Sep 30 2024
View Album
Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
I’m surprised at how much I enjoy this. I knew from hearing “Rehab” in high school, and various snippets over the years, what her music sounded like, but I didn’t realize how authentic it would come across in an album context. I also was surprised to learn that she wrote all her songs instead of covering old standards — I would have thought there’d be at least one or two covers on here.
I realize, listening to this for the first time, that Amy Winehouse was a very unique artist, combining her lyrical and journalistic darkness and edge with a lush throwback soul and jazz sound — and yet coming across completely genuine. She sounds like she grew up studying the origins of the kind of music she makes.
Admittedly, by the end of the album, my attention fades a little bit. I’d have to listen a few more times before I pick up on the lyrics and tracks that resonate most. Overall, though, I loved this first listen, added it to my library, and will likely revisit in the future.
4
Oct 01 2024
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Court And Spark
Joni Mitchell
Good album. Joni Mitchell’s voice is obviously stunning, and her songwriting and style of singing and song-making is next-level. I found myself frequently wondering “how did she come up with this instrumental bit in between verses?” or “why did she choose this kind of instrumental if the song has this many lyrics?”
I do think that the album as a whole is overshadowed by “Help Me,” a masterpiece of a song, and the other songs I enjoyed, “Car on a Hill” and “Just Like This Train.” The rest of it kind of blended together. Overall though, it’s lush and beautiful, and I’m interested in checking out more of her material.
4
Oct 02 2024
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Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
This was decent. I like the sound. I especially liked the really proggy opening track and some of the more subdued songs. By the end of the album, though, songs were starting to kind of blur together and I was getting exhausted of the sound.
3
Oct 03 2024
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A Hard Day's Night
Beatles
The Beatles are the best band ever. Hot take, I know. But I do think they deserve the title, if nothing else, because they were such a force of evolution for rock n’ roll. This album was lovely, as pretty much any Beatles album would be. I definitely prefer their later albums, but this one had “And I Love Her” and “Can’t Buy Me Love,” and got more interesting as the album went on, which was cool. I’ll revisit it someday.
4
Oct 04 2024
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Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
Killer opening track, killer closing track, and all kinds of good old human being rock and roll in between. Bob Dylan is one of the best ever and this is one of his best releases.
5
Oct 05 2024
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Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
I hate to say it, but I’ve never really connected with this album, and that’s coming from someone who considers himself a Bruce Springsteen fan. I enjoy “Badlands,” “The Promised Land,” and the title track quite a lot, but the rest of the songs do very little for me.
3
Oct 06 2024
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The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
Wow, this was a surprise, mainly because I’ve never heard of Jeru before. I was very pleased to find that the entire album was produced by DJ Premier, one of the best beatmakers of all time. Preemo’s fingerprints are all over this thing. It sounds amazing and is already gonna go onto my list of great 90’s rap records.
4
Oct 07 2024
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Boston
Boston
Totally kicked ass. I’ve only ever known “More Than a Feeling” and “Peace of Mind” and the rest of the album was almost every bit as good as those songs. This has to be one of the best rock albums of the ‘70s. It’s maybe closer to a 4.5 but it would still round up to 5.
5
Oct 08 2024
View Album
Green
R.E.M.
This was great, better than I thought it was back when I was doing my R.E.M. binge earlier this spring. You can really tell it comes between Document and Out of Time; it splits the difference between those albums' sounds perfectly. It's in the upper half of R.E.M. records, I think, really good stuff.
4
Oct 09 2024
View Album
Brothers
The Black Keys
It’s always going to be The Black Keys’ best, I think. It’s a good midway point between the authentically raw blues of their earlier career and the throwback pastiche of the later albums. The tunes are great but the production is sublime. I have to be in the mood to listen to this, but when it hits it hits.
4
Oct 10 2024
View Album
Music
Madonna
At first I was bowled over by how ridiculously Y2K-sounding this album was. Like, the sort of "techno," as pop listeners called every electronic music genre at the time, along with futuristic production effects that I remember being really wowed by at that time, is all over this thing. If I'd listened to it closer to release I would probably rate it higher, but encountering it for the first time in 2024 does it few favors. It sounds extremely dated. Some songs really won me over though, especially in the last half, like "What It Feels Like For a Girl" and the moody and cinematic "Paradise (Not For Me)." Still, I probably won't revisit it unless I'm showing it to my wife to see her reaction.
2
Oct 11 2024
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The Slider
T. Rex
Four songs in, this isn't really my kinda thing. It's a flavor of swinging, boogie down type of rock that doesn't usually connect with me. It's okay. I guess I can see where The Black Keys got some of their pastiche haha.
2
Oct 12 2024
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Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme
Simon & Garfunkel
Loved this. There were many deep cuts I was unfamiliar with that I really enjoyed. I’ve already listened to it another time or two. I guess 60s folk is a preferred genre of mine! 🤷
5
Oct 13 2024
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25
Adele
Fine. I get swept up in some of the songs. It’s at least as good as her previous album, I think. Still not really my thing, but it’s good enough for a 3.
3
Oct 14 2024
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When I Was Born For The 7th Time
Cornershop
Dig it. Scratches the Beck itch. Doesn’t really maintain its appeal for the whole album, though.
3
Oct 15 2024
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Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
Beautiful. All my 5s have been 60s folk artists (Blood on the Tracks is a 70s album). But you know what, they’re all excellent. This one might be my favorite, it’s soooo good. Pretty and calm, with obviously stunning lyricism.
5
Oct 16 2024
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Elvis Is Back
Elvis Presley
Can’t say I’m a huge fan of Elvis, his ‘thing’ has never really been for me. That being said, I appreciate classic stuff. He’s a monumental figure. This album breezes by. I can’t be too mad about it.
3
Oct 17 2024
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Modern Life Is Rubbish
Blur
I’ve always struggled to get into Blur, despite loving Gorillaz. Ostensibly I should enjoy Bowie-worshipping pop-rock, but very few BritPop bands or albums have ever impressed me. Every now and then a song will jump out at me, and maybe if I dug into the lyrics of this I would enjoy it more. But for now I can only report that it sounds fine, and is doing nothing for me.
3
Oct 18 2024
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Third
Soft Machine
Awesome. I'm really happy to find out about the existence of this band. It's like Pink Floyd veered into jazz fusion instead of prog rock. I'm gonna need to give this another few listens before I know how I really feel about it, but by the end of the first listen I was mightily impressed.
5
Oct 19 2024
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Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
4
Oct 20 2024
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
Not bad, not amazing. I really loved two or three songs. And I was pretty blown away by Johnny Marr’s guitar playing. Having avoided listening to The Smiths for a long time, I thought it was funny that they sounded almost exactly like I expected. But I didn’t expect to realize just how many of today’s artists are influenced by them. Jangle rock kings, maybe? I gotta learn more.
3
Oct 21 2024
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Safe As Milk
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
What a mood, what an interesting mood. Blues but wonky.
4
Oct 22 2024
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The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
I mean, this is the classic metal sound. It’s hard not to enjoy this, it’s an easy 4 if not a 5 right out of the gate.
The first thing I noticed was the bass. The bass lines on this album are godly. But focus on the guitars, or the drums, or the vocals instead, and you’ll be just as impressed. I love the metal ballad “Children of the Damned.” Obviously, the best song on here is the title track, but “The Prisoner” is a good second place. I do think that the album begins to wear out its welcome by the last two tracks — perhaps “Children of the Damned” would have worked better as track 6 or 7. The flagging quality toward the end makes it a 4 instead of a 5.
I think this album is the reason Jack Black has the vocal abilities he does. Like, I think he grew up trying to imitate Bruce Dickinson.
4
Oct 23 2024
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Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
I don’t think I can say why I’ve enjoyed this album so much more than Blur’s Modern Life is Rubbish, when on the surface they sound so similar. Both that album and this one I could accurately accuse of sounding like Bowie imitators. They both trade in 70s rock and glam aesthetics and they’re both made by scrappy Brits with the attitude intact. I guess I can identify a confidence that Super Furry Animals has that Blur seems to lack, that allows them to make weirder or slower songs like “Long Gone.” This kind of confidence Damon Albarn was able to achieve with Gorillaz. I don’t know why I’m talking about Blur so much. I guess I just expected to dislike this album just as much as that one, but instead, I’ve quite enjoyed it.
4
Oct 24 2024
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The Cars
The Cars
Album rules. I’ve had this one in my library for a while, and I’ve adored The Cars for years, so it’s likely this will get a 4 or 5. It really strikes me as one of the best pop-rock/power-pop albums ever made. It just has some great tunes, a wonderfully dry and crispy production, and extremely charming performances. How do you top the first three tunes? “Good Times Roll,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” “Just What I Needed.” I mean, wow. But the vibe continues through the whole thing. “I’m In Touch With Your World” is silly and fun. “You’re All I’ve Got Tonight” is almost on par with the initial trio of bangers. “Moving In Stereo” is a moody vibe, and its seamless transition to “All Mixed Up” is killer. Honestly, it’s a lot like the Boston album…it sets up a high bar of quality and maintains it all the way through. It’s the execution that pushes it to 5 territory.
5
Oct 25 2024
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Black Metal
Venom
General impression: generic but well-executed thrash/speed metal
Detailed review: It just gives off a very typical metalhead vibe. Unshaven, ragged and faded black t-shirt, long hair, a little beefy a little flabby, gravel-voiced, shouting about the darkness and Satan and rebelliousness. Nothing surprising or artsy.
Deeper thoughts (context): The Number of the Beast came out this same year. Sorry to this band, but this just doesn’t compare. I guess Iron Maiden has a more polished sound, and these guys are more gritty, which some people probably prefer.
2
Oct 26 2024
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Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
General impression: Rocks, but unmemorably
Detailed review: This is an enjoyable listen. I’ve always been charmed by Foo Fighters. Dude loves to rock hard but knows how to keep it in the catchy, pop-oriented space better than most rockers. It’s hard not to enjoy the riffs, the drum beats, and the scrappy production all over this album. The problem is that none of the songs really stick in the mind. It’s a little bit faceless because of that. Still, it sounds great and makes me wanna head-bang.
Deeper thoughts (context): Are there other Foo albums on this list? I’m mainly confused why this came up before some of the more popular albums with their real hits. We’ll see. I’d personally pick two or three other Foo albums before this one.
Score: 3.2 (3 for this list)
Number of albums left to review: 974
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 15
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 12 (including this one)
3
Oct 27 2024
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Peggy Suicide
Julian Cope
General impression: another British self-styled iconoclastic rocker, but one who might be the real deal
Detailed review: This album is pretty cool. It’s got a deeply committed rock n’ roll vibe. It feels pretty comfortably at home in each of the types of song it trades in. Lyrically, nothing has stuck out to me, other than the charmingness of “Pristeen.” Overall, it doesn’t sound that different or revolutionary. I’m probably less likely to return to it than the Super Furry Animals debut. But I still will keep it in my library and return to it at some point.
Deeper thoughts (context): Was all British music of the ‘90s just a course correction from the ‘80s back to ‘70s style? Soooo much British music I’ve come across on this list just sounds like it’s trying desperately to hold on to ‘70s rock conventions, as if that era held all the possible “true” ideals of rock. Whatever.
Score: 3.4 (3 for this list. It almost got to 4 level.)
Number of albums left to review: 973
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 15
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 13 (including this one)
3
Oct 28 2024
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A Seat at the Table
Solange
General impression: beautiful and culturally specific
Detailed review: This is one of those albums that I think is different to different people. By that I mean, it’s so direct and specific in its elucidation of the Black experience that I’m sure it feels much more relatable and deep for Black folks to listen to it than it is for me. And it’s very deep and beautiful and relatable in its own way for me! “Cranes in the Sky” is one of the most 5/5 songs to ever 5/5. It’s literally perfect and is one of the most impactful songs I’ve ever heard. It changed me, to be honest. I love it for very personal reasons. But the rest of the album, while gorgeous and impeccably produced, doesn’t reach that same level of universality. Still, it’s a defining piece of art and is definitely a must-listen.
Deeper thoughts (context): “Cranes in the Sky” would be on my top 100 songs of all time. That’s all.
Score: 4.3 (4 for this list)
Number of albums left to review: 972
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 16 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 13
4
Oct 29 2024
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Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
General impression: one of my favorites from a decade ago, holds up amazingly
Detailed review: I knew I loved this album, but I haven’t revisited it a whole lot since the year it came out for some reason, and going back to it, I was right to love it. Wow, it’s an incredible heartland indie-rock album, one of the best ever made, I think. Almost every song hits, and the best ones, like “An Ocean in Between the Waves” and “Under the Pressure” and “Disappearing” (at least half the tracklist honestly) are totally stunning in sound, production, performance, and songwriting. The words are deeply felt and sung. The guitar solos are the bleeding heart of the album. Everything feels true and right.
Deeper thoughts (context): Hasn’t been topped by anything in the genre to come out since.
Score: 4.9 (5 for this list)
Number of albums left to review: 971
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 17 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 13
5
Oct 30 2024
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Daydream Nation
Sonic Youth
General impression: awesome, obviously
Detailed review: Going into this, I predicted I’d give it a 4. Listening to it, I’m going back and forth between 4 and 5. Obviously it’s a masterpiece, and it’s one of the albums I have a decent amount of familiarity with going in. I’ve definitely listened to the whole thing at least 5 or 6 times and several tracks many more times, but it’s been many years since my last “Sonic Youth phase” and it’s really nice to go back to them. It’s funny, after listening to a lot of Thurston Moore solo albums (and being largely bored by them), I feel differently about the band lineup. Kim is the spiritual leader, but Ranaldo is I think my favorite. I don’t know what guitar parts are his, but I love his vocals and lyrics. Anyway, this album is incredible and a lot of that is the perfection of the production capturing the raucous, chaotic Sonic Youth sound in a studio context. I am still not sure if this is my favorite SY album…I’m very partial to Goo and Dirty, not to mention later albums like Murray St. and Sonic Nurse. But I cannot deny that this album deserves its reputation as Sonic Youth’s defining piece of work.
Deeper thoughts (context): Despite the influence this album has clearly had on future generations of rock artists, I still don’t think anyone’s captured the same magic since them.
Score: 4.6 (5 for this list)
Number of albums left to review: 970
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 18 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 13
5
Oct 31 2024
View Album
1984
Van Halen
General impression: big penis rock
Detailed review: This isn’t for me. It’s big-corporate-takeover rock. That said, no one can deny “Jump” and “Panama,” which kick ass. Honestly, the production rules, the guitars and synths sound so crisp and clean and powerful. But god, the lyrics suck. The vocals are bleh. Just shiny, muscly testosterone.
Deeper thoughts (context): This may be the best any “hair-metal” or 80’s jock rock album gets from me.
Score: 2.9 (3)
Number of albums left to review: 969
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 18
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 14 (including this one)
3
Nov 01 2024
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The Gershwin Songbook
Ella Fitzgerald
General impression: beautiful, classic, essential, but not for three hours straight. Or even two.
Detailed review: I’m keeping this in my library because I do feel like it’s an essential document of a powerful time in American cultural history. One of the greatest American singers performing songs by one of the greatest American songwriting teams. The production is lush and lavish. If you’re at all inclined to appreciate older forms of popular music, what’s not to like? It’s pristine, it’s classy, it’s got so much personality. It’s just that this is a long-ass collection. It’s hard to imagine anyone loving an entire 3.5-hour listening session of this without getting bored or losing interest in some way. 5 for the quality of the music, and 2 for the listening experience of the album.
Deeper thoughts (context): if you don’t like this, you are not historically minded and/or you have no patience.
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 968
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 18
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 15 (including this one)
3
Nov 02 2024
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The Next Day
David Bowie
General impression: somehow one of Bowie’s best ever
Detailed review: This came out when I was first getting into David Bowie. I’d heard of him for a long time and heard a few songs, but when this came out it was the perfect catalyst for a deep dive. For that reason I will always hold this album, and particularly “The Stars Are Out Tonight,” in a special place.
Listening through the entire tracklist again was interesting. As “I’d Rather Be High” turned into “Boss of Me,” I was thinking, okay, well I guess the last half of the album isn’t on the same level. But it turned out, only “Boss of Me” gave me that impression. Song’s a dud. The rest of the tracks? Killer. Very few low points, and many many high points.
Deeper thoughts (context): I still haven’t listened to his ‘90s or ‘00s output, but it seems amazing he was able to come back with such a strong force with this album. And of course, Blackstar is one of my favorite albums of all time.
Score: 4.7 (5)
Number of albums left to review: 967
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 19 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 15
5
Nov 03 2024
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Madman Across The Water
Elton John
General impression: I love him, but as a whole, I only like this album.
Detailed review: Let’s get this out of the way — there are three perfect, 5/5 songs on this album: “Tiny Dancer” (obviously), “Levon,” and “Madman Across the Water.” These songs rule. The other six tracks, though, while featuring great arrangements and great singing, are merely good. There aren’t many hooks. “Razor Face” is okay, “Holiday Inn” is pretty good, “Indian Sunset” is cringey as hell, and the rest are pretty forgettable. I think the Elton/Bernie combo increased their hit rate as time went on, writing more memorable melodies. They’re some of the best songwriters ever. But on this earlier release, the quality isn’t very consistent.
Deeper thoughts (context): not really
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 966
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 19
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 16 (including this one)
General impression: I love him, but as a whole, I only like this album.
Detailed review: Let’s get this out of the way — there are three perfect, 5/5 songs on this album: “Tiny Dancer” (obviously), “Levon,” and “Madman Across the Water.” These songs rule. The other six tracks, though, while featuring great arrangements and great singing, are merely good. There aren’t many hooks. “Razor Face” is okay, “Holiday Inn” is pretty good, “Indian Sunset” is cringey as hell, and the rest are pretty forgettable. I think the Elton/Bernie combo increased their hit rate as time went on, writing more memorable melodies. They’re some of the best songwriters ever. But on this earlier release, the quality isn’t very consistent.
Deeper thoughts (context): not really
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 966
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 19
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 16 (including this one)
3
Nov 04 2024
View Album
Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
General impression: lush, wondrous and strange.
Detailed review: What is this? I’ve heard the name Mercury Rev before but never had enough to get properly curious. Apparently they’re somewhat connected with The Flaming Lips, mainly through the producer Dave Fridmann. Anyway, they do sound like the Lips, but they strike me as softer, sadder and a little more grounded. I fell in love with the first song immediately, and each track after it seemed to create its own little sound-world, an ability I adore in good bands.
I had to give this two listens, because I was very impressed on my first listen, but I’m wary about giving albums a 5 after only one cursory listen. After the second, my score has reduced a little, but I still remain very happy with the discovery of this album. It’s a lot more vibrant and creative than I expected, and I’ll definitely be returning to it.
Deeper thoughts (context): Time to dive into some more Mercury Rev albums, and this also might kick off a Flaming Lips phase too.
Score: 4.4 (4)
Number of albums left to review: 965
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 20 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 16
4
Nov 05 2024
View Album
1989
Taylor Swift
General impression: it’s good and I hate that
Detailed review: I just don’t like Taylor Swift, and I like her less as time goes on. But this album came out at a particular time in my life - mid-20s - and I can’t help but feel nostalgic for that time when I listen to 1989. The production is perfectly clear and crisp, and some of the songs on here — “Welcome to New York,” “Out of the Woods,” “Wildest Dreams” — are total hits. I have to be fair. This album is pretty great. If only Taylor Swift would go back to paying this much attention to her songcraft, instead of her “lore” and fanbase…
Oh and one more thing: I listened to “New Romantics” for the first time this listen. What a banger. Should’ve been on the main album.
Deeper thoughts (context): There’s a “Taylor’s Version” of this that I don’t care to even check out.
Score: 3.6 (4)
Number of albums left to review: 964
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 21 (including this album) (and only because you can’t simply ignore Taylor Swift, and if you’re going to listen to her at all this is the album)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 16
4
Nov 06 2024
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The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
General impression: love jazz, love Burton, this is not my thing
Detailed review: It’s a little too silly soundtrack-y. Like it sounds like it is meant to score some silly little scenes or something. It just isn’t really my vibe, maybe it’s because I haven’t explored or connected with this kind of subgenre before. I dunno. I adore Gary Burton’s vibraphone work but it’s really just the compositional style of this that leaves me cold.
Deeper thoughts (context): sorry
Score: 2
Number of albums left to review: 963
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 21
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 17 (including this one)
2
Nov 07 2024
View Album
Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
General impression: It’s like, minimalist blues?
Detailed review: I’m really enjoying this. It’s stripped down and simple in the best ways. It’s got perfect little riffs and some killer solos. The production is fucking pristine — everything sounds so crisp and distinct, and of course that is partly due to them being a power trio. I love a good trio. The first tune, “Waitin’ for the Bus,” absolutely rules. “Move Me on Down the Line” kicks ass with it’s solid bassline and main guitar lick motif. There also seems to be a pretty even balance between badass toughness and vulnerable emotion and sadness. Rock and blues, basically. I wonder if these guys made a better album? I’ll be impressed if they did. The only reason this isn’t getting a 5 is because it’s not really my favorite style.
Deeper thoughts (context): I literally have only ever known “La Grange” and maybe just heard/absorbed a few others. Blues rock is a genre I’m pretty ignorant in. It’s not a mood I get very often, but I like it when I’m listening to it.
Score: 4
Number of albums left to review: 962
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 22 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 17
4
Nov 08 2024
View Album
Being There
Wilco
General impression: One of the old favorites. Wilco in “rock revue” mode.
Detailed review: I remember coming across this CD in like a Barnes & Noble or something back in the day and being intrigued by the positive comments I read, noticing that it had received a five-star rating (from what, who knows). I’d been curious about Wilco after reading about A Ghost is Born and Sky Blue Sky when those came out. Being a greedy CD-buyer, I always felt like double CDs were more worth the money, so I was eager to try this one out. To this day, I think many of these tracks are classics: “Misunderstood,” “Far Far Away,” “Monday,” “Red-Eyed and Blue,” “What’s the World Got In Store,” “Say You Miss Me,” “(Was I) In Your Dreams,” “The Lonely 1”… that’s almost half the album right there. I was thinking, since it’s not in my top 3 Wilco albums, that maybe it would be a 4. Nope, it’s a 5. In fact, maybe it is in my top 3? I’ll have to reevaluate after I listen to Summerteeth.
Deeper thoughts (context): really an early sign that Wilco was the real deal and in it for the long haul.
Score: 5
Number of albums left to review: 961
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 23 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 17
5
Nov 09 2024
View Album
A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Coldplay
General impression: still rules. The only Coldplay album you need.
Detailed review: Given the way Coldplay’s career has gone, I sometimes expect to return to their early work and find that I’ve lost some esteem for it. Not the case. This is a truly excellent soft rock album whose main appeal is simply that it’s a collection of excellent songs. Good lyrics, good music, good riffs, clean production that stays out of the way. “Politik,” “Clocks,” “Daylight,” the title track, and “Amsterdam” are stone-cold classics, and the rest of the songs are almost as good. The album is introspective and moody, tinged with a tiny streak of wonder and hope. I love it at least as much as I always have.
Deeper thoughts (context): On the production — I realized that my main issue with most things Coldplay have done since this album is the overproduction of their studio recordings. It’s like they got big, and got a taste of a big budget, and got in the habit of getting carried away in the studio. I wish they’d go back to a focus on good songwriting and little else.
Score: 4.8 (5)
Number of albums left to review: 960
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 24 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 17
5
Nov 10 2024
View Album
Seventh Tree
Goldfrapp
General impression: quite nice
Detailed review: This is a lovely little indie-pop record. Having never listened to Goldfrapp, but understanding in context that they’re more of a synth-pop band, I didn’t expect this to be so measured and sophisticated. I liked the quieter songs better, like “Eat Yourself.” Liked the poppier tracks less, like “Happiness.” I may return to this at some point, though admittedly I’m not in a rush to. It’s just kind of a nice, breezy thing.
Deeper thoughts (context): I have none.
Score: 3.2
Number of albums left to review: 959
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 24
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 18 (including this one)
3
Nov 11 2024
View Album
Here, My Dear
Marvin Gaye
General impression: soulful and very interesting
Detailed review: I really loved reading about the making of this album while I listened to it. How many other albums have been created primarily to pay alimony to a divorced spouse? Just the idea of - “well, I’m making this for you because I’ve been ordered by a court to, and I’m bitter about it, but I might as well use this time to get out all the feelings I’ve ever had about our relationship and breakup” - it’s pretty wild. It also means that the songs are often meandering and pathetic, but still, it’s never boring. “Anger” was intense and passionate. “Sparrow” was absolutely gorgeous. And “A Funky Space Reincarnation” is fun just to witness the paradigm shift Star Wars was having on all different art forms. Okay, so this album doesn’t have very many hits to play back. But the story behind it, the lush, beautiful, layered soul and R&B, and the uniqueness of its concept and recording make it a fascinating document.
Deeper thoughts (context): I’m excited to listen to What’s Going On? and other Gaye albums, because he’s an interesting artist who led an interesting life.
Score: 3.9
Number of albums left to review: 958
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 25 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 18
4
Nov 12 2024
View Album
Figure 8
Elliott Smith
General impression: incredible songwriter. An album quite full of life for being someone’s final album before an early death.
Detailed review: I’m ashamed that it’s taken me this long to listen to an Elliott Smith album. Especially because I just fell in love with it at first listen… This album is full of catchy and wonderfully written songs. I love Smith’s way with a chord progression. And despite being really well-produced, with all kinds of flourishes and depth and layers, this is an album that would probably be just as good if it was just demos. At least the production backs up the songs instead of getting in their way. “L.A.” is amazing and you can totally see Smith’s influence on people like Christopher Owens. This review isn’t really going anywhere, mainly because I’m just a little bowled over from loving the album.
Deeper thoughts (context): I definitely want to listen to his whole discography now.
Score: 5
Number of albums left to review: 957
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 26 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 18
5
Nov 13 2024
View Album
New Boots And Panties
Ian Dury
General impression: isn’t rape culture fun?
Detailed review: I guess the idea of a man being relentlessly horny and singing often about his penis used to be funny and cool in the 70s. In 2024 it’s gross, overdone, unnecessary, and there’s nothing clever or funny about it. I’ve been dreading getting to this album since reading the title. It’s not even musically clever, it’s good old boy UK rock and roll, touches of Elton, touches of Bowie, hints of the punk scene, and nothing unique or novel of its own.
Deeper thoughts (context): The only explanation I can think of for this being on the list is that the editor has a heavy UK rock bias; that much has been clear already from the fraction of the list I’ve listened to. But with the other artists, they were at least recognizable names from the pop music canon. I can understand this dude being famous in British culture, but that shouldn’t mean the rest of us need to listen to this album over any number of other albums from other countries’ music traditions.
Score: 1
Number of albums left to review: 956
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 26
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 19 (including this one)
1
Nov 14 2024
View Album
Teenager Of The Year
Frank Black
General impression: raw, playful, energetic alt-rock
Detailed review: While it’s missing some of the fiery weirdo energy from the Pixies material I know, it still has this sort of playful, off-the-cuff urgency to it, like the songs had to be written and recorded before they faded or curdled into something lame. Some are really short, some are a more traditional length, and they all sound like they were made in the heat of rock ‘n roll inspiration. There’s like, some Elvis Costello to these songs, something a little more rooted in straightforward structures. The wacky energy comes mostly from Black’s vocals, which are sometimes sweet and measured and freaked out at other times. Admittedly none of the songs really stand out from the others, nor are they on the level of Pixies best tunes, but it’s still a good energy.
Deeper thoughts (context): I’m underrating this, honestly, because I enjoy it more than a 3. But I just don’t think it’s good enough for a 4, and it’s probably not a must-listen like Pixies albums are.
Score: 3.4
Number of albums left to review: 955
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 26
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 20 (including this one)
3
Nov 15 2024
View Album
Let England Shake
PJ Harvey
General impression: beguiling, strange, mysterious, compelling, timeless
Detailed review: This is such a strange album. Back when it came out, and was getting all the acclaim, I simply did not get it. The concept went over my head and none of the songs seemed catchy. I must have been too young. Now, thirteen years later, I’m very into the concept (probing the history of one’s country through its wars and conflicts) and pretty amazed at the musical approach. Reading up on PJ Harvey, she is obviously a Bowie-esque figure, switching up her approach and aesthetic with every album, never repeating herself, swinging for high-art impact. Still, I think I may need to listen to this album at least twice through before I can properly rate it! It just seems so dense; I’ll want to read through the lyrics and think more deeply about the songs. I’m still uncertain about giving it a perfect 5/5, even though its artistry impresses me so. We’ll see after my second listen.
Deeper thoughts (context): After two listens I still find it mostly a cerebral exercise; it’s heartbreaking conceptually but my heart doesn’t feel broken, if that makes sense.
Score: 4
Number of albums left to review: 954
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 27 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 20
4
Nov 16 2024
View Album
Tommy
The Who
General impression: pretty awesome for being the “first rock opera”…but needs trimming
Detailed review: I was pretty excited to listen to this, and was a little surprised upon research that this came out before Who’s Next. I thought it would’ve been later in their discography. But whatever. Anyway, I wanted to take it seriously so I read up on its general storyline and then read lyrics along with listening. I think it’s a pretty great and clever story, to be honest, and doesn’t rest on cliches like it could’ve as a “hero’s journey.” I definitely felt like there were a lot of unnecessary filler tracks to move the story along, and I would personally cut 8 of the 23 tracks. I’m going to do that in my music library and listen again, and I bet I’ll love it more as a 15-track album. That doesn’t count for rating it though, so I’ll just give it a 4.
Side note: the casual fun of “Fiddle Around” and the “We forsake you / Gonna rape you” bit of the last song is truly horrifying. Maybe I’m a pearl clutcher but dayum!
Deeper thoughts (context): Apparently there are 5 Who albums on this list, so I guess I’ll have a good sense of their discog by the end of this.
Score: 4
Number of albums left to review: 953
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 28 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 20
4
Nov 17 2024
View Album
Ambient 1/Music For Airports
Brian Eno
General impression: groundbreaking ambient that still holds up
Detailed review: The fact that this album is seen as sort of an “origin” of ambient music may suggest that it’s rudimentary and has been surpassed. Not so. This is still one of the best albums in the genre and is honestly still the best gateway album for someone to get into ambient music. It’s hard to beat that beautiful and unparalleled piano motif in “1/1,” but the other three tracks differentiate themselves nicely. There’s comfort, there’s a little bit of eeriness, there’s piano, there are wordless vocals, there’s some cool synth work. It’s really all one needs for a nice ambient listen.
Deeper thoughts (context): I said it above. This is like the Kind of Blue for ambient.
Score: 5
Number of albums left to review: 952
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 29 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 20
5
Nov 18 2024
View Album
Celebrity Skin
Hole
General impression: it rocks, but
Detailed review: I’m excited to get to their previous album on this list, because I thought this album sounded great, and I can clearly hear their talent in performance and songwriting. The production is a little sterile, though, and while there were some great tunes (the first three were my favorite), nothing on here was really memorable enough for me to want to return to it. At best I would isolate the songs I liked best and come back to those on a playlist or something. I came away from my listen liking Hole and respecting them and Courtney Love, but I wouldn’t put this on my list.
Deeper thoughts (context): Courtney Love gets too much hate. It’s pretty fucked up. She was just a sharp, passionate rock musician.
Score: 3.4
Number of albums left to review: 951
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 29
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 21 (including this one)
3
Nov 19 2024
View Album
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
General impression: this is awesome
Detailed review: Kind of similar to my review thoughts on Ambient 1 - it’s crazy that the album that basically invented the new genre (heavy metal in this case) is still such a great example of that genre. It’s clearly more like heavy blues-rock, but all the touchstones of metal are right there.
Deeper thoughts (context):
Score: 4.2
Number of albums left to review: 950
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 30 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 21
4
Nov 20 2024
View Album
Live At The Star Club, Hamburg
Jerry Lee Lewis
General impression: energetic as hell. Side-eyeing this dude tho
Detailed review: Jerry Lee Lewis seems like he was a piece of shit. The reports of him being racist and refusing to shake black people’s hands is crazy and rich given that his whole jam seems to have been lifted from Black music. Only 8 out of the 13 or 14 supposed tracks on the list are on streaming services, so maybe I don’t have the full experience, but admittedly this set has a crazy ripping energy that a lot of rock bands in the following decades could only dream of. Still…this style of old-school rock ‘n roll has never been my favorite, and the unsavory aspects of him as a musician turn me off further. My appreciation of the energy makes me give it a 2.
Deeper thoughts (context): fuck this guy
Score: 1.7
Number of albums left to review: 949
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 30
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 22 (including this one)
2
Nov 21 2024
View Album
Hotel California
Eagles
General impression: Everyone’s saying it: “I just fuckin’ hate the Eagles, man.”
Detailed review: This gets one star and it’s entirely due to the riff on “Life in the Fast Lane.” That’s a good riff. Not good enough to elevate any of the rest of the material, though. And as much as I hate the Eagles in general, I hate “Hotel California” (the song) the most. Fuck that song. Fuck this album.
Deeper thoughts (context): This is one of my most biased reviews. Sorry not sorry. Read the general impression line again.
Score: 1
Number of albums left to review: 948
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 30
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23 (including this one)
1
Nov 22 2024
View Album
Winter In America
Gil Scott-Heron
General impression: beautiful, pure, human
Detailed review: After a bunch of albums that were merely good or interesting, how refreshing to get one that really bowls me over with its artistry. Oddly enough the album this most reminded me of was Songs of Leonard Cohen. Because the arrangements are clean and minimal, the pace is mostly slow, and it’s a space where the words and the human soul can enjoy the spotlight. I really felt this album and many of the songs just made me sit in reflective emotion. Of course Gil Scott-Heron has one of the most striking and memorable voices, and all it needs is some keyboard behind it.
Deeper thoughts (context): I want more
Score: 5
Number of albums left to review: 947
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 31 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23
5
Nov 23 2024
View Album
That's The Way Of The World
Earth, Wind & Fire
General impression: fire
Detailed review: I really need to fucking catch up so I’m giving myself permission to be short. This album was a jam. Great sounds and bops. Another listen could maybe upgrade it to a 5, but also maybe not.
Deeper thoughts (context): gonna listen to more of them
Score: 4.2
Number of albums left to review: 946
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 32 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23
4
Nov 24 2024
View Album
Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
General impression: now this is what I’m talking about
Detailed review: I never want to be the guy who’s like “oh I like their raw early stuff but I’m less interested in their adventurous, conceptual, artsy later material.” But this is easily the most I’ve liked PJ Harvey so far. “Missed,” holy shit, is an EASY 5-star song. “Man-Sized Sextet” is CRAZY. The second half is losing a little steam. I’m thinking probably another 4.
Deeper thoughts (context): favorite PJ so far
Score: 4.3
Number of albums left to review: 945
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 33 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23
4
Nov 25 2024
View Album
Car Wheels On A Gravel Road
Lucinda Williams
General impression: pro-level folk-country
Detailed review: I wanted to be harsh on this because I’m on a streak of 4s and that’s really boring. But this album is just so professionally and capably made that I can’t help but be charmed by it. The last third is my favorite - “Joy” is a really cool song. And the production and recording quality is just so pristine.
Deeper thoughts (context): Lucinda Williams walked so Waxahatchee could run, or something cool sounding
Score: 3.9
Number of albums left to review: 944
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 34 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23
4
Nov 26 2024
View Album
The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
General impression: visionary and amazing
Detailed review: I’ll be coming back to this for sure. I’m very impressed and a little bowled over by the experience of listening to this album. It’s got these natural swells of energy, and one minute it sounds very composed and the next minute it’s off on some improvisatory flight. Definitely needs more listens to be fully digested, but I’ve heard enough to confidently give this bad boy a 5.
Deeper thoughts (context):
Score: 5
Number of albums left to review: 943
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 35 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23
5
Nov 27 2024
View Album
Histoire De Melody Nelson
Serge Gainsbourg
General impression: cool 70s frenchness
Detailed review: I’m into it. The composition, minimalism, spoken-word vocals which I’m a sucker for in almost any situation, the tonality of the instruments, the whole concept, the influence it’s had on various musical genres and approaches. But I have to ding it for a few things. One, I’m not a prude about the subject matter but it’s the kind of story (older man falling for teenage girl because she makes him feel things again) that’s been played out in better, more interesting ways. Two, the mixing is god-awful. The vocals are way louder than the instruments. They need to be incorporated better. I kept wanting to turn up the volume to hear the music better but then his vocals were too loud. So yeah, that part sucks. If it was mixed better I’d give it a 4. Alas.
Deeper thoughts (context): seriously, the impact this album had on so much of the 90s music I love is crazy.
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 942
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 36 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 23
3
Nov 28 2024
View Album
Destroyer
KISS
General impression: fun. Better than I expected
Detailed review: I dunno, I’ve never been into KISS. It’s the face paint, I suppose. The sort of elaborate, trademarked image. Turns me off. But of course they’re better musicians than that impression gives them credit for. This album had a lot of great variety and I appreciated that. Some prog, some ballads, some straightforward rockers. Good stuff.
Deeper thoughts (context): nah
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 941
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 36
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 24 (including this one)
3
Nov 29 2024
View Album
16 Lovers Lane
The Go-Betweens
General impression: dreamy
Detailed review: This is nice. Firmly in that dream-pop, jangly alt-rock realm. It’s a little pillowy, so the songs aren’t really jumping up to grab my attention, but it’s nice. Sounds nice. It’s a good, intriguing intro to this band, but I don’t know if it’s amazing.
Deeper thoughts (context): Do they have better albums? I want to listen to them, but better. Maybe I’ll just stick to exploring the Smiths or something.
Score: 3.4
Number of albums left to review: 940
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 36
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 25 (including this one)
3
Nov 30 2024
View Album
Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
General impression: half charming, half annoying
Detailed review: Honestly, I think my general impression sums it up. I’m looking forward to another Beastie Boys album or two because overall I do find them appealing, but damn are half of their songs just obnoxious.
Deeper thoughts (context): no deeper than the music
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 939
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 36
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 26 (including this one)
3
Dec 01 2024
View Album
Surrealistic Pillow
Jefferson Airplane
General impression: this is the kind of 60s music you hear in Tarantino films
Detailed review: I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, mainly because I knew nothing about them going in. Turned out I did know “Somebody to Love.” This is some killer ‘60s psychedelia. Kinda wish I could go back in time to drop acid and spin this record. It’s just got a great, layered, punchy, vital kinda sound. Some of the tunes didn’t hit as well but most of them did.
Deeper thoughts (context): really intrigued to listen again, it might upgrade the score.
Score: 4.2
Number of albums left to review: 938
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 37 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 26
4
Dec 02 2024
View Album
Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
General impression: still just as punk after all these years
Detailed review: Again, an artist I should have known better but never got around to. I had this idea that as one of the first punk albums, it might have softened or faded with time. Been superseded by other, better punk bands or something. But no, this thing just sounded like a classic. I chose the best thing to do while listening, too, I played Tony Hawk Pro Skater. It was a rad time. I really enjoyed this.
Deeper thoughts (context): punk rock rules
Score: 4.4
Number of albums left to review: 937
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 38 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 26
4
Dec 03 2024
View Album
Moondance
Van Morrison
General impression: I respect it, don’t much enjoy it
Detailed review: Is it bad that I didn’t realize he was Irish until I read about the album? I dunno. It’s good for what it is. He has an objectively interesting voice, and a clear understanding of the requirements of making good soulful music. I can imagine when I’m listening to it that it touches several people deeply, but it doesn’t really vibrate with my internals.
Deeper thoughts (context): still curious about Astral Weeks though!
Score: 2
Number of albums left to review: 936
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 38
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 27 (including this one)
2
Dec 04 2024
View Album
I’m a Lonesome Fugitive
Merle Haggard
General impression: pretty much the prototype for old-school country
Detailed review: Not a country fan, but this is closer to the type I can enjoy…sometimes. I have to be in the right mood. Today I was not in the right mood. But I did listen to the whole thing, and I appreciate it for what it is.
Deeper thoughts (context): didn’t make me any more of a country enjoyer unfortunately
Score: 2
Number of albums left to review: 935
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 38
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 28 (including this one)
2
Dec 05 2024
View Album
Hard Again
Muddy Waters
General impression: he’s one of the best blues men ever
Detailed review: Like the last album, this one strikes me as basically a picture-perfect version of what it’s meant to be. God damn, that harmonica! And the guitar obviously, and Mr. Muddy’s perfectly bluesy voice. Why do white people even attempt the blues? It just doesn’t hit as deep. I dunno. Anyway, again, this isn’t really my preferred style, but damn if it doesn’t rock.
Deeper thoughts (context):
Score: 3
Number of albums left to review: 934
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 39 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 28
3
Dec 06 2024
View Album
Abraxas
Santana
General impression: it’s so fucking cool
Detailed review: Might give this a 5 even though I’m not exactly in the mood for this album right now. It’s just hard to deny the kickass composition and playing all across this album. Even beyond “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va,” which, come on, are fucking masterpieces, the rest of the album keeps the party going. I remember when I got my first Santana CD and loved the instrumental and Spanish language deep cuts even more than the pop hits. I guess that’s a tradition with Santana!
Deeper thoughts (context):
Score: 4.7
Number of albums left to review: 933
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 40 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 28
5
Dec 07 2024
View Album
Strangeways, Here We Come
The Smiths
General impression: lush and moody
Detailed review: I’ve started to fall in love with the sound of The Smiths. There was some major bias to overcome, because most of what I’ve read about Morrissey has just annoyed me. But come on, he’s obviously not the main driver behind this band’s good material. His voice fits the music really well, and his wistful delivery works for me. But it’s really all about the composition and performance of the music. Johnny Marr, baby. I feel like I could live in these songs. The guitar tones. The chord progressions. I’d have been way way into this if I was a teenager in the 80s. This must be what the “emo kids” of that time listened to.
Deeper thoughts (context): I should probably revisit Meat is Murder because I think I only gave it a 3. I’d give it a 4 at least now just because I’m starting to love what they do.
Score: 4
Number of albums left to review: 932
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 41 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 28
4
Dec 08 2024
View Album
Guitar Town
Steve Earle
General impression: country-rock preceding “alt-country”
Detailed review: Ugh, I hate this dorky country sound. I can barely stomach it when it’s coming from Springsteen and he’s not even country. I can’t deny that he’s talented and I imagine if you like this style, you probably love this album. But it’s very much not for me.
Deeper thoughts (context):
Score: 1
Number of albums left to review: 931
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 41
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 29 (including this one)
1
Dec 09 2024
View Album
Foxbase Alpha
Saint Etienne
General impression: now this is some good pop.
Detailed review: This strikes me as landing somewhere between Beck and Air. It’s mostly breezy dance-pop, with a sort of minimalist bent, and samples of dialogue and spoken-word adding to a collage-like feel. It’s right up my alley for pop, and I’m definitely interested in diving into their whole discography. Also, it’s really cool that I got this album assigned just a few days before they release a new album.
Deeper thoughts (context): They must be underrated. In my world, they’d have become a bigger influence on other musicians.
Score: 4.3
Number of albums left to review: 930
Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 42 (including this one)
Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 29
4
Dec 10 2024
View Album
Come Away With Me
Norah Jones
Beautiful, nostalgic, gets a little goopy at the end. Would still consider it a must-listen. (#43)
3
Dec 11 2024
View Album
All Directions
The Temptations
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” is one of the greatest songs ever recorded. The rest of the songs are good too. Must listen #44.
4
Dec 12 2024
View Album
The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
Now this is the kind of country-rock that I really love. I can picture California in 68/69, mostly from reading Inherent Vice, and these guys populate that vision perfectly. The pedal steel all over this album is freakin’ heavenly. Definitely a must-listen - #45.
4
Dec 13 2024
View Album
Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle
Bill Callahan
Love Bill Callahan. There’s something about his music that is so elusive and mysterious despite being so straightforward. His songs meander and wander down strange avenues. His lyrics are extremely poetic and of course, there’s that voice. This isn’t my favorite album I’ve heard by him but it is truly excellent. Must listen #46.
4
Dec 14 2024
View Album
Aja
Steely Dan
Yeah, I’m just going to rate this before I even give it a fresh listen. One of Steely Dan’s best albums — it’s not my personal favorite (that would be Pretzel Logic) but it’s still a 5-star masterpiece. I do think “Deacon Blues” is my favorite song by them, it’s such a knockout. Easy must-listen. #47.
5
Dec 15 2024
View Album
Da Capo
Love
Very cool sound. I liked this a lot. It seems like they have another album that’s even more acclaimed, so I’m excited to hear that one. I enjoyed this but I’m not sure if it’s a must-listen.
3