Oct 21 2024
View Album
Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
I just don't really care for music like this. Layla definitely feels like the standout track; the others felt a bit meandering and self-indulgent.
2
Oct 22 2024
View Album
Stand!
Sly & The Family Stone
So much energy and talent here. Everyday People is just one of the best songs ever. Soul Clappin' II is a new favorite now too.
4
Oct 23 2024
View Album
Bridge Over Troubled Water
Simon & Garfunkel
Really liked about half the songs on here (and moderately liked the others, though some were too slow for my tastes). Probably 3 1/2 stars? Paul Simon's solo material speaks to me a bit more.
3
Oct 24 2024
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Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
New favorite: "The Wild One, Forever"
What a good musician. Loved this. 4 1/2 stars.
4
Oct 25 2024
View Album
Moondance
Van Morrison
I liked Caravan and Come Running. Most of the songs felt a little too long, maybe a little samey. But overall I enjoyed it more than I expected. 2 1/2 stars.
2
Oct 28 2024
View Album
Master Of Puppets
Metallica
Y'know, I've never really liked or gotten into Metallica, but this one was alright. Some corny lyrics, but I respect that they were talented and went pretty hard. Solid 3 stars.
3
Oct 29 2024
View Album
Tommy
The Who
Overall I think this is a really cool project. Musically, it's not necessarily something I'd reach for, but I'm not sure that was the intent? 3 stars.
3
Oct 30 2024
View Album
Kala
M.I.A.
I usually like music like this, but I found I preferred the samples to the interpolations. Verses felt a little too long. Paper Planes was the only one I really wanted to hit "repeat" on. 2.5 stars?
2
Oct 31 2024
View Album
Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
<Gordon Ramsay voice> Finally, some good fucking music.
Nick Cave is cool as hell, and regrettably I only know random songs here and there, so listening to this full album was a treat. I love music that has this kind of energy to it. Moody but assertive.
I found this a very captivating record both musically and lyrically. The songs felt distinct, exploring different genres and tempos and themes, yet it made sense that they were grouped together into an album. Again, I just love stuff like this.
I already knew (and love) "There She Goes, My Beautiful World," but man that song ripsssss. Other favorites: Get Ready for Love, Nature Boy, Abattoir Blues, The Lyre of Orpheus, and Breathless.
5
Nov 01 2024
View Album
Let's Get Killed
David Holmes
I hadn't heard of David Holmes, which is neat, because I've been wanting to get into this genre and was expecting this list to basically be 1,001 classic rock albums. I got really into Fred again... last year (or the year before?) when his Boiler Room set got big, and I loved Porter Robinson's latest album. Are those reasonable comparisons? I'm an electronic newbie! Anyway, I like this and will be adding it to my collection. It does feel very ~of its time~, but I also love the 90s NYC aesthetic so that's not a problem for me! 3 stars.
3
Nov 04 2024
View Album
Grace
Jeff Buckley
Revoke my cred - this is my first time listening to Jeff Buckley!!
And I gotta say, this rocked way harder than I expected. I always had the impression that this was slow, folky music. But Buckley has a phenomenal, transcendent rock voice, which elevates and sells every song.
I've never loved his version of Hallelujah, but within the context of this album, I feel like I get it now. It feels almost jarringly blunt after several jazzy, wailing kinda tunes.
I feel like I'm just saying a lot of adjectives now, so I'll close by saying I'm excited to continue listening to this one, because I think there's a lot more to unravel. 4 stars.
4
Nov 05 2024
View Album
Sign 'O' The Times
Prince
I mean... it's Prince. One of the best to ever do it.
Favorite track: I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man. But I really dig most of these.
What I especially love about this is that a lot of the songs feel fairly normal at surface level, but there's always something crazy going on with the instrumentation or lyrics or Prince's delivery that really takes everything to the next level. Even the horny songs (and there are a lot of horny songs) are just, like, so good.
I want to throw a party just to play this. Doesn't it feel like perfect party music? Hell yeah, Prince. 4 1/2 stars.
4
Nov 06 2024
View Album
Country Life
Roxy Music
Favorites: All I Want Is You, Bitter Sweet, Casanova
This was released in 1974?! Feels pretty dang innovative. I've heard a lot about Roxy Music but hadn't listened until now. I see the influence, I see the creativity. I think this is a good album, but not as many songs stood out as I had hoped. Going to stick with 3 stars here.
Kudos to the album art, though, for making me act all dodgy while listening at work. 🙃
3
Nov 07 2024
View Album
Freak Out!
The Mothers Of Invention
Favorite tracks: Hungry Freaks, Daddy; Go Cry On Someone Else's Shoulder; Motherly Love; Wowie Zowie; Trouble Every Day; Help, I'm A Rock; It Can't Happen Here.
I really needed this energy today, the day after Election Day. I've never listened to Frank Zappa before; he did a bit with Mike Nesmith/The Monkees once, so I had a positive impression going into this. I thought it'd be a lot harder to get into, but I found the songs juuust complex/weird enough while still maintaining their artistry. Idk, I think I have a fairly high tolerance for this specific kind of noodling!
I'm glad this exists, and I'm glad I listened to it. I'll enjoy adding it to my collection. 4 1/2 stars.
4
Nov 08 2024
View Album
I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
Favorite tracks: Respect, I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You), Dr. Feelgood, Save Me.
Aretha's voice is so good, so engaging. The songs sort of blended together for me, but I did enjoy listening to this. I wish more songs captured the magic and energy of Respect. 3 stars.
3
Nov 11 2024
View Album
Green
R.E.M.
Favorite tracks: Pop Song 89, You Are The Everything, Stand, The Wrong Child, Hairshirt, Untitled.
Lyrically stunning, musically right up my alley. Michael Stipe's voice just does something to me. 4 1/2 stars.
4
Nov 12 2024
View Album
Appetite For Destruction
Guns N' Roses
Favorites: Welcome to the Jungle, Out ta Get Me, Sweet Child O' Mine, My Michelle, You're Crazy
Kinda liked this as a change of pace. Not sure I'd reach for it on my own. Axl Rose's vocalizations are a hoot; he really goes all out! I mean, it's an energetic album, you gotta give it that. The songs I liked best were the ones that made me laugh a lil bit (except for Sweet Child O' Mine, which I've always had a soft spot for). 3 stars.
3
Nov 13 2024
View Album
Time (The Revelator)
Gillian Welch
This was a perfect fit for a cool November day. Love the lyrics, her voice, and the overall vibe. I'll have to take more time with this; the tracks that stood out the most were the first and last ones. Oh, and Elvis Presley Blues. 3 1/2 stars.
3
Nov 14 2024
View Album
Blue
Joni Mitchell
Favorite tracks: All I Want, Carey, California, This Flight Tonight
I just haven't quite heard anything else like this. There's so much personality in the way she sings. I think this album has a reputation for being a downer, but some of the songs are genuinely fun. Life is sad AND fun, y'know? 4 stars.
4
Nov 15 2024
View Album
Triangle
The Beau Brummels
I have a high tolerance for stuff like this, but it was just so corny. Wanted more razzle dazzle. I didn't find it offensive, and I really loved Nine Pound Hammer, but I won't be picking the album up again. 2.5 stars.
2
Nov 18 2024
View Album
Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
Favorite tracks: Cover Me, I'm On Fire, I'm Goin' Down, Glory Days.
I haven't listened to Bruce, aside from the hits. I liked this wayyy more than I expected to, and I liked it even more on repeat listens. The only song I didn't like was Darlington County.
This sound is really making a comeback (like, idk, Nathaniel Rateliff or Bleachers), so this album felt surprisingly modern for '84. Dare I say timeless? Ultimately, I think he's an icon for a reason. There's a nuance and complexity to his music that's hard to appreciate when he's, y'know, a superstar with massive hits. (See also: every right-winger misinterpreting Born in the USA.)
Originally thought 4 stars, but bumping up to 5. Happy to have enjoyed it as much as I did.
(Also, I'm sorry to bring my review down to this level, but this era of Springsteen is just... phewww. The rolled sleeves? The unbuttoned shirt? The fluffy hair??? Come ON.)
5
Nov 19 2024
View Album
I Should Coco
Supergrass
Favorite tracks: Mansize Rooster, Alright, Lenny, Sitting Up Straight, She's So Loose.
Whooo the energy in this! Good stuff. Lyrically it isn't, like, groundbreaking, but the music is so fun. Took me a few listens to really get into it, but now I'm sold. 4 stars.
Side note, Clueless had such a good soundtrack. Agin' like wine.
4
Nov 20 2024
View Album
Searching For The Young Soul Rebels
Dexys Midnight Runners
Y'know, I liked this! I expected the vocal style to grate on me, but I ended up liking it. Loved the horns, too. I think I'd be delighted if a song from this album came up on shuffle. 4 stars - will be adding this to my collection.
4
Nov 21 2024
View Album
Dust
Screaming Trees
Favorite tracks: Halo of Ashes, Look At You, Make My Mind, Gospel Plow.
I like music like this. It doesn't necessarily stand out among similar albums of the era, but it's clear to me that this was a talented group. If I heard one of these songs on the radio, I'd make a note of it, y'know? 4 stars. (On a streak of 4 stars lately!)
4
Nov 22 2024
View Album
To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
Favorite tracks: u, Alright, For Sale?, Momma, i, Mortal Man.
I like how the tracks connect and flow into each other, and I respect the chaos of the different styles, instrumentation, etc. I really liked the "conversation" with Tupac at the end of Mortal Man. But overall, I'd say this isn't really for me (nor was it ever meant for me). It felt too long, but this seems like an album where the tracks shouldn't be separated or skipped. I also think maybe I don't like Kendrick's vocals? Ah idk. Going with 2.5 stars on this one, noting again that I am not the audience for this.
2
Nov 25 2024
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Live At The Regal
B.B. King
Favorite tracks: Every Day I Have The Blues; Worry, Worry
Per Wikipedia, the album was recorded on Nov. 21, 1964 (60 years, almost exactly!). The Regal Theatre closed down four years later, and was ultimately demolished in 1973. That's wild, right?
I really enjoyed the crowd feedback on this one. It feels so lively, even still. I know nothing about blues music, but maybe I oughta learn. 3 1/2 stars.
3
Nov 26 2024
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Stardust
Willie Nelson
I love Willie Nelson, and this was a lovely album, but it also felt like a slightly odd choice for this list. To me, it's best suited to the right mood and environment - I'm thinking winter, cozy, gentle snow outside - but I'm not sure how to rate it for everyday listening. Three stars, I think?
3
Nov 27 2024
View Album
Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
Favorite tracks: Opus 40, Hudson Line, Delta Sun Bottleneck Stomp
This feels pretty different from the other albums I've gotten so far. It also feels like it'd fit best in a specific environment - as atmospheric background music when friends come by, say. Someone left a review describing this as soundtrack-esque, which I agree with. I zoned in and out while listening to it, which I think is fine. 3 stars.
3
Nov 28 2024
View Album
In The Wee Small Hours
Frank Sinatra
Well, I loved this. I don't really have any notes to share. I loved every song, loved the emotion, loved the instrumentation. A true treat.
5
Nov 29 2024
View Album
Groovin'
The Young Rascals
So, like, I listened to this while stress-cooking for Thanksgiving, but even still, I recognized this as a good type of This Music (which is already music I like). I honestly expected to be bored of it, but I wasn't; the songs felt distinct and fun. Looking forward to listening more. 4 stars.
4
Dec 02 2024
View Album
Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
Favorite tracks: Save Me A Place, Sara, What Makes You Think You're The One, Storms, Not That Funny, Angel, Tusk, Never Forget
I love the risks they took on this, especially the Buckingham songs, which feel very wild and innovative and rockin'. (My toxic thought while listening to this: "Oh, okay, I can see why Stevie loved him.")
I debated five stars, but ultimately I think there are a few songs that are just "good" instead of "great." So, 4.5 stars.
4
Dec 03 2024
View Album
Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
Thin Lizzy is cool, and there's certainly some shredding here, but I can't really understand why this is on the list instead of a studio album. 3 stars, I guess?
3
Dec 04 2024
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Beggars Banquet
The Rolling Stones
Sympathy for the Devil, Jigsaw Puzzle, Street Fighting Man, Salt of the Earth
I'll admit I'm often unimpressed by the Stones, and this album wasn't really an exception. Sympathy for the Devil is energetic and fun, and there were a couple tracks (noted above) that stood out to me, but for the most part, I'd just rather listen to something else. 3 stars.
3
Dec 05 2024
View Album
At Budokan
Cheap Trick
Cheap Trick is from my hometown, so I feel an affinity for them. Surrender is one of my all-time faves. I think their brand of rock is distinctly authentic and fun and good-natured.
A surprising number of live albums have come up on the list lately (this is the third in two weeks), but this one was so fun! All bangers, no bummers.
I'm sure there's bias creeping in here, but because this is the only Cheap Trick album on the list, I'm giving it a 4. I genuinely think I will listen to this again.
4
Dec 06 2024
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Tea for the Tillerman
Cat Stevens
Favorite tracks: Sad Lisa, But I Might Die Tonight, Father and Son
This took me a few listens to get into, but once I did, it felt very warm and nice and peaceful and introspective - all things I like! I'm feeling a 3 for this.
3
Dec 09 2024
View Album
Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
I'm pretty new to Radiohead, so I hadn't heard this one before. I like both their rock era and electronic era, so I dig the sound of this one. That said, fewer tracks stood out to me than I expected. ("Where I End and You Begin," "There, There," and "Myxomatosis" were the highlights for me.) I think if I wanted to listen to Radiohead, I'd probably just pick a different album. 3 stars.
3
Dec 10 2024
View Album
Superunknown
Soundgarden
I feel bad giving this such a low score, but it genuinely put me in a bad mood. 1.5 stars?
1
Dec 11 2024
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White Ladder
David Gray
I was sick with a stomach bug while listening to this, so everything feels a bit hazy. That said, I like this kind of music, and the closer was beautiful. 3.5 stars.
3
Dec 12 2024
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The Rising
Bruce Springsteen
Favorite tracks: Let's Be Friends, The Fuse, You're Missing
I thought this was really pretty! And weirder than I expected (in a good way). 3.5 stars, bumping up to 4.
4
Dec 13 2024
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Psychocandy
The Jesus And Mary Chain
I really, really like music like this.
4
Dec 16 2024
View Album
Lady Soul
Aretha Franklin
I liked this better than the other Aretha album we've had so far (I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You). Feels like the Aretha I've come to expect - vibrant, powerful. I think the star tracks (Chain of Fools and A Natural Woman) are the clear standouts. 3.5/5 stars.
3
Dec 17 2024
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Queen II
Queen
The experience of listening to this album was thoroughly enjoyable and really got me pumped up for a Monday. Dramatic, lush, and honestly just very cool. 4 stars.
4
Dec 18 2024
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Is This It
The Strokes
I kinda feel like this album took a bit to get started, but once it did, whewww! Some 5/5 tracks, but not all - therefore, 4 stars.
4
Dec 19 2024
View Album
D
White Denim
I've never heard of this band! Braced myself but was pleasantly surprised. Good music I'm sure I'd love seeing live. Really enjoyed the unique instrumentation. This isn't usually my preferred brand of indie rock, but this was a strong album. 3.5 stars.
3
Dec 20 2024
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Definitely Maybe
Oasis
Hell yes Oasis!!!!! Easy four stars, if only for the way Liam pronounces every line on Cigarettes and Alcohol (my fave track).
4
Dec 23 2024
View Album
Eliminator
ZZ Top
This just has no personality, in my opinion. The vocals lack energy. This would be more enjoyable if they were just an instrumental band, and if they took, like, any risks. 2 stars for being bland but inoffensive.
2
Dec 24 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
This was pretty cool, good energy, but got a little samey for me in the latter half. 3 stars.
3
Dec 25 2024
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Foxbase Alpha
Saint Etienne
Favorite tracks: She's The One, London Belongs To Me
This is probably a 3.5, but I'm bumping it to 4 stars because I vibed so well with it today - Christmas Eve, chilling out, drinking coffee and working on a jigsaw puzzle. Heck yeah.
4
Dec 26 2024
View Album
A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
Various Artists
Christmas!
3
Dec 27 2024
View Album
Public Image: First Issue
Public Image Ltd.
I kinda like how confrontational this is (I think I've mentioned in a previous review that I have a high tolerance for nonsense). I can't quite give it higher than a 3 because, well, it's not really fun to listen to. But good on ya, John, you made my house-cleaning day feel cooler.
3
Dec 30 2024
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25
Adele
I really enjoy listening to Adele! This album was a bit somber and samey for me, but the songs that hit really hit. Overall, I'll go with 3.5 stars.
3
Dec 31 2024
View Album
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
I'm a sucker for The Kinks, and I loved listening to this. Interesting songs with distinctive lyrics. Solid 4 stars.
4
Jan 01 2025
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Chocolate Starfish And The Hot Dog Flavored Water
Limp Bizkit
This was like "Appetite For Destruction" by Guns N' Roses, but, like, for millennials. Fred Durst just goes for it, man! Feels extremely representative of the era, for better or worse... well, okay, worse. The turn of the millennium was a bad time!! We deserved this; we thirsted for it!!
Anyways I'm giving this 3 stars, no I will not be taking any questions.
3
Jan 02 2025
View Album
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie
Excellent album - creative, catchy, and energetic. I think I prefer Bowie's less space-y stuff, so I'll go with 4 stars here.
4
Jan 03 2025
View Album
G. Love And Special Sauce
G. Love & Special Sauce
"This makes me feel better about giving Limp Bizkit three stars." - Me to L.
Yeah this sucked.
1
Jan 06 2025
View Album
The Yes Album
Yes
I was surprised by how much I liked this! I usually zone out during prog rock, but this album demanded more attention from me, in a good way. Each song was creative and distinctive, while still being catchy. I could see myself really sinking into this on repeat listens.
I think my creative writing teacher in high school (who I adored) really liked Yes. I have a vague memory of him playing a song for us in class once. Maybe it was one of these? I'll choose to believe it was, and that this is a neat little full-circle moment. 4 stars.
4
Jan 07 2025
View Album
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Kanye West
I'm gonna echo this person's five-star review from Feb. 2021: "Classic. Sadly, he's crazy now"
I think this is a perfect album. Kanye's expressiveness is captivating, and his ability to weave in samples, features, and styles is unmatched.
There are so many magical moments: the "so exciting/suicide" part in Power, Nicki's verse on Monster, the piano in Runaway... No skips, five stars.
5
Jan 08 2025
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Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
I didn't like it, but it was mostly inoffensive to me. The samples are neat, and I guess the energy is fun. I like "Girls" the best; the others kind of sounded the same to me. 2.5 stars.
2
Jan 09 2025
View Album
In Our Heads
Hot Chip
Favorite tracks: Motion Sickness, Don't Deny Your Heart, Now There Is Nothing, Let Me Be Him, Always Been Your Love
Very cool vibes. I like Hot Chip but am only really familiar with the album before this, One Night Stand. Some songs on this album I really liked, others didn't do a ton for me. But I think this will be great spring-to-summer music, so I'll go with 4 stars!
4
Jan 10 2025
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
So fun fact, I can't stand Creedence's music and have been dreading their appearance on this list! It's like this weird aversion that's beyond my control. Sorry!!!!
Gave it a shot, but his voice grates on me. PROUD MARY KEEP ON BOYNIN'. Also, chooglin'? What are we doing here??
I fully acknowledge this is a Me Problem, but I will be true to myself and give this one star.
1
Jan 13 2025
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Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
I enjoyed this while listening to it, then kinda forgot about it immediately after. I imagine this would have hit very hard in '79. But knowing, as we do, the stronger music that was yet to come... this does feel a little forgettable. 3 stars from me.
3
Jan 14 2025
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Bossanova
Pixies
Favorite tracks: Velouria, Is She Weird, All Over The World, Dig For Fire, Down To The Well, The Happening
Aah this is just so fun to listen to! I don't know how to describe how this music makes me feel... it matches an aesthetic that resonates with me. A little silly, a little grungy. I want to live in its world. Does that make sense?
I'm surely biased because I already love the Pixies, though I'm less familiar with this album. Who cares! 5 stars, I love this.
5
Jan 15 2025
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John Prine
John Prine
Hmm, I felt some whiplash listening to this. Some songs are goofy novelties, others are like "god is dead and all my friends died in the war." I liked a few songs, but as an album, I find this confusing. 2 stars?
2
Jan 16 2025
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Boy In Da Corner
Dizzee Rascal
I liked the middle portion of this but thought the beginning and end dragged a bit. Interesting samples and cool energy, but not sure I'd return to the whole album. 3 stars.
3
Jan 17 2025
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Superfuzz Bigmuff
Mudhoney
I really didn't like this. I suspect if I knew about production or playing instruments it might have meant something to me. I gravitate toward lyrics and vocals, though, and I found both kinda gross on this album. 1.5 stars.
1
Jan 20 2025
View Album
Songs From The Big Chair
Tears For Fears
Favorite tracks: Shout, Everybody Wants To Rule The World, Mothers Talk, I Believe, Head Over Heels.
I expected to like this, then I really, *really* liked it. I love the hits, but this listen-through made me appreciate how weird they are. It can be easy to dismiss radio-friendly bands, but man, this is a cool album. Even somewhat challenging at parts - horns, applause, motifs. Cool!
The top review here says something like "I'm on the verge of giving this a five. Fuck it." I'm wrestling with it, too, but I think I'd need more time with it to decide. Going to stick with 4 stars, but this was really a treasure.
4
Jan 21 2025
View Album
Disraeli Gears
Cream
Being a non-Clapton fan (obviously his politics are terrible, but I also don't like his music), I let out a big ol' "ugh" when I saw this was my album of the day. But it offended me less than I anticipated. I didn't like the last three songs, but the others were more or less fine.
Going to give this 3 stars because I liked it more than the Derek & The Dominos album, which I rated 2 stars. And because this is, mercifully, much shorter.
3
Jan 22 2025
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The Who Sell Out
The Who
Favorite tracks: Armenia City In The Sky, Mary Anne with the Shaky Hand, I Can See For Miles, I Can't Reach You, Glittering Girl, Early Morning Cold Taxi.
Everyone on this site seems to hate this, but I loved it. To reference my Zappa review, I like this kind of nonsense. (See also: The Monkees are one of my favorite bands.) I thought the jingles were fun and the "real" songs were lovely. So, haha, idk, 4 (maybe 4.5!) stars from me.
4
Jan 23 2025
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Like A Prayer
Madonna
I like Madonna's music, and I really like Express Yourself, Love Song, and Dear Jessie from this album. I think there are stronger Madonna albums, though, so I'll stick with a solid 3.
3
Jan 24 2025
View Album
California
American Music Club
The first listen didn't stick with me, but I enjoyed the second go-around quite a bit. Feels nice and vibey, like driving through a desert at sunset. 3 stars.
3
Jan 27 2025
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Hard Again
Muddy Waters
Y'know, this is good stuff.
4
Jan 28 2025
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
Man, I wasn't familiar with this album when it came out, but listening to it now still evoked a lot of nostalgia for me. I guess it does a great job of representing the indie music of the era. Those were some good times, truly. I'm glad this is on here; it's too bad I missed it back in the day. Great album.
4
Jan 29 2025
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The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
The Incredible String Band
I totally understand why this is insufferable to some people, but I thought it was innovative and interesting. It didn't make my pretentious detector go off; it felt authentically weird to me. Just a bunch of hippies trying to express something. I love that.
Highlights for me: Minotaur's Song, A Very Cellular Song, Mercy I Cry City, Swift As The Wind
4
Jan 30 2025
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Here Come The Warm Jets
Brian Eno
After the first song, I was like "Ohoho I'm going to love this." But ultimately, I think I just *liked* it - some neat pop music with weird flourishes, but not quite as many bangers as I hoped.
3
Jan 31 2025
View Album
Twelve Dreams Of Dr. Sardonicus
Spirit
It's been a rough week, and I hadn't heard of this, and I was ready to brush it off. But then it stood out to me! It showcases a simultaneous mellowness and passion that I needed right now. I thought all the songs were distinctive, with simple but effective messages. What a hidden gem. 4 stars.
Favorite tracks: Nature's Way, Mr. Skin, Street Worm, Soldier, Red Light Rolls On
4
Feb 03 2025
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The Dark Side Of The Moon
Pink Floyd
This was alright, but I guess the hype had me expecting something mindblowing. I'd probably prefer another Pink Floyd album.
3
Feb 04 2025
View Album
Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
Really loved this. Great lyrics, obviously, but his delivery is also so engaging. It still feels impressive. I don't have a strong knowledge of Dylan, but there's something about this that feels more intimate than I expected. I think this could be 5 stars if I had more time with it.
4
Feb 05 2025
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Hunting High And Low
a-ha
Y'know, I think if I was in a more optimistic mood I'd like this more. As it is, it was nice, but didn't necessarily stick with me. 3 stars.
3
Feb 06 2025
View Album
Warehouse: Songs And Stories
Hüsker Dü
Favorite tracks: Back From Somewhere; Could You Be The One?; Friend, You've Got To Fall; Turn It Around; She's A Woman (And Now He Is A Man); Up In The Air.
I just really love music like this! It's a bit long, and not all of the songs stand out, but it's definitely something to add to my collection.
4
Feb 07 2025
View Album
Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
Favorite tracks: Badlands, Streets of Fire, Prove It All Night, Darkness on the Edge of Town.
This is the third Springsteen album I've gotten so far, and to be honest I might be inflating this rating because I think I under-rated the previous two. I enjoy most of the songs here, but the ones I like, I *really* like.
Guys, I think I like The Boss. 4 stars.
4
Feb 10 2025
View Album
Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
I liked this more than the other Stones record I've encountered on this list, but overall it felt too long; there's only so much Rolling Stones I wanna listen to in a sitting. Tumbling Dice and Torn And Frayed stood out to me, and most of the rest was fine. 3 stars.
3
Feb 11 2025
View Album
At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
Favorite tracks: In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed, Mountain Jam
I was bracing myself for this because 1) blues rock is not my cup of tea, and 2) the length. But once it got going, I actually quite liked the instrumental/jamming parts. Clearly very skilled people, clearly having a great time. Not something I'd add to regular rotation, but I'd put it in the background if I had guests. 3 stars.
3
Feb 12 2025
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Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs
Marty Robbins
I'm not sure how to rate this! I liked it and thought it was good at what it was going for. So, 3 stars?
3
Feb 13 2025
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Pieces Of The Sky
Emmylou Harris
Favorite tracks: If I Could Only Win Your Love, Before Believing, For No One.
This was so easy to listen to. Really enjoyed it. Good choice of covers, too. 4 stars.
4
Feb 14 2025
View Album
Music for the Masses
Depeche Mode
Depeche Mode is cool! The songs didn't pack as much of a punch for me as the ones from Violator, but man this band makes great music. 4 stars.
4
Feb 17 2025
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Abraxas
Santana
Great vibes. I only listened to this once, but honestly Oye Come Va is good enough for the whole album to be a 4.
4
Feb 18 2025
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Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Goddamnit. I'm so, so sick of the '70s rock on this list, and I have no background or interest in Zep, but this still wowed me. Maybe it's because I've already heard so many of these songs before, so I'm warmed up to them? Or because this wasn't as long or self-indulgent as I had expected? Sigh. Whatever, it's clearly a masterpiece and I'm mad about it!
5
Feb 19 2025
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Clandestino
Manu Chao
Y'know, I dug the vibe, but there weren't really any specific songs that stood out to me. I liked the way various elements came together - felt patchwork (in a good way) at times.
3
Feb 20 2025
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Bluesbreakers
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
I'm in a bad mood and I can't stand Eric Clapton and his wimpy little voice.
2
Feb 21 2025
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Fred Neil
Fred Neil
Perfectly enjoyable. Maybe not something I'd add to my rotation, but I wouldn't turn it off if I heard it in the wild.
3
Feb 24 2025
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Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
Good stuff! Hard not to enjoy this.
4
Feb 25 2025
View Album
Gorillaz
Gorillaz
Favorite tracks: Re-Hash, 5/4, Clint Eastwood, Rock The House, 19-2000, Slow Country, M1 A1
I loved this album when it came out. 20+ years later and in this context, I feel like I'm listening for the first time again.
In 2001, I was still in the throes of pop fandom (Backstreet Boys, Britney, etc.), but juuust starting to discover other music. My tastes had a lot to do with my (parasocial) relationship to the artists. So it was extremely cool that I didn't know who made this. I mean, now it seems obvious, but at the time? Impenetrable to me. That is SO COOL, right?! How often does that happen?
Plus, I loved the characters, I loved the lore, I loved the aesthetic. I was so excited when a video was released for 19-2000, because that was my favorite song on the album and music videos meant a lot to me. Honestly it might still be my favorite track. So weird, so catchy. HERE YOU GO!
Looking back, it's clear this album had a stronger-than-I-realized influence on how my musical tastes evolved. So, yeah, there's nostalgia at play here, but honestly this album is still excellent: innovative then, and remains innovative now. Perfect blend of genres that hits all the right notes for me. Every time I finish listening to it, I immediately restart it. 5 stars.
5
Feb 26 2025
View Album
461 Ocean Boulevard
Eric Clapton
Thank god, this is the final Eric Clapton album on my list. And I somehow got two of them in the past week. And I really don't like Eric Clapton. And everything is bad! Anyway!
Amazingly, I liked this more than the other three, but overall I just don't care for his voice. My favorite tracks were Motherless Children, Get Ready, and Mainline Florida. Everything else I could leave. So this'll be another two stars for Clapton, but a high two stars, like 2.5.
2
Feb 27 2025
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Trio
Dolly Parton
Beautiful harmonies from three very talented musicians. The album as a whole is nice, though none of the songs especially stood out.
3
Feb 28 2025
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Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)
Eurythmics
Favorite tracks: Love Is A Stranger, Jennifer, This Is The House
Such a cool band, and distinctive for its time. I wish more of the tracks had stood out to me, though.
3
Mar 03 2025
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Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
Some great songs, but too long overall, imo. I wasn't quite up for it.
3
Mar 04 2025
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Achtung Baby
U2
Favorite tracks: Zoo Station, So Cruel, Mysterious Ways, Ultra Violet
Knew the hits but never listened to the album before. I liked it on the first listen, loved it on the second. This is so up my alley. Unique, passionate, genre-merging. I think I take for granted how distinctive U2's sound is.
Also, Mysterious Ways is such, SUCH a good song. God, the energy!!!
5
Mar 05 2025
View Album
Ladies And Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space
Spiritualized
Good vibes, and I liked the songs that built into something rocking. I'd give it another listen, but it didn't especially stand out to me in this first go.
3
Mar 06 2025
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Astral Weeks
Van Morrison
I liked this, but found myself wanting a little more variety. Really enjoyed Astral Weeks, Sweet Thing, and The Way Young Lovers Do. Probably need to give it another listen.
3
Mar 07 2025
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Illmatic
Nas
Today was a lousy day, yet I didn't mind listening to this. The songs fit together. I found it strangely comforting. Will add it to my collection and revisit.
4
Mar 10 2025
View Album
Play
Moby
Okay, get this. I had a truly terrible day on Thursday. But in the car I heard Natural Blues on the local alt station and it brightened my mood a little. Then at 10 p.m. I submitted my rating for the day and saw that THIS was going to be the next album. Out of the 1,089 albums on this list... Are you kidding me!? The universe has a sense of humor, I tell ya.
This felt deeply healing to me. I understand this might be a love-it-or-hate-it thing, but I'm firmly in the "love it" camp.
5
Mar 11 2025
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xx
The xx
I like this kind of music - strange and emotional and vibey. But it did feel a little dated, imo. Islands was the standout for me; the others blurred together a bit.
3
Mar 12 2025
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Devil Without A Cause
Kid Rock
(Extremely smug voice) My 3 stars for Limp Bizkit doesn't look so bad now, does it? Ohohoho!
I still think Bawitdaba is kinda funny and catchy, but each song on this is worse than the preceding one. Why is this album soooo long? It's like he had three ideas and he kept repeating them with diminishing results each time.
1
Mar 13 2025
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Cut
The Slits
This was fun! A nice change of pace from some of the other albums. It was bouncy and weird and put me in a good mood. Favorite tracks were Ping Pong Affair and I Heard It Through The Grapevine.
4
Mar 14 2025
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Fun House
The Stooges
Angry and energetic, more interesting (imo) than a lot of the 70s rock on this list. One of those albums that makes total sense being here.
4
Mar 17 2025
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Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
I recommend doing something twee while listening to this - I wound wool yarn that I plan to knit into a sweater. Chill, positive vibes.
4
Mar 18 2025
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The Chronic
Dr. Dre
I'm a little torn on this one - a lot of the lyrics are gross and silly, but overall I really enjoy the sound. And Snoop is great. I think the parts I liked outnumber the parts I didn't, so I'll go with a 3 here.
3
Mar 19 2025
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Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba
Really enjoyable listen - took me to another place for a bit, a better one. And it was such a breath of fresh air on this list. A high 4 for me.
4
Mar 20 2025
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Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
I liked this quite a bit more than License To Ill - felt less juvenile, and the samples were more fun (imo). Still not sure Beastie Boys are my cup o' tea, but this was probably like a 3.5 for me.
3
Mar 21 2025
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One Nation Under A Groove
Funkadelic
🎶 Gettin' down just for the funk of it 🎶
Gotta say, this really put a smile on my face!
4
Mar 24 2025
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Moving Pictures
Rush
Some songs I really liked, others were just pleasant background music. This project has taught me that I kinda like prog rock! This is probably like a 3.75 from me, so I'll bump it up to 4 stars.
4
Mar 25 2025
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Head Hunters
Herbie Hancock
Well sheesh, this was incredible.
5
Mar 26 2025
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I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail
Buck Owens
This was fun, but I didn't really want to listen to it a second time.
3
Mar 27 2025
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Double Nickels On The Dime
Minutemen
Hahah I loved this. Felt weird and angry and nihilistic and fun. I did a double-take when I saw there were 43 tracks (!), but it didn't really drag for me. This right here is a gem.
5
Mar 28 2025
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The Good, The Bad & The Queen
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
Good stuff. I liked some songs better than others (favorites were Herculean and the title track), but on the whole, this kinda thing is just right up my alley.
4
Mar 31 2025
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Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
It's Joy Division! I appreciate the chance to really listen to this album. I could listen to Disorder on repeat forever. This deserves a 5 because of how striking and impressive and influential it is, but for my personal rating, a 4 feels more fitting.
4
Apr 01 2025
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Aftermath
The Rolling Stones
Half of this I loved, half of it I forgot about. But I gotta say, this is my favorite Rolling Stones album so far - by a decent margin.
4
Apr 02 2025
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Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Wu-Tang Clan
Honestly sounds like they were having a fun time. I liked the sound, liked the flow, even liked the skits. Cool stuff!
4
Apr 03 2025
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What's That Noise?
Coldcut
Really like this style of music. Listened to the U.S. version as uploaded by a kind soul on YouTube. My favorite track was "Smoke Dis One" (hell yeah Queen Latifah!), but honestly the whole thing put me in a pretty good mood!
4
Apr 04 2025
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Beyond Skin
Nitin Sawhney
I thought the middle section was the strongest (Tides, Nadia, and Immigrant were my favorite tracks), but I quite liked all of it! Loved the variety of the genres and the complexity of the lyrics. I'm guessing there's a lot more to discover with repeat listens.
4
Apr 07 2025
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
"Chicago" is one of my favorite songs, but I actually never got around to listening to this whole album until now. People give a lot of side-eye to 00s indie nowadays, and I get it - I lived through it, it was a goofy-ass time. But man, if this came out today I think people would still love it. I love the music and lyrics, I love the theme, and I love that it feels like there's so much more to discover on repeat listens. So though this is very midwestern millennial of me, I'm giving it a 5. :)
5
Apr 08 2025
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Revolver
Beatles
Possibly the easiest 5 I've given so far. Has several of my favorite Beatles songs (especially She Said, She Said; And Your Bird Can Sing; and Got To Get You Into My Life). What can I say? It's very good and I love it!
5
Apr 09 2025
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Nebraska
Bruce Springsteen
I love sad stuff. And, as I've learned through this project, I love The Boss. I imagine this one will age well with repeat listens.
4
Apr 10 2025
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Orbital 2
Orbital
Favorite tracks: REMIND, HALCYON + ON + ON.
Nice stuff, vibey, hypnotic. I like that it opens with a Worf quote.
3
Apr 11 2025
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Ragged Glory
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
This was a lot more rocking and listenable than I expected! Perfectly fine, lively rock.
3
Apr 14 2025
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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
I wanted to like this a little more than I did. Some songs I loved, others kind of dragged for me. I think it balances out to a three.
3
Apr 15 2025
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1999
Prince
This should probably be three stars. It's long, and weird, and it probably wouldn't be my go-to Prince album. I liked Sign O' The Times more, and I rated that four (well, 4.5) stars. But I'm bumping this up because: 1) The song 1999 is soooo good, and 2) Come on, who else was doing stuff like this? We didn't deserve Prince!
4
Apr 16 2025
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James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
Experience-wise, this is probably a 5. Soo fun to hear the crowd hyped up. Music-wise, I'll go with a 4 - this is an album about the energy more than the songs.
4
Apr 17 2025
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Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
A high four for me, and definitely my favorite of the Stones albums I've heard so far. Gimme Shelter and You Can't Always Get What You Want are such perfect songs - problem is, I just want to keep replaying them. Though I did enjoy the rest of the album too!
4
Apr 18 2025
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Live At The Harlem Square Club
Sam Cooke
It's unfair that I also got James Brown's live album this week and overall preferred it. This is certainly good - great energy and great songs from a great musician. But the production wasn't very good, which I found distracting.
3
Apr 21 2025
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In Utero
Nirvana
Angry and energetic. The hit songs are my favorites - if it wasn't for them, this score would likely be a 3.
4
Apr 22 2025
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Coat Of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
I love Dolly, and I love the song Coat of Many Colors. I appreciate that this was a short album, but I wanted a little more "oomph" in it. Not sure it's something I could really lose myself in.
3
Apr 23 2025
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Kimono My House
Sparks
Sparks is so clever and funky and cool - it blows my mind that this is from 1974!! A very creative album, and I had a lot of fun listening to it.
4
Apr 24 2025
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Suzanne Vega
Suzanne Vega
Gosh, I just loved this. I listened to this a few times today and grew increasingly attached to the songs and storytelling. She's got a lovely voice, too, really engaging.
5
Apr 25 2025
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Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
I liked this better than the other ZZ Top album on this list (Eliminator), but I listened to it twice through and none of it stuck with me. 2.5 stars?
2
Apr 28 2025
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Sticky Fingers
The Rolling Stones
Kind of a slower album; I think I prefer their more rockin'/lively music. I do love Wild Horses, though, and Can't You Hear Me Knocking.
3
Apr 29 2025
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The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
Listen, I really like this kind of music, and I love The Kinks. Picture Book is such a good song oh my GOD. If this was a first-time listen, it might be a four, but I've spent some time with this album and know it puts me in a good mood, so... :)
5
Apr 30 2025
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Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
Favorite tracks: Frisbee, Hometown Unicorn, For Now And Ever
I found this really energetic and exciting! I love how it merged the mellowness of psychedelic rock with the kookiness of '90s alternative. It's like it was crafted exactly for my musical tastes.
4
May 01 2025
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A Northern Soul
The Verve
Favorite tracks: On Your Own, Drive You Home, Stormy Clouds
I like the moodiness of this, but most of the songs blended together. I love The Verve and will add this to my collection, but more to include in shuffle rotation than to listen to in its entirety.
3
May 02 2025
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It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy
Wow, I really liked this! Angry but fun. Ngl, Flav's "yeahhh boyyy" hyped me every time. High four stars.
4
May 05 2025
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At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
Gosh, he has a lot of personality throughout this album. The songs are lovely, too. I do think this album is more about the lore than the music - but the lore is very, very cool.
4
May 06 2025
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Bryter Layter
Nick Drake
Favorite tracks: One Of These Things First, Poor Boy
I liked the noodling and I liked the brass! This was really good driving music, but it didn't hit me as hard when I listened at home.
3
May 07 2025
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Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
Weirdly did not recognize the songs on this despite being very familiar with the album cover! Is that common? Anyway, great era of Bowie here - funky, rocking, screechy. I dug it.
4
May 08 2025
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Southern Rock Opera
Drive-By Truckers
As someone with no familiarity with Skynyrd, I liked this. Musically, it reminded me of the albums I enjoy from, say, Cracker or Fastball. But there were some twists of weirdness throughout, too, that I felt elevated what could otherwise have been a somewhat generic Southern rock album. I loved the last track. I only had time to listen through once, but I'd definitely revisit this album someday.
3
May 09 2025
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Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
Loved, LOVED the first song, and enjoyed all the rest. Would definitely like to give this a closer listen. I'm not normally into metal or blues, but the performances really sell this. 3.5 stars.
3
May 12 2025
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Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
Man, I loved the first half of this album! Especially Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic, which knocked my socks off. Unfortunately it fizzled for me after that - the second half is alright, but didn't quite capture the same magic for me.
3
May 13 2025
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Led Zeppelin II
Led Zeppelin
Man, I loved IV so much, but this one didn't do anything for me. I liked Whole Lotta Love and Ramble On, but I hated The Lemon Song... I just don't wanna listen to this one again. Ergo, two stars.
2
May 14 2025
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Pyromania
Def Leppard
Fun album - great hooks, great melodies. And Photograph is a fantastic song. Glad this is on the list.
3
May 15 2025
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Oedipus Schmoedipus
Barry Adamson
This is an odd one! Some songs are pleasant, some are abrasive. I think I'm rating this more for the ideas (which I really like) rather than the music (which I find just okay).
It's likely a 2/2.5 for me... but I just remembered Jarvis Cocker makes sex noises on the first track so I'll bump it up to a three. 👀
3
May 16 2025
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KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
A pleasant listen, though nothing stood out in particular. It has a timelessness about it, so I love that this is one of the newer items on the list.
3
May 19 2025
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Channel Orange
Frank Ocean
Been meaning to listen to this for a long time. Really loved some tracks ("Monks" especially stood out), but others kind of blended together. I'd like to spend more time with it to better absorb the lyrics.
3
May 20 2025
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This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
This is an album I already know and love, so I really tried to handle this listen with fresh ears. But the thing is, I still remember the first time I heard This Year's Model, back in my early 20s, because it blew me away. I went through like two years where I only listened to Elvis Costello as a result of this album and Get Happy!! (which is inexplicably not one of the six Costello albums on this list). It's like his music is perfectly tuned to my tastes. I didn't know music from this era could be so fun and fresh and distinctive. I love his voice, his lyrics, his melodies. Yeah, first listen or 500th, this one is an easy 5.
5
May 21 2025
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Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
I feel like I'm being pranked.
1
May 22 2025
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OK Computer
Radiohead
I went back and forth on this one. It's probably, like, a 4.75, which I'll round off to 5 stars. Excuse my musings below - I want to capture some thoughts.
It's angry, earnest, and unsubtle, with lyrics I'd put into my AIM profile and use as a guide in my teenage life. That is to say: I really like music like this!
Case in point: when I got to Fitter Happier, I searched up the lyrics and found a post on the Radiohead subreddit from a 19-year-old who was deeply unsettled by the song and seeking comfort about the adulthood that awaited them. There are only a few comments, but they're semi-helpful - "Yeah, the song is kind of accurate, but you'll manage" kind of thing. Honestly a rare glimpse into completely unpretentious Radiohead fandom. The post was from 9 years ago, and it looks like OP hasn't posted on Reddit since. Wonder how they're faring.
If you just presented this album to me without context, I'd be extremely into it. But when you tell me it's Radiohead, I think, "Hm, but this isn't the best they can do, is it?" That's silly. I really vibed with this. 5 stars.
5
May 23 2025
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I See A Darkness
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
If I'm in the mood for slow, sad music, this is as good an option as any. Simple and gloomy.
3
May 26 2025
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Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
Sometimes I rate albums based on how well they put me in a good mood, and this one put me in a good mood. It also made me feel strangely inspired. I want to be Dusty Springfield, effortlessly cool and perpetually in love.
4
May 27 2025
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Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Rockin', enjoyable. I've had kind of a hard time getting into Neil Young, but this felt approachable. I liked the noodling.
3
May 28 2025
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Electric
The Cult
This was disappointing and samey, but a 1 feels too harsh...
2
May 29 2025
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Tidal
Fiona Apple
Cool music that makes me feel cool. I love her voice and inflections.
4
May 30 2025
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At San Quentin
Johnny Cash
I thought it was silly that there were two Johnny Cash prison albums on here, but I actually think I preferred this one over At Folsom Prison. Funny banter, energetic songs, short enough to listen a couple times and let it grow on you.
4
Jun 02 2025
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Axis: Bold As Love
Jimi Hendrix
This was a pleasant surprise to me - not because I don't like Hendrix, but because I didn't expect the songs so be so approachable and catchy. I dig it!
4
Jun 03 2025
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Pornography
The Cure
Moody, vibey, emotional music. If this was the only music The Cure ever made, I don't know if this would be as enjoyable, but knowing it's part of a rich and diverse discography (and being able to identify elements of this in their future work), it's a real treat.
4
Jun 04 2025
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Scum
Napalm Death
I'm a fairly angry person, so I appreciate this album being on this list. Sometimes you just need music that's PHYSICAL. I didn't really enjoy it, and I don't want to listen to it again, but hell, I'll give it a 2 - if for no other reason than to bump it higher than Kid Rock in my ratings.
2
Jun 05 2025
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Modern Life Is Rubbish
Blur
Mm, you know what, I submitted this as 3 stars initially, but I flipped through the songs again and think I will give it a four. I'd say 80% of this really works for me. I think I like future-Blur a bit more, but this is still right up my alley, and who am I to deny that?
4
Jun 06 2025
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Songs From A Room
Leonard Cohen
I like Leonard Cohen's lyrics a lot, but sometimes the songs don't stand out to me musically. This is well-made stuff; I just gotta be in the right mood for it.
3