’t Want Me For A Sunbeam” has that beautiful accordion played by Krist Novoselic (Weird Al would be proud)
“The Man Who Sold The World” blows the David Bowie original out the water!
Same goes for the three Meat Puppets songs
“Plateau”, “Oh,Me” , and the winner among these “Lake Of Fire”
When I watched the Live video of this album and he played the Nirvana In Utero track “All Apologies” I thought to myself how do you follow that up and end the show.
Well To my surprise with this Lead Belly traditional song “Where Did You Sleep Last Night”. The last bit where Kurt starts “scream sing” and holds “I shiver” and takes a moment and finishes the last lines “ The whole… night through” is one of his best Vocals performances hands down.
Now all the Nirvana tracks picked for this were obviously the right choices. No big singles or heavy songs like
“Smells Like Teen Spirit”, “In Bloom” , “Lithium,”“Heart Shaped Box” etc etc
What we get here are some of their more quiet moments or I guess more pop orientated material.
“About A Girl” was a crazy move at the time because this was a song of their first album “Bleach”. But it sets the mood and is almost early Beatles in feel (as Kurt was a big Beatles fan). This is a Great opener
The next track “Come As You Are” is the closest we get to a BIG nirvana single on here. Now out of all the ones off “Nevermind”to pick , it again is the right choice for this show.
“Pennyroyal Tea” on here might even be better than its “In Utero” counterpart. It comes off more heartfelt and longing
“DUMB” is my all time FAVOURITE Nirvana song and glad it’s on here. This song is so good and the Cello really ties it together.
Next two “Polly” and especially “On A Plain”
Lighten the mood at least musically and put a little pep in your step and make it so this isn’t all down and out.
“Something In The Way” and as mentioned above “All Apologies” which are both last tracks on their respective albums (Nevermind & In Utero) definitely are two of the best moments of their own material.
Again this record is a hard one for me to rate cause on one hand it’s AMAZING. But it’s almost not Nirvana and is this little side thing. Part of me wants this to be all Original material and makes me wonder if Kurt and rest of band didn’t have faith in their material for this kinda event. We can speculate all day. For what it is (It’s own thing) it’ll get a 5/5
Thank You Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic, Dave Grohl , and Pat Smear for being one of the greatest 90s BANDS of all time.
5
Dec 02 2024
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Suzanne Vega
Suzanne Vega
This was another surprise album of an artists I’ve never heard before. It’s folk with an 80s reverb sound. Almost has an Icy feel to the songs. The tracks seem like a beautiful sad day on Antarctica. First 4 tracks were stellar and the rest of the album kept me engaged
4/5
4
Dec 03 2024
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Boston
Boston
This is a band who is almost a guilty pleasure. I’ve never been the biggest fan of 1970s rock. However Boston does this style really well and there wall of sound is endearing
4/5
4
Dec 04 2024
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In A Silent Way
Miles Davis
I was in a huge dilemma of what to rate this. Honestly I enjoyed my time so well with this and the music is almost a guessing game in spots. It’s so interesting and to MILES DAVIS. This has always been one of the albums that I love most by him (Bitches Brew the follow up has always been a harder listen)
This is 2 tracks but it contains a lot within those two tracks. Few minutes it’s nice and chill and others it’s frantic. This is a beautiful piece of art and deserves a 5/5
5
Dec 05 2024
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american dream
LCD Soundsystem
I think lyrically this is a really good album but the songs are all lengthy but will say the album seemed to go by really quick. I think it has a theme and most songs have a similar feel. I can’t decide between and 3 and 4 and I’ll be generous and go with my gut
4/5
4
Dec 06 2024
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Arise
Sepultura
3
Dec 07 2024
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Disraeli Gears
Cream
This is some great 60s psychedelic music. I’ve never been the biggest Eric Clapton fan but this group is more than just the sum of its parts. Jack Bruce , Ginger Baker, and Eric Clapton all
Play a key Role into making this band sound amazing
The guitar tones are really good and the
Songs are short and groove filled. 1967
Is one of the best years for music
4/5
4
Dec 08 2024
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I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got
Sinead O'Connor
Well this was better than I expected it be. Was gonna give it a 3/5 but might have to bump it down to a 2.5/5. The last track did nothing for me and most songs run a little too long. It’s still a decent record but at the moment it’s 2.5 and might move up too a 3 if I revisit in the future
2
Dec 09 2024
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Tommy
The Who
The WHO is a band I have a love hate relationship with. I think they are good but they also have that Rock sound of the 70s that can get on my nerves. However unlike someone like Led Zeppelin I think The Who have a great vocalist and better songwriter.
The 60s Who will always be my favourite and Tommy is still a great album among their other albums. “a Quick One”’ and “The Who Sell Out” being favourites of mine
Now for a double album this has to be one of the best and has one of the best over arching story. I will say the story may out weigh actual songs but the key moments are here
This probably could use some more listens in the future but for what it is and what it accomplished I’ll have to give it a 4/5
4
Dec 10 2024
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The Wildest!
Louis Prima
This surprised me a ton. It’s very Swing Jazz with a little humour in there. It’s just has a great old time feel and the songs you start singing along with. Yeah it’s a little dated and cheesy but it doesn’t take away from the songs and there charm 4/5
4
Dec 11 2024
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Tuesday Night Music Club
Sheryl Crow
This started off pretty generic and standard. It had almost a Tom Petty heartland rock vibe going on. Sheryl’s voice I also noticed is a little pitchy when going for certain parts and just needs just a little extra to nail some bits.
Originally was gonna give this a 2.5/5 as it was pretty in offensive. However bumping it up too a 3/5 because the second half of the album picked up and had the best songs that fit her voice
3