Just focused on the original EP track listing and did enjoy - albeit I was not really in the time/ place to fully enjoy it. Appreciate the importance/ influence of the band and what followed it - but today its only registering a 3 on me.
Great album title and a great album. Enjoyed a lot. Was not really aware of their pre 80's stuff apart from "pyscho killer" and for some reason I thought they were Australian... Not a dud track on album - its's a very high 4 as want to hold back my 5's for the absolute classics.
A real mixed bag - Mrs Robinson remains one of my favorite songs ever - but other songs like Fakin it are very underwhelming.
Strong Durham vibes. Not listened to in years. Did not spark much joy.
I was post indie when they peaked in the early 2000's - so did not catch them first time around. I was team Whitehouse and always thought Pete Doherty was a bell end which repelled me from them for a few years. In latter years I enjoyed Can't Stand me Now as a bit of a guilty pleasure. Rest of the album is pretty piss poor by comparison and feels especially ropey when I have spent most of the day listening to Elvis Costello/ REM.
Retro Durham vibes.
Another one I can listen to on CD. Bought it years ago as some list told me that I should. Not initially my bag but listened to it enough that its grown on me and now I love it - other than save the children which is a skipper - super smooth vocals and great arrangements with powerful vocals with tracks that blend seamlessly to together. Whats not to like (other than save the children).
Classic. What could have been if Ian Curtis had continued?
Had low expectations - but even these were breached. I find her vocal flexings so fucking annoying and they dominate and make every track sound the same. Sonically the production sounds shallow and fake and forgettable. I'm usually partial to a cheesy pop banger - but this was very poor.
Absolute solid gold classic 5. Massive fan of Lindsey Buckingham in this era currently. Will take the opportunity to say I wish I could edit my scores and give Tusk a 5 also.
I listened to a lot of Springsteen during covid. Late 70's / early 80's are my peak Springsteen years and whilst Darkness on edge of Town is my favourite album this is a close 2nd. I dig the dark tones and low-fi musical sparseness.
A Bowie album I don't own and not that familiar with. Stellar first half - second half is just a bit meandering for me - maybe with time it will grow on me.
Have been enjoying this a lot over the past few days. Very atmospheric and very 80's production esp the drums. It starts really well with great opening 6 tracks but its a bit overlong and looses steam and momentum towards the end. Just sneaks in as 5. Fav track: Plain Song
Classic. Given the Bristol connection this was on heavy repeat when I was a teenager. Listening again triggers so evocative of listening in my bedroom doing home work.
Loved this album - had just moved to Guernsey and listened to it on my 30 min walk in/ back from work. Still rocks.
I had this on CD first time around - but picking it up again after 20 year plus hiatus I don't think it has aged well. Feels like bigbeat but clinical / by numbers and without any energy or joy. A soundtrack to a forgettable early 2000 action film. A low 2.
I bought this when it came out given the hype and listened to it on repeat until I liked it. I have not listened to it much since then -so it was good to get reacquainted. For me its not quite a 5 as its a bit overlong and the quality does dip a little - but really enjoyed a number of the tracks. Stand outs being - Thinkin Bout You, Super Rich Kids and Pyramids.
Listened on my CD version - bought the day it was released in the UK! Stills sounds great - esp organ donor.
Still sounds great and still on regular rotation.
Loved it. Knowledge of JC limited to greatest hits and the American IV album - particularly Hurt. He has a powerfully honest and lyrical voice that tells great stories with real empathy. I don't know much about country music but JC is the benchmark for me - and I have yet to hear anybody better. A great live set with real energy and chemistry with the crowd - loved the brief gospel interlude - will defn listen to the extended recording.
The best Beatle.
Love the National - not my favourite National album (prefer "trouble will find me" and "I am Easy to find" but still a very solid 4
I did not have this album first time around. Am over familiar with the singles and they still hold up - but otherwise underwhelmed with the rest of the album - do not think I have missed much.
Couldn't stand Jamiroquai when I was younger thought Jay Kay was such a bell end. Whilst my views and tastes have changed and mellowed over the years - this still makes my ears bleed. Not aware of what Jay Kay is upto currently - but would put money on him still being a dick.
Easy 5.
I maybe being a bit basic but this is my favourite Bowie album - which so happens to include by favourite Bowie song: Queen Bitch.
I am in a minority but I find his vocals so whinny.
Proper tale of two halves. Autobahn on the aside is an absolute classic - although I prefer shorter versions to the slightly bloated 22 min version which I think looses its way a bit. The flip side is all very pleasant but very inconsequential and noodles along and feels its age.
Enjoyed the singles a lot - but with 22 songs on the album the standard does slip a bit and some of filler were a bit meh. Scoring it 4 to annoy Aga who most certainly is not a swiftie.
Awesome album. One of my favourite of all time and have loved for years. So many great tunes - do not think there is a weak one amongst them. If had to choose would go Hateful, Rudie Can't Fail, Guns of Brixton and Train in Vain as favourites...
The great thing about short albums is that you can listen to them multiple times and give them the chance to grow and work their charms. Initially gravitated to the stand out tracks : AForest / Play For Today but on third play I am starting to really enjoy nearly all of the tracks and its a solid 5.
Absolute classic. Had the CD on heavy rotation for many years. Standouts Too much too young / Stupid Marriage and Monkey Man.
Not listened to this in years. I was big into Moby at the time and purchased the album before it exploded and became the soundtrack to everything. Unfortunately overexposure is to the detriment of the songs as it diminishes their emotional impact as you just think of the shit its been used to flog or crap tv moments soundtracked. Shame.
I really liked this album first time around (and the follow up) but then rapidly lost interest in the KOL post following sex on fire. Listening again after a few years and I am struggling to see the attraction. Musically fine esp the drums - but vocals are a bit grating. Still enjoy Milk, Soft and The Bucket.
Opening two tracks are definite 5's and amongst the greatest/ campest rock songs ever ... but then unfortunately the wheels fall off and it becomes a bit meh. Two out of Three not as good as I remembered it (I loved it when i was 13) and Paradise by Dashboard Light does not really do it for me.
Surprisingly still sounding great - a classic from Durham days when i borrowed the album from Tanya and then bought my own copy as liked it so much.
Little did we know when this came out how Coldplay would become the global monsters of banality and the favourite band for people who dont like music but do like flashy lights. I bought this album and enjoyed at the time - listening again kinda hurts but the songs are still good despite being burned into my consciousness over the years. Saw them play this live and they were good and did need the flash and the bangs.
Perfect music to work to (meant as a big compliment rather than diss).
I'm running out of cliches .. but this album is a bit of a mixed bag -with some genuine classics like under my thumb, mothers little helper and out of time - but then has some billy basic shit like going home... quite how Jagger/ Richards could write this at the same time as writing paint it black its nuts as the songs are light years apart. Listened the to US version so included Paint it Black which is such an epic tune ahead of its time for 66.
Love a 6 track album - sub 40 mins lovely. Golden Years is a banger - although on repeated listenings I think Station to Station edges it for me. I need a better hi fi.
Have never really liked the Stranglers. I think when I was young I read a piece saying they were bell ends so I avoided them. I was looking forward to coming to this fresh and to have my perceptions changed. And whilst they do have some catchy tunes - in particular Peaches - and a strong organ going on - the lyrics / sexism have really dated and killed any enjoyment for me.
It's funny - I absolutely love On Your Own - and do still like Song 2 - but I cannot really remember the rest of the album or me listening to it - usually albums are fixed in a place/ time for me. This came out in 97 so must have been university - but not sparking any memories. Enjoyable listen. Much prefer Blur post the britpop flimsy. Not quite a 5.
I have always enjoyed this album - although have never enjoyed it as much as I think i should based on the 5* reviews it received.
hmmmm Bottom hmmmmm
Enjoyed it - a couple of bangers - and some interesting soundscapes. Vocally its a little bit effected and lyrically makes me feel old :-( Not enough cheese.
I bought the follow up album - Bloom - first time around and enjoyed it a lot - even though songs all sounded very similar. Not that surprised therefore that the songs on Teen Dream also sound very similar. Unfortunately in the years that have passed I have kinda moved on and find it all a bit flat and monotone and lacking passion. Its certainly not bad - just all on a level that never really goes places.
Van used to live on my old square in Bath (before my time) and was apparently seen staggering around wearing a hat. Never really been a big Van Man fan. Did enjoy this though although I don't actually like the Moondance song.
Another album I would have loved as a 16 year. Great opening track - Deceptacon - but sadly not sustained over the album - a few other gems - in particular Eau d'Bedroom Dancing - enjoyed the garage band/punk vibe. High 3 for me as not sure would listen again that often.
A few cracking tracks - Scar tissue, Californication, Road Trippin & Parallel Universe - and a lot of bang average/ poor fillers inbetween. I definitely lean towards the Frusciante influenced tracks rather than more traditional BSSM slap bass funky tracks... Scraps a 4 due to the strength of the above songs.
Initial impression not great - slap base, weak shouty vocals and indulgent guitar solos. It picked up a little - with obvious/ been caught stealing. But can happily live without this in my life.
Well that was underwhelming... i'm afraid had to skip a few of the tracks as they sunk under the melodrama. Shame as a few moments are good - but then theatricality kicks in and I switch off.
Aga is a massive ABBA fan so I'm exposed to alot of ABBA at the moment. Not my bag - although surprised that this album was picked as does not contain the goto ABBA bangers. Sugar overload.
I used to love Marc Bolan - especially given his tragic early death just around the corner from my Gran's house. Summer is heaven in 77 and all that. Works best as a greatest hits as he had some banging singles but quality threshold dips across the albums
RIP Brian. Unfortunately this did not work for me - its a sonic assualt of ideas / snippets and lesser versions of Pet Sounds tracks and a song about effin vegetables.
I'm not a jazz man. I gave it a couple of listens and whilst it did not make me cry or my ears bleed it did not move me. It was perfectly serviceable as background music whilst I worked - but not sure that's the greatest recommendation. Appreciate its a classic and I'm a basic bitch philistine but can only really give it a 3 as just did not get it. sorry.
Fuck no. It was passable until the singing/ shouting started and it all went wrong.
Probably my favourite Blur album with For Tomorrow my favourite Blur track. I do find Damon's vocals a little grating at times.
Cannot quite make mind up about the across the universe cover - feels a bit out of place on the album and borderline Bowie parody. Love the title track - rest of album (apart from Fame) not quite as good.
Big fan of PSB - this album marks the shift to more grown up adult pop from the Smash Hits tastic bangers of Please and Actually (which are peak PSB for me). Some classics on here like Being Boring and Jealousy but a few that IMHO are a bit meh so its a high 4.
Will not be listening again sorry Britney. BOMT remains a classic - everything else is forgettable and sounding pretty dated. BOMT drags it to a 2.
Coming to this after listening to Its a Blitz - and unfortunately Fever to Tells suffers by comparison as its a bit more generic garage without the synths of the later album. Its a good listen and I like Maps alot. Solid 3.
Really wanted to enjoy this as have listened to quite alot of dreary dark shit recently. It starts really well with the first 5 tracks excellent upbeat/ jangly 80's pop with clever lyrics and great hooks. It then slows down and gets a bit dull and forgettable. Feeling generous so just squeezes a 4. Best track Faron Young.
I have always enjoyed the singles - had not listened to the album previously and not sure what to make of it after 3 listens. It sounds like they are having fun - but I think of Sting as being so po faced and serious that it does not quite ring true for me. A disappointing 3.
Still really enjoy this album. Every songs a banger
It's a 5 based on the singles alone - with the filla not being too bad either (other than He's so unusual which sucks). Absolutely love girls just wanna have fun - it triggers this weird 80's Americana nostalgia vibes within me. Good times. Shame the song from Goonies not on this album.
Really don't like gangsta rap and the bullshit that surrounds this. Do not particularly like 50 Cent as a rapper or person so was expecting to give this a 1. Surprisingly enjoyed it more than I was expecting and in all good consciousness cannot give it a 1 so its a grudging 2.
Have always loved this album esp "you Said Something" .. although weirdly has not acted as gateway to other PJ Harvey records yet.
Beginning to think I don't really like the Smiths. I used to have The Queen is Dead on CD and did really enjoy it. Previously on this list I gave Strangeways a 3 - and struggled with Morrissey on that album. I had not really listened to Meat is Murder before - and IMHO its weaker than both of the above with no real stand out tracks and a bit too much dirgy winging plus Morrissey.
Not my favourite Beatles album and have never really understood why people elevate it above others.. still a banger and a 5/5 tho.
All My Friends and Someone Great are clearly bangers and have been a playlist staple for years. I enjoyed the rest of the album - but have always had this feeling that I should be enjoying the album more. I like it but I don't love it like some people do. I'm almost there but not quite there. So its a solid 4.
I really liked Tilted and their first album. Finding this album rather bland - with not much jumping out at me - especially the tracks in French which just wash overme as I have no idea what the songs are about. Was hoping to enjoy it more.
booooooring. Early 2000 vibes but not in a good way.
Another CD from the collection - but not an album I have listened to recently. He's got lovely smooth vocals - but its all a little bit polished and a bit trying too hard to be retro in places.
Very strong Uni / Mackie memories of this album. Have not listened in 20 plus years - but surprisingly it still sounds good - with lots of hooks. Just creeps a 4
Banging.
Playing this from CD is so superior to streaming on sonos. Super funky - slightly lyrically dubious and not to be played in front of the kids.
Aga's not a fan but I am.
I used to hate the Doors (cannot remember why). Going in with an open mind and largely meh response. Enjoyed Riders on a storm - but large parts passed me by / annoyed me slightly. Some good bass /grooves but do not really care for Jim Morrisons vocals. A high 2.
Brighton Rock followed by Killer Queen is such a strong opening - but from there it gets a little bit lost and downhill ("Now i'm here" aside) which is such a shame as Brighton Rock is absolute banger and great opener.
Still have the CD for this. My brother in law really loved them a few years ago. cannot see the fuss now.
Makes you think what greatness he could have achieved had lived long enough to fully develop/ mature as an artist...
A new discovery for me. Musically very dense with a lot going on and whilst there are some great hooks and melodies it just did not connect with me emotionally. Have listened to it a number of times over a number of days to give it a chance to grow - but just not sprouting. Maybe its the vocals. Maybe its just too earnest and trying to hard. It lacks spark and joy.
Had a very vivid dream once where I was on X-factor but had the singing voice of Anohni - fucking blew Simon Cowell away. Hope There's Someone is great track - rest of album fades a bit. I like Anohni's vocals and really like some of the dance tracks she put out post AJ.
Had owned and listened a lot to White Blood Cells and Elephant back in the day. But had lost interest by time GBMS came out and have not really listened to them since. Initial view was that this was more of the same - with the two piece format of the band rather limiting their musical range . Have been listening to this in the car and was surprised by how much a grower it it is and how the strength of the songwriting allows it overcome the limitations of drum/ guitar. Favourite track is My Doorbell.
I have a very low tolerance for the butter boy sell out that is John Lydon. As a result have not really delved into his PIL back catalogue - I do really like "Rise" despite John Lydon and I had therefore expected to enjoy this album despite my reservations. I am therefore a bit disappointed (but also pleased) to find that I thought the album was bullshit with no real redeeming songs/tunes/hooks.
Not quite sure to make of this album - some solid gold classics - but also some tracks that grated. Not sure how to weight it so going by song .... "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" - 2 "Patterns" 3 "Cloudy" Simon, Bruce Woodley - 3 "Homeward Bound" - 5 "The Big Bright Green Pleasure Machine" 3 "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" 5 "The Dangling Conversation" 3 "Flowers Never Bend with the Rainfall" 4 "A Simple Desultory Philippic (or How I Was Robert McNamara'd into Submission)" 2 "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her" 2 "A Poem on the Underground Wall" 3 "7 O'Clock News/Silent Night" - 2 Its a 3.3 average which I guess is roughly how I feel about it.
Enjoyably breezy afro beats with lovely smooth vocals. A little dated / cheezy around the edges but a very nice listen that washed over me in a good way (as have no idea what any of the songs are about).
Have not listened to this in ages and had forgotten how good it is. Stand out track is Sounds of Science
Another album I was able to listen to on CD. My favourite Beck album, Lovely.
Never really thought of myself as a big Duran Duran fan - but really enjoyed this. A bit silly - very 80's and a bit too much slap bass - but some quality tracks - esp Hungry Like a Wolf and The Chauffeur which is absolute banger. Strong 4.
Have always liked New Order - and they have some absolute classics. Not that familiar with Low-Life but really enjoyed - not quite a 5 but solid 4. Followed up with the extended version of Elegia which really enjoyed.
For reasons known only to me I was a big early Radiohead fan in the Pablo Honey era then really went off them - even to the point where I was one of the few people at Glastonbury in 97 and 2003 not to see their seminal gigs. "In Rainbows" was the my first step back to reappraising them and realizing that i had been a dick - with "Reckoner" being one of my favourite tunes of all time (for some reason I think its about the Sopranos). Great album.
Love this album - especially the mini opera of a "quick one while he's away".
Went in knowing very little about this album - but really enjoyed it - beautiful yet powerful vocals and a groovy bass. Solid 4 for me - will listen again.
Very strong 4. Not as good as J5 (which was a defining album of the late 90's for me) but still cracking - so smooth.
Was not familiar with Tortoise - but had looked at the Global reviews and was rather looking forward to this. Unfortunately whilst I did like Djed I found the rest very bland and lacking any emotional heft or connection and all a bit vanilla and plodding.
Classic 80's dad rock and I'm in the back of the car being driven to Saturday football and I'm admiring the electric windows and wishing that we had electric windows. For years I hated Dire Straits and all they stood for. I must be old now as I really enjoyed it and going to give it a 5!
Really wanted to like this - but was a struggle.
A mixed bag - really enjoyed parts of the songs but found the "chat" sections annoying and all a bit loose. Wanted to like it more.
I was post indie when they peaked in the early 2000's - so did not catch them first time around. I was team Whitehouse and always thought Pete Doherty was a bell end which repelled me from them for a few years. In latter years I enjoyed Can't Stand me Now as a bit of a guilty pleasure. Rest of the album is pretty piss poor by comparison and feels especially ropey when I have spent most of the day listening to Elvis Costello/ REM.
Forgotten what a banger Oliver's Army is. Couple of other classics on the album also. Not the greatest fan of his vocal delivery - but strength of the songs overcomes this and feeling generous so its a low 5.
Had never heard of Holger so was a first for me. Not quite smoking what Tom's smoking but did enjoy it although overall found it a mixed bag - enjoyed parts - although other parts had very strong flight of concords vibe...
I've had "My Girls" on various playlists for a few years now and really like the tune. Rest of the album falls a bit short of this - not bad - just lacking a spark that grabs me - I've listened to it 3 times now and nothing else has jumped out at me. A low 3.
Loved it. Stands well above the majority of late 80's/ 90's grunge/pre / post grunge albums on this list - due to energy / joy in the music that jumps out and hits you. Would have loved to see it live. Great bass.
Listening to this straight after the Pixies just illustrates my point about how joyous Doolittle is. By comparison this is a bit of a dirgy slog lacking any moments of joy.
Enjoyable album - although I find the beat a little pedestrian at times. Lacks standout tracks but overall an easy listen.
Patchy ! Liked the solo one with guitar but very mixed bag
Great voice but way too eighties and not in a good way....
I really enjoyed Generation Terrorists when it came out and was a big Manic's fan even though they were bellends in their early years. As they matured I liked them less and less - a bit too portentous and lacking fun. Quite enjoyed "Everything must go" - but found it a bit flat and washed over me without sparking much joy. Singles are okay - but thats probably as have heard them so much. Was hoping to like the album more and that my younger self would be proved wrong for dismissing them but still found it all a bit meh.. 2/5 is probably harsh - its more a 2.5.
Liked this alot -esp the title track. I must be getting old.
Very slick production and samples make this feel more like a pop album than a rap album. Smooth delivery and clever/ funny lyrics although I find the ego/ subject matter alienating.
I have not really listened to Eagles much. Hotel California is still sounds strong even after repeated exposure. The rest of the album is pretty bland nostalgia tinged American dad rock that did not float my boat.
Classic - trying to get Aga to move from Abba to Blondie...
Classic - and another opportunity to use the CD player. Nice. Stand out track - Higher Ground. tWangy.
Enjoyed - smooth vocals. Only problem for me is that cannot really relate to Cowboy songs about horses so kinda washed over me with no emotional hook.
Noisy shouty and just not very good. Did not spark Joy.
The album title is the best thing about the album. Rest is very bland sub Phil Collins 80's pfaf.
Been listening to all three PE albums on the list at the same time as playing catchup. I had forgotten I had already scored "It takes a Nation..." giving it a 4 - which in retrospect should have been a 5 as is by far the strongest of the three albums. I think PE work best when the beats / samples take a slight back seat to the vocal/rap delivery - in FOBP the beats/samples feel more dense/ in your face and as result Chuck D's lyrical power is diminished. Still a great listen just not as good ITANOMTHUB!
Classic - still think of it as a recent album and one of the few current artists that I follow - turns out it came out in 2009...
Loved it.
Really liked the follow up album "Gold" - but this rather washed over me - a bit generic and a bit forgettable.
Strong Durham vibes. Not listened to in years. Did not spark much joy.
Have not really listened to much Pink Floyd as had previously dismissed as wanky toss when i was in my punk phase and never really revisited this opinion. Roll forward 30 years or so and its much more up street and very much enjoyed large parts of the album - unfortunately there are some wanky bits like the sax solo - but still happy to give it a solid 4.
The two big singles are bangers. everything else is a little bit 80's bland for my taste so only a 2... not quite a 3
Not listened to Wild Beasts before. Another mixed bag. A bit like Foals in places a bit meh in places. Not particularly bad - but doubt will come back to it...
Franks a bit too overplayed and ubiquitous for me - guess I’m used to the classic canon and this felt mostly sub par by comparison.
Was familiar with the singles - but had not listened to the album previously. I really like the later album: American Idiot and had high hopes as have a soft spot for punk pop. Unfortunately I found it rather disappointing - all the songs seemed to blur into each other at the same tempo/level with a lack poppy hooks apart from the singles. Maybe it was too early in the day but I found the whole thing rather tiring... :-(
Macca has always been my least favourite Beatle and I have always found his lyrics borderline twee and naff (and do have a similar view on his personality). So I approached this with a fairly negative mindset - so was genuinely surprised to discover that I rather enjoyed it - very catchy tunes - esp Mrs Vandebilt. Still a bit on the light and fluffy side with no moments that truly moved me - but very listenable and enjoyable.
Fab.. they don't make like they used to...
Like listening to Toy Story.... not my bag.
One listen was enough and that was a struggle. Not my bag baby. Enjoyed reading everyone else's comments.
Disappointing - was not familiar with early ZZTop so was hoping for something young/ rocky with energy. But found it rather dirgy with tedious geetar solos and no real stand out tracks. Had spent the morning listening to Beggars Banquet and this album was very poor by comparison. Would give it 2.5 if I could.
I enjoyed this album a lot first time around - but given he is such a massive bellend now I will not be listening this time round.
Its a grower. Will definitely listen again. Its probably a 3.5 - but was feeling generous so rounded up. Favourite track is Black Lake.
Really enjoyable listen. Surprisingly jaunty and poppy. Very much enjoying "walk on".
Had pretty low expectations - and on initial listen I thought the songs all sounded the same and it was as a little bit lightweight. On repeated listens it has grown on me and it works really well as background music to work to with a decent groove and not too in your face. Lyrically its pretty interesting when you do tune into the vocals. Its a 3.5 but feeling generous so will round to 4.
Still cannot escape the Toy Story connection - preferred it to the Good Old Boys - and would make this a solid 3.
47 years of living without listening to a Neil Young album and now two in a week! Enjoyed it - much preferred the rockier numbers - not fully sold on his vocals and there are a couple of bum tracks ("Theres a World" & "A Man needs a maid") which feel out of place with a Disney strings backing track.
Enjoyable - great skill on display and has an energy and vibe but not my cup of tea .
Wanted to like more as I thought I liked Goldfrapp based on singles/ radio play over the years. Found this quite irritating on both listens and do not feel like giving it a third listen. Disappointing - a high 2 but not quite a 3.
Its very MOR - I'm guessing my mom would be a big fan. Had to google him and was very surprised to see he was the singer of one of my favourite American 60's tunes : "Runaround Sue". Sadly this album does not get close to replicate the perfection of that tune. Feeling mean today so its a 2.
I was looking forward to this as I own a Tom Petty Greatest Hits that I enjoyed but had not ever delved deeper into an album. Was unfortunately a little disappointed. "American Girl" is a classic and stands head& shoulders above the rest of the album - which is a little bit vanilla by comparison with no real stand out tracks after 4 listens. A solid 3.5.
Not familiar with Devendra prior to this. Rather enjoyed it - a solid 3.
Strong 4. Some quality tunes - strong 80's vibes (sometimes to the detriment of the songs) - a couple of bum tracks (Pimpf?) mean its not a 5.
Great album title and a great album. Enjoyed a lot. Was not really aware of their pre 80's stuff apart from "pyscho killer" and for some reason I thought they were Australian... Not a dud track on album - its's a very high 4 as want to hold back my 5's for the absolute classics.
A strong 3 - some good tunes - sadly Smoke on the Waters impact is much diminished due to over familiarity. Would not rush back - but nothing made my ears bleed.
Listened to it 3 times waiting for it to kick in - but it never really engages. Very competent musicianship / production and some good hooks but it just does not combine to create anything meaningful for me.
I was a big fan of this album when first released and I really remember being desperate to see the live tour with the flying trabents. Listening to it again now it feels like the dictionary definition of bland. It just washes over me with the exception of "One" which I still have a soft spot for.
Another Bjork album I had not heard previously and another one I really enjoyed overall. A couple of real stand out tracks ("Who is it" in particular). Real drama and epicness (?) to the album - unfortunately a couple of bum tunes ("Ancestors") where the crazy gets dialled to 11 means its not a 5. Strong 4. Will return.
Initial thought was not more good ole boy American country rock - which really is not flavour of the month currently. However after 3 listens its really growing on me - with a couple of really good tunes (esp Someday, Fearless Heart) and I am suddenly realizing were the Saw Doctors (a formative band for me!) got a lot of their inspiration from. The sun is shining and I'm feeling generous so going to give it a low 4.
Relentless. Imagine would be awesome live. Bit too intense to work to .... could only manage 1 listen through as energy levels too high.
Maybe because its raining today but just not feeling it. A couple of stand outs (stir it up in particular) but it generally passed me by. A high 3.
I'm getting old as I really enjoyed that in all its pomp.
I tried. The musicianship may be A+ but it just washed over me as background muzac without making any impact. Not terrible just not for me.
Was aware of Nas but had not listened to this album previously. Really enjoyed it - great beats - strong smooth lyrically delivery and no gimmicks. Strong 4.
Another CD from the collection! Big up the Bristol. Awesome album with not a weak song - standout for me is "Suffocated Love".
A new discovery for me - which surprises me as back in 97 this would have been right up my street so am surprised it passed me by. Really enjoyed the discovery - will defn listen again. Strong 4.
I tried really hard - but really struggled with this one. Main beef being the whiny pitch of the vocals was really effin irritating not matter how catchy or groovy the songs maybe. A struggle. Low 2.
A lot of nostalgia for Madness as their greatest hits was one of the first albums I bought. Listening again after all this years was a bit of a struggle to be honest. Suggs vocals are pretty irritating and whilst they do have some catchy tunes (like our house) - it all feels a bit moronic and music for people who don't really like music. A very low 3
Cracking singles - including the title track which is my favourite Madonna song by a long margin. A few dodgy album tracks but the singles are stellar.
A real mixed bag - Mrs Robinson remains one of my favorite songs ever - but other songs like Fakin it are very underwhelming.
A double album.... unfortunately only managed a couple of listens through (and it probably needs a few more). Enjoyed it - but nothing really jumped out and grabbed me but equally nothing repelled me. So I guess that makes it a solid 3. If it was not so long and I had more time to listen a few more times it may have crept up to a 4 as enjoyed the sound.
Its hard to listen to this album without feeling sad about how her life panned out (same feeling as listening to Whitney Houston's I wanna dance with somebody). She has a fantastically powerful and emotional voice and I really enjoyed it. Stand out track - Blackboys on Mopeds. Was going high 4 - but think it just edges into 5.
Never listened to Steely Dan before and hopefully never win again. Low 2.
Sounds great as one song on a mix tape or a soundtrack - a whole album is a little bit too much. I really like the vocals and the vibe is fun but not sure I would readily come back for a whole album...
A new discovery for me and quite a diverse soundscape of different latin sounds. Unfortunately did not have the time today to listen to the album enough times (and it is a double album) to give it full chance to grow on me. There are a couple of songs I really enjoyed like San Vicente which had beautiful vocals and reminded me a little of Vampire Weekend or Cravo E Canela (bit of Julio down by the shore) - had the whole album been in a similar vein and it would have been pushing a 5 and I would be scoring Brazilian hipster kudus. But unfortunately given aforementioned musical diversity meant that my attention waivered and some tracks just passed me by. A low 4 as would like to return to it.
I had not realized this was a concept album even though had played it on reasonably heavy rotation when it came out. Back in 2004 was living in London and perhaps it all felt more relevant and contemporary - roll forward 20 years and living in the country it all feels a little dated/ basic with the vocal delivery a little bit grating with its fake cockerny. Still really like Blinded by the Lights - but would not return to much else. A low 3.
14 year old me would have loved this album. Slightly older me did enjoy this slice of classic soft rock. A fair few bangers and not many fillers. Leaning towards a 4 which is more than I expected.
I used to love the Charlatans - my favourite album being the "The Charlatans" which preceded Tellin' Stories. I recall at the time being a bit underwhelmed with Tellin' Stories as the follow up and have to say that remains the case today. The singles remain catchy slices of late 90's brit pop - but the album as a whole is a bit bland and generic - with not enough organ or differentiation from all the other sub oasis bands of the era.
Not as bad as I expected. Lyrically very silly. Not for me. So far have only given 1's to records that really annoy me or where I have strong feelings about the artists. This album has not elicited this response so I guess that makes it a low 2.
I guess the clue is in the title - its called All directions and musically it goes all over the place. Papa was a rollin stone is a cinematic classic next to which everything else pales. I think just scrapes a 4 as the funky tunes out weigh the schmaltz.
Another album I used to listen to a lot previously (but have not picked up in years). At the time is was very zeitgeisty and I guess I just went with the flow. Listening today and its all very meh. Not terrible but not anything I am going to rush back to listen again - none of the tracks sparked the joy of rediscovery. Spotify was fucking around which has made be grumpy so unfortunately its a 2.
Just focused on the original EP track listing and did enjoy - albeit I was not really in the time/ place to fully enjoy it. Appreciate the importance/ influence of the band and what followed it - but today its only registering a 3 on me.
Another double album..... Had not listened to Tusk before - so there is a lot to get through in one day. First listen was a little meh and underwhelmed as did not think there were that many stand out tracks. After another couple of listens and it is really growing on me - although with 21 tracks there is not really enough hours in one day to do it justice. I'm sure it well could be a 5 - but I'm not there yet so giving it a 4 and will definitely return.
Swiss industrial metal/rock is not my thing. Not without merit or terrible but will never listen again. So a low 2.
My first whole Tom Waits album - and its more accessible than I was expecting. Main impediments for me 1) I do not like his vocals 2) I don't really listen to lyrics (!) so his lyrical talents are wasted on me... and 3) I don't really care for plodding blues rock.... Notwithstanding the above I still enjoyed it. Doubt I will rush back - but its a solid 3.
Strong title, strong cover and strong opener and I'm thinking its a definite 5. Sadly it flags a little esp on By the time I get to Phoenix, but still a groovy & funky 4.
It's another grower. First listen I was a low 3 - after three rotations I'm a mid 4. Not sure it will get to 5 but on each listen I am enjoying it more.
Had not listened to REM debut previously - and found it more fun that had been expecting. I do like a lot of REM songs but had to admit that do find a lot of them fairly middling. Was therefore surprised by the energy of this record - would like to listen again - so sneaks a low 4.
The problem with this undertaking is that having a new album everyday does not really give you the time/ headspace to appreciate more challenging albums - that may give greater joy on repeated listens. My first impression of this was very poor - pondering whether it was a 1 or a 2. On my second listen its getting a bit better. Was excited to see a song named after my birthday. Unfortunately its a bit of a wet fart so will not be adding to future playlists or wowing the kids with it. Not sure I can face a third run through so will stick at 2 and go back to listening to Tusk (to which I 1000% should have scored a 5....rather than 4. If only there was an edit function)
I find it hard to disassociate Morrissey from the Smiths given how distinctive and prevalent his vocals are. Unfortunately given Morrissey is bell end with right wing leanings it somewhat undercuts my enjoyment of the Smiths. Favourite track: Girlfriend in Coma.
Such strong 80's memories listening to this at scout camp with the big boys thinking it was height of rebellion. The singles are classic and still sound great.
Further evidence that I'm getting old - but I really enjoyed this. Was expecting it to be very 80's but not in good way - but was pleasantly surprised.
A slog - that I did not finish. Sounds like a demo tape. Surprisingly for metal the vocals are very clear and so unfortunately can hear all the nonsense that they are singing / shouting aback.
Its growing on me - very 80's. Extra point for living locally.
Absolute classic. 10 Bangers. Love PSB.
Classic.
Not my favourite Radiohead album. Perhaps with more time I would like it more.
Enjoyed it - although found it a little bit uneven. Really liked Winter - but found others like Leather a bit broadway...
A new discovery for me - started well with Ramones like punk vibes - then got a bit rockabilly and a bit new wavy... enjoyed it. Was going to go for a 3 - but I think it sneaks a low 4.
I have never really got this album. On the A-side there are some strong tracks - particularly Afterglow - but then it all gets a bit silly. I really like the organ led rocky bits but find Steve Marriots vocals annoying and the whole concept album a bit tiring.
Listened to it a few times over the weekend - hoping it would grow on me - and whilst I enjoyed it did not breakthrough and faded into pleasant background music.
I do enjoy at bit of Kraftwerk. Generally prefer the non vocal tracks as the vocals are a little tired and cliched now. Strong 4 but not a 5 as do not feel any of the tracks really connect with me.
I love the Who - and whilst they would defn go to make better albums there are a few classics on here - my generation / kids are alright. Not a 5 but a strong 4.
I actually had pretty low expectations of this - but was pleasantly surprised at 1) the groovyness of the tracks; 2) her lyrical flow and 3) the brevity of the album. It's not really my bag and I'm not the target audience but it just creeps a 4 for me. Favorite tracks Offence and Venom. Not one to listen in the car with the kids.
Another effin concept album. Love the Velvet Underground - and best song by far is the reworking of Stephanie Says - but the rest is a bit of a mixed bag.
Meh. Singles are okay - rest is very average. Never really got the hype.
Bought this as a teenager as I think Q magazine had called it one of the albums of the 60's. I tried very hard to like it but it never really connected. Listening again now I can appreciate the lushness of the arrangements and the psychedelic leanings.
Quite enjoyed the titletrack - rest was all a bit of 70's jazz/rock/blues jam melange that passed me by without tickling any interest. Disappointing.
Have not listened to this in years and had forgotten how much I enjoyed it. Great beats and great lyrics delivered well without any b/s (apart from the skits).
Playing catch up - so listened to both KOL albums that have come up so far back to back. As per comment on Aha Shake Heartbreak - I had really liked KOL first time around until Only By The Night - which was the beginning of my disengagement with KOL. Listening again today I don't think my opinion has changed with Only Be The Night having a more polished/ stadium feel that does not work for me. I gave Aha Shake Heartbreak a 3 and I would much rather listen to that - which I guess makes this a 2.
Was a bit disappointed as I really liked the more poppy/ retro vibes of The Knife and thought that this would be more of the same. Did not really enjoy the darker tone - made it slightly dirgy and lacking in hooks or moments of beauty. Not terrible by any means - just not what I was hoping for. Will give a 3 as I'm sure would grow with repeated listening ....
A bit of a slog. Not If You Were the Last Junkie on Earth and Everyday Should be a Holiday are great tracks - but rest of the album is a real disappointment. Lots of fairly bland instrumentals / jams and forgettable album fillers. Disappointing.
Have had this on in the car for past few weeks and its been a very enjoyable (and surprisingly funky) old school listen. Particularly enjoyed the lack of skits getting in the way of the tracks. No real stand out tracks (but a consistent level of goodness) means its a 4 not a 5.
Was expecting some polished pop/funk/rock ala "you going to go my way" - was not expecting such a pedestrian rock album with repetitively dull and banal lyrics. I don't hate it or have anything against Lenny so I guess that makes it a 2.
Randomly saw an Oasis tribute band a few weeks ago - which was funny as the lead singer was about 3 ft tall so struggled with the Liam swagger and the "Noel" couldn't stop smiling and waving to the crowd. It did remind me that Oasis have a lot of songs that I are ingrained into me (despite not listening for many years) and that they still sound good (unlike a lot of Britpop that has not aged particularly well). Their first album was always my favourite - with Slide Away my pick.
Love Orbital. Do not think this is their strongest album but still very strong.
As per previous reviews it is only relatively recently that I have opened myself up to Radiohead. Have very much enjoyed this album - particularly Everything in its Right Place. Not sure album maintains that quality throughout but certainly no bum tracks. Not quite a 5 for me.
A handful of absolute bangers (Look of love / Show Me and Poison Arrows) -but as an album its eighties cranked upto 11 and I found it a bit overwhelming.
I really like the Cardigans last two albums - Long Gone before Daylight and Super Extra Gravity - which are darker/ slower and more country infused and both definite 5/5 for me. I really like Nina's solo work also - especially the first A Camp album. I struggle a little with the earlier popper/kitscher albums and find them grating compared to the later albums. Do like Been It and the Iron Man cover (appear to be in minority for this) but sadly Love Fool is so over played now that I skipped it.
Am aware of Willie but have never listened to a complete album. It started well and I thought hello - this could be a 5 - but then it just drifted and meandered and became a western sound track and left me behind.
Not my jam. Started badly - did improve a little throughout the album and at least there was some variation (battleship scralatchtica was a surprise). Only listened once and could not face a repeat.
Enjoyed Willie the Pimp a lot - less so the sax assault in The Gumbo Variations. Some very funky moments - but then let down by some interludes that sound like incidental music from 70's TV shows.
A great laid back summery listen - especially in the car - with loose jazzy vibes and great rapping. Would be a 5 were it not for the lyrics which at times were a bit uncomfortable at times for a square white middleaged man. Not one to sing along with the kids.
An album I have always enjoyed - but never loved as much as I thought I should have given the critical reception it received at the time. I'm probably a 7/10 on this - but again will round up as the sun is shining.
A band I have never heard of before - and it did not start well - thought first couple of tracks quite unremarkable and dirgy. Things improved when the tempo picked up and I particularly enjoyed Memory Boy and Fountain Stairs. Unfortunately am playing catch up so have only listened to it 3 times and I'm sure with repeated listening it would grow on me more. Currently I am 5/10 and will give benefit of doubt and round up as I think its a grower.
Liked this first time around as they came from the Wirral (as did my girlfriend at the time). Listening again it has aged better than many of its contemporaries although is a little all over the shop with its genres. First two songs are the strongest then its a bit more of a mixed bag. Not sure will be listening again in a hurry - its probably a 5/10 but as feeling generous will round to a 3.
Was a fan of teenage fanclub in my teens - although listening again I struggle to recall any of this album other than "What you do to me". Question how this album was deemed to be within the 1000 best of all time (and can see why no UK participants fairly criticise the list for being too UK centric). It's perfectly competent and melodic indie pop/rock but its all a bit fcking bland and does not really get the juices flowing or inspire any action.
Had not previously registered the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Although once started listening I recognised the singles - in particular Heads will Roll - which still gets a decent amount of airtime. Really enjoyed the album - garage with retro synth and cool vocals. Will definitely listen again - a good album to drive to. Will now check out the other yeah yeah yeah album on the list.
Intense. Slightly repetitive quiet/ load / quiet formula and perhaps a bit long. Not so great to work to. But i do like PJ Harvey. Fav song was Rid of Me.
Same feelings as previous album. I don't like them as people or as a band - but they have some great tunes that were the soundtrack of my formative years. Unlikely to listen to them by choice now but cannot deny the impact. Choice track - Dont Look Back in Anger.
Do not know much about late Beach Boys work. Have a soft spot for the early surf pop - but not quite sure what to make of this album. Really liked Feel Flows and wish the album had been more like this. Student Demonstrations is embarrassingly awful - with take a load of your feet not much better. Lyrically a lot of the album is pretty trite "I'm a cork on the ocean". etc. Not sure if its my hifi set up but I thought production was poor with it sounding pretty flat/ muffled. I like the idea of a darker beach boys and wanted to like this more - but apart from Feel flows and long promised road I thought this was disappointing.
I do like Divine Comedy - I like his voice and lyrical flair - and really like some of their other songs (Gin Soaked Boy is in my top 100 songs) - however i found this album a bit too OTT / show tuney at times and a bit annoying (I am trying to work) so did not really enjoy as much as I thought I would. Some nice moments and hooks but not something I will come back to.
Was not quite what i was expecting was expecting something a bit lighter and more mainstream. On second listen I started to enjoy it and adjust to the slightly discordant percussive nature of the songs. A surprising 4 as will listen again.
Not as good as I remember. Magic Number / Eye Know / Potholes in my Lawn / Me Myself and I are still laid back classics. Unfortunately there is alot of filler tracks and crappy skits that disrupt the listening experience and unfortunately means its a 4 and not a 5.
Not familiar with Slint - so quick google required to get up to speed. I like the atmosphere and the pace of the album - but found it lacking in moments of beauty that captured my interest. Only had time for a couple of listens and I'm sure it would grow given time.
I currently have a soft spot for early 60's Americana juke box pop - like Made to Love. The slower tunes are bit too saccharine for me. Lovely harmonies but dated lyrics.
Bought this when it came out based on the reviews and it should have been right up my street. Despite repeated listenings it never really connected with me emotionally and tended to just fade into background meanderings. Favourite track White Winter Hymnal.
Not sure can be fucked this album. A lot of the songs are very catchy with strong Beatles vibes but then just as your getting into the song its over and another one starts. This coupled with the shonky production and I'm thinking life's too short for an album of charming but half arsed songs. Less is defn more.
I love Pretty in Pink - but am not that familiar with the rest of their other output. Enjoyed the album but PIP is the clear standout and got a bit samey towards the end. Found the vocals slightly sneary and a bit too much sax.
Per FOBP review I should have given ITANOMTHUB a 5 as by far the superior album. In my opinion A91 suffers from same issue of FOBP in that the beats/ samples are too dense they they diminish the power of Chuck D. Still some strong tracks - and power of message remains - but overall not as good as FOBP. A low 4.
Very silly peak 80's poodle pop rock. Surprisingly entertaining. Its more fun than Fleet Foxes and I gave that a 3 - does this mean its a 4? Not sure can go that far - high 3. Top track Panama. Going to cruise down the A46 now.
So many happy memories of this album. Still sounds amazing.
BUSH! A bit too much bush for me. Really like Suspended in Gaffa but majority of album not really growing on me - despite repeated listens over several days .
meh. I like punk. Didn't particularly like this flavour of in/out shouty thrash punk. Question its inclusion on the list. Hope the Ramones on the list as they are far superior to this and alot more fun. Didn't hate it so its a 2.
Given the choice I would not be choosing to listen to double album of improv piano jazz. It was a surprisingly easy listen and can see myself listening again. Didn't love it but certainly did not hate it. Enjoyed the weird grunty noises that he made every now and then as he squeezed out the jazz.
Purchased this when first came out and listened to it on repeat for ages and then completely forgot about it until now. Have been listening to it a a lot of past 3 days - really like the atmosphere and musicianship and blending of rock/indie/dub/folk. Only negative is Damon's vocals which lack emotional heft for me. On cusp of 4/5 but think will just nudge it to 5. Fav song The Bunting Song.
Not that familiar with Wire - certainly not listened to whole album before. Surprised how modern it sounds for 1977. Sounds very tight with some great bass/ guitar hooks - particularly enjoyed Strange and Ex Lion Tamer.
Used to love St Etienne - and still have soft spot for them - although was never that big fan of this album - preferring So Tough and Tiger Bay as peak St Etienne. Had massive crush on Sarah Cracknell for long time. Should really give this a 3 as whilst it has some great moments ( Only Love can break your heart) its a bit weak and light weight in others. But am rounding up to a 4 for nostalgia.
I really enjoyed Doolittle. By comparison Bossanova feels more polished and clinical and does not quite have the same energy/ joy. Still enjoyed it especially as listening at same time as Sebadoh which was a real struggle by comparison. Fav track Allison.
Another album I bought first time around due to the reviews that I did not love as much as I thought I should. Listening again 20 years later and after the first song - Drive - I thought yes this is a 5 and I am finally old enough to appreciate REM. But then REM atrophy kicks in and it starts to loose its sparkle and Stipes vocals start to grate and the songs start sounding all a bit samey and just does not emotionally connect with me (with one big exception). At the time Everybody Hurts was played to death - but hearing it fresh again its a cracking song. The one song that does really connect (and I have listened to on heavy rotation since day 1) is Nightswimming which I absolutely fucking love.
Amazing opening 3 tracks - then dips quite a bit. I don't particularly have any beef with U2/ bono and I do like Bono's vocals I just could not really get on board with the filler. The first 3 are bangers though and based on them its a 4.
Was not really looking forward to this - but was very pleasantly surprised (disturbed) by how much I enjoyed it. Silly in places but overall an enjoyably dark and tuneful listen. High 3 - only just marked down as not sure if/when would listen again - fav tracks 1959 & Dominium/Mother Russia.
I'm partial to a bit of 80's now and then - with one of the great appeals being the nostalgia/ memories that the songs evoke. I don't know the Triffids - so am listening fresh without the nostalgia glow or the familiarity of having heard the songs on repeat over the last 30 years. Without this the album feels like generic 80's pop and I don't have time or inclination to listen to it enough for the songs to worm their magic.
Unfortunately for me even the best Salsa (which I'm sure this is) just fades into background music - very pleasant but ultimately forgettable. If I understood Spanish I may have a different view or if was in a beach side bar with hips to die for .. but as it is I'm working on my PC with a cranky back. It does have a great brass section and it is now my goto Salsa album - although cannot really ever seeing me needing to go to Salsa town.
Have always liked Justice and this is a cracking album with some bangers (DANCE/ Genesis / Phantom) with great dirty bass lines although quality dips a little towards the end. A high 4. Perhaps would have squeezed a 5 if I'd listened on a better louder hifi.
Never seen the appeal of FLC. Scooby snacks and opener are fun tracks - but massively overplayed which has diminished their appeal for me. The rest of the album is forgettable. Fun fact I used to see Huey walking his dog on regular occasions and have dog chat as we both had puppies at the same time.
Approached this with a heavy heart as finding the amount of early 90's American alt rock/grunge on the list slightly tiring. Whilst there are some excellent albums within this genre there is a lot of fairly joyless dross. Unfortunately Sebadoh is leaning towards the later. The album clearly shows the 3 separate song writers and amongst the 17 songs there are a handful that I enjoyed - but unfortunately outnumbered by the ones where I wanted to press skip. Didn't hate it - but will not be listening again so its a low 2.
Thrash metals really not my thing. I don't mind the intros when its just drums / guitar riffs and slowly building up the tension - but really don't like it once the vocals kick in and they up the temp. Although lyrically not quite as dumb as other examples on the list (although that's a very low bar) and the delivery is much clearer.
Tried to approach this with positive mindset - but this album just triggers me with TFI Friday / Chris Evans / Loaded mag late 90's bell ends. Did really enjoy Wild Wood and the other singles are okay - but alot of the album slips into dad rock and I don't particularly care for Weller's rock vocals.
Really enjoyed this. Familiar with the first two Jam albums and their greatest hits - so already familiar with Start/ That's Entertainment - which are great tracks. Really enjoyed Set the House Ablaze - was not aware until listening that Blocparty had taken the guitar riff. Was great to come to this off the back of some dirgy 90's US grunge as it sounded so much fresher, spikier with great chorus's. Very high 4.
I had a school friend who was really into Jah Wobble - so this triggers strong memories of hanging round his house playing Championship Manager. Good times. Sadly I think the album has dated somewhat and whilst I enjoyed a couple of tracks - Ungodly Kingdom / Visions of You - the majority were a bit meh. Strong bass as you would expect and some interesting world music noodlings - but sounding a little dated and not really enjoying the almost spoken word flat vocal delivery on majority of the songs. I think just scrapes a 3.
I had it on in the background whilst working and it just disappeared into the back ground - noodling along with a few interesting noises / samples and unfortunately a bit too much slap bass. The songs never really seemed to go anywhere - and whilst it did make it an easy listen and good to work to I would like the odd moment of crescendo or beauty.
Great opening song - bongos, organ, drums, snarly guitar, horns, strings then sweet vocals. Sadly does not quite sustain over the whole album - I guess as its a soundtrack so quality dips a little in places - but overall there are enough bangers (Little child runnin, pusherman & superfly (so good its on the album twice!) to just nudge it into a 5.
I like a bit of Elvis - but not slow country Elvis with his nasal vocal vibrations chomping on every syllable. Love Suspicious Minds and In the Ghetto - but everything else borders between meh and annoying.
Have had listened to this a few times over the past few days - and whilst its a pleasant and easy listen very little of it stuck with me. Tracey Thorns' vocals are distinctively haunting and really carry the album with the backing mostly trip hop by numbers. Quite telling that its the remixes that tend to bring the EBTG tunes to life. Fav song: Single.
Never listened to the Grateful Dead before. Not sure what I was expecting but I was a little underwhelmed - perfectly pleasant country rock. Listened to it 3 times - but nothing stuck. I doubt I will return.
Only know Elliott Smith via Needle in the Hay - which is a great track. I like his breathy vocal delivery and the general vibe of the music - its quite introspective sad music that I would have loved as a teen mooning around in my bedroom. Does not quite work for me currently as don't really have the time for mooning and need music generally to either give me an adrenaline hit or chill me out and fade into the background.
"I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night)" - Is an enjoyably retro 60's track. Rest of album does not match this and is a bit all over the shop with slightly jarring stylistic changes. All in all quite forgettable.
Was listening to this whilst painting our bedroom so listened about 5 times on repeat ... and by the end I was really enjoying it. Three absolute (and obvious) classics - Boho Rap, Youre my Best Friend and Love of My Life mean that it will always score highly. Question was how much the filler would drag it down. Have to admit that by the 5th rotation I was even enjoying I'm in Love with my car even though its lyrically ridiculous. Seaside/ lazy on Sunday/ Good Company afternoon still shit tho -remind me off bad Mccartney pastiche and were rather grating. On balance should prob be a 4 if i'm being consistent but will give it a 5 because of Bohemian Rhapsody.
There is relatively so little "electronica" on this list that it saddens me when shite like this comes up. Sterile and joyless tunes - overlong and repetitive beats.
Enjoyed the atmospheric guitars / percussion - but struggled with the singing - which for me fell on the wrong side of wailing and were a little annoying. Really wanted to enjoy it - but cannot see me returning.
RIP Brian. I've listened to this album a lot over the years. To be honest I have never really got it as an album. There are a few absolute classic slices of pop perfection (in particular Sloop John B and Wouldn't it be Nice) but a lot of it sort of washes over me.
I really like the Who - but prefer them as a singles band and I have never been that fond of the rock opera leanings. This album opens/ closes with two absolute classic Who tracks - with Baba O'Riley being one of my all time favourite songs. The tracks in between are not quite as strong - but slowly work their charm and do just enough to make it a 5.
Not familiar with this album. I liked her early solo work but then Bjork appeared to completely fall of my radar. Really enjoyed this album - its not the easiest or most immediate record to get into - but really rewarding by the 3rd listen. Will defn listen again. Favourite track : Aurora.
I have a soft spot for retro 80's synth pop. Have heard a few Chvches singles over the year - but never a whole album in one sitting - and I think its something best enjoyed in small doses as there is not much variation in the album and they tend to blur into one which diminishes the impact. Fav track: Recover. I'm a borderline 3 /4 - will give it a 4 as 1) the sun is shining and 2) for being Scottish.
Bought this on CD when first release and have regularly listened since. An awesome album. I cannot believe its over 30 years old ....
A few years back I listened to Back in Black alot and really got into the album - but did not explore the rest of the ACDC catalogue. Very much enjoyed Highway to Hell - not quite as polished as BiB - but it rattles along at non stop pace and is a great undemanding listen. Not quite a 5 but a high 4. No stand out track as they all pretty much sound the same - not really a criticism as I enjoyed the whole.
A new discovery for me. Country folk is not really my bag - but he does have a lovely baritone voice and it was an enjoyable listen.
Purchased this first time around and enjoyed it. Unfortunately not listening to it ever again given Kanye's embrace and glorification of Nazim. Absolute bell end.
Only know FGTH from the three big singles - Relax/ Two Tribes and Power of Love. Whilst the first two are clear classic 80's bangers - they don't really do it for me - partly because I have no particular childhood memories linked to them so fail to trigger any hit of nostalgia. By contrast I really like the sentimentality and Christmas vibes of Power of Love. As for the rest of the album thought it was particularly disappointing with a number of weak covers (fury apart) that did not really bring anything to the party. The rest of the songs were paler rehashes of Two Tribes.
Have loved Another Girl Another Planet for years - but have not ever listened to any other tracks by the Only Ones. Was a bit surprised by the eclectic nature of the album with Another Girl Another Planet the clear stand out. Peter Perretts vocals are a bit marmitey - on some tracks they work - with hints of lou reed- but on some of the slower tracks they really grate.
I enjoyed the beats / Ice Cube's delivery and the angry pacing of the songs unfortunately I struggled with the lyrical content as I care not for what Ice Cube does with his dick -which unfortunately seems to be the focus of a lot of the songs.
I do not really not know much about country music - but I know I do not like this. I think the pacing is too jaunty and the voice lacks character for me. Not bad just not for me.
Another one from the CD collection - double jewel case - purchased the week it was released.... Have to admit it was a bit dusty as not listened to it for along time. Its a great CD to put on and work to although does sound a little dated and lacking real stand out moments.
Apart from Poison had not really listened to Alice Cooper previously. Was expecting it to be harder/ more in your face - rather than fairly tame MOR rock - with some rather silly lyrics in places ( I love the dead ?) Enjoyed it much more than I was expecting with some catchy hooks/ chorus. Fav track: No More Mr Nice Guy.
Felt a little bit light weight punk/ska that did not really connect with me. I was going to give it a 3 - but just gave Alice Cooper a 3 and enjoyed that a a lot more than this - so I guess its a high 2. Which may be harsh.
Easy 5. Heads and shoulders above all the other (far too many) grunge albums on this list.
Had low expectations going in and sad to say they were met. I generally like dirty/ industrial/noise - but it needs to be paired with a good tune/ some joy / great vocals. Unfortunately Trent's lyrics are pretty dumb (but not in fun way) and too low in the mix. Don't care for the drum machine and more more noise noise sonic overload. JC's version of Hurt far superior - although that song does show that Trent can write decent lyrics.
I like music to be moving / sad / powerful / joyful - I do not like music to be funny. Its not what I am looking for. I enjoyed large parts of this album - some great hooks and melodies- but found the humour/ novelty elements took me out of the music too much.
Enjoyably silly - slightly over stays its welcome - but good memories of seeing them at Reading.
Have never heard of the Go-Betweens. Not sure I have missed much. Generic 80's jangly tuneful guitar pop - a bit derivative and largely forgettable. A little bit of U2, deacon blue, smiths, crowded house. I only listened to it twice and I'm sure its a grower - and I can imagine if you grew up with it you might love it (like I love the saw doctors) - but coming to fresh it unfortunately left me cold. A high 2.