441
Albums Rated
3.69
Average Rating
40%
Complete
648 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1970s
Favorite Decade
Folk
Favorite Genre
other
Top Origin
Cheerleader
Rater Style ?
98
5-Star Albums
13
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Third
Soft Machine
|
5 | 2.43 | +2.57 |
|
Dr. Octagonecologyst
Dr. Octagon
|
5 | 2.7 | +2.3 |
|
Yank Crime
Drive Like Jehu
|
5 | 2.7 | +2.3 |
|
Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
|
5 | 2.71 | +2.29 |
|
Scream, Dracula, Scream
Rocket From The Crypt
|
5 | 2.77 | +2.23 |
|
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx
Raekwon
|
5 | 2.86 | +2.14 |
|
White Light / White Heat
The Velvet Underground
|
5 | 2.88 | +2.12 |
|
Music Has The Right To Children
Boards of Canada
|
5 | 2.91 | +2.09 |
|
Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
|
5 | 2.97 | +2.03 |
|
Felt Mountain
Goldfrapp
|
5 | 3 | +2 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hotel California
Eagles
|
1 | 3.6 | -2.6 |
|
Definitely Maybe
Oasis
|
1 | 3.52 | -2.52 |
|
Bat Out Of Hell
Meat Loaf
|
1 | 3.44 | -2.44 |
|
Urban Hymns
The Verve
|
1 | 3.36 | -2.36 |
|
Blur
Blur
|
1 | 3.33 | -2.33 |
|
Come Find Yourself
Fun Lovin' Criminals
|
1 | 2.92 | -1.92 |
|
Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite
Maxwell
|
1 | 2.91 | -1.91 |
|
Brutal Youth
Elvis Costello
|
1 | 2.82 | -1.82 |
|
Guitar Town
Steve Earle
|
1 | 2.81 | -1.81 |
|
I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail
Buck Owens
|
1 | 2.81 | -1.81 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Dylan | 6 | 4.67 |
| Brian Eno | 4 | 4.5 |
| The Cure | 3 | 4.67 |
| Radiohead | 3 | 4.67 |
| Wilco | 2 | 5 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 2 | 5 |
| The Velvet Underground | 2 | 5 |
| Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds | 2 | 5 |
| David Bowie | 4 | 4.25 |
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 4.25 |
| Leonard Cohen | 3 | 4.33 |
| Steely Dan | 3 | 4.33 |
| U2 | 3 | 4.33 |
| Beatles | 5 | 4 |
5-Star Albums (98)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
The Verve
1/5
ugggggGH. I don’t have the patience for this! This list is making me hate Britpop.
2 likes
The xx
2/5
The xx’s first album is their best contribution to music, and even that is a little boring and barely a must-listen. This? I mean it sounds nice. I guess if you were a big fan, it would have been exciting to hear them get a little more dancey or whatever. But there’s nothing about this that screams influential or iconic or standout in any major way.
2 likes
Wilco
5/5
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
1 likes
Wilco
5/5
Love this album so much. It’s all about the production; just those dry and crispy guitar bits with the lush vocals and strings…the way this album *sounds* deserves 5 stars and that’s not even talking about the songs. Must-listen #66.
1 likes
Mylo
4/5
Given the fact that this is an artist I’ve never heard of, with a terrible album title and ugly cover, and the reviews didn’t bode well, I expected a lot worse. In fact, I actually enjoyed this a lot, and will keep it in my library and return to it. It’s a real precursor to a lot of the more expansive genre of downtempo and lo-Fi hip-hop beats that’s prevalent these days. Think Emancipator, Gold Panda etc. But overall I do think it has a more niche appeal and won’t be for everyone, so this is the rare 4 star album I won’t assign the must-listen label. Still - if you like chill electronic stuff you’ll probably enjoy this.
1 likes
4-Star Albums (178)
1-Star Albums (13)
All Ratings
Amy Winehouse
4/5
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.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
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.
Black Sabbath
3/5
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.
Beatles
4/5
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.
Bob Dylan
5/5
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.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
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.
Jeru The Damaja
4/5
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.
Boston
5/5
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.
R.E.M.
4/5
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.
The Black Keys
4/5
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.
Madonna
2/5
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.
T. Rex
2/5
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.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
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! 🤷
Adele
3/5
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.
Cornershop
3/5
Dig it. Scratches the Beck itch. Doesn’t really maintain its appeal for the whole album, though.
Leonard Cohen
5/5
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.
Elvis Presley
3/5
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.
3/5
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.
Soft Machine
5/5
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.
Snoop Dogg
4/5
The Smiths
3/5
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.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
4/5
What a mood, what an interesting mood. Blues but wonky.
Iron Maiden
4/5
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.
Super Furry Animals
4/5
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.
The Cars
5/5
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.
Venom
2/5
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.
Foo Fighters
3/5
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)
Julian Cope
3/5
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)
Solange
4/5
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
The War On Drugs
5/5
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
Sonic Youth
5/5
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
Van Halen
3/5
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)
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
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)
David Bowie
5/5
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
Elton John
3/5
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)
Mercury Rev
4/5
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
Taylor Swift
4/5
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
Astor Piazzolla
2/5
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)
ZZ Top
4/5
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
Wilco
5/5
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
Coldplay
5/5
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
Goldfrapp
3/5
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)
Marvin Gaye
4/5
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
Elliott Smith
5/5
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
Ian Dury
1/5
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)
Frank Black
3/5
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)
PJ Harvey
4/5
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
The Who
4/5
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
Brian Eno
5/5
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
Hole
3/5
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)
Black Sabbath
4/5
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
Jerry Lee Lewis
2/5
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)
Eagles
1/5
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)
Gil Scott-Heron
5/5
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
Earth, Wind & Fire
4/5
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
PJ Harvey
4/5
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
Lucinda Williams
4/5
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
Charles Mingus
5/5
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
Serge Gainsbourg
3/5
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
KISS
3/5
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)
The Go-Betweens
3/5
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)
Beastie Boys
3/5
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)
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
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
Sex Pistols
4/5
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
Van Morrison
2/5
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)
Merle Haggard
2/5
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)
Muddy Waters
3/5
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
Santana
5/5
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
The Smiths
4/5
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
Steve Earle
1/5
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)
Saint Etienne
4/5
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
Norah Jones
3/5
Beautiful, nostalgic, gets a little goopy at the end. Would still consider it a must-listen. (#43)
The Temptations
4/5
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” is one of the greatest songs ever recorded. The rest of the songs are good too. Must listen #44.
The Flying Burrito Brothers
4/5
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.
Bill Callahan
4/5
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.
Steely Dan
5/5
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.
Love
3/5
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.
Arcade Fire
3/5
It’s pretty good. Some songs, like “Neon Bible” and “Intervention” are very grand and exciting. I enjoyed the chemistry and performance of the band, but the songs not as much. I like it but I wouldn’t call it a must-listen, partly because they have at least 2 albums I would say that about.
Ramones
2/5
I like their versions of girl-group 60s pop, like “I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend,” which sounds like the basis for the power-pop that I love these days. And I can’t really be too mad about the Ramones because I love that CBGB-centric scene they helped usher in. But the more officially punk sounding songs on this album are boring as hell. Seriously if you skip through and listen to the first two seconds of every song, you’ll notice how they sound exactly the same. The Sex Pistols album was way better as a foundational punk statement IMO.
Air
4/5
This is cool. If I was coming at it objectively, I’d probably lower the score, but I’m a total mark for dreamy instrumental music. Must-listen? Ehhhhhhh, probably not.
The Fall
4/5
Breath of fresh air after the Ramones album. Now this is the kind of punk I like: ill-tempered, brash, rough-edged, just wants to get off work and head for the beer. I’m sure there are better Fall albums but this is the first one I’ve listened to, and I’m glad I started with their first so I can see where they go from here. Sure, it’s a must-listen, #48.
The Last Shadow Puppets
3/5
Now this is interesting. Real supergroup energy. I was mildly surprised to learn it was Owen Pallett who did the strings and orchestration. Still, given the people involved, I’m a little let down because it never really transcends its pastiche vibes. Not a must-listen. Arctic Monkeys’ first two albums would get a higher score from me.
4/5
It’s a great album held back from being a perfect album by the second side being a big downgrade from the first side. But it is a must-listen (#49).
FKA twigs
2/5
Not really my thing. I’ve tried multiple times over the years. Not a must-listen.
System Of A Down
3/5
Wacky and insane. Enjoyably weird and intense. Not a must-listen though.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
3/5
This is one that’s difficult for me to rate. On one hand, I really appreciate the band’s prodigiousness at playing their instruments and crafting songs. They sounds like total pros on this debut album, and the solos totally rule. There are also some classics on here; “Tuesday’s Gone” and “Free Bird” are top-notch. But on the other hand, Southern rock as a genre has done damage to rock as a whole. It’s done damage to American culture, for godssake. I feel like it would be difficult for a lot of future people to listen to and enjoy it wholeheartedly. Maybe I’m just in a bad mood today. I do like Lynyrd Skynyrd better than the goddamn Eagles, at least. But, ugh. Best I can do is a 3 and withhold the “must-listen” designation.
The Stone Roses
5/5
Wow, very impressed with this album. I feel like I understand 90’s British music a lot better after listening to it — it’s like all the Britpop bands tried, and failed, to copy this album. Definitely a must-listen and maybe I’m starry-eyed but I’m giving this a 5… #50
X-Ray Spex
4/5
Much more interesting and fun than the Ramones and some of the other late 70s punk I’ve come across. Sure, this is a must-listen, if nothing else than for the thrill of a creative early punk album. #51
Cee Lo Green
2/5
Maybe if CeeLo had been able to maintain the reputation he had in the mid-late 00s, this list placement would make sense. But dude’s a rapist and his rep plummeted appropriately. Listening to it now, I don’t know why anyone would choose this over OutKast, Andre 3000, Erykah Badu, Janelle Monae, Big Boi, Killer Mike, you know, the keystones of Southern soulful hip-hop.
Buena Vista Social Club
5/5
Wow! This is beautiful, human, romantic, cinematic music. It’s hard not to swoon while listening to it. There is such a potent sensuality all through the tracklist. I didn’t know I enjoyed Cuban music so much. Definitely a must-listen. (#52)
Khaled
2/5
This is pretty interesting, especially when it’s more based in what sounds like the authentic, traditional styles of Khaled’s home region. The first track rules, then the tracklist is pretty up and down with more generic pop bits and more fiery pieces taking turns. Can’t say I’d consider it a must-listen.
The Young Gods
2/5
Audacious and bold. Also ugly and punishing. I admire its qualities, but I do not enjoy them. Not a must-listen in my book.
Doves
2/5
It’s nice. Doesn’t give me anything I don’t already get from Coldplay, U2, Keane, etc. Starts to drag by the second half; this kind of music doesn’t really deserve 6-minute songs IMO. Not a must-listen.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Amazing. I’m starting to be biased with Dylan… I loved the sound of this record and some of the longer drawn out songs. Sounded especially good on my headphones. Must-listen #53!
The Youngbloods
4/5
Pretty neat. I’m starting to really love the intersection of psych and country from the late 60s. Also cool to hear the original “Darkness Darkness.” I’d call this a must-listen. #54
Leonard Cohen
4/5
Wow… I really want to dive deeper into Cohen’s discography. I’ve really only mainly listened to the first album and now this, haha. It’s crazy that this came out the same year as Blackstar. I still prefer that album, and I definitely think I’ll only listen to this when I’m in certain moods and that’s why I won’t give it 5 stars. But damn, it’s pretty amazing and definitely a must-listen. #55
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
This will be blasphemous to a lot of people but I’ve never been into Bob Marley’s music or mainstream reggae in general. There have been some dub-influenced artists and sounds that I’ve enjoyed quite a lot but Marley’s style strikes me as (sigh, again, sorry) basic. I feel nothing. The lyrics are much more interesting to me than the music. Plenty of others, I’m sure, consider this a must-listen, and I am tempted to call it one for the cred. Gotta be true to myself though. It’s merely fine.
Kate Bush
3/5
Pretty good. I enjoyed the sound, production, and performances. None of the songs seemed to stick though.
The Clash
4/5
Easily my favorite of the early punk albums I've been exposed to, and for one simple reason: these guys know how to write songs. Not only that, but there's a wonderful variety across the tracklisting, of tempo, of feel, etc. I still can't give it a 5 because I still struggle to love basic punk music, but this was really great, and I'd call it a must-listen. #56
Stereolab
4/5
Very very cool. Definitely influential. Unique. Novel. Great style, cool tunes, good grooves. But there’s *something* holding me back from giving it 5 stars. Maybe it’s just how understated it is. I’d rather be an underrater than an overrater though, so yeah, it’s just 4 stars. This might be one of the ones whose score I’ll raise at the end of the project. We’ll see. It’s still a must-listen! #57
Billy Joel
5/5
I feel like such a dweeb but I gotta give this album a 5 simply because it has “Vienna” and like 5 other all-time great songs. It’s just so good! Must listen #58
The Verve
3/5
Not too bad. I still hate how similar all these British rock bands of the 90s sounded. I’ll give them a few more points than I’d give your average Blur or Oasis album though — the really atmospheric, woozy space-rock moments on this album were cool. Not a must-listen, though.
Paul McCartney
2/5
At several moments on this album, I thought, “Man, this is why McCartney’s one of the greatest songwriters of all time.” At an equal number of moments, I thought, “What the fuck is this goofy shit?” So much of this album sounded like first-take fuck-around practice takes.
Bob Dylan
5/5
So good. Is there a Dylan album I don’t like? We’ll see. So far, no. Another must-listen, another five-star album. #59
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
4/5
Very beautiful soothing stunning work. Only reason it doesn’t get 5 stars is that I have a hard time listening to it all at once without getting a little bored. Still awesome and a must listen #60
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Led Zeppelin was my favorite “classic rock” band for years. So it’s suprising even myself to say that I don’t think this is a 5-star album. It has some amazing tunes - obviously “Black Dog,” “Rock and Roll,” “When the Levee Breaks” and “Stairway to Heaven” — but I also think it has some low points. I’m not really into “Misty Mountain Hop” or “Four Sticks.” Still a must listen #61
Digital Underground
3/5
Meh. They don’t do anything that De La Soul didn’t do better. So I mean, it’s funny, catchy stuff, but kinda mid compared to their contemporaries based on what I know. Not a must-listen.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Huh, two Led Zep in a week, that’s interesting. Anyway, this is a better album than IV. It has more variations in texture and mood, and it has some gentility and mysticism that is very appealing. Every song is interesting in some way. Must-listen #62
Shuggie Otis
3/5
Pretty cool stuff. I liked how low-key it was. Just simple vibes. For better or worse, it all washed over me pleasantly, but didn't leave much of an impression.
The Avalanches
5/5
Everything about this album is amazing. Simply the way it was made, but also the execution, the bonkers ideas, the collage of so many different sources, the grooves, the layers…. Incredible album. Ushered in the new millennium for sure. Must listen #63.
Little Richard
3/5
You know, it’s pretty good. Well performed. The songs are catchy and fun. Dude’s got a good voice and good performance energy. It’s just that old-fashioned rock and roll is not my thing.
Gillian Welch
4/5
Knowing only that Welch is a singer of country/folk/Americana, I began my listen with skepticism; even when I can recognize good songwriting and performing talent, this isn’t typically the kind of music I like best. After a few songs, the album really started to win me over. Some of the songwriting on here is just stunning — I mean, “Everything is Free” by itself earns this album an entire star.
Must-listen #63.
Wire
4/5
Very cool punk album. Maybe my favorite early punk album? Still has some filler tracks, but it has a lot of variety which is nice. I’d call it a must-listen, sure. #65
David Bowie
3/5
The first 3-star Bowie album I’ve listened to. “Fame” is awesome, but the other songs just feel sterile. Why cover “Across the Universe” if you can’t improve on it somehow?
The Temptations
3/5
It’s aight. Nothing really stood out to me. I wasn’t really turned off by anything though, either, except for maybe the way track 3 dragged. Not a must-listen.
Wilco
5/5
Love this album so much. It’s all about the production; just those dry and crispy guitar bits with the lush vocals and strings…the way this album *sounds* deserves 5 stars and that’s not even talking about the songs. Must-listen #66.
The Specials
4/5
Very rad. Great intro to ska. The history of ska is pretty righteous. I didn’t read much about these guys or this album in particular but it was a very enjoyable listen. A must-listen? Sure! #67 I think….
Cream
3/5
Decent. Sounded good, well performed. The songs didn't really do much for me, though.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
4/5
It’s good! Good tunes, good performances. I’ll need to listen to this one more, but it’s staying in my library for sure. And it’s a must-listen, if nothing else, due to the introduction of three great songwriters. M-L #68.
Talvin Singh
3/5
Very interesting. I wonder how this strikes younger people who didn’t live through this time period. It is one of the most “1998-sounding” albums I’ve ever heard. Brings me back. However, I think it’s aged sort of poorly. I’d still call it a must-listen though, for the originality. #68
Jurassic 5
5/5
Incredible. One of the best first-listens to a hip-hop album I’ve ever had. This has gotta be one of the most crowd-pleasing rap albums ever? It’s generally positive, upbeat, they don’t swear much, the topics are thoughtful and not hedonistic (not that there’s anything wrong with the alternative IMO) and the beats and delivery are top-notch. I really struggle to imagine very many people disliking this. For me, it absolutely rules and will stay in my library and is a must-listen (#70?)
The Kinks
3/5
Pretty cool. Obviously foundational for a lot of the jangle pop kinda stuff that I like. But god was it sort of relentlessly jaunty. I dunno. I liked it more when it was on but since it ended I've felt no desire to go back to it. There's probably a better Kinks album.
Funkadelic
4/5
Funky as hell! I almost considered ordering a CD of this since it's not on streaming services for whatever stupid corporate or legal reason. I mean, it was Funkadelic's most commercially successful album! That kind of acclaim should make it a priority to stream for people. Whatever. Some of the tracks, particularly the slower ones or the rock-ish ones, didn't hit for me as much as the upbeat funk. Still, killer album. Must listen #71.
Adele
2/5
Ugh, Adele. I thought I would like this at least as much as 25, which I think I gave at least 3 stars to, but I don't think I do. I know this has her biggest hits on it, but it just bores the shit out of me. At least 25 had some really lush, soulful stuff. This is shallower.
Pulp
5/5
This might be one of the best British rock albums of the 90s. "Common People" alone puts this pretty high up there. I still don't know Pulp's discography very well, but this album is simply chock-full of vitality and creative passion. They reach for David Bowie heights and largely succeed. Excellent album, must-listen #72.
Rush
4/5
I mean, it's Rush, I love it by default. However, for all its acclaim, it's really never been my favorite Rush album. I think they've made better prog concept albums and I think they've made better less-conceptual albums. It's just that their instrumental abilities, performance style and sound make this a must-listen (#73), but I'd urge those who liked this to check out A Farewell to Kings or Hemispheres.
The Boo Radleys
2/5
Feels like every other album on this list is some ‘90s British band. Who really cares to remember The Boo Radleys these days? What made them any more special than Super Furry Animals, the Stone Roses, Pulp? Nothing. I appreciate that they were a good band who made some nice sounding rock tunes and had some variety to them, but that describes SO MANY artists from the same place and time period. So why would I listen to this over any of the other aformentioned artists? What do they have to offer me that’s novel, unique, different or special? Seemingly nothing.
The Replacements
4/5
Kicks ass. Great punk rock. Not perfect, but scrappy, full of energy, and with enough variety not to get bored. Must-listen #74.
Beatles
3/5
I was going to give this four stars, because duh, it’s The Beatles, but damn, the second disc especially is just unnecessary. So it’s gonna be one of those three-star must-listens (I still think it’s a must-listen, #75).
Gang Starr
4/5
It’s like classical hip-hop. It’s so straightforward and breezy. No overthinking or complexity. As such it can be a little less exciting, but the skills of DJ Premier and Guru make up for that. Really fun and classic. Must-listen #76.
The Clash
5/5
Amazing album. I would probably agree with those who would say this is the best album to come out of the punk scene. Their adventurousness is pretty impressive, and the conviction with which they play is palpable. Must Listen #77
The Band
4/5
Just great songwriting. Maybe not my favorite sound, but it’s played really well and sounds good — so many layers! Definitely interested in revisiting this. Must Listen #78
Steely Dan
3/5
I love Steely Dan, but they really developed the qualities I love most from them on later albums. I wouldn’t say this is a must listen, especially compared to other work by them.
The Vines
2/5
Pretty obnoxious rock posturing. There’s some good energy and a decent sound, but for the most part it just doesn’t hit. There are better avenues for this kind of thing.
Holger Czukay
4/5
Very interesting and adventurous. This kind of thing definitely looks forward to like, Talk Talk’s evolution and otherwise dreamy, progressive pop composition. Some bits I did not like — for instance, the first song. The rest of it I thought was very listenable, and I’ll be going back to it. If it’s a must listen it’s #79 lol
Joan Armatrading
4/5
Good songwriting. Loved the blend of genres. Felt fresh for early 70s. Joni Mitchell but more rock and funk. Very cool. Must listen #80.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
Fine. Goes down smooth. I find it difficult to listen to the American rock boys who aren’t Springsteen because they just make me want to listen to Springsteen. I thought this was a really nice, good vibes, light rock album, but nothing really blew me away.
Mariah Carey
3/5
I’ll always have a small attachment to 90s R&B, I don’t know why. I think it was just being a kid and hearing this stuff on the radio and being subject to the overt emotionality of it. I still respond to it, even though it’s not anything I really ever seek out. This album was like the last one, didn’t blow me away, but went down smooth.
Kanye West
4/5
Of all artists to feel conflicted about, Kanye West might win the Most Conflicted About award. I really used to be a huge fan, and this album was my favorite. I haven’t listened to it in a long time, because he is way past “off the deep end,” and I really don’t fuck with Nazis. But most of the things I used to love about this album, particularly its production and certain verses and samples, I still love. It just feels tainted now; it used to be a victory and now it’s a tragedy. The fact that Kanye used to be self-aware to such an extent just hurts to witness. He could have responded to the feelings that created this album in a better way. Oh well. He enjoyed being a douchebag, an asshole, a scumbag, too much and disappeared into that persona. RIP. Anyway, despite no longer feeling like it’s a five-star album, I do think it’s still a must-listen, if nothing else than as a cautionary tale. #81.
Manic Street Preachers
5/5
I guess I’m revising my stance on Britpop. Who knows what it really is? I thought Oasis and Blur were emblematic of the scene at large, and it turns out that may not be the case. Whatever. I LOVED this album. It has elements of U2, Nirvana, Soundgarden, Radiohead. It’s a wonderful blend of rock sounds from all across the spectrum. The lyrics are downers even when the songs are anthems. The guitars are loud and interesting. The singer freakin’ wails. This was my introduction to the Manics and I may be in for a long process of discovering their discography. So good. Five stars. Must-listen #82.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
Surprised how little I enjoyed this. I dig Costello’s vibe but the songs and the performances just did not strike me.
The United States Of America
3/5
Look, I love weirdness. I always give at least one whole point for weirdness. The problem with this album is that Jefferson Airplane exists, and The Beatles, and all those other psychedelic experimenters. I honestly thought (and keep in mind: I love weirdness) that the more straightforward songs on this album were the best parts. Kudos to them for being weird, but this is a meh listening experience.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
This was pretty good. I like it better than Exodus.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
5/5
Wow! Another stunner I’ve never heard of before. This album was bursting with rock and roll energy, both on the traditional and blues-based side and on the creative, exploratory side. Clearly a forerunner for punk and post-punk and even today, a clear influence on Geordie Greep/Black Midi. Somehow both forward-thinking and rooted in familiarity. Excellent rock performances. Was very pleased with this. Must-listen #83.
Pretenders
4/5
Another excellent album, I’ve always wanted to go back and explore the beginning of The Pretenders. This rocks out of the gate with pure confidence, how do you not love Chrissie Hynde’s delivery? Especially on the first couple tracks. There are all kinds of creative, angular rock production choices on this thing. Only ding I give it is for being a little long-winded and not keeping up the consistency the whole way through. Still, great album and a must-listen, #84.
Beastie Boys
3/5
This is certainly more enjoyable AND more interesting than Licensed to Ill. The instrumentals are a big deal; you can hear their influence echoing over the next decade. I still mostly find the Beastie Boys themselves obnoxious. Their voices are not pleasant. The lyrics can be funny and clever sometimes, though.
The Monks
3/5
Pretty cool album. I think the story behind it is cooler than the music itself. It’s good and listenable proto-punk but nothing really stood out to me. Worth listening to but not a must-listen.
Sly & The Family Stone
5/5
Wonderful album. Funky, righteous and radical. Top notch playing and musicianship and passion. No notes! Must listen #84 I think? Maybe 85… anyway yeah it’s amazing
Gene Clark
4/5
I was very impressed with this. Beautiful songwriting, performances, arrangements, and production. I am such a fan of this lush style and it’s cool hearing one of the earliest examples of it. The ONLY thing I would ding this album on is that it’s relentlessly sad and desperate in its tone. Sounds downright tragic at times. I’d have preferred at least one or two upbeat moments. But still, it’s a must-listen for sure, #86.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
Good album, not amazing. Good sound and production, some of the songs are amazing, "Heads Will Roll" is an all time classic, but it's not a must-listen album.
Depeche Mode
3/5
This album is very dour and downright depressing if you listen to the whole thing. They sound great and are influential to a number of bands I love, but few of the songs on this album were memorable, and yeah I really felt drained by the end of it.
Prefab Sprout
4/5
Really nice album that I have no idea how to rate. Sometimes it's cheesy, sometimes it's kinda funky, sometimes it rocks a little bit. It's definitely like, nerdy intelligent 80s pop, like Colour of Spring-era Talk Talk. Well shit, I love that album, so I guess this gets good points as well, even though it's not amazing per se. And sure why not, let's give it a "must-listen" designation -- #87 in my list so far.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Crazy that this is the first time I've listened to a full album by The Rolling Stones. It was good! Diverse. The stereo production was kinda crazy. I lost a little interest in the twangier tracks, and the title track was pretty raunchy, but it was all made up for by "You Can't Always Get What You Want." What a song! This was good, I would say it's a must-listen. #88.
Prince
5/5
Wow, incredible listen. Another one that I can't believe I put off for so long. This is definitely one of the most clear 5-star albums I've listened to yet! So many amazing songs. I'm going to listen to this again, a lot. Must-listen #89!
Randy Newman
4/5
Excellent. Great songs and lyrics. You kinda have to be into singer-songwriter stuff, but if you are, and if you can get into Newman’s voice, there’s no reason this is not a must-listen. Some of the lyrics really knocked my socks off. ML #90
Dr. Octagon
5/5
I guess there’s a bunch of prudes and pearl-clutchers on this album project, huh? Before listening I scrolled the reviews and they gave me a different expectation than what I actually listened to. This album features amazing beats and a really kick-ass, unique rap delivery. The lyrics are up and down, but who cares, really? They’re not basic or stupid, if anything they’re bursting with creativity. I was gonna give this a 4, but as I write this, I think it might be a 5, if nothing else than to even the scales haha. ML #91.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
Amazing songwriting, but still uneven. I don’t think these guys could make a perfect album because they just have different styles and don’t feel super unified. Still, this was very good. ML #92.
The Saints
3/5
Another punk project from a band I’ve never heard of. This had good energy and some decently diverse song structures and vibes. I could hear their influence going into more recent bands I know. Still, probably won’t come back to this.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
This is a hell of a lot better than the other album I got by them, Imperial something. Good songs. Good sound. Production is okay. I love “The Beat” and “Pump it Up.” I’m still skeptical of Costello overall but I think this is the album to hit up if you’re curious. ML #93.
The Cure
5/5
So gloomy, so grandiose, so self-assured. This is one of the easiest 5-star ratings I've given out and it's must-listen #94.
Fairport Convention
4/5
Ooh, I loved this. It was really cool to hear the early "british folk-rock" after falling so deeply for the 60s era American style, with Dylan and the like. I don't love it quite as much, but its sort of vital timelessness and edgy energy was lovely. Must-listen #95.
Soundgarden
5/5
Consistently awesome rock riffs + kickass rhythm section, particularly drums + honestly one of the top 3 rock vocalists of all time + an undeniable stone-cold classic hit ("Black Hole Sun") = this is a 5-star album. Wow it's good. Yes, it's long, but honestly I was surprised when I discovered that after the fact. It keeps up the quality, I think. I'm really not a huge grunge/hard rock fan in general, but selectively I enjoy things here and there...this might be the best grunge album. It's so good. Must-listen #96.
The Sonics
3/5
I dunno, it's pretty good. It's kinda fun to listen to. Like I don't see myself in any situations where I would itch to put this on, but if it's on I'm not rushing to switch it up. I actually love the lo-fi scrappy recording quality, it gives it a really early punk edge. There are a ton of covers and few of them are as good as their originals. I guess this is really just a 3-star album, but I think it's one of those weird 3-star must-listens...I do really think everyone should give this album at least one spin, it's worth at least that lol. ML #97
Cyndi Lauper
5/5
Kickass 80s pop record. Really this is up there with Talking Heads’ output around the same time. Energetic, confident delivery and sound, a lot of authentic, fun weirdness, and great tunes. Must-listen #98!
Quicksilver Messenger Service
3/5
As someone who likes 60s psychedelia, jam band shit, and patience-testing exercises, I like this. Do I love it? No. It’s one of those “hidden gems” you see record collectors pull out and can’t understand why they love so much. I enjoy it when it’s on but I can’t see myself returning to it.
U2
5/5
Wow, this might be their best album. I’ve always been ride-or-die for The Unforgettable Fire (and yeah, I’ll still give that one 5 stars when I get to it) but this one is just so consistently high quality throughout. The Edge’s jagged, almost funk guitar technique (though the music is far from funk) just propels you across the entire runtime. Wow, great listen. Must-listen #99.
Tears For Fears
5/5
Incredible album. I don’t know if we’ve ever had such sensitive, thoughtful, deliberate, artistic, professional hitmakers since Tears for Fears. Their commitment to the execution and final result of their product is awe-inspiring. The hits on this thing! “Shout,” “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” and “Head Over Heels,” are some of the best songs ever written, and the non-single tracks are just as deep and enjoyable. Must-listen #100!
Run-D.M.C.
4/5
Really really cool to listen to something that represents some of the earliest shifts in the sound of hip-hop. Come on; these beats are totally banging, and the rapping is charismatic as fuck. Maybe it’s a little one-note, but it’s still a must-listen, #101.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
4/5
I didn’t recognize the name and was ready to hate this. Turns out this guy’s like the proto-Dylan. Dylan’s cowboy older brother. I really liked most of this — some tracks seemed stupid and unnecessary but yeah most of it I thought was pretty essential American folk music. Loved it. Must-listen #102.
Donovan
4/5
Another late-60s psychedelic album knocking it out of the park. Like with the Jefferson Airplane album, it had some sort of long weird detours I didn’t love as much as some of the more immediate stuff, but it was still beautiful and wondrous most of the way through. Must-listen #103!
Blondie
4/5
Honestly, pretty great. This is up there with the Pretenders album I reviewed as really clever pop-rock that has ambitious musicality and great production. Some tunes didn’t hit like others, but the ones that did hit hard. Good stuff. Must-listen #104.
The Darkness
2/5
I hate his voice. Band plays well and is well produced. I like pastiche when it rises above the style it's copying... this is not that. This is cosplay. Some decent tunes and some hits. Otherwise, hard pass.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
1/5
What in the mid-90s white people is this shit. This is made so people who know nothing about hip-hop can be like "it's cool to hear rap that's like actual music!" Why listen to this instead of 311? At least they had personality.
Jimmy Smith
5/5
Rad and cool as shit. Nuff said. Must-listen #105.
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
Fun as hell. I was tempted to give it a 5, honestly, but I don’t know how often I’d return to any other track besides the obvious one. And I did listen to the 2022 remaster, which sounds amazing. Don’t know how earlier versions compare. Either way I loved this, it’s a must-listen. #106.
The Fall
3/5
I dunno. The sound was okay, not very edgy, kinda safe, though groovy and layered. The songs themselves didn't move me at all. I much preferred The Fall's first album when I got it earlier in this project.
Le Tigre
4/5
I’m being generous with a 4, and that’s because I like the casual way they deliver their conscious lyrics. It’s a little goofy and precious at times, and the instrumentals sometimes grate…but overall I think everyone should listen to this. Admittedly it’s catchy and crisp. ML #107
The Doors
4/5
This rules. Great band. You listen to them, especially the more well-known songs, and you can just picture a movie scene of someone doing too much drugs. Now that’s how you corner a market. It’s not a 5 because some songs don’t live up to the quality of some others. ML#108
The Verve
1/5
ugggggGH. I don’t have the patience for this! This list is making me hate Britpop.
Brian Eno
4/5
Really neat. Eno is a wizard. Must-listen #109.
The Prodigy
3/5
I dunno. It was enjoyable enough while it was on, but it’s just not a style I’ve ever been attracted to. I guess unless there’s really good rapping over top or something. Just very aggressive. Personally wouldn’t call it a must listen but I bet a lot of people love this.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Listening to this is like “…are we sure Dark Side is really the best Pink Floyd album?” Because god damn is it an album of sheer perfection. Those without the patience for the opening and closing tracks are simply wrong. This is one of the easiest 5-star ratings I’ve given out yet. Must-listen #110.
Bobby Womack
3/5
Really smooth and easy to listen to when it’s on. Like, it would be great to make dinner to. But it’s hard to really remember it after it’s finished. I still think everyone should listen to it. One of those weird 3-star must-listens (#111).
Madness
4/5
Wow, this is neat. It’s definitely a little overly jaunty at times, but I can’t give anything less than 4 stars to an album this musically interesting. A clear precursor to modern indie bands like Field Music, too. Must-listen #112.
Nine Inch Nails
5/5
Wow...this album was certainly angry, anxious, aggravated, pissed off, feral, despairing... and it was executed brilliantly. I'm not often in the mood for this kind of thing but I can't deny the craft and artistry that went into it. ML-113.
Frank Ocean
4/5
This is a great album, but the problem with it is that it has like four AMAZING songs, another four REALLY GOOD songs, and the rest is just nice, good, well performed. Like, it's consistently good, but some of it can't help but seem less good when right next to some legitimate masterpiece-level songs. Still a must listen! 114.
Neu!
5/5
Incredible, I definitely have to listen to their entire discography now. Very influential on basically all the electronic and instrumental artists I listen to right now. ML #115
The Rolling Stones
3/5
It’s fine. Fun to listen to. The Rolling Stones are an interesting band because they really nail it on vibes and attitude most of the time, but they don’t seem to have very many great songs. I enjoyed this album, especially “Street Fighting Man,” but I don’t feel the draw to revisit it.
The Streets
4/5
Pretty cool album. I will always appreciate albums that just straight up tell a story. They’re almost never perfect, but they do leave an impact by the end, and the “happy ending” on the last track was legitimately impactful. Admittedly he’s not a good singer, and the mundane details and straight delivery can get grating at times, but I still think this is an achievement in writing and execution. Must-listen #116.
Beck
4/5
Oh, Beck. This is a great album and a must-listen, but I personally believe that both of his other grab-bag releases, Guero and The Information, are better. Still, it’s hard not to appreciate the cleverness and creativity that this album is bursting with. ML #117.
Big Star
4/5
I was pretty close to giving this 5 stars, but on a second listen I was struck by how gloomy and ramshackle it is. Still, there is some incredible songwriting on here. Maybe the other Big Star records will get 5 stars, we’ll see! But yeah this is a very impressive piece of work, even if it gets a little dour. Must-listen! #118.
Elvis Presley
3/5
Meh. I honestly think most people will have absorbed enough Elvis songs by the time they’re of age that no Elvis album is truly a “must-listen.” I suppose this one is the closest, because it’s got a really killer and iconic album cover, and it’s pretty cool to hear him in the early days, cutting a debut, sounding hungry. But yeah, still not a must-listen.
Queen
5/5
You know what, fuck it, I’m giving this five stars. It’s the anti- “hotel California.” Where that song acted as a negative force dragging down the rest of the album into 1-star territory, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is good enough to round up this album to 5, even if it has some really dorky segments. Overall it’s just pure Queen! I will purchase a copy of this. Must-listen #119.
Gary Numan
5/5
Very cool, uncanny, strange, catchy, mysterious, alien. It’s pretty amazing that this album is seen as sort of the origin of synth-pop in a sense, and yet remains so unique and artistically potent. I listened to it twice and I still want to figure it out. Must-listen #120!
Meat Loaf
1/5
This shit is baffling. The title and cover are such misleading marketing. All my life I’ve seen them and figured it was some kind of early 1970s power metal or at least hard rock. No. This is Elton John with a touch of Springsteen and a sprinkle of The Who, with lyrical preoccupations less nuanced than Robert Plant’s. I mean compositionally the bigger songs are decent. Why does it feel like half the album is piano ballads though? That’s not very bat out of hell. I was going to give it a two but I’m just getting mad again thinking about it.
Mylo
4/5
Given the fact that this is an artist I’ve never heard of, with a terrible album title and ugly cover, and the reviews didn’t bode well, I expected a lot worse. In fact, I actually enjoyed this a lot, and will keep it in my library and return to it. It’s a real precursor to a lot of the more expansive genre of downtempo and lo-Fi hip-hop beats that’s prevalent these days. Think Emancipator, Gold Panda etc. But overall I do think it has a more niche appeal and won’t be for everyone, so this is the rare 4 star album I won’t assign the must-listen label. Still - if you like chill electronic stuff you’ll probably enjoy this.
Bad Company
3/5
Fine. I dunno. It sounds great. Good performers of this kind of rock music. It’s just too bad it got so oversaturated. Otherwise I’d feel more excited by this. It’s a good album. Not a must-listen IMO though.
Björk
5/5
Wow! This was incredible and easily the most I’ve ever enjoyed Björk. I’m going to tell people to start with this one if I ever get a chance. I’ve made a few passes at her discog over the years, but somehow never hit play on this one. You can really see where Thom Yorke got inspired for his own solo career. Anyway, the whole thing was beautifully produced, melancholic but also rapturous in its own way. Beautiful and interesting all the way through. M-L #121.
Yes
5/5
Fuck it, I love Yes. “Starship Trooper” earns this album its 5. This isn’t even my favorite Yes album, that would go to Close to the Edge, but this one has so many of the elements that I love them for. Anderson’s voice, Howe’s guitar, Squire’s bass. All incredible. That guitar lick all over “Starship Trooper” is so delicious. Anyway, again, I technically don’t think this is a perfect album but I still loved it so much. ML #122.
The Zombies
4/5
Good songs and sound but it’s missing something that would have pushed it to 5 territory. Some kind of edge. It’s a little up and down too. Otherwise, like the songs are great and obviously I love the genre. But yeah it’s merely really good, not perfect.
3/5
Very inconsistent. Some songs and their production are honestly pretty amazing. Some songs are total duds. Overall I’m just like….man a lot of bands in the 90s were stuck trying to revive already-dead styles from the 60s and 70s. I do like XTC and I will probably love some other albums if they come up. This one’s just okay.
Prince
4/5
Really cool. Hedonistic party of an album even if it's not as good as Purple Rain. I'm wondering, did any artists straight up sing "I want to fuck you" before Prince? Anyway, it rules and it's a must-listen. #123
The Bees
3/5
I forgot this was playing while it was on. That means it was pleasant enough for me not to notice, and not so good that I notice. Some bits I thoughts sounded nice but inessential. Decent background music, not memorable or necessary to listen to at all.
Youssou N'Dour
5/5
I love when world music pops up on this list, and I love Afro-pop. What a treat to hear something from the early stages of the genre. Must-listen #124
The xx
2/5
The xx’s first album is their best contribution to music, and even that is a little boring and barely a must-listen. This? I mean it sounds nice. I guess if you were a big fan, it would have been exciting to hear them get a little more dancey or whatever. But there’s nothing about this that screams influential or iconic or standout in any major way.
Van Halen
4/5
When I reviewed 1984, I said it was probably the highest rating I’d ever give to what I called “big penis rock.” Now, honestly I’m going to retract that. While I’m still not a massive fan of the style, the energy on this album is palpable and you do get a sense that they were uncovering something new by making hard rock so glitzy and shiny and over-the-top. So, sure. I’ll give this one a higher rating and a must-listen designation (#125 for me).
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
Beautiful album. It kept me calm while I mowed the lawn in the sun. He has an incredible voice and a delivery that is full of passion and pathos. I dare anyone to listen to this and not feel swept away at some point. I’m taking away a point because it’s a little long and meandering and there aren’t any huge memorable hits, but it’s still a wonderful album and a must-listen. #126
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
3/5
I really like post-punk, jangle pop, etc. I like all the subgenre styles this band trades in. So it’s really saying something that I’m rating this so low…it’s just kind of bland. It doesn’t sound like they’re trying very hard to stand out among the pack. Sometimes the guitars sounded really nice or I liked a bit of melody, but those elements don’t build to anything.
Common
3/5
I have no real complaints, but also nothing really sounded essential to me. It was all very nice, and maybe that’s the problem. It was lacking some edge. And I have to admit that it’s jarring to hear the Kanye of that time period in 2025 context. Good album, not great.
The Libertines
4/5
Better than I expected it to be! I expected more Blur, not so much The Smiths. The band has chops and there were lots of lovely guitar and songwriting bits.
4/5
Really fun and rad. Punk, post-punk, new wave, oddball avant-garde, dumb and smart all wrapped up in one. Must-listen #127.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Frickin’ A. There was not a second of this that I didn’t enjoy in head-nodding bliss. I have nothing to say about Hendrix’s guitar playing that hasn’t already been said; just that it’s all true. The chops, the tone. The tone! He uses pretty typical effects but how does he sound like that? Ugh, anyway. And of course his band rules; I wish people these days could get drum fills to sound like they did on late 60s psychedelic records. Anyway, it’s an incredible, 5-star, must-listen record all the way through. ML #128.
The Police
4/5
The Police just have a really intriguing blend of great musicality, unique influences, and corny songwriting. It’s like the other two things are good enough to get you past the corniness, but not too far past it. Still, this album has some really great tunes (shout out “King of Pain”) and I’d call it a must-listen #129.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
Such a foundational album for avant-garde, noise rock, experimental music of all flavors. I’d call this a 4 in its listening experience (as someone who likes this kind of stuff) but a 5 for impact. And also just to raise the score from all the normies who can’t handle it lol. ML #130.
Mike Ladd
4/5
At first I thought it was wack. But something about it reminded me of my favorite backpack rap stuff of close to the same time period, so I kept listening, and it did all click for the most part. I like that long stretches were just production — kinda wish more modern rappers would do that. I guess for me it’s just that Ladd’s delivery doesn’t quite match his writing and production and concept and stuff. It’s not a huge gap though. I’m definitely gonna explore more of his stuff. This is pretty niche stuff so I wouldn’t say it’s quite a must-listen, but I’m glad it’s on this list.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
I love this album. They were firing on all cylinders. I watched the recent Led Zeppelin documentary in IMAX and it was awesome, and it really highlighted how killer of musicians all four of these dudes were, and they really brought it 100% on this album. Quite possibly their best full length record as an album… tough contest though. Absolutely a must-listen (#131).
Moby
4/5
Dude’s weird. There are a lot of gripes with him and with this album that are all valid. But damn….it just sounds so good. Maybe it’s because this came out when I was still pretty young, but the emotional component of the samples repeated against the (now very charmingly retro-sounding) synths and drum pads still hits. It’s pretty tastefully put together almost all the way through. This is a must-listen with a one star ding for kinda dragging out, and for Moby’s lameness 132
Hookworms
3/5
It’s fine. Like it’s a decently made 2018 indie rock record. No idea why it’s on this list other than the guy liking them. Nothing makes this a monumental album in any way. That all being said, it’s good some good energy and good tunes. But if it fades in the world’s collective memory that wouldn’t really be a bad thing.
Television
5/5
Yo I already know this album is five stars. Guitar work alone. But the songs kick ass. Amazing songwriting and arranging. Okay so a favorite guitar player and bass player of mine are Steve Howe and Chris Squire of Yes. Regardless of the songs they play on, the technique, the sound, and the feel of their instruments are truly next level. Well, even with a very different sound and style, the players in Television on this album practically match Howe and Squire. They sound so good, so rich with musical understanding. In their hands, these songs are epic compositions. Must listen #133
Willie Nelson
4/5
I flirted with giving this 5 stars. It is beautiful and gentle and Nelson’s voice is so lovely. And of course all the songs on here are romantic classics. I only dropped a point because there’s no edge whatsoever, so it gets a little goopy by the end. But otherwise it’s a very classic sounding and simple-folk-arranged collection of cover tunes. It’s a must-listen (#134).
Rahul Dev Burman
3/5
As a dumb white American, I have no idea how to rate/recommend this. I feel if I were to rave about it and label it a must-listen, it would really only come from a place of "people should expand their boundaries and listen to music they don't normally listen to" which feels shallow. I just have no frame of reference. For what it's worth, this is an enjoyable listen with some fun and different pop and Indian music styles. I enjoyed it.
Boards of Canada
5/5
This is one of the greatest electronic albums of all time. It orbits my life like a distant moon, only swooping in every few years or so, but when it does I'm always struck by how transporting this album is. It's equal parts haunting and cozy, which is just awesome. Must-Listen #135.
Fatboy Slim
4/5
I read all the reviews that complained about the repetition and thought to myself “hah, normies.” But by the end of this album it does begin to seem like it could’ve done more with each track’s ingredients. Not all of them - “Praise You” still rules all the way through - but enough. Still, I want to celebrate everything from this list that isn’t basic-ass rock music, and honestly it’s a fun album to throw on in the background and you’ll be tapping your feet. So yeah. 4 stars it’s great. Not a must-listen though.
808 State
4/5
Going heavy on the electronic albums this week, that’s cool. Also cool to hear such an early record in the genre be so vibrant and fun. I’d call this a must-listen for the influence. #136
Sister Sledge
5/5
Wonderful album. Took me by surprise, to be honest. This actually is probably one of the best disco/funk/soul albums ever made? I mean I was bopping to the grooves, effortlessly, without even noticing. The instrumentation? On point. The singing? Total fire. Great tunes. Great vibes. No notes. Must-listen #137.
Nina Simone
5/5
Swooningly romantic and heartbreakingly poetic in equal measure. That voice....that fire in her delivery. The passion, the tenderness. Every song on here delivers the goods, but "Four Women," what an utter masterpiece. Must-listen #138.
Stan Getz
4/5
Lovely. The only reason I'm dinging it a point is that it pretty much gives you the same vibes all the way through. Immaculate vibes, but still, not as much dynamism. That's a small complaint though. This is a lovely listen for any downtime. Must-listen #139.
Spiritualized
4/5
I listened to this while mowing the lawn. My lawn is 3/4 hill and I hate it. In the hot, humid place where I live, swarming with bees and gnats, mowing the lawn is an overwhelming experience. This album matched it perfectly, and swept me away from my loud, hot, sweaty environs to a heavenly cacophony of rock bliss (still loud and sweaty but in a good way). The only punctuation was when I had to stop to refuel and try not to cry during "Broken Heart."
I'll take a point away because I'm rarely in a similar place where I can enjoy a 70-minute over-the-top album ending in a long chapter of chaotic noise. But when it hits, it hits. Must-listen #140.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
The first ten songs are nearly perfect. Of the last five songs, "The Wanton Song" has some really sick guitar riffage, and the rest can be for the most part discarded. I get why they were added - physical constraints definitely played into making many albums less perfect. But it is what it is. Still one of Led Zeppelin's best ever collections; I prefer it over 4, Houses, and maybe even 1. Must-listen #141.
Stan Getz
4/5
Another Getz in the space of a few days! Everything I said about the other one applies to this one too: "Immaculate vibes, but maybe not as much dynamism. That's a small complaint though. This is a lovely listen for any downtime." I mean if you want bossa nova you have to start with this album I suppose! Must-listen #142.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
This is a must-listen (#143). It surpasses the other two Stones albums I've heard so far, in that it maintains a scrappy energy and vibe all the way through without really flagging, and it is pretty much always enjoyable. But it suffers through the same issues I had with the other albums - sounds great and has a wonderful energy, but none of the songs individually do much for me. I guess they'd have been best experienced live?
Red Hot Chili Peppers
2/5
Another review called these guys a waste of talent and I think I agree. Frusciante and Flea are incredible players, hell the drummer is pretty lit too. But does that talent go toward making great songs, music with meaning? Nah. It goes toward anthems of fucking around. First-draft bullshit delivered with no conviction. I dunno, it’s RHCP. I’m giving it 2 because some of these songs I can’t help but like (Scar Tissue & Californication namely, and only because they’re nostalgic).
4/5
Wow, excellent. I was really tempted to give this 5 stars and it’s one of those that’s primed for an upgrade upon a revisit. As it is, I mean you really have to be in the mood for this to enjoy it (and I was when I listened to it). I just love the mature, sophisticated approach to pop these 80s lads took. Wish there was space for that kinda energy these days. This is a must-listen that is packed with enjoyable sounds and songs. (ML #144)
A Tribe Called Quest
5/5
Incredible album. As someone with a CD copy of The Low End Theory I wouldn’t have thought I’d love their earlier album so much, maybe even more than that one. It is just so full and rich with wonderful sounding beats, samples, and rhymes. The sense of bounce and fresh style is palpable and fun. Pure artistic intent plus vibrant life. Must-listen #145.
Fela Kuti
5/5
Wonderful. Another awesome and vibrant album from the combination of African and Western musical styles. Great for getting into the zone and bopping along, losing track of time. Must-listen #146
Incredible Bongo Band
3/5
I really wanted to like this more than I did, and “Apache” at least is a five-star song. Hell, maybe most of the tracks here work in a playlist or otherwise standalone. But as an entire album, damn does it get a little samey and tiresome. And I must also admit that this one was an unfortunate victim of sequencing — after Fela Kuti and Ginger Baker’s live album yesterday, there was no way this would reach that album’s high bar. This album’s best quality is its status as a historical artifact, being the source of so many classic samples.
Elvis Costello
3/5
Ah, Elvis Costello, the quintessential 3-star artist. My third Costello record and third 3. He’s pretty good! Honestly, impressively, consistently, pretty good. And impressively, consistently, never great. Who knows, maybe one of these will surprise me, I’m starting to think there will be another one or two of his records down the line. So yeah, I would say this album is worth listening to. Barely.
Doves
3/5
I really like Doves a lot, but they’re one of those bands whose appeal is more in the emotional realm. In a strictly technical sense, their music is pretty middle of the road. But, particularly in a solitary moment, on headphones, they can really hit deep. So this is more of a 4 for me on a personal level, but I try to be measured and analytical in my scores, so. Sorry guys lol.
R.E.M.
5/5
It’s crazy that no matter how many amazing albums R.E.M. has across their discography, it’s still tempting to call this first album their best. R.E.M. are simply one of the greatest American bands of all time, and their influence on the alternative and independent rock scenes cannot be overstated. And they really came out of the gate swinging. “Radio Free Europe” as their first single ever? And then track one of their first album? Genius. What a propulsive track.
All of R.E.M.’s albums have amazing songs on them, but some struggle with consistency or pacing. Not so with Murmur. The energy and fresh approach to rock sounds carry all through this tracklist. That they were somehow able to bridge the gap between the shabby American punk underground scene and the more refined (though scrappy in its own way) British jangly alternative rock crowd, while sounding unlike either, is so impressive. Every time I listen to this album, I’m struck by a different deep cut, marveling how it lives up to the more recognizable hits. (This time is was “Laughing.”)
I’m bracing myself to change my opinion the exact second I come to the next R.E.M. album on this list… but I think yeah, this is my favorite and their best album. Must-listen #147.
Portishead
4/5
Very cool album, with very cool sounds, and which is exceedingly dour. Imagine a bleaker Radiohead. Kinda difficult huh? As is this album to get through. HOWEVER the compositions and enveloping vibe more than make up for the anxious, downcast mood. Must-listen #148.
Tracy Chapman
5/5
Easily one of the best singer-songwriter records I’ve come across on this entire list. I enjoyed every song and I was particularly impressed with the balance of the personal and the political. Heartfelt, urgent, soulful. I have no issues with this album, and I’ll be coming back to it for sure. Must-listen #149.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
I’ve never clicked with YYYs and I don’t know why. It could be Karen’s voice, but I usually like unusual singing styles. Maybe it’s that the songs are so shaggy they feel kinda half-baked? On paper I should like them. I do admire them and the influence they had on the rock scene in the 00s. Of course “Maps” is a stone cold classic, but everything else on here passed me by.
Japan
3/5
This one is for the heads, I think. It’s weird and wonky. I would say it splits the difference between Gary Numan and ABC. I find it oddly enjoyable here and there, but it’s not a great album, or a must-listen.
The White Stripes
4/5
My first White Stripes encounter on this list. I’d never listened to this whole album before, and you know? It’s pretty good! Maybe great? Certainly not perfect, but I dunno, as someone ambivalent towards this band, maybe they can do better, I guess I’ll see since reviews mention 2 or 3 other albums coming up. I did used to enjoy Icky Thump back in the day. If this was the sole Stripes album on here, I think it’d be a worthy choice. Still, probably not a must-listen.
The Allman Brothers Band
4/5
I know a lot of people don’t like jam band shit, but as I am a white American male who has passed his mid-thirties point, I do to some extent. I haven’t explored it that intensively (I know very little Dead) but I like it when I hear it. This was a fun jam set. Slightly one-note I suppose. But their playing is top-notch. So I would call this a must-listen because it’s a great jam. #150!
AC/DC
4/5
It’s hard to dislike this. 70s/80s hard rock is by no means a favorite genre of mine, but where most of their peers tire me out by seemingly trying too hard, going over the top more often than not, AC/DC appear more concerned with keeping everything “in the pocket.” They know what they’re good at and they keep it pretty simple. That approach, I think, fits the genre so much better. This album, while not offering a lot of range, is fun as hell, sounds great, is full of energy, and doesn’t overextend itself.
(I must also admit that Jack Black’s character from School of Rock, Dewey Finn, was a huge influence on my feelings about various “classic rock” bands, and AC/DC gets a lot of prominent love in that movie.)
Must-listen #151!
Brian Eno
4/5
Very cool. Love Eno, love Byrne, love listening to albums foundational of certain styles or techniques. This isn't the catchiest or smoothest sample-based album to listen to, but it is never not interesting. Must-listen #152
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
3/5
I dunno. It's really good. Probably ripped shit when it came out. Buddy Holly has this oddly sweet voice. I'd take this over Elvis for sure, but would probably still choose to listen to other stuff.
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
I've never gone deep on this band and I hope they have another album or two on this list because this was very very cool. Was U2 trying to sound like these guys when they started out? Probably. Gloomy post-punk that really rocks. Must-listen #153.
Solomon Burke
4/5
This is one of those albums that is just easy to throw on and enjoy. A lot of the great soul artists are like that, I'm finding. I don't know why I've never heard of Solomon Burke before this, but that's a problem. Surely he was influential as all hell, making an album like this so early on. Great voice and great tunes. Soulful and packed with feeling. Must-listen #154.
Amy Winehouse
3/5
Nonessential if you ask me. It's a nice album, but it's so subdued compared to what came next.
Finley Quaye
2/5
Look, I'm not going to go in on the guy for being Scottish and making reggae. I used to enjoy Matisyahu (been a while) who is in a similar boat. But I do feel like if you're in that kind of situation you have to make your music stand out. You can't just do your own version of the blandest, most accessible angles of the music. The Matisyahu album I used to listen to had some ripping guitar moments, very heartfelt delivery, etc. This album just sounds bland and annoying. I'm with everyone else who is befuddled this made it on the list.
The Doors
3/5
Nice to listen to. I like The Doors, so I enjoyed this. It really didn’t stand out much compared to the other Doors albums I’ve listened to though. I might come back to it, but it’s not a must-listen.
The Beach Boys
4/5
Interesting album. The whole thing is pretty good, sometimes dark, sometimes playful, sometimes dorky. But then you get to the last three songs, which are noticeably so much better and more interesting than the rest. I’m guessing these are the Brian Wilson songs. Anyway, very cool album with some strange and curious dimensions (the juxtaposition of the title and cover art? crazy) and I would say it’s a must-listen. (#155)
Michael Jackson
3/5
It’s fine. I think MJ made two must-listen albums, Off the Wall and Thriller. On this record I love “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” and I know “Man in the Mirror” is corny as fuck but I still like that one. “Dirty Diana” and “Smooth Criminal” and “Bad” are solid B-songs. But a good half of this album is disposable.
Moby Grape
4/5
These guys rip. One of these days I’ll have to purchase a physical copy or something because I’d like to revisit it but I hate listening to albums on Youtube. I didn’t expect to like this as much as I did but they really packed a lot of good riffs and harmonies into short packages and that has an almost psych-punk effect. Very cool. Must-listen #156.
Nick Drake
4/5
I like this album a lot, it’s such a vibe, but I don’t think it’s a must-listen compared to his other albums. I would own it, but that’s a personal choice.
Linkin Park
3/5
I cannot review this objectively. It was a very formative album for 12-year-old me. Do I like it now the way I used to? Hell no. But I can still sing most of the words.
Everyone talks shit on this album because it makes heaviness and edginess sort of “safe” or something. But I do think 12-year olds need a good onramp to the highway of heavy music. And Linkin Park took their work seriously, instead of having this violent “nothing matters” jokey approach to the world like a lot of their peers in the scene did, and I think that counts for something too.
All the complaints surrounding this band and album are valid, but my counterpoint is that it still has a lot of value, value that other bands maybe weren’t providing (and still don’t in 2025 honestly). This is a must-listen for the influence and for what it represents. (#157)
Pantera
4/5
Oh fuck yeah it’s been a while since there was a good metal album on here, and I enjoyed the hell out of this one. Never listened to Pantera before but obviously I’ve heard a lot about them, and after listening to this album I totally get it. May run it back a time or two before the day is over. Must-listen #158.
Beatles
5/5
What a wonderful album. It may not be my absolute favorite Beatles album (literally how do you top Abbey Road), but sometimes I think it's my secret favorite. There's nothing else in their discography like "Norwegian Wood" and "Nowhere Man." There's just such a freshness, a fun, playful approach, but tempered by serious and psychedelic and expansive concerns. "In My Life," "Michelle," "Drive My Car," "I'm Looking Through You," "If I Needed Someone," (I'll stop here before I list every song), they're all masterpieces. And this album's place in their oeuvre is fascinating too. At the beginning of the drug explorations, but not before they made things worse. Still writing as a unit but finding their individual voices. Staggering variety of different moods, tones, vibes, but in a way where the songs all complement one another; in that sense being one of the first "true albums." It's been almost three weeks since I had a good five-star album, so this was such a nice and refreshing listen. Must-listen #159.
Taylor Swift
2/5
I don't dislike this album, in fact it is in my opinion one of the better Taylor Swift albums. This style brings out some of her better songwriting instincts. The aesthetic is cozy, folksy, and sounds pristine.
The problem is this: this album was the Part 2 to the Part 1 of Folklore. Folklore is the better album. Evermore being here means one of two things: a) this album is on the list, while Folklore is not, which would be dumb; or b) both albums are on the list...which would be dumber.
It's nice. It's far from essential.
CHIC
4/5
This album was awesome, just that guitar and bass, how do you not love that. Funky and blissful. Must-listen #160.
Decent rock music. I had no real complaints, but again, there was just too much of this kind of music at this time. It can’t all be essential. I have no feelings about Rod Stewart like some do.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Obviously a masterpiece. What more is there to say? Must-listen #161.
Thelonious Monk
4/5
Very cool. Monk had such a unique sense of melody. I love the smoky dark room vibes of “Pannonica.” Must-listen #162.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
5/5
An absolutely stunning and beautiful piece of work. I'm going to sit with this one for at least a day before I decide what to rate it (4 or 5), but I know it's an incredible achievement. The lyrics are deep and touching. The music is ethereal and misty. I was initially going to split up my listening into the two discs at two different times but I just kept it going through the whole thing because it was so hypnotic.
I love Nick Cave the person. I have had a harder time getting into his music. But after this album I definitely have a greater appreciation for what he can do. Must-listen #163.
Sonic Youth
4/5
Fuck yeah. Sonic Youth rules. I’d never gotten around to listening to this one before, and I might like it even better than Sister. I actually gave it two listens, which I think is probably necessary for most SY records. Just wanted to make sure I heard it all right. So, yeah, it’s challenging, it’s noisy, it’s chaotic, it doesn’t reward background listening in the slightest. But I think it’s a must-listen! #164!
Roxy Music
3/5
I was really into this for like 2 songs. Like, wow this is like Bowie and Sparks had a baby! And honestly it would live up to that combination if there were fewer boring slower songs. No shade on ballads. They're just not this band's strong suit if you ask me. Still, this is a must-listen because it's probably the best example to point people to if they want to hear Brian Eno in a band. Plus "In Every Dream Home a Heartache" is a masterpiece of a song. It alone earns at least let's say two whole stars. It's a good album. Not amazing. But must-listen #165.
The Beach Boys
4/5
This album has a crazy reputation, and now, after finally listening to it for the first time, I think it’s mostly deserved. I will admit to expecting to be blown away a little more. But I think the effect of this album comes down to the feeling. I kind of understand why people obsess over the recording and studio setup of it because something about the way it sounds is just magical in a special way. Brian Wilson’s songwriting, the yearning vocals, plus that magic sound, just has a sort of chemical effect. But some songs were just, eh, inessential. I’m talking about “I Know There’s an Answer” and honestly “Pet Sounds.” Probably a few more. The big hits though are unimpeachable. Must-listen #166.
Röyksopp
3/5
I love this, it’s going to go into my regular rotation. I truly don’t know if I would put this on a must-listen list, though. It’s the most inoffensive and easy-to-like thing I’ve heard in a while, which is…not amazing?
Oasis
1/5
I hate this. I hate Brit Pop. Nobody needs to listen to any of it before they die. Did the UK have like a giant identity crisis in the 90s or something?
The Notorious B.I.G.
5/5
I was nervous to approach this, uncertain about how the lyrical content would hit and especially icked out by the participation of Diddy, but this album is undeniable. It's such a pleasant listen. All the production, the beats, the little synth hooks, Biggie's voice, it all just blends so fucking well I can't resist it. Absolutely a must-listen. #167
David Bowie
5/5
Great album. It's got this lovely ornateness that I enjoy. It's decorative. He's such a weirdo all over it. I don't know if it's anyone's #1 Bowie album (not mine) but it could be, it's certainly good enough. Must-listen #168.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
One of Springsteen's best. This is the proto-Bon Iver story. Like, it's such a legendary career turn that even if the music wasn't that good, it would still be a must-listen. Like it set the mold for later artists to follow. But also, the songs are really good. You have to enjoy really downcast folk songs, which I do. The lyrics, the stories, the mood, the settings. I mean this is honestly one of the great 20th century American creations, in my opinion. Must-listen #169.
Haircut 100
3/5
Name I don't recognize. Album name and cover I don't recognize. Not usually a great sign, but this album is quite a party. These guys can play some real funk. I'm surprised, but I'll definitely be coming back to this one.
Okay, coming back at the end of the album to say that it really kinda wears out its welcome by the end.
Steely Dan
5/5
Yes! I adore this album. One of my personal Steely Dan favorites. Besides “Rikki” you’ve got “Night by Night,” “Any Major Dude,” “Barrytown,” the title track…. So many lush and solid jams. Must-listen #170.
The Shamen
2/5
Early dance music is hilarious. This is a fun little novelty. I didn’t hate it but obviously I didn’t take it very seriously
The Velvet Underground
5/5
This is great. I continue to be impressed by VU when I get their albums. It’s been awhile since I revisited VU+Nico — and it never really clicked with me — so that one will be interesting to get back to now that I’ve experienced this self-titled and WL/WH, both of which I’ve adored.
This album just has such an interesting downcast vibe. It’s not overly sad, it’s not overly sappy, and in fact there’s sort of a despondent blankness with which the vocals are delivered that REALLY adds to the experience. You can trace this album’s influence through the careers of people like Beck and Mac Demarco and Conor Oberst. ML 171.
Deep Purple
4/5
This fucking rocks. I can just picture myself in a dank club in the early 70s, face melting off. My favorite aspect of this album is the organ. Shit rips. I’m a total noob, I only ever knew “Smoke on the Water,” turns out that’s not fair to these dudes’ ability to shred. I mean damn. ML 172.
Gotan Project
4/5
This is like that Royksopp album from a couple weeks ago. It squarely hits a number of my own pleasure points - trip-hop, dub, international sounds, somewhat sparse instrumental beats - and therefore I really enjoyed it. But I just don’t think I’d put it on a must-listen list. Like I would want to know that someone is into this kind of thing before I recommend it to them. Otherwise I get why some hear it as boring, bland, phone hold, elevator music kinda stuff. It’s definitely NOT that — but some just have no patience for minimal instrumental beats. Anyway. Greatly enjoyed. Recommend. But not on my “must-listen” list.
Maxwell
1/5
Boring as hell. Too cliche. And it’s not that I don’t like the style or genre, I’d just take Bobby Womack any day over this.
New Order
2/5
I love almost all of the New Order I'd listened to prior to this album. So I was surprised when this barely moved the needle for me. The songs didn't stand out and the production/sound of the album isn't very appealing. I still think they're a good band and the effort is there, so I'll throw a makeup star in there.
Duke Ellington
4/5
Good album/performance. It’s got a nice legend behind it, too, which admittedly offers more of the appeal for me. I prefer later jazz styles, but there are some great moments on here that make it worth a listen.
Wild Beasts
4/5
Very very cool art-rock with beautifully unique vocals. Haters can go suck, this is fresh and good! Must-listen 173.
Public Image Ltd.
4/5
Wow! This is cool as fuck. As someone who loves modern post-punk bands like Protomartyr, FACS, etc, this is an insightful look into some of the early forebears of the style. And wow, it is uncompromising. Dark, hypnotic, disturbed. I was uncertain with the first track, but the little bits of melody and atmosphere that begin to emerge in the subsequent tracks deepened my appreciation. Very cool stuff and must-listen #174.
Harry Nilsson
2/5
I thought this would be up my alley but it was kind of boring.
Richard Thompson
4/5
I feel like this album is responsible for The Decemberists’ entire career. It’s good! Really good folk music. Traditional sounding, well performed, a variety of different tones and moods, all sincere. Must-listen #175.
Brian Eno
5/5
I was blown away by this record! Incredible variety of songs. You can hear why he and Byrne/Talking Heads eventually became such tight creative partners. Clever songwriting, very layered production, beautiful sounds. This album is underappreciated honestly. Must listen #176.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
5/5
Beautiful, somber, sincere. I love this. I guess my entryway to loving Nick Cave's output has been to go backwards, or at least to start with the most gentle and emotional of his work and work my way to the more intense stuff. Ghosteen cracked the door open, this one is throwing it wide. I'm excited for the next time I get an album from him now! Must-listen #177!
Fleet Foxes
5/5
I love this album so much. It’s very important to me for artistic and personal reasons. Its release is embedded in my memory, and I think I could even say that Fleet Foxes went on to be my favorite band of the 2010s with Helplessness Blues and Crack-Up both being masterpieces (I will rate them 5s too if they show up on this list). Technically I would give this a 4.5 because it’s not quite at the level of the aforementioned two, but it is still nearly perfect and packed with classic songs. Must-listen (#178), and side note, it’s so refreshing to get three 5-star albums in a row.
The Roots
4/5
It’s too long, it’s overstuffed. With that out of the way, come on, it’s the motherfucking Roots. Black Thought, Questlove and co. are top-notch musicians with a hell of a discography. Thought honestly is in the GOAT conversation, with his lyricism and talent for rhymes and bars being at such a high level for so many years.
This album has excellent production, a varied sound, intelligent and mature and thoughtful lyrics, an interesting concept, and is fun to listen to. Must-listen #179.
American Music Club
4/5
It’s such a dumb idea to give your band a generic name when your sound is also pretty basic. Bad band name, bad album name and cover. No wonder this shit just isn’t registering with most people.
That said, I was very taken with this record. The songwriting and performances are good and earnest. The guy’s voice is really not unique or attention-getting, but that helps with the down to earth quality. I could see myself seeing these guys at a local bar and getting really into the show by the end. Just kinda good vibes.
I wouldn’t call this a must-listen, but it is very good.
Duran Duran
4/5
I quite enjoyed this, with some reservations. The first four tracks were obviously hits. After that my attention wandered, but I really enjoyed “New Religion” and “Save a Prayer.” Overall, the melodies, synth textures, and full, long arrangements were awesome. Singer has like, the quintessential New Wave 80’s voice, but man are the lyrics pretty full of clunkers. Best ignored to be honest. Either way, I can still tell why this album was massive. Good pop. Must-listen #180.
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
2/5
Obnoxiously noisy, as opposed to artfully noisy, or ragefully noisy, which I enjoy.
Black Sabbath
5/5
WTF Ozzy died yesterday and I got this album today. RIP to a legend. It was great to do a deep listen to this so soon after his passing. This album kicks all the ass and I have a hard time believing it could be topped, but there are still a few albums in their discog for me to hear! “War Pigs” is a rock song I will never tire of hearing. Ditto for the other hits “Paranoid” and “Iron Man.” The other tracks on this album bring the doom, the psychedelia, even a little folk and jazz, and it’s an incredibly good and rockin’ time. Ozzy’s lyrics are sometimes laughably on the nose, but they’re sincere and they fit the force of the band. Great album, must-listen #181.
Aimee Mann
3/5
Magnolia will always make me love Aimee Mann. I think she’s cool, a great songwriter, and an important presence for 90s music. Those things are true on this album, but I unfortunately think the sound is just a little outdated. It doesn’t really connect like it used to. No shade and maybe another album of hers will get in there like the songs on Magnolia do.
Judas Priest
2/5
I dunno. Don't get it, really. Why do they sound so American if they're British? I was just kinda put off by a number of the songs and lyrics, even if their style is cool.
Frank Sinatra
4/5
Classic shit. Sounds great. The kind of thing my wife comes into the kitchen and hears and goes "This is a nice vibe!" Of course we both know a lot of these songs from them showing up in endless rom-coms. To be honest, I think that is still their best environment; 45 minutes straight of songs like this gets tiring and offers diminishing returns. But each of these songs on its own is pretty awesome. So I suppose it easily qualifies as a must-listen album. #182
Sugar
4/5
I loved this. Every couple weeks I'll get an album of the day that inevitably ends up soundtracking my mowing the lawn. This was that album today, and it fit perfectly. I was hurting, sweating my ass off, and grinning at these fired-up, immediately catchy rock tunes. I've enjoyed Bob Mould's solo albums and it turns out they're just chasing the success of this one. Must-listen #183.
Hugh Masekela
5/5
Wow! I’m kinda pissed right now. I’ve never come across this name before, and that’s just not right, because this album is freaking gorgeous. Look, I was raised listening to jazz. I took jazz piano lessons, I played in a jazz band in high school. I’m always talking to my dad about jazz players new and old. There’s definitely a possibility that this is just a bizarre, circumstantial blind spot. Maybe the jazz folks around me just never got into the South African scene themselves, or something. But I really think this album/artist has just gone unfairly unnoticed or underrated. I absolutely loved this whole album; the groovy songs really *groove* and the slow songs are deeply pretty. It's becoming a cliche that I give every jazz album a 5-star rating, but I don't care, I'm doing it again. Must-listen #184.
CHVRCHES
3/5
Man I loved this record when it came out. Looooooved it. Was still in the first half of my twenties, which is the absolute perfect stage of life to enjoy this album and ones like it. Made me feel like running, driving at night, crying on the phone, laughing with friends, etc etc; essentially this album, to me, is the sound of youth. Now that I’m aging and significantly more bitter, I can still detect all that when I listen, but it’s just not the same. Why is the sound so muddy, even in the remastered version? Aren’t the melodies and lyrics a little cliche? Don’t the songs kinda sound the same a lot of the time?
Of course part of this could be because IMO they never reached beyond this record. The album after this is also quite good but it’s a lateral move, not progression. And what came after that isn’t really worth mentioning (except for that one song that features Robert Smith, which is cool).
This album has a spark to it. It’s bright and attention getting and it can open your heart. The only problem is, it’s temporary and will burn out at some point.
Stevie Wonder
3/5
It’s good, not great. Obviously some songs are hits, most of them are merely fine. I don’t have much else to say about this one.
The Everly Brothers
2/5
It just seems like in the late ‘50s the ideal thing for an adult to want to be like was a little white child who has a lot of sex.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Direct precursor to some of the alt-soul artists we have today like D’Angelo. Very interesting to have these slow grooves and tasteful, but not flashy, instrumentals. Even his singing is restrained; I mean he’s not exactly wailing. It’s good, it’s like chill rainy day funk. Pensive soul. Must-listen #185.
Def Leppard
4/5
Guilty pleasure. I hate to admit how much this won me over, but it did. It’s impeccably produced, turned up loud it just sounds so good. The sawblade rock guitars are very satisfying. But ultimately this album’s main weapon is those stunning choruses, the soaring melodies, the layers of harmonies, the goddamn chord progressions (these guys know how to wield a flip into major key). The lyrics are dumb as shit and yes this is pure Big Penis Rock, but it really hits the rock pleasure centers. Must-listen #186.
Mekons
3/5
Man I really want to like this album, it checks a lot of boxes for things I like. But there is this incessant drum machine whose sound I loathe. I would LOVE to hear these songs performed or re-recorded with an actual drummer. Without that I find it hard to like any of this material, most of which is admittedly interesting.
Jeff Buckley
4/5
This album is a lot. Most of the time, that's a good thing! It's extremely impressive the breadth of emotions and tones, the dynamics that he's able to naturally weave into a single song. It's a pretty tiring full listen, but it's still a huge achievement and honestly there aren't too many albums like it. This is like a 4.4, it's really close to a 5 but not quite.
Aphex Twin
5/5
I listened to this album once on four tabs of acid. I could see and feel the texture of the tracks like they were solid objects on display in a museum. I come back to that moment every time I listen to this album now. Must listen #188
(JEFF BUCKLEY BELOW IS MUST LISTEN #187 BTW)
SAULT
4/5
Some of these reviewers are really fine with showing their ass, huh.
This album is pretty cool and interesting. It’s thoughtful, it’s unique. Honestly it’s a little bit like a 2020s version of a Sly Stone record? Personally I’m into the minimal nature of the lyrics and instrumentals. It’s a headspace to luxuriate in.
My issue with this album is: I followed this album when it was released and my god was it perfect for the moment. The anonymity, the firm definitional stance while keeping softness, the soulful chords and melodies, I mean it was a balm back in 2020. But for me at least, now the album is a little slighter without that context. I didn’t realize at the time but the surrounding context was the main reason it hit so hard. Without that, the album is just a little more limp.
Still it’s very good, and a must-listen (#189).
Alice Cooper
4/5
Super fucking fun. Must-listen #190.
Pink Floyd
3/5
I’m so conflicted about this one. The hits are incredible obviously. Some moments like “Mother” and “One of My Turns” hit a nice stride. But overall this album really feels like it’s ‘narrative over songs.’ It’s just not that great of a listen. Especially when Pink Floyd have so many albums that are thrilling for their entire runtimes. I want to like this more, but I don’t.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
In basically the same mode as his debut, but with a little bit more upbeat-tempoed songs. However, it loses something by having fewer of the hypnotic dreamy tunes I love best from him -- "You Know Who I Am" is one of these. It's very good, but not as good as the first album.
Peter Frampton
4/5
Honestly, as much as I want to be a curmudgeon and file this in the increasingly large file of "overrated 70s rock," I found it charming, fun, energetic, and sounding great. Must-listen #191.
Björk
4/5
Very very cool. I actually think I liked the non-singles better than the singles. She shows off some impressive range already on her first album. I don't think it's perfect, but after Vespertine got five stars, and this with 4, I think it's safe to say I'm a Bjork fan. Must-listen #192
Beatles
5/5
The Beatles have at least three perfect albums, and this is one of them. Admittedly it is #3 in my personal ranking (with Abbey Road at #1 and Rubber Soul at #2), but that doesn’t mean it’s really any less of an album than the other two. In fact, this album actually contains my favorite Beatles rocker (“Taxman”) and my favorite Beatles ballad (“Here There and Everywhere”). I know, I’m so unique.
For real though, The Beatles, especially their later career, is an area where I can’t bring myself to be contrarian. Their legacy is deserved.
Must-listen #193.
4/5
I really want PJ to be a 5-star artist, on paper she should be a huge deal for me. Everything I’ve heard has been pretty great, this is my third of her albums. But there’s still something missing. Can’t put my finger on it. Still, again, this like her other albums is great and a must-listen #194
Buck Owens
1/5
Not for me.
Sade
4/5
Smooth as hell, great voice, lovely vibes, lovely saxophone. I gotta be in the right mood to truly enjoy it, but no matter what it's gonna be immersive and enveloping. Must-listen #195
Pavement
5/5
Classic! It just has this je ne sais quoi thing going on. Like on paper, the elements aren't all that exciting, but put together, sounding the way it all does, it clicks into place in a way that's extraordinarily satisfying. I tend to prefer Crooked Rain x2 but this one is honestly just as good. Must-listen #196
The La's
3/5
This is pretty good. Pretty good all the way through. The songs? Pretty good! That big hit? It's pretty good! This is the kind of album I could see myself loving at like, age 12, then revisiting as an adult and going, well it's still pretty good! But it's really never more than that.
Beck
4/5
This album is sublimely produced, I mean it just sounds so crisp and layered and punchy. And the first half is nearly perfect, all the way up through "Broken Drum" at least. It meanders a little more after that point. And I don't think the lyrics are all that deep, though they're probably not meant to be. But this album captures a hell of a vibe, it really does feel like you're in LA in summertime. I think I may like this one better than Odelay! Must-listen #197.
Elvis Costello
1/5
This album doesn't seem very well received, either by critics or fans. So, why the hell is it here? Dumb. It's really a waste of space on this list. I already struggle with the Costello albums everyone likes. I just think he's lame, I don't think he did anything better musicians hadn't already done. And the fact that he has SIX albums on this list is just messed up. I'd rather have had six Billy Joel albums on this list and that's saying something.
The Adverts
4/5
I liked this about as much as one could like an album they never plan to listen to again! For real though, this is good, there’s just plenty of it out there.
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
Very very good. This album has a surprisingly high hit rate given its length, and I typically groan at double albums. But I enjoyed this a lot and continued to listen to it throughout the day. Only reason it’s not a 5 is that there are some songs I don’t care for. Must-listen #198.
N.W.A.
3/5
I love golden age hip-hop. This one starts out with three stone-cold classics. Of course, some of the lyrical content has not aged well and is just kinda noxious, the misogynistic and homophobic stuff. There are better albums from this era too, I admit that I prefer Public Enemy for political lyrics and A Tribe Called Quest for social/cultural songs. And honestly other groups had better production/beats. And Snoop Dogg easily surpassed this for Southern California rap with Doggystyle. But this is still a must-listen (#199) even if it's not perfect just because of the influence and effect on the culture.
Bob Dylan
5/5
One day this list will give me a Bob Dylan album and I won't give it a 5. I just know there are albums some people love that I won't...right? No idea. But obviously this one is 5 stars. It's perfect, other than maybe some of the harmonica bits, but even those are charming enough.
Must-listen #200!
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I'm more a fan of Bruce Springsteen the person and songwriter than I am of almost any of his albums. Nebraska, Born to Run, and *maybe* the Wild, the Innocent and the E Street Shuffle, are his 5-star albums. Everything else has some great hits and some not great material. This is a massive album and you can hear how much of a hit it was but damn some of the songs really grate especially toward the end. I've always hated "Glory Days," for instance.
Still a must-listen (#201).
Radiohead
5/5
One of the most perfect albums to come out in my lifetime. The first 5 tracks are such an incredible run of songs. While I do think "Karma Police" through "Electioneering" is a little weaker of a stretch, the way it comes back for the last four songs is stunning, sprawling, desolate. Gorgeous. This is for my money the best album of the '90s (hot take, I know) and I don't think it'll ever slip from that spot as long as I live.
Must-listen #202!
3/5
Someone must be listening. Just a couple days ago I predicted there’d be a Dylan album on this list that wouldn’t deserve a 5-star rating, and here it is!
Okay so all the songs are great, obviously. I actually love the way he sings on the acoustic half, and I like his harmonica playing better when live than on the albums. The electric portion is dynamic and energetic.
But based on this one taste, I prefer studio Dylan over live Dylan. I judge the studio albums primarily on the strength of the songs, lyrics, tracklisting, etc. I can’t do the same for live albums since these are just different performances of songs that exist on the albums.
That leaves me to judge this album only on the strength of the performance, set list, energy, recording. And those things are all pretty good. It’s fun to hear the history of this moment. But this does not, and maybe cannot, bowl me over the way one of his studio albums can.
Bebel Gilberto
3/5
This album was never not pleasant but it was also never more than background music.
Sebadoh
4/5
This was unexpected! And I quite liked it. Right up my alley. I wouldn’t say it’s a must-listen unless you’re into this stuff though. Like, this is leagues below Pavement & GBV etc. But it’s still very cool lo-fi indie rock, sometimes pretty, sometimes chaotic, cozy, freaked out.
Metallica
3/5
Metallica…is a silly band. Their lyrics are silly and often their hooks are silly. But that silliness is set to extremely rad and musically proficient and interesting thrash/speed metal instrumentation. I enjoyed most of this but none of it really struck me as essential. I was headbanging and giggling now and then from the silliness.
Tim Buckley
3/5
The first few songs I was like, whoa this is great! But then I started reading the lyrics. Ehhh. And then the songs got worse. In general I like the style but the hit rate is low.
Syd Barrett
2/5
The first half was a decent collection of psych-folk tunes, nothing mindblowing. The second half devolved into secondhand embarrassment…. I’m not even sure it should have been released.
David Bowie
4/5
Very good, fun, catchy, layered, interesting album. Not in my top five Bowie records personally but I can see how it would be in others’. Must-listen #203.
Missy Elliott
4/5
Excellent listen. Rhythmic and catchy beats. Missy is a master of flow, cadence, style. Must listen #204.
M.I.A.
4/5
Fun as hell and pretty unique. That she broke out with such a fresh blend of different sounds and genres says a lot about the mid-2000s era of music. It may not be her best album, but especially as you get into the second half, it bangs, it’s catchy, it’s clever. Must-listen #205.
The Cure
4/5
This album is super super dark and depressing. Thrillingly feel-bad music. Must-listen #206.
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
Great work. A classic. Admittedly when I listen to this album, and when I return to it in the future, I’ll probably pick and choose tracks. As a whole listen, it gets just a touch repetitive and long. But the beats are great, all their voices and verses and deliveries are awesome, the style and chemistry that exudes from the album is palpable. Good shit. Must-listen #207.
The Psychedelic Furs
4/5
Pretty great actually. I was really skeptical going into this album but I was won over by the blend of synth-pop and a rawer rock sound.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
Wow 😍 beautiful and gorgeous and pretty. I really liked Court and Spark, my last Mitchell album on here, and this sounded like a complete level up. The melodies! The chord progressions and jazzy touches! Very transporting. Must-listen #208.
Arcade Fire
4/5
This was my first time going back to this album since almost completely phasing out AF from my listening. Honestly, for me, there had been diminishing returns as far back as Reflektor (2013), which does still have some excellent material, but everything since has just continued to decline in quality. But I really did used to love this band for some years.
Everyone goes nuts for this debut album, and while it was never my personal favorite AF release, I have a soft spot for some songs. Upon this relisten, I have to say I’ve gotten pretty bored with the singles (Neighborhood #1, Wake Up, Rebellion (Lies)) and In the Backseat, but I still have an affinity for basically the rest of the songs, particularly the other Neighborhoods.
This album also enjoys the benefit of having massive influence over both the sound and the scene of indie rock, so that bumps the score up a little. I may not care for Arcade Fire anymore but this album is a gem. Must-listen #209.
Caetano Veloso
4/5
Wow I am loving this. I don’t know if it’s because they always seem like an oasis in the midst of a desert full of bland English rock, but the international/non-English-language albums on this list have made me realize how much of the world’s music I appreciate. This might be one of my favorite so far. There is a wonderful variety across the tracklist, of instruments, melodies, motifs, styles. It’s fresh and funky — like, are any of these songs in a Tarantino movie? They all could be. Great and fun album. Must-listen #210.
U2
4/5
I've always struggled with this album. I just don't hear what others hear. Maybe it's because I didn't grow up with this one like I did other U2 albums. It's good, even great, when I'm listening to it. I enjoy it. But after the fact, I have a hard time remembering the songs. This isn't a new problem, I've listened to this album several times over the years, it's the same every time. I'm gonna give it four stars, cuz again, great album, but for me it's not a must-listen.
Teenage Fanclub
4/5
This is a low-key delight. It has a very patient, measured sort of tempo and energy, which can on first pass scan as uninteresting. But there's something almost slowcore about its dedication to the midtempo rock song. It's a little droney, a little melodic, somewhat hypnotic, and heartfelt -- you can hear the conviction. This would be great rock music to drink to. I really loved this. Must-listen #211.
Beatles
3/5
Typical, I know, but I looove post-‘66 Beatles and am much more hit and miss on early-career Beatles. I typically don’t get into the early ‘60s rock n’ roll anyway, but now that I’ve listened to more records from that era, I can pick out the little qualities that made the Beatles stand out. They did have a little more of an edge and a force than their peers did, and that’s audible on this record. Some good tunes on here, but I probably won’t revisit it in full anytime soon. It’s only really a must-listen if you’re digging into the whole Beatles oeuvre.
Ice Cube
4/5
I was skeptical going into this, as I recently reviewed the N.W.A. album and found it to be only pretty good, compared with other recent listens from artists like Public Enemy and A Tribe Called Quest. But damn if this isn’t a blast. The production is so catchy, loud and addictive throughout, which helps to get past some of the unpleasantly misogynistic lyrics that pop up here and there (but thankfully not the majority of the album). Honestly, it’s hard not to get angry listening to this in 2025, realizing that the situation and culture of racism that prompted this album are still very much present. Art like this helps you process and get through while bopping your head. Must-listen #212.
Missy Elliott
3/5
It’s good! Doesn’t stand out for me as much as Under Construction - makes sense since this was her first album.
Eminem
4/5
Eminem’s willingness to put his different personas on display, especially the blatantly noxious ones, is the most interesting thing about this album. The juxtaposition of one song against another (as in the comparison another listener already made between “Stan” and “Kim”) really makes you think about Eminem’s intentions. He obviously wants you to realize he doesn’t mean everything he says, but he also meaningfully reflects on the consequences of what he says. There are no easy answers and many points, both for and against this album and its songs, are valid. For me personally, the density and sheer playfulness of the wordplay, the whiplash of the content/subject matter, and Eminem’s unfuckwithable flow are enough to score this high points and deem it a must-listen (#213). One point deducted for the too-high volume of misogyny (whether he means it or not) and a few completely unnecessary tracks.
Eels
4/5
Thought this was really enjoyable. Sad sack slacker indie rock, what’s not to love? Eels was definitely one of the first alt/indie artists on my radar from a young age, and even though I never dove into his discog, I’ve always had a soft spot for the thing he does. This album captures it very well and was enjoyable all the way through. Must-listen #214.
Primal Scream
4/5
Very cool. Great rainy day music. Some of it’s a little corny in that late 90s way but not too bad. I love the whole psychedelic dub thing. Really enjoyable stuff.
Lupe Fiasco
2/5
I love rap, was really into Kanye’s first few albums, and really enjoy Lupe’s later career albums (Tetsuo & Youth onward), so I was surprised how little I enjoyed this. His flow is pretty good and the lyricism is pretty good, but I mostly hate the production. It just sounds lame and hasn’t aged super well I think. Obviously “Kick, Push” is a classic, but few other moments on this record really appealed to me.
Ray Charles
4/5
Really lovely stuff. This is an album I’d throw on if I was hosting a dinner party. It’s full of classic jazzy, soulful sounds, but in service of recognizably “country” songs, and it’s a great combo. It’s a little long, and not something I personally am gonna put on very often, but otherwise it’s an excellent album. Must-listen #215.
Goldfrapp
5/5
Beautiful, beguiling, slinky, seductive, mystical, mysterious, off-kilter, quirky, magical. I like this way better than the other Goldfrapp album I’ve gotten from this list (Seventh Tree). Reminiscent of both trip-hop, downtempo stuff, as well as art-pop like Kate Bush and Talk Talk. On first listen I was a little uncertain but on a second listen, I was totally sold. Must-listen #216.
Beastie Boys
5/5
Both of the previous Beastie Boys albums I’ve had on this list have been fun but obnoxious. I thought I was just not a fan and groaned when this came up. However, I’m pleasantly surprised! This album is eclectic as hell and its adventurous spirit is palpable and very creative. I love how present the rock, punk and jazz elements are. And even the vocals and lyrics (which in earlier albums could be described as “yelling dumb jokes”) have been toned down in the mix and are much more palatable. And I’d never have expected instrumental tracks on one of their albums, but the ones on here are groovy and vibey. I’m very happy, this is awesome. Must-listen #217.
Prince
3/5
My experience with Prince so far has given me the impression that he’s a restless creative who’s bursting with ideas and is not great at editing them down. While listening to a Prince song, I’m bopping and having a great time. When I listen to a Prince album, my mind wanders. Being a double album, Sign O’ the Times has this problem even worse than 1999, which was so close to being a 5-star album. And that one I’m afraid had even more great songs I’d want to return to. I’ve always heard how classic this album is, and admittedly it sounds good and is well-produced (aside from those god-awful, loud, unadorned drum machine sounds), but is a bit of a slog to get through in full.
Machito
4/5
Really fun! I can't say it really checks any of my personal boxes other than being international jazz. I do love Cuban music, I gave the Buena Vista Social Club album 5 stars. But I'm generally not a big-band jazz fan. I prefer a smaller ensemble. Still, I'm really glad to have discovered this album and I absolutely consider it a must-listen. #218
Morrissey
3/5
This is one that I’m really not sure of so I’m going to fall back on the blandly positive three-star rating. I love the Smiths and I like Morrissey’s voice. Obviously he’s a huge blowhard, but the 80s material at least is still great and not too annoying, aside from some bits here and there. This album definitely suffers from not having the guitar work of Johnny Marr, but it’s not as bad as it could have been.
Guided By Voices
4/5
I really love these guys lol. I’ve only listened to this and Bee Thousand, which I preferred, but this is still fun too. I’m a little annoyed by the fade-outs sometimes. Some of these song fragments are unnecessary. Still, I love an artist who just throws everything at the wall. Must-listen #219.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
This is a “catching up” album it seems. Released the same year as Rubber Soul, Aftermath catches up to the sound of the Beatles in 1963. This is their “With The Beatles.” Like that album, this is a collection of early rock n roll tunes with tight structure and melody, and is pretty boring compared with what came after. I can’t comment on the lyrics because I completely ignored them. Not bad, not that interesting.
Incubus
4/5
I think Incubus gets unfairly lumped in with the garbage heap of nu-metal and rap-rock. They have both a wider emotional range and a better musicality than the average band from that scene. Brandon Boyd's voice is incredible. There are some really cool chord progressions and guitar sequences across this album. "Drive" has gotta be one of the best singles of the late '90s -- what a melody. It still hits. Even the maligned "Battlestar Scralatchtica" sounds good, it just has a dumb title. I think overall this album gets an unfair level of hate. It's good. Just because the scene they were in was cringey doesn't mean everything in it necessarily was. I think this is a must-listen (#220).
Marilyn Manson
1/5
I'm not listening to this. Dude is a poser and an abuser. In no world would I be moved positively by his music.
The Smiths
5/5
I first got Meat is Murder, early into doing this list project. I gave it a 3. Not bad, not great. Well shortly after that I started getting really into The Smiths, and thought I might have been unfair. Then I got Strangeways and gave that a 4. Since then I've been eager to get this album so I could give it the 5 stars this band deserves (particularly Marr). What a romantic and influential band.
This album starts strong, and just gets better as it goes on. I particularly love the stretch from "Cemetry Gates" to "Vicar in a Tutu," though of course "There is a Light" is also deservedly massive. Anyway this album is wonderful. Must-listen #221.
Raekwon
5/5
Easy 5 stars, for the same reason Nas' Illmatic will get 5 stars assuming it shows up on this list: addictive boom-bap beats, and impeccable flow. Those two elements are so good they easily forgive any downsides (too long; the skits). Some of the best of '90s NY rap. Must-listen #222.
The Byrds
4/5
Ahh, a nice return to some late-60s adventurous psychedelic folk-rock! That's a lot of stuff in my wheelhouse. Find the midpoint between Simon & Garfunkel's Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, Thyme and Jefferson Airplane's album Surrealistic Pillow and you have a good idea of what The Notorious Byrd Brothers is like. This is my first Byrds album actually, but I like it a lot and apparently they have other albums on this list, so we'll see what the future holds. For now, I think this is great (not perfect), and must-listen #223.
Rocket From The Crypt
5/5
Whooooaa! I love a good surprise like this. I've only ever heard the band name before, never listened to them until now. This album is an absolute BLAST. It mostly borrows sounds from punk and ska, but the songs are full of classic rock and roll splendor, big bombast and melodies, and tons of energy. Yeah it may be a few songs too long, but nothing seems like filler. Great album. Must-listen #224.
Queen
4/5
Good stuff. "Killer Queen" was always pretty much my favorite Queen song, and the rest of this album follows suit. It takes the theatricality Queen is known for and mostly keeps it contained in these tight hard rock songs with absolutely killer (heh) guitar work by Brian May. Good, fun time. Must-listen #225.
Tito Puente
3/5
A lot of fun. I keep getting these Latin jazz and dance records and giving them basically the same score and not really distinguishing them from one another. So I guess I better start doing my research and listening more closely and increasing my knowledge, because it's all good and fun and I like it. Must-listen #226.
Christine and the Queens
2/5
This album is vastly better in French. Maybe that's because I don't speak it, which makes it easier to pay attention to the melodies and production. In English, his (Chris aka Rahim Redcar uses he/him pronouns) enunciation and trying to fit English words in can be distracting.
Overall, this album is decent but not amazing. It hits me roughly the same as that first CHVRCHES album when it popped up on the list. Catchy, decently produced, unremarkable. The first 2 songs are the best and make you think you're getting something better than you get as the album progresses.
I really appreciate Redcar for undergoing such adventurous gender explorations as a public figure. I wish I could hear that adventurousness in his music.
Keith Jarrett
5/5
This album is personally significant to me. As a young piano player, I stole this album from my Dad’s shelf and became obsessed with it, even before I knew the story or that these were improvisations. It’s pure storytelling with an instrument. Very inspiring. Must-listen #227.
Eric Clapton
2/5
Lame racist boomer plays music written by better musicians. Okay, it’s well produced.
The B-52's
4/5
This album is an extremely rad time. The only thing that keeps it from a perfect score is it has a somewhat limited range. But boy is that range an absolute blast. Must-listen #228.
Ash
3/5
This is good, but it's not remarkable. It doesn't offer anything I don't get from other bands. That Sugar album from a couple months ago was way better than this. I enjoy listening to it and I think they're a good band, but this certainly doesn't need to be listened to by everyone before they die.
King Crimson
4/5
I love 70s prog so much. 60s prog was still getting there. This album obviously gets a ton of credit for laying the foundations for prog rock, and it deserves it. That being said, it leans a little hard on this sort of epic, cinematic balladry and loses me a bit in “Epitaph” and “Moonchild.” The first track is the best one and it’s a damn masterpiece, and my corny heart can’t help but embrace “I Talk to the Wind.” Beautiful hippie shit. The last track is pretty cool too but still doesn’t reach the heights of “21st Century Schizoid Man.” I love this album’s influence and what it represents but it’s not as good as what came after. Still, must-listen #229.
David Crosby
5/5
I loved this mainly due to the variety. You’ve got long psychedelic wanderings, lovely hippie folk-rock tunes, instrumentals, silliness, sadness, big and small arrangements. Maybe it’s a little scattered but Crosby really pours his soul into the whole affair. There’s a distinct post-hippie-dream sad disconnected feeling that touches me. Really really good stuff. Must-listen #230.
The Cure
5/5
I know of no other album, even including the Cure’s other albums, that sounds like this. This album is a world of its own. It would be one of my first choices for walking in woods in the snow in the middle of the night. Must-listen #231.
Gorillaz
4/5
Very cool and fun. Interesting to revisit this one so deep into their career — Gorillaz became known for polished, conceptual full albums, and this debut really feels like a loose mixtape of jammin’ tunes. It’s great but pales a little in comparison to Demon Days and Plastic Beach and maybe even some later albums.
John Lee Hooker
2/5
Apple Music has five John Lee Hooker albums highlighted as “Essential albums,” and this isn’t one of them. That always gives me pause when it happens. I’ve even seen yet others mentioned as classics. This album is a nice enough listen, but when he has so many essentials, why would this be the pick, especially when it doesn’t trade in classic blues sounds anyway? This is one of those collaborative albums that artists, especially in jazz or blues, make when they get old. I guess it’s a way of securing a legacy, keeping their name alive, etc, but it always scans to me as a commercial enterprise. Unfortunately there’s a certain class of critics that lap that shit up. That’s my explanation for this album being on here.
Astrud Gilberto
2/5
Boring. The bossa nova/samba records previously gotten were more interesting than this. She has a nice voice but isn’t the best singer. The Parade and child songs, ugh. The rest of it isn’t bad but is also nothing special. This is one of those albums that feels like it’s just taking up space on this list.
Shivkumar Sharma
4/5
What a lovely listen. I can see why this crossed boundaries and had the influence it did. I would definitely buy this if I came across a physical copy. Must listen #232.
Pixies
5/5
The amazing thing about Pixies is how they were the genesis point for both grunge and slacker rock in the 90s. Somehow they’re one of the most influential rock bands, ever. I think it’s just because their music bursts with energy and creativity and fun and passion and urgency and noise. This album absolutely rules. Must-listen #233.
Ms. Dynamite
2/5
If it was 2010 or before, and I was from the UK, I might understand this album being on this list. Apparently it won the Mercury Prize. And hey, it’s a pretty good early 2000s R&B album with elements of hip hop and dancehall. But I mean, I’d rather listen to Missy Elliott or Ciara or Lauryn Hill any day. This just couldn’t hold a candle to those ladies IMO, plus no one remembers it or has heard of it lol.
Otis Redding
4/5
Wow. Now this is some passionate soul music, and my god, what a voice. Of course I'm familiar with it but this is the first time I'm listening to a whole album of Otis Redding, and this is a voice that could captivate me singing anything. I'm gonna return to this! Must-listen #234.
Radiohead
5/5
I tend to think sometimes that my "Radiohead phase" is behind me. I mean for several years they were my north star, my center of gravity. They were the music of my soul. So I'm coming at this with more familiarity than almost any other album on this list. But still, it's been years since I regularly listened to them. I've enjoyed Yorke and Greenwood's The Smile project here and there, and my band plays a few tunes from The Bends, but otherwise I don't dip into the Radiohead pool much anymore.
So when I revisited this album in full, I didn't expect it to hit so hard and sink in so deeply. I truly don't think this album is possible to overrate. I mean what else is like it? Albums get compared to it all the time but really only whenever their artist takes a big creative swing, not so much in the actual quality of the music. Because Kid A is both a big creative swing AND a perfect album of perfect songs. I'm struck by how much of my personal taste after "the Radiohead phase" sprang directly from this album.
Part of why it surprises me is that I usually fall back on OK Computer (my usual favorite) or In Rainbows if I'm going to listen to Radiohead. Maybe that's because listening to Kid A too much is like staring at the sun too much.
Okay, I'm starting to sound pretentious now. This album is one of the best to come out in my lifetime. Must-listen #235.
Giant Sand
2/5
Right out of the gate this was giving Eels meets Nick Cave and I am into that. But then it just got more boring, sad to say, as it went on. Eventually it was a bit of a slog to finish. This band seems kinda cool, but this album just did not make an impression at all.
Tina Turner
4/5
Tina’s got bops. Tina’s got pipes! This was a lot of fun. Better than I expected. Though I’m a little more forgiving on big 80s pop than a lot of the nerds on this site lol. Must listen #236
The Dictators
4/5
This album provided me with a rippin' good time. Is it proto-punk or an early example of punk? I'm doubtful, but the energy and attitude are there for sure. Some of the songs' lyrics are riotously funny (I'm seriously side-eyeing anyone clutching pearls over "Master Race Rock" -- just read the lyrics and apply critical thinking). There are some pretty kickass guitar solos too. I went into this album very skeptical and came out of it quite impressed. Must-listen #237.
Stevie Wonder
5/5
This one bowled me over track after track! After feeling a little let down by Talking Book, I was wary, but the subtle brilliance of this album tore down my walls. It’s such an impeccably executed but easygoing set of tunes. It has been almost nothing but standout moments. Great melodies, grooves, instrumentals, solos, lyrics. Every track has given me something lovely to latch on to. Must-listen #238!
D'Angelo
4/5
I appreciate sex jams, but they’re not exactly my first listening choice. I still remember that Maxwell album that was one of my lowest rated on this site. D’Angelo on this album is doing almost the same thing, right? Sexy sounding songs about sexual desire. But wow he really elevates the material with these luscious instrumentals, which sometimes sprawl out for a little while and feature some great, subtle soloing. And his vocals and melodies are a little more slinky, and less…I dunno, horny? It’s hard to say why but it’s just a little less over the top and obvious than the Maxwell record or other similar albums. It’s got a touch of shy mystery to it. I love that.
Anyway, RIP D’Angelo. I’m glad I’m starting with the first album. This is must-listen #239.
Steve Winwood
3/5
I have to confess that a part of me enjoys this greatly. But that part is dumb, and the larger part of me can’t with any honesty call this an album that everyone should listen to before they die.
(If you have a baffling affinity for yacht-rock and soulless 80s pop like me, though, it’s pretty good shit.)
Nas
5/5
I’ve been waiting for this one. Like many others, I think it’s the best rap album of all time. Foundational and influential, but still impressive in its own right. It ages well and holds up three decades later. The trifecta of “NY State of Mind” -> “Life’s a Bitch” -> “The World is Yours” is crazy. It’s one of the best three-track runs EVER regardless of genre or era. These are the best boom-bap beats ever made! Anyway this is an easy 5 star rating and it’s putting me in a great place for the day. Must-listen #240.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Hendrix rules. His band rips. There’s such an intensity that comes through, to my ears that’s what separates JHE from any other blues-rock band. It just sounds so goooood must-listen #241
Little Simz
5/5
I was listening to this album a lot during a very pivotal time in my life so I am unable to be objective in my judgement. I love the dusty dry production sound of this album, I love that it just cuts to the core with energy and simplicity. I love the range of moods here, especially the introspection. This is one of my favorite of the post-2010 picks on this list. Must-listen #242.
Kate Bush
5/5
Such a vibe, I listened to it twice in a row. Great album to listen to on good headphones. It’s just a whole world, very transporting and kinda mystical but also catchy and poppy. Must-listen #243.
Radiohead
4/5
Great collection of songs, but one of Radiohead’s weaker albums.
Chicago
2/5
I respect the musicianship, but I do not like this.
Skepta
3/5
I had to listen to this twice, because I had a feeling I was under the spell of the kickass beats the first time, and I was right. On my second listen I was a lot more annoyed by the skits and bored by the repetition of various hooks and a similar mood/tone throughout. Still, this is probably one of the better UK grime-derived rap albums that I’ve heard. As a piece of art, doesn’t hold a candle to the Little Simz record I had earlier this week.
Alice In Chains
2/5
Heavy, feel-bad shit. Probably the genesis for a loooott of the butt-rock that came down the line after this, particularly in the vocal style. I don’t like it. I think other bands explored these emotions better and other bands had better instrumental composition. It’s always crazy to me that the music industry in the 90s was so successful that there was room for so many bands that sounded exactly like one another to find success — I’m just like, why would I listen to this when I could listen to Soundgarden?
Fugazi
5/5
Getting this right after the Alice in Chains album I had yesterday hilariously proves my point. THIS is how you do anger, energy and catharsis well. This is a release, an explosion, a transmutation of negativity into exuberance. (Whereas AiC just feels to me like utter wallowing.)
I sometimes forget this is Fugazi's first album, because it feels so fully formed and confident and because 13 Songs exists. Whatever, doesn't matter, this thing rules. One of the best punk albums period. Must-listen #244.
Liz Phair
4/5
I've come across references to this album for years and years but this is the first time I've heard it. I definitely expected something bigger, brasher, more bombastic, simply because of its reputation. But I do actually like this quite a bit. It's kinda like some of the earlier Fiona Apple or Elliott Smith material in that it's accessible material delivered with a plain, easygoing attitude - like you could imagine your friend playing these songs to you on a porch, despite the fact that the songwriting is so strong. I'll definitely revisit this. Must-listen #245.
Rush
5/5
This is one of my favorite rock albums period. Every song rules. I can literally sing all the notes of the guitar and bass solos on “YYZ,” that’s how much I’ve listened to this.
Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart, all at the top of their game. The first four songs are all rock masterpieces, and the second half of the album is a little proggier and just as good. Must-listen #246.
Joy Division
3/5
When it comes to these musicians (bar Curtis), I prefer New Order. When it comes to this kind of sound, I prefer early The Cure. Still, this album has some appeal in its hypnotically plodding, rudimentary dourness. At the very least, it directly spawned a lot of more interesting bands.
Animal Collective
3/5
Animal Collective is a cool band, and this is a cool album, but I’ve never thought it deserved the reputation it got. I much prefer Feels or Sung Tongs, and I’d probably rate those must-listens. This one is just a little too chaotic, and it doesn’t have very many hooks to grab on to. I love “My Girls,” “Daily Routine,” and “No More Runnin.” Everything else, meh.
Nirvana
4/5
Very cool. I guess I should watch the video version. I have tons of respect and awe for Nirvana and Cobain and the values and shifts in the industry that they represented, but I’ve never really loved their music. This is probably the most I’ll enjoy a full project by them. It sounds great; the mixing is super clear and the instruments sound rich and full. I really dig that they played a bunch of covers and only one of their own hits. Must-listen #247.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Smooth shit. Beautiful layers and production. Sad, serious, melancholy, despondent at times lyrics, but it’s lifted up by the buoyant and lively playing. I’ve had two Curtis Mayfield albums and the have both been must-listens! #248.
Scott Walker
4/5
Y’all, this is some corny shit. But it is totally transporting if you give yourself over to it. The lyrics are incredible, his voice is evocative. Sometimes the orchestral arrangements are a little overmuch but I can’t really blame them when the songs themselves sound so cinematic. Actually I loved this a lot. Must-listen #249.
Rufus Wainwright
4/5
Oh I really enjoyed this. I'll always love Rufus Wainwright for blending gender lines and being such an unashamed soft man. I'll admit that some of the songs tested my patience a bit but some others were magical and transporting. I don't think I would call this a "must-listen," though -- it doesn't strike me as particularly influential or impactful, and it's certainly not for everyone. I really liked it, though, and I'm going to check out more of his material.
Dr. Dre
2/5
Never got the hype for this one. Dre has obviously been really important for hip-hop but I've never been able to figure out what exactly he has that's so special. I don't even like the beats on this album that much. And while rap in any form is always going to be accused of ignorant lyricism, this album really has it in spades. I reviewed Nas' Illmatic a couple weeks ago, and even without digging deep in the lyrics there is an identifiable vulnerability and a human feeling. This album doesn't have that. Snoop Dogg is a better rapper and even has better beats on his album. Ice Cube obviously was the best rapper to come out of N.W.A. This? Eh.
Blur
1/5
This album contains some evidence that Blur were trying to move on/break away from/transcend the Britpop sound, and I can give them a point for that. But it still proves the conclusion I’ve come to over the course of this list — Britpop bands were all just trying to copy the sound and attitude of David Bowie’s 70s career. “M.O.R.” and “On Your Own” literally sound like Bowie ripoffs. And the ones that don’t sound like demos.
You know, the farther I get into this album the less grace I want to extend. I take back my point. This sucks.
White Denim
4/5
Very cool album by a very cool band. They really jam and are a rad combo of their influences. They don’t strike me much as an ‘of their time’ band but that’s harder to define for the 2010s anyway. Still, though I like this a lot, it wouldn’t make my must-listen list.
Country Joe & The Fish
2/5
Ah, the classic bluesy psychedelic rock band of 1967. A style and period that spawned a lot of classics. I’ve never heard of this one, which doesn’t bode well. And well would you look at that, it sounds like the others, only more rudimentary and ear-hurting.
Michael Jackson
5/5
Yeah, it's that good, yeah, it's a classic. "The Girl is Mine" and "The Lady in My Life" are the only songs I would ding, and they are very slight dings. Not enough people mention "Human Nature" -- probably my favorite MJ song ever. Must-listen #250!
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
I love this band and I like this album. It’s pretty good. Few of the songs live up to “Take Me Out,” which in my opinion is a stone-cold classic and one of the best rock songs of the ‘00s, but I do like “Dark of the Matinee” and “Michael” a lot. This is probably a 3.5 album and it’s pushing the limits of the designation but I’ll still put it on my must-listen list, #251.
B.B. King
3/5
I love the blues, and I love B.B., but I’m gonna ding this album for two things, the crowd noise (distracting and loud) and the big-band arrangements, which I rarely like. My favorite blues is usually either the guy-with-a-guitar variety or the trio — something stripped-down so the vocals and guitar get all the shine.
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
1/5
Mmm. No to this. I really hope this is one of those albums that has been taken off the list lol. Like….this isn’t even “world music,” unless I’m misunderstanding the term. This is basic-ass trip-hoppy beats with some “exotic flavor” added in here and there.
Paul McCartney and Wings
4/5
Really good stuff. A tight concentration of some of McCartney’s best material. Must-listen #252.
The Pogues
4/5
Ah, I really enjoyed this! There’s just something about the Celtic folk rock sound that I find engaging and endearing, expressing a lot of pure “rock n roll” energy, but always with a sincere human touch. Really excellent songwriting all across this record. I’m only dropping a star because of some of the more polka-ish stuff like “Fiesta.” Must-listen #253.
Violent Femmes
2/5
I’ve loved a lot of bands that were influenced by these guys, and presumably by this record. On paper, I admire this one too: punk attitude and songs by a decidedly non-punk-sounding combo, scrappy production, raw performances. But I straight up do not enjoy listening to this. First offense is the lyrics. Some of these songs sound like incel anthems. I’m so mad because nobody’s having sex with me, etc. Second offense is the vocal tone and melodies get really repetitive and grating after a while. Third offense is how many of the songs go on way too long. Takes away some of the punk points tbh. Make your songs shorter!
Aretha Franklin
4/5
See now this is something I don't know if I'd ever have sought out without this list. Because I know enough about Aretha and her hits from cultural osmosis, I probably would have been content to let it stay that way. But now that I've heard a whole album, I'm walking around like yo, have you guys ever listened to an Aretha Franklin album? It rocks. Great experience. You rock, Aretha. Killer voice, energetic instrumentals, good tunes. It's not a perfect album but it is a must-listen (#254).
Turbonegro
3/5
This was better than I expected, given the band’s name, history, track titles, and the fact that it came out in 1998. Definitely pretty one-note, though. After a pretty exciting opening, the majority of the songs settle into the same kind of tempo, tone, sound. Odd lyrics, but I can forgive that since they’re Norse and seem to be just taking the piss. It’s all some ripping, loud, heavy punk. They’re good players but in service to somewhat lame songs. I wouldn’t call this a must-listen, but it’s not bad.
The Stranglers
4/5
Now this was pretty cool. I really liked the organ and the songwriting has some ambition and some interesting angles to it. My favorite bit was the medley, “Down in the Sewer.” I love how often the organ and the bass take a lead melody or solo. I’m definitely going to revisit this. Must-listen #255.
Crowded House
3/5
Decent pop album. Nothing really wowed me but there were several moments of fun.
Neil Young
3/5
I enjoyed this off and on. Some songs were great, other songs didn’t do much for me. I prefer After the Gold Rush, listened to it afterwards to confirm. I guess I just like Neil Young more when he’s darker and more stripped back.
The Young Rascals
2/5
This was like the most cliche 60s pop/rock album ever. Almost parody level. It wasn’t too bad, it just sounded very anonymous.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
4/5
This is some righteous stuff. I admire the boldness required to just drop truth over 6-minute long hip-hop beats. Listening to this sent me reading about Michael Franti because, having never listened to him, I’d lumped him in with the Jack Johnson barefoot good-times scene. Turns out he is (or was at the start of his career at least) a political firebrand.
As others have pointed out, it’s a little depressing that this came out nearly 35 years ago and the problems he’s pointing out are still problems, most of them worse than they were in ‘92. Still, it does nothing but increase the relevancy of this work.
The rapping is sometimes less skilled, squeezing and stretching his flow in order to make wordy lines fit with the beats. And the album is pretty long. Besides those points, I enjoyed this a lot. Must-listen #256.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
4/5
What this album taught me is that I like country and bluegrass and American folk if it’s got that throwback, old-school, classic style. I typically don’t like country much at all, and was apprehensive going into this, but on the other hand, I always loved the O Brother Where Art Thou soundtrack and have enjoyed bluegrass bands live.
This album will likely end up my new “go-to” when I feel like country — which admittedly, isn’t often — because the instrumentals, songs, and recordings cover just about everything I could want from this style. I’m surprised…pleasantly so! Must-listen #257.
James Brown
4/5
Hard to deny the energy in this live album. Also, the grooves. Very fun. Must-listen #258.
Silver Jews
2/5
What a drag. I appreciate Berman’s way with words but he is the epitome of a sad sack. Sorry, maybe that’s disrespectful to the dead… He was a real artist and I have sympathy for his struggles and his fate. But I’ve always had a hard time getting through a full album of his material. I guess I need a little more emotional range in the albums I enjoy (at least in the absence of good hooks).
The National
5/5
Masterpiece. I think this is The National’s best album, with their best song (“Bloodbuzz Ohio”). So good. I like every song. I think the production is pristine. It was a joy to revisit this and find that I feel the same way about it I always have. Must-listen #259.
Tori Amos
3/5
I really enjoy the songwriting on this album, and I like how emotionally expressive Tori Amos is in her singing. She creates some interesting melodies and I always love a piano player. I will admit two things keep the album down though: some of the songs get a little too “goopy ballad” for me to appreciate — “China” didn’t do much for me — and it’s long. Very few singer-songwriter albums need to be an hour long. But I get that it was the peak of the CD era and that was more standard. Anyway, I enjoyed this overall.
Coldcut
3/5
Fun and colorful dance music. But it’s clearly not remembered as a classic (being harder to track down) and it’s too long. Maybe if I found a CD copy I’d give this another chance.
Songhoy Blues
5/5
I’m instantly in love with this. Exposure to other cultures’ music has been the best benefit from working through this list, and I’ve discovered a particular affinity for rock and pop from an African lineage. There’s usually catchy melodies and rhythmic interplay, and that is 100% true here. But even more than that, what this record provides is some *truly fucking sick* guitar playing.
This is probably one of the most accessible-to-Western-audiences African rock records I’ve heard. Excellent and I’m going to check out the rest of these guys’ discography. Must-listen #260.
The Soft Boys
4/5
Quite enjoyable. Some really fun and clever and off-kilter songs on here, and it really does sound like the late-60s psychedelic rock updates for a post-punk era. Must-listen #261.
Grizzly Bear
5/5
Sophisticated instrumentation and chord progressions, unique melodies with gobs of beautiful harmonies, parts that straight up rock and parts that are gentle and mystical, a distinct sense of place and nature, shades of jazz and prog and neoclassical… Man, what a cool band and what a great album. I slightly prefer Shields but I would put both albums on the same plane. Must-listen #262.
The White Stripes
3/5
Meh. I dunno. I like the Stripes’ stuff when they’re more adventurous, like on Get Behind Me Satan and Icky Thump, and I have no love for the big hits from this album. Meg White’s drumming is probably my favorite aspect. Still 3 stars because they’re legendary and objectively this album was influential.
Mudhoney
3/5
Really sick guitar sounds and some tunes that really rip. I had to read up on the album — apparently it was originally a 6-song EP (tracks 7-12). I liked those songs the best. The other ones sounded mostly like you’d expect leftovers or B-sides to sound. Anyway, great sound, but simply too uneven in quality.
Drive Like Jehu
5/5
Where has this album been all my life? As a millennial who was deep into the post-hardcore and emo scenes in the early 00s, I immediately see the influence of Drive Like Jehu on all the bands I listened to as a teen. This sounds like the logical bridge between Fugazi and Thursday for instance. The guitars are so inventive and have the perfect punk tone. Propulsive drumming and satisfyingly expressive vocals.
Side note, the band and album name rang a little bell and I realized while listening and reading that the guitar player was also in Rocket From the Crypt — whose album Scream Dracula Scream was another surprise 5-star from this list. That guy John Reis, he was onto something. Must-listen #263.
The Stooges
4/5
Rad. I wish it was a little rawer and more powerful, but I can’t blame them, it was a little early for that. What I like best about this album is the hooks laden all over these songs. Nearly every tune is memorable in some way. It’s a classic. One point subtracted for being just a little scattered. Still, must-listen #264.
Funkadelic
4/5
Very cool. I expected to like the longer bookend tracks best and sit through the middle five songs, but the opposite was true. I like the concept of a single long guitar solo opening a record, but in actuality the first track didn’t do much for me. The shorter songs really carried this album with their power, volume, and grooves. I’ll absolutely return to this, along with a deeper exploration into (P-)Funk’s discog. Must-listen #265.
Miles Davis
4/5
This kind of sound is my favorite to come from bigger jazz ensembles. I’ve never really been into the “big-band” bombast or jazz orchestras, but I love a good smoky small-room atmosphere, and this album has that in spades. The combo of lots of instruments with a deliberately smaller-scale vibe and construction, is just, well, cool. I may prefer other Davis eras, but I simply cannot argue with this album. Must-listen #266.
Fred Neil
3/5
Early folk-rock/Americana. It’s fine. Good voice, well recorded. Nice little songs. Seems like it was influential but you wouldn’t know it by the sound of it. Not a masterpiece or even very interesting.