1001 Albums Summary

Listening statistics & highlights

420
Albums Rated
3.05
Average Rating
39%
Complete
669 albums remaining

Rating Distribution

Rating Timeline

Taste Profile

1950
Favorite Decade
Latin
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
48
5-Star Albums
52
1-Star Albums

Breakdown

By Genre

Top Styles

By Decade

By Origin

Albums

You Love More Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Medúlla
Björk
5 2.74 +2.26
The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
5 2.88 +2.12
Sail Away
Randy Newman
5 2.96 +2.04
Smile
Brian Wilson
5 3.03 +1.97
Younger Than Yesterday
The Byrds
5 3.13 +1.87
Pieces Of The Sky
Emmylou Harris
5 3.13 +1.87
Mermaid Avenue
Billy Bragg
5 3.16 +1.84
Rain Dogs
Tom Waits
5 3.19 +1.81
Vivid
Living Colour
5 3.2 +1.8
Surf's Up
The Beach Boys
5 3.29 +1.71

You Love Less Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Back In Black
AC/DC
1 3.83 -2.83
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
1 3.81 -2.81
Metallica
Metallica
1 3.77 -2.77
Parallel Lines
Blondie
1 3.76 -2.76
Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
1 3.74 -2.74
Boston
Boston
1 3.7 -2.7
Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
1 3.63 -2.63
The Number Of The Beast
Iron Maiden
1 3.57 -2.57
Machine Head
Deep Purple
1 3.57 -2.57
Gorillaz
Gorillaz
1 3.53 -2.53

Artists

Favorites

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Stevie Wonder 4 4.75
The Rolling Stones 3 5
Beatles 3 5
Miles Davis 3 5
Led Zeppelin 3 4.67
Bob Dylan 3 4.67
The Beach Boys 2 5
The Police 2 5
Simon & Garfunkel 2 5

Least Favorites

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Metallica 2 1
Black Sabbath 2 1
Pixies 3 1.67
The Cure 2 1.5
The Prodigy 2 1.5

5-Star Albums (48)

View Album Wall

Popular Reviews

Channel Orange by Frank Ocean

It's impossible for me to review Frank Ocean and this album objectively because I don't understand it. I have a friend who insists good popular music ended around the turn of the century. I think he's wrong. Popular music just changed direction radically and many of us just don't understand or accept that change. I'm one of those people. I just don't understand most of this music (except for occasional forays into marginally decent r&b). Therefore, it doesn't affect me. I'll give it three stars as a neutral, non-understanding rating. Popular music has left me behind. I have left it behind.

Boston by Boston

Excessive, soulless drivel.

Ocean Rain by Echo And The Bunnymen

Musically simple and uninteresting. Lyrically puerile. Just bored me.

Not much to say, except I really enjoyed listening to this. It’s out of my wheelhouse, but it’s interesting musically, intelligent and has a consistent and great groove. Love it.

The Age Of The Understatement by The Last Shadow Puppets

The orchestral accompaniment is saccharine and boring. The lyrics are mundane and the singing is grating. This was a tough one for me to get through. Pretentious rubbish.

1-Star Albums (52)

All Ratings (420)

Ill Communication by Beastie Boys
Dec 31 2024

I had no expectation of enjoying this album so much. The breadth of music genres coexisting throughout this work is brilliant and refreshing. What a treat!

The ArchAndroid by Janelle Monáe
Jan 01 2025

She's a massive talent, incredible voice and vocal range and a great songwriter..The production is just a bit too slick for me. Not my cup of tea.

Five Leaves Left by Nick Drake
Jan 06 2025

I don't know how or why I missed this one.

Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
Jan 07 2025

To my mind, this pales in comparison to The Dark Side of the Moon, but still a great album.

Ocean Rain by Echo And The Bunnymen
Jan 08 2025

Musically simple and uninteresting. Lyrically puerile. Just bored me.

Darklands by The Jesus And Mary Chain
Jan 09 2025

Well constructed. Great rock & roll.

Elvis Is Back by Elvis Presley
Jan 10 2025

I don't know how this album made it onto the list. His first album after getting out of the Army and all the magic is gone. His voice is still there, but the rawness and passion is gone.

Here's Little Richard by Little Richard
Jan 13 2025

Killer album! Every cut is a classic. So many rockers owe so much to this guy.

Siamese Dream by The Smashing Pumpkins
Jan 14 2025

Powerful. Loved it.

Exile On Main Street by The Rolling Stones
Jan 15 2025

I think this album defined their sound for the remainder of their career. My five favorite Rolling Stones albums all predated this one, but I still think Exile is genius and it deserves no less than five stars. I could listen to Sweet Black Angel all day long.

The Man Who by Travis
Jan 16 2025

Soft pop. Lethargic, boring and uninspired.

Medúlla by Björk
Jan 17 2025

What a brilliant and beautiful album! The rich and dense vocals, complex rhythms and overall musicality make this a joyful listening experience. OMG!

Jan 20 2025

I loved this album when it came out. Still love Bohemian Rhapsody. Unfortunately, I no longer get much enjoyment from their music. Brian May is an amazing guitarist and Freddy Mercury was a brilliant singer.

Disintegration by The Cure
Jan 21 2025

Simple, persistent, heavy rhythms. Minimal harmonic progressions. Ethereal keyboard backgrounds. I assume this is what fans are drawn to. This is not a negative appraisal of the music. It's just not for me.

Jan 22 2025

I guess this is the progenitor of all the great progressive groups that would appear in the next few years. Such talented and inventive musicians would add to the canon of King Crimson and continue to produce great music up to the present day.

Exile In Guyville by Liz Phair
Jan 23 2025

I liked a few of the songs, but there were many that just sounded like first take demos. Minimalism has its place, but these tunes just bored me.

Django Django by Django Django
Jan 24 2025

Uninteresting Uninspiring Unimaginative Simplistic Boring

Jan 27 2025

I can see why these guys made such a big splash and became so influential. This is some powerful music with a whole lot to say.

Green by R.E.M.
Jan 28 2025

I enjoyed this very much. Great songwriting. Interesting melodic lines, harmonies and syncopation. It just had a very unique feel. Love it!

Bossanova by Pixies
Jan 29 2025

Straight ahead rock. Did not do anything for me. I think it's simple and boring. Not for me.

Grievous Angel by Gram Parsons
Jan 31 2025

Great album. Too bad he threw it all away due to his drug habit. One of the most important things he did was discovering Emmylou Harris.

Cosmo's Factory by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Feb 03 2025

John Fogerty is very talented and the driving force behind Creedence. Too bad the boys couldn’t get along. He wrote some great songs, but I never felt compelled to buy any of their music. It was/is Ho hum to me.

Africa Brasil by Jorge Ben Jor
Feb 05 2025

very funny. Beautiful music.

Green River by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Feb 06 2025

All these years later and I still find them lacking. Can’t put my finger on it.

Rid Of Me by PJ Harvey
Feb 07 2025

Good writing. Great energy. Interesting musically. I’m only 30+ years late in discovering her, but I’m happy I did.

Ramones by Ramones
Feb 10 2025

Simple, straightforward, head banging punk. “Let’s Dance” is my favorite. Otherwise, ultimately bores me.

From Elvis In Memphis by Elvis Presley
Feb 11 2025

Elvis lost me when he joined the Army. The Colonel sabotaged his career, putting him some mostly awful movies and making other bad career choices for him. Elvis' voice is still powerful here, but the music and arrangements never let him cut loose like he was capable of. The Army robbed Elvis of his "kick ass."

Boston by Boston
Feb 13 2025

Excessive, soulless drivel.

Tidal by Fiona Apple
Feb 14 2025

This album is wonderful! Musically sophisticated, lyrically insightful beyond her years. Stellar through and through.

Harvest by Neil Young
Feb 17 2025

This album has not aged well for me. I remember being ambivalent about it at the time. I enjoyed some of it, but was mostly underwhelmed. I guess I feel the same about his entire oeuvre.

Feb 18 2025

Great blend of hip hop, funk, jazz, electro-pop and more. This is a very interesting and listenable album. I can see why it's rated so high.

Gold by Ryan Adams
Feb 19 2025

Some good to great songwriting. Some good to great rockers. I found it derivative. So much had already been said. It did not captivate me.

All Things Must Pass by George Harrison
Feb 20 2025

I haven't played this for many years, but listening to it now is like hearing from an old friend. Still hear the joy he felt after breaking away from the Beatles and unleashing all the great music he had stored up. I would give this five stars but for the unnecessary and self-indulgent inclusion of the boring jam on the third disc. Oh, well. He'd been anxious to break away from the stifling atmosphere of the Fab Four for a long time. So, a little self-indulgence may have been warranted and, certainly, forgiven.

Apocalypse Dudes by Turbonegro
Feb 21 2025

Not what I expected. Just great balls to the wall rock. If this is death metal, then I like it.

The Number Of The Beast by Iron Maiden
Feb 24 2025

Never liked heavy metal. Musicianship is undeniable, but it doesn't do anything for me.

The Hour Of Bewilderbeast by Badly Drawn Boy
Feb 26 2025

Great songwriting and unique and interesting arrangements and aural landscapes. I need to spend more time with album. Love it.

At Folsom Prison by Johnny Cash
Feb 27 2025

I remember what a big deal this was for a major artist to make a live album at a high security prison. The group played well, but Johnny's acoustic guitar was horribly out of tune when he played solo. Weird someone in his group didn't whisper in his ear. But, his unique voice, songs and performance shine through.

Mar 03 2025

Pleasant enough album. I like Man On The Moon, but everything else doesn't move me.

Green Onions by Booker T. & The MG's
Mar 04 2025

Every time I hear Green Onions I feel bliss. This album opened me up to a whole new world of music. Takes me back to the best part of my youth. Thank you Booker T & The MGs.

Machine Gun Etiquette by The Damned
Mar 05 2025

Noise, Noise, Noise. That about sums it up for me. Didn't like it.

The Madcap Laughs by Syd Barrett
Mar 06 2025

Sloppy, unengaging writing and performance.

We Are Family by Sister Sledge
Mar 07 2025

The musicianship is good and the music is often funky. But, the insipid string lines floating above are the reason I thought disco was so soulless.

Jazz Samba by Stan Getz
Mar 10 2025

Getz and Byrd nailed it on this one. Every tune is a delight. I was too young to appreciate this in 1962. But, when I started delving into jazz a few years later, this Brazilian influenced jazz really caught my ear. Just brilliant!

Lust For Life by Iggy Pop
Mar 11 2025

Just great, kick ass rock and roll. Sorry I didn't listen to this in its day.

War by U2
Mar 12 2025

I love Bono's voice and the Edge's atmospheric guitar sound. Great listening.

Triangle by The Beau Brummels
Mar 14 2025

I didn't pay much attention to the Beau Brummels back in the day. This album just seems dated psychedelia to me now. Interesting contributions from Van Dyke Parks and Randy Newman. The use of French horns and bass trombone is interesting as well. One of the horn players, Gale Robinson, was my teacher for a short time in the early 70s. Who knew?

The Doors by The Doors
Mar 17 2025

I loved the Doors. This has some great tunes and performances and some that are fairly weak. I collected all of the Doors albums and, unfortunately, they were all uneven. But, when they shined they were untouchable.

Bayou Country by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Mar 18 2025

I didn't like CCR then and still don't like them. This first album sounds like a second rate garage band. I've had to suffer through three of their albums so far. I'm sure there's more to come.

More Specials by The Specials
Mar 19 2025

Enjoyable album. Lot of great songs, great playing, singing and loads of humor. Love it.

Guitar Town by Steve Earle
Mar 20 2025

I love Steve Earle's music. I hadn't heard this one before, but I'll be listening to it again. He's a such a great writer and performer.

The Köln Concert by Keith Jarrett
Mar 21 2025

Just an amazing album. He's a genius.

My Aim Is True by Elvis Costello
Mar 24 2025

Great rock'n'roll. Gotta love it!

All Directions by The Temptations
Mar 25 2025

Great vocals, beautiful and funky songs, incredible productions. Magnificent!!

Hotel California by Eagles
Mar 26 2025

The first side of this album is great with four very strong Top 40 hits. Turn the record over and it just (imo) peters out. I guess that's the reason I was never a huge fan of the Eagles. I always felt their output to be very inconsistent.

Back to Mystery City by Hanoi Rocks
Mar 27 2025

Tight band. Their music just doesn't do anything for me.

The Predator by Ice Cube
Mar 28 2025

This is powerful music. I didn't give it a fair chance when it came out. Which is a real shame because it is so brilliant, insightful and moving. But, I love and appreciate it now.

Hunky Dory by David Bowie
Mar 31 2025

Doing his full on Anthony Newley voice here. More piano based. I enjoyed it, but not my favorite Bowie.

Tusk by Fleetwood Mac
Apr 01 2025

This iteration of Fleetwood Mac was horrible. Christine McVie was its only saving grace. She could sing and wrote decent tunes. Otherwise, they were rubbish. Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac was a brilliant and memorable band. I never understood this band's attraction.

Apr 02 2025

When I started listening to this, I thought it was sounding fairly uninteresting. But, I ended up enjoying it quite a bit. I love Turner's lyrics and delivery (love his Sheffield accent) and the band kicks. I'm sure their live performances must be exciting and fun.

It's A Shame About Ray by The Lemonheads
Apr 03 2025

Great album! Dando writes insightful songs and has a great voice. Too bad he got taken down by substance abuse.

Dust by Screaming Trees
Apr 04 2025

Unfortunately, I've never even heard of these guys. What a pleasant surprise! A collection of really thoughtful, well-written, well-played and engaging tunes. Sometimes psychedelic, grunge, and hard rock played to perfection.

Wild Is The Wind by Nina Simone
Apr 07 2025

Beautiful album. Nina was such a powerful singer, performer and activist. This album is very moving. Love it.

The Man Machine by Kraftwerk
Apr 08 2025

I get nothing from this music. To me, it is completely lacking in warmth and soul. I acknowledge and appreciate their musicianship, but it just sounds lifeless to me.

Scott 4 by Scott Walker
Apr 09 2025

The orchestration and lyrics were a bit busy, clunky and disjointed. Nothing seemed to flow. A very talented artist, but this was disappointing effort.

Private Dancer by Tina Turner
Apr 10 2025

Great artist! Great album! She had some of the top musicians and producers on this date. She kills it, as always. Overcame a hard life and an asshole husband and blessed us all with her gift. Thank you, Tina!

One World by John Martyn
Apr 11 2025

What a great album! Another artist I missed completely. I don't know how to describe his music other than singular. Coming from the British folk tradition of the sixties, he then drew from Jamaican music, jazz, funk, blues and developed a new style of music all his own. Now I'm going to have to explore his entire catalog. What a happy surprise!

The Stranger by Billy Joel
Apr 14 2025

I can't deny his talent, but I've never enjoyed his music. It lacks dynamism, depth, tension. Sounds contrived to me.

Fulfillingness' First Finale by Stevie Wonder
Apr 15 2025

An amazing album! His classic albums made during 70s are the epitome of creative songwriting, performance and production. I haven't listened to this in ages. I need to get back to his catalog. This music fills my heart with joy. Love you, Stevie.

This Is Fats Domino by Fats Domino
Apr 16 2025

The original album was issued in 1956 with 12 tracks (6 more than offered here) with the two bonus tracks added in 1957. I love Fats Domino, but this is kind of weak.

Survivor by Destiny's Child
Apr 17 2025

Incredible singing with tight harmonies, great production and all-around wonderful performances throughout. A pleasure to listen to, although this type of music is not my go to genre. That being said, "Happy Face" lifts my spirits high. I'll be adding that to my Happy Tunes playlist.

Southern Rock Opera by Drive-By Truckers
Apr 18 2025

I'm just not a fan of a lot of Southern rock. This just bores me.

London Calling by The Clash
Apr 21 2025

Great album! So much more here than I expected. I didn't like punk in general, so didn't even give this a listen at the time. How wrong I was! This is just fantastic rock and roll. It covers so many styles of r'n'r and does them all well. Wish I didn't have such a closed mind.

Close To You by Carpenters
Apr 23 2025

Utterly soulless. The Carpenters were very talented, but this music is cringe-worthy.

Club Classics Vol. One by Soul II Soul
Apr 24 2025

Drum machines, insipid disco strings, monotonous rhythms and vocals. It's all great and appropriate for dancing and dance clubs. So, it's perfect for that. But, I never went to dance clubs because I don't enjoy dancing. So, this music just bores me.

Hms Fable by Shack
Apr 25 2025

Generic pop rock. Pleasant enough.

Songs In The Key Of Life by Stevie Wonder
Apr 29 2025

All of Stevie’s albums in the 70s were part of my constant listening during that decade. So much consistently brilliant music from this phenomenal musician. Every song on this album is genius.

The Contino Sessions by Death In Vegas
Apr 30 2025

This, mostly, sounds to me like incidental soundtrack music. Pleasant enough, but it’s not very interesting.

Ogden's Nut Gone Flake by Small Faces
May 01 2025

Great album. I didn't listen to it back then and I don't know why. Probably because it wasn’t given much airplay in the U.S. I was too lazy back then. What a shame.

The Low End Theory by A Tribe Called Quest
May 02 2025

Sophisticated rap, great writing, wonderful grooves and Ron Carter to boot. Great listening to start my day.

Elephant by The White Stripes
May 05 2025

What a wonderful album. Jack's guitar sound is so biting and sensual. It just amazes me the sounds and textures he brings out of his guitar. Meg's minimalist drumming is so solid and vital. The album is a joy to listen to.

Queen II by Queen
May 06 2025

Formulaic, bombastic, soulless. Maybe just victim of some of the more excessive progressive rock trends of their time. Brian May’s brilliant guitar chops were wasted here. Plenty of talent throughout this band, but it got lost in marginal music.

Hot Buttered Soul by Isaac Hayes
May 08 2025

I liked Isaac Hayes, but this album is kind of ponderous and lackluster. Not a whole lot of excitement here.

Scum by Napalm Death
May 09 2025

Chaotic, intense, loud, repetitive. Ultimately, boring. I enjoyed listening to this once. There will be no repeat listenings.

Sign 'O' The Times by Prince
May 12 2025

Great musician, composer, arranger. But, this is mostly tedious. And drum machines are like fingernails on a blackboard to me. A few listenable songs is the most I can say.

Come Away With Me by Norah Jones
May 13 2025

This is a beautiful, soulful album. When this was released, I remember being so blown away by her beautiful voice and stunning arrangements. She has continued making great albums through the years and she just keeps getting better.

All Hope Is Gone by Slipknot
May 14 2025

Very intense throughout. Some of it loud, angry, negative, brutal. Other times introspective, sensitive, beautiful. I could listen to this again to find more. But, mostly, it’s too dark for me.

Is This It by The Strokes
May 15 2025

Back to basics rock. Influences seem to come from early white rock. Very New York attitude and sound. Pleasantly listenable.

White Blood Cells by The White Stripes
May 16 2025

I just love Jack's guitar playing, so raw and punchy. This is basic rock and roll at its best.

Neon Bible by Arcade Fire
May 19 2025

Interesting, unique orchestrations. Not what I expected at all. I need to listen to more of their work. Nice surprise.

With The Beatles by Beatles
May 20 2025

Brilliant album. Brilliant group. The best rock and roll music ever. I love everything they did. In my mind, no one can top them.

If You're Feeling Sinister by Belle & Sebastian
May 21 2025

The vocals are weak and the musical arrangements are simplistic and unimaginative. Not very engaging. It just strikes me as weak pop. Disappointing.

Smile by Brian Wilson
May 22 2025

Beautiful album. Almost forty years after it was first attempted by the Beach Boys, Brian finally finished his masterpiece. Most of these tunes send shivers down my spine.

The Gilded Palace Of Sin by The Flying Burrito Brothers
May 23 2025

What a great band! Too bad this first iteration of the group imploded so quickly. Gram Parsons just couldn’t get out of his own way. Chris Hillman never got enough recognition for his contribution to country rock. I’ve closely followed his career from The Scottsville Squirrel Barkers to the Byrds, FBB, The Desert Rose Band and all his solo work.

May 26 2025

Johnny’s last album released during his lifetime. A moving recording at the end of his illustrious career. This a heartfelt and beautiful record. His voice and dilivery are still strong and emotive. Love it.

Dookie by Green Day
May 27 2025

Nice album. Straight rock and roll. Got a little repetitive and mundane for me, but an enjoyable listen.

...The Dandy Warhols Come Down by The Dandy Warhols
May 28 2025

Repetitive drones, killer guitar riffs, boring drives that morph into decent tunes, uplifting songs about heroin use, sometimes evoking Pink Floyd, but being less clever, ...I like it, but probably won’t listen again.

Low by David Bowie
May 29 2025

Another trendsetting album from Bowie. You could never identify him with any particular musical niche. He was forever changing it up. Bringing in Brian Eno and Toni Visconti was just genius.

May 30 2025

I hadn't heard this album before. I'm just amazed at the soundscapes Tweedy puts together. Just genius. Love it.

Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock
Jun 02 2025

I was all over this album in 1973. Herbie was at the forefront of the jazz/funk/rock fusion movement at the time and Head Hunters was blasting from every turntable. Chameleon and Watermelin Man were ubiquitous. Sounds somewhat dated now, but still an innovative move forward at the time. Herbie is one of my top musical heroes.

The Gershwin Songbook by Ella Fitzgerald
Jun 03 2025

What a perfect voice. She nailed every one of these songs. Over three hours of beauty.

Jun 04 2025

A strong voice, but often grating to me. At other times it forceful and adds great emotion and strength to her songwriting. Unfortunately, her music comes off as a bit to self indulgent for my tastes.

Chris by Christine and the Queens
Jun 05 2025

Great voice. Very emotive. I just don't like synth-pop.

Sweet Baby James by James Taylor
Jun 06 2025

I've always been a big fan of James Taylor. Great songwriter, guitar player and singer. But, although this is a very good album, I don't think he had hit his stride yet. For me, that wouldn't happen until a few albums later. That being said, this is still a brilliant album.

Darkness on the Edge of Town by Bruce Springsteen
Jun 09 2025

I like his music and this is a good album. I saw him in concert a few years ago. He puts on a great show and his band can't be beat. That being said, this particular album did not rock my world.

KIWANUKA by Michael Kiwanuka
Jun 10 2025

He has a beautiful, powerful voice. The music is simple, but very emotive. The overall soundscape is moving. I liked it to a degree, but not enough for repeated listening.

Jun 11 2025

She was a great musician and songwriter, but her voice was not that good (especially her upper register). Nevertheless, other artists interpreted her songs to great effect. For that alone, she gets 4 stars.

Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys
Jun 13 2025

Brilliant! Genius! One of my favorite albums of all time. I get chills every time I listen to this. Sadly, Brian is gone now, but he left us with little slice of Heaven.

Meat Is Murder by The Smiths
Jun 16 2025

I like the music because it’s good rock and roll. I do not care for Morrissey’s voice. It’s just dull.

Violent Femmes by Violent Femmes
Jun 17 2025

The music, lyrics, performance are all subpar. Didn’t like it. I can understand why teenage outsiders would strongly relate to this, but it doesn’t move me.

Suicide by Suicide
Jun 18 2025

I don’t find anything worthwhile in this music. But, after listening to many albums over the past few months, I’ve come to the realization that the parameters I have set for what’s good music are extremely narrow. I’ll listen to something that I think is completely useless, then ask someone what they think of it and be told that it was a life-altering event for them. I just wish I could be more open to varying types of music. I’m going to try to be more open.

Hejira by Joni Mitchell
Jun 19 2025

One of my favorite Joni Mitchell albums. Deep, introspective songwriting and stunning musical arrangements are helped along with some of the best musicians around. Jaco Pastorius’ fretless bass playing is always a delight to hear. Beautiful album.

Let It Be by The Replacements
Jun 20 2025

Great rock’n’roll band. Too bad chart success evaded them due to bad decisions on their part. Enjoyed this quite a bit.

The Score by Fugees
Jun 23 2025

Interesting album. Lauryn Hill has such a great voice. “Fuck the sheriff, I shot John Wayne.” Classic. Love it.

Time Out by The Dave Brubeck Quartet
Jun 24 2025

This is a classic. Considered one of the best jazz albums ever. I agree. Brilliant from start to finish. Brubeck was a trailblazer and just a very fine person. This album makes me believe there is still hope for us wretched humans. God bless you, Dave Brubecj.

Jun 25 2025

I love this album. Ambient, funky, beautiful music. Eno is always interesting and forward thinking.

Golden Hour by Kacey Musgraves
Jun 26 2025

The lyrics are juvenile, the musical accompaniment is unchallenging/puerile and her voice isn’t particularly pleasing. This is really boring. It’s kind of like The Carpenters if they’d used a steel guitar. Or like most Nasville country music these days.

The Only Ones by The Only Ones
Jun 27 2025

Great album! Great rock’n’roll! The songwriting is clever. The band sound really kicks it. I’m surprised they didn’t have a longer career.

Either Or by Elliott Smith
Jun 30 2025

Nice songwriting. Just didn’t grab me.

Stardust by Willie Nelson
Jul 01 2025

I remember listening to this when it was first released and gaining a new appreciation and admiration for Willie’s talent. He’s not just a great Country star, but a genuinely stellar musician. Five stars!

Fleet Foxes by Fleet Foxes
Jul 02 2025

Lush harmonies, great musicianship and good songwriting are there. Unfortunately, it all started sounding the same after a couple of songs and I lost interest.

Jul 03 2025

Not much to say, except I really enjoyed listening to this. It’s out of my wheelhouse, but it’s interesting musically, intelligent and has a consistent and great groove. Love it.

Sail Away by Randy Newman
Jul 04 2025

This album blew my socks off back in 1972. Still does. Such brilliant and unique songwriting and arrangements. Newman’s wicked and biting sense of humor floors me. The best.

2112 by Rush
Jul 07 2025

I find nothing the least bit interesting or musical about this. I like some prog rock, but this ain't it. Full disclosure, I find giving any acknowledgement or credence to Ayn Rand extremely offensive.

Led Zeppelin III by Led Zeppelin
Jul 08 2025

They really switched it up by Jimmy going more acoustic guitar centered on this one. And John Paul Jones shows off his great talent as a multi instrumentalist. Just a brilliant album!

Leftism by Leftfield
Jul 09 2025

"Hello! This is Mega Company, Inc. Your call is important to us. All of our agents are busy assisting other customers. Your call will be answered in the order it was received. Thank you for your patience." And then this music starts playing. Maybe I could relate to it if I enjoyed dancing. But, I don't. This is just bad elevator music to me. Insipid, boring, uninspired, repetitive, mind-numbing...I could go on. This is the first album I couldn't make it through. Life is too short!

Yank Crime by Drive Like Jehu
Jul 10 2025

So this is emo. So many music styles I never listened to. This has been a real education for me. This album is very interesting musically with its odd time signatures, polyrhythms, outside melodies and lyrics. Little too intense for my tastes, but intriguing nonetheless. Well played, boys!

Jul 11 2025

Very talented musicians. I just don't care for most heavy metal. The studio album is listenable. But, like a lot of live albums, this one is muddy.

At San Quentin by Johnny Cash
Jul 14 2025

This was Johnny at the height of his popularity. Seems dated to me now, but this is where I began to have a greater appreciation for country music and other types of music. I was just listening to rock and pop. Then I started hearing Johnny Cash, Miles Davis, Anton Dvorak and others. My musical palette exploded. Thank you Johnny.

Grace by Jeff Buckley
Jul 15 2025

Tragedy that he died so young and needlessly. This is a very good album. He was a very talented musician. Some of these songs are a little too pop oriented for me, but the heavier rock songs are killer.

Jul 16 2025

Another incredible artist and album I totally missed. This is country at its best. Real. Not Nashville. I need to go back and listen to his entire catalog.

Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park
Jul 17 2025

Visceral. Intense. Engaging. At times, beautiful. "In the End" is my favorite tune. I can see why they became huge from the beginning. Can't say it won me over, but I'll listen again.

The Blueprint by JAY Z
Jul 18 2025

I expected to be more impressed. Didn't do anything for me.

Disraeli Gears by Cream
Jul 21 2025

This sure didn't age well. Starts with a couple of great rockers, followed by some horrible psychelia, then a couple of nice blues tunes. An album with four decent tunes and seven stinkers does not belong on this list. Sad.

Blunderbuss by Jack White
Jul 22 2025

What a brilliant album! White goes in so many different musical styles and he inhabits them all so effectively. I especially enjoy Little Willie John's "I'm Shakin'".

Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen
Jul 23 2025

Springsteen is right up there with Bob Dylan and John Prine in his genius of writing about and for the Everyman. His writing is simple and cuts right to the bone. This album is genius.

Black Sabbath by Black Sabbath
Jul 24 2025

I bought this album when it came out in 1970. Didn't like it then. Don't like it now. They did create the template for heavy metal, but this pales to the explosive bombast that the genre became. This is no more than heavy rock. The band members are all very good musicians. But, I just don't find any emotional intensity in any of it. RIP Ozzy.

Time Out Of Mind by Bob Dylan
Jul 25 2025

Fantastic album! A return to form after several years of sub par albums. Dylan reminds me of Miles Davis in his penchant for changing his musical approach and, in so doing, moving music into new and exciting directions. Or some such bullshit.

Moondance by Van Morrison
Jul 29 2025

What a classic! I forgot there were so many brilliant and well known tunes on this album. A true innovator.

Rising Above Bedlam by Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
Jul 30 2025

Interesting music and timbres. Excellent musicianship. But, it got a bit repetitive after awhile.

Pearl by Janis Joplin
Jul 31 2025

She was a powerhouse singer. This is an iconic album. Every song is perfect. But, until now, I never paid enough attention to Richard Bell’s piano playing. It just fits perfectly and adds as much to the funky feel of the album as Joplin’s singing. The whole band is a monster.

Fear Of A Black Planet by Public Enemy
Aug 01 2025

I rejected hip-hop out of hand when it first appeared because I didn’t understand it. My understanding began to change when I heard this music in Spike Lee films. I began to recognize its significance, relevance and beauty as a musical form. Listening to this for the first time free of my former biases made me realize how much I was missing. This is a beautiful album.

Aftermath by The Rolling Stones
Aug 04 2025

This was the first Rolling Stones album that really knocked my socks off. However, this was one instance that I like the U.S. over the UK version. But, I could never understand why the U.S. companies edited the UK versions to make an extra buck. That aside, this had some brilliant tunes-Mother's Little Helper, Lady Jane, Under My Thumb, Paint It Black (on the U.S. version). But, the two tunes that still kill me every time are Flight 505 and High and Dry.

Aug 05 2025

Bottom line-I just don't like Morrissey's voice. It sounds whiney and lacks finesse. The songs are well written, the music is performed well. In the end, I just find them bland.

Aug 06 2025

Decent rock and roll, but her voice is so annoying to me. Don’t like this at all.

Hail To the Thief by Radiohead
Aug 07 2025

Hybrid of rock and electronic music. It works well. Sonically pleasing. Intelligent without being overbearing. I can see why this did so well.

Iron Maiden by Iron Maiden
Aug 08 2025

Not what I expected. I thought they would be more heavy metal. Just sounds like high-powered, guitar driven rock’n’roll to me. I’m impressed. Well done.

British Steel by Judas Priest
Aug 11 2025

Pedestrian music. Sophomoric lyrics. Rocks pretty hard, but does not move me at all.

Natty Dread by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Aug 12 2025

I have so much respect for this guy. Besides being a great musician and musical innovator, he was just a good, selfless human being. Can’t say enough good about this man and his music.

Aug 13 2025

I love this album. Ice-Ts lyrics are so intelligent and thought provoking. And his music is so sophisticated and refreshing. I didn’t know he also does heavy metal. “Body Count” is amazing! His brilliant quote, “I feel sorry for anyone who only listens to one form of music“ is so true. I have to constantly remind myself that every kind of music has meaning and connects with someone. And if I don’t like it, tough shit. If it connects with someone, it’s wonderful and worthwhile music.

Debut by Björk
Aug 14 2025

She is so incredibly talented. Tying together so many music genres in every outing. She never ceases to amaze me. And her voice just gives me chills and thrills of delight.

Among The Living by Anthrax
Aug 15 2025

It’s just painful noise to me. Medley: A.D.I./Horror of It All began with some subtlety, but descended quickly into bombast. Yuck!

Born To Run by Bruce Springsteen
Aug 18 2025

This is the first Springsteen album that got me to start listening seriously to what he was doing. Great music, great writing and seriously great rock’n’roll.

Electric Ladyland by Jimi Hendrix
Aug 19 2025

After all these years, I still deeply regret the untimely death of such a great artist. He was just getting started. In this album, he had almost totally moved beyond psychedelia and into blues rock and later into straight blues. Who knows where he would have gone, but I’m sure it would have been earth shattering.

Rhythm Nation 1814 by Janet Jackson
Aug 20 2025

Very slick. Great voice. Great songwriter. She’s a very talented musician. But, the production is just too over-produced for my tastes.

Tea for the Tillerman by Cat Stevens
Aug 21 2025

I enjoyed this back in the day, but it’s dated now. Simple, well written tunes. Dated, hippie worldview that I embraced at the time. Seems quaint now. But, he hit the mark for his time. I still enjoy some of the tunes.

Don't Stand Me Down by Dexys Midnight Runners
Aug 22 2025

I liked some of the music. But not enough to think it deserved to be on this list.

Back To Black by Amy Winehouse
Aug 25 2025

Another great artist lost to substance abuse. She brought together soul, r&b and jazz and made a powerful mix that was brilliant. She left a lot. She could have done do much more. What a shame.

Raw Power by The Stooges
Aug 26 2025

Raw and in your face. Sorta tame compared with what was to follow, but unique and shocking for its time. To me, it’s just simple hard rock’n’roll not played very well.

Reggatta De Blanc by The Police
Aug 27 2025

Their five albums between 1979 and 1983 were some of my favorite rock albums of all time. But, this album was the first that got me hooked. Andy Summers is one of my favorite guitarists. Such brilliant melodic ideas and great finesse.

Gorillaz by Gorillaz
Aug 28 2025

As innovating as their virtual artistry may be, their music is mind-numbingly boring.

Vanishing Point by Primal Scream
Aug 29 2025

I like this. Great writing and musicianship. Rock ‘n’ roll, electronica, ambient sounds, psychedelia and more. Kept me interested throughout the album.

Exodus by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Sep 01 2025

Wonderful album. Religious songs on Side 1 and love songs on Side 2. Bob's vocals are brilliant and the band smokes. Thoroughly enjoyable listening.

Sep 02 2025

Brilliant horn arrangements, tasty guitar licks (love those wah-wah pedals), great vocals and insightful social commentary all make for a wonderful album.

Darkdancer by Les Rythmes Digitales
Sep 03 2025

Electro-pop. Drum machines, mind-numbing repetitiveness. This music has its place. Just not anywhere near me.

Ellington at Newport by Duke Ellington
Sep 04 2025

One of the greatest live (although some of it was recorded in the studio) Ellington big band albums ever. Ellington, Cat Anderson, Russell Procope, Johnny Hodges, Paul Gonsalves, Clark Terry, and more of the biggest names in jazz at the time. This album revitalized Ellington's career and he stayed at the top of his game for the rest of his life. Brilliant!

Our Aim Is To Satisfy by Red Snapper
Sep 05 2025

This is a group of really talented musicians. Synthesis of different styles of music. I understand its appeal, but it is still too repetitive and ambient to hold my interest.

Brothers by The Black Keys
Sep 08 2025

Stripped to the bone rock'n'roll. Enjoyable to listen to for awhile, but then it got a bit boring. Not essential for me.

Amnesiac by Radiohead
Sep 09 2025

Their music is a bit more musically complex, avant garde and interesting than a lot of other rock. Unfortunately for me, Thom Yorke's voice is an annoying distraction.

The Age Of The Understatement by The Last Shadow Puppets
Sep 10 2025

The orchestral accompaniment is saccharine and boring. The lyrics are mundane and the singing is grating. This was a tough one for me to get through. Pretentious rubbish.

Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones
Sep 11 2025

A great album that looms large in my listening history. This was a major change in the Stones musical direction and it took a bit of getting used to for me. Pared down to two guitars, bass and drums (mostly) this is a rawer version of the band. Mick Taylor was a perfect foil for Keith. Too bad they weren’t able to keep Mick around. He didn’t fit the bad boy image of the Stones but he was, in my opinion, the best guitarist they ever had. Moonlight Mile sends shivers down my spine every time I hear it.

Black Monk Time by The Monks
Sep 12 2025

Tried listening to this with my 1966 ears. I don’t think I would have given it any credence back then. I understand how it could be considered influential. But, all my 2025 ears hear is simplistic, uninteresting music.

Parklife by Blur
Sep 15 2025

Britpop. Another category I totally missed. This is one of the reasons I enjoy this list so much. Without going into specifics, I just enjoyed this album very much. Very refreshing. I look forward to exploring their other albums.

Pretenders by Pretenders
Sep 16 2025

Just great rock’n’roll. That’s all.

Stand! by Sly & The Family Stone
Sep 18 2025

What an epic group. Sly Stone was a genius who never got his due. This band and album were a precursor to so much exciting and innovative music to come. Love it!

Channel Orange by Frank Ocean
Sep 19 2025

It's impossible for me to review Frank Ocean and this album objectively because I don't understand it. I have a friend who insists good popular music ended around the turn of the century. I think he's wrong. Popular music just changed direction radically and many of us just don't understand or accept that change. I'm one of those people. I just don't understand most of this music (except for occasional forays into marginally decent r&b). Therefore, it doesn't affect me. I'll give it three stars as a neutral, non-understanding rating. Popular music has left me behind. I have left it behind.

Back In Black by AC/DC
Sep 22 2025

I never had much use for AC/DC. Brian Johnson's voice really grates on me. Hard rock, arena rock leaves me flat. No subtlety.

Rock 'N Soul by Solomon Burke
Sep 23 2025

Powerful voice, great performances and brilliant songs. The background accompaniments are simple, but effective. It's no wonder he was copied so extensively.

Picture Book by Simply Red
Sep 24 2025

I bought this album when it came out, and I quite enjoyed it. That enjoyment faded pretty quickly. I guess I got bored with the synthetic quality of the music (a widespread sin of many groups during the 1980s). I like Hucknall’s voice, and (at its best) the band can be quite soulful. But the music often sounds synthetic and soulless.

I Against I by Bad Brains
Sep 25 2025

Wow! Totally unexpected. These musicians are so good and the music is so intense. Love it.

Machine Head by Deep Purple
Sep 26 2025

Bombastic, boring, uninspired

xx by The xx
Sep 29 2025

I appreciated some minimalist music, but not this. There has to be something interesting musically happening and I can’t find it here.

American Idiot by Green Day
Sep 30 2025

What a great album! Top to bottom, just killer rock’n’roll.

Dear Science by TV On The Radio
Oct 01 2025

This isn’t bad per se. It's just very lifeless to me. Love Dog is ok.

Parallel Lines by Blondie
Oct 02 2025

Trivial pop rock. I never saw the allure of this band.

Surf's Up by The Beach Boys
Oct 03 2025

'Til I Die and Surf's Up are sufficient for this album to qualify as being rated 5.

Kind Of Blue by Miles Davis
Oct 06 2025

Just the best selling jazz album of all time. Brilliant music based on brief modal sketches by Miles. Every cut is a masterpiece. So What is the most creative and soulful tunes I have ever heard.

OK Computer by Radiohead
Oct 07 2025

I really enjoyed this album. Great songwriting and interesting melodies. These guys are top-notch musicians. I expected some pretentiousness and, instead, found thoughtfulness and profoundly listenable ballads and biting rock and roll.

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Oct 08 2025

I saw Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in concert right after this album came out. I didn't know anything about him. I was underwhelmed by the music and walked out. I imagine he played this music that night. It's mostly average rock and roll with the hits standing out (American Girl is my favorite song by him). I love everything that came after this and still kick myself for walking out on him all those years ago. My youthful pretentiousness caused me to miss out on his burgeoning genius.

Faust IV by Faust
Oct 09 2025

The first track was long and boring. I thought I was in for a long, annoying slog through some uninspired shit. But, it turned around soon after and began to get interesting. I won't be putting this into my regular listening rotation, but it is an early example of forward looking musicians trying to move on from the mostly boring standard fare of rock and roll at the time. Surprisingly good.

Ingenue by k.d. lang
Oct 10 2025

Beautiful voice, brilliant songwriting and musical arrangements. I'm a sucker for smooth, emotive female voices like k.d.'s. Sara Watkins, Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O'Donovan, Becca Stevens, Joan Armatrading, Joni Mitchell and Petra Haden come to mind. This was a treat. Not paying attention to k.d. lang for all these years was a boneheaded move on my part.

3 + 3 by The Isley Brothers
Oct 13 2025

Just great music. Whether doing their own songs or interpreting other writers, these guys are so soulful and rocking. Love every second of this album.

Oct 14 2025

I'm sorry I never got to see him live. I had a ticket for a show, but he died before the concert. One of those lost opportunities. His music is so soulful and funky. His band was so tight. This album was a high water mark. Brilliant!

Duck Rock by Malcolm McLaren
Oct 15 2025

Kudos for being an innovator and creative champion for unrecognized and unrepresented in the art and music community. But, he was self-serving and exploited many of the artists he produced. His nihilism just left me with a bad taste in my mouth. I like some of the music on this album, but that is tempered by my negative opinion of the man. The music has good qualities. The man didn't.

Spiderland by Slint
Oct 16 2025

"Atypical rhythmic meters, harmonic dissonance and irregular song structures" do not necessarily make for good music. Most people gave this music a rating of 5. It comes across as boring and lifeless to me. I don't get it.

B-52's by The B-52's
Oct 17 2025

What's not to like about the B-52's?Quirky, clever, fun. I always enjoy hearing their music. They remind not to take myself too seriously.

Pornography by The Cure
Oct 20 2025

I love this list because it gives me the opportunity to discover bands/artists that I missed over the years. It's a revelation when I discover I like one of those albums. Unfortunately, too often I find that I was right to dismiss an artist/band/album without a listen. This is one of the latter. This is boring, depressing and just bad music.

Vol. 4 by Black Sabbath
Oct 21 2025

Ponderous

Duck Stab/Buster & Glen by The Residents
Oct 22 2025

I think we might need this sort of thing to keep us from taking ourselves too seriously. Interesting and clever, but I'll never listen to it again. Well, maybe I will.

Slipknot by Slipknot
Oct 23 2025

I can't stand screaming vocalists. It just grates. Otherwise, there's some decent music happening. Great drumming. I'll never be a fan, but there's a modicum of inventiveness here.

I didn't listen to this album back in the day. The only song I'm familiar with is "Victoria". This is in the vein of a lot of concept albums happening (especially in England) at the time. This is unique among them. Kudos to Ray Davies for some brilliant songwriting and a great band performance. I'd give it a 5, but it sounds dated to me and, therefore, not an album I want to listen to on a regular basis.

Transformer by Lou Reed
Oct 27 2025

I know that he was very influential and brought a whole new perspective to rock and roll, but I was never much impressed by his music.

Brilliant Corners by Thelonious Monk
Oct 28 2025

Perfection! I could listen to Monk all day.

Ananda Shankar by Ananda Shankar
Oct 29 2025

Very dated. Didn't do anything for me. Two stars for effort.

Oct 30 2025

This album is flawless. Lot of hits and great performances from Aretha and her stellar backing musicians. What a voice!

Scissor Sisters by Scissor Sisters
Oct 31 2025

I guess this is something if you like to dance. I don't like to dance, probably because I don't like to be subjected to this type monotonous, puerile drivel. I liked Music Is the Victim. I'll give the album 2 stars for that.

At Fillmore East by The Allman Brothers Band
Nov 03 2025

I saw later line-ups of this band in concert and they were fantastic. But, the original group could not be touched. Great musicians and music.

A Hard Day's Night by Beatles
Nov 04 2025

I love this album so much. So many great tunes. A Hard Day's Night, If I Fell (Oh, the John/Paul harmonies), And I Love Her, Can't Buy Me Love, You Can't Do That. But, it ends with Lennon's brilliant and complex I'll Be Back (for instance, he employed Picardy thirds to great effect without having any knowledge of music theory) which foreshadowed greater things to come. Sixty one years later and hearing this album still fills me with joy.

Shake Your Money Maker by The Black Crowes
Nov 05 2025

Great album. At times it sounds as if they were taking cues from the Sticky Fingers/Exile On Main Street era Rolling Stones. If so, not a bad pedigree. Good stuff.

For Your Pleasure by Roxy Music
Nov 06 2025

I don't particularly like Bryan Ferry's voice or songwriting. But, I love Brian Eno. So, I'm sort of 50/50 on this one.

Back to Basics by Christina Aguilera
Nov 07 2025

Christina has a brilliant voice, but I just don't like this kind of slickly produced pop.

Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette
Nov 11 2025

Love this album. Her writing is so personal and intelligent. Powerful voice, raw emotion, explosive direction changes. She’s a unique artist. We need more like her.

Scream, Dracula, Scream by Rocket From The Crypt
Nov 12 2025

Great rock’n’roll band. A friend tells me they’re exciting in concert, which I can understand. But, it doesn't’t do much for me.

Nov 13 2025

Hauntingly boring. The only tune I find to be vaguely interesting, musically, is Invocation of Ratiocination. Faith/Void is painful to listen to.

The Real Thing by Faith No More
Nov 14 2025

Frenetic rock’n’roll doesn't’t do it for me. I did like Edge of the World.

Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye
Nov 17 2025

The Let’s Get It On theme permeates the entire album which is, definitely, part of its allure. Gotta love Marvin’s beautiful voice, his soul, songwriting and great mastery of the studio. I especially enjoyed listening to the great bass work of James Jamerson on this recording.

Abbey Road by Beatles
Nov 18 2025

All the Beatles albums (except for Let It Be, maybe) get a 5 rating. I don't have a favorite album, but Abbey Road comes close. It's perfect in so many ways. Songwriting, singing, playing, production. I'll be a happy man if I listen to only Beatles albums for the rest of my life.

Graceland by Paul Simon
Nov 19 2025

Paul Simon is a national treasure. He has produced so much brilliant music. One of the greatest living songwriters.

Nov 20 2025

Kick ass rock'n'roll and I understand the appeal, but just noise to me.

Deserter's Songs by Mercury Rev
Nov 21 2025

These are some really talented musicians and their compositions are quite sophisticated. I'll have to listen to them and explore their albums more. As good as I think they are, at first listen I didn't hear anything that really grabbed me, although the last couple of minutes of "Delta Sun Bottleneck Stomp" were pretty cool.

Blur by Blur
Nov 24 2025

Plodding, uninteresting, depressing. Sometimes I think the scope of my musical interests must be incredibly narrow because I find the majority of the albums on this list not to my liking. People have told me I'm a musical snob. Probably true. On the other hand, I'm always listening to music of one sort or another. I listen to rock, jazz, classical, country, bluegrass, and much more. A lot of the music presented here just bores me. Still, it exposes me to music I wouldn't have otherwise paid any attention to. Is it giving me exposure to different types of music or am I just wasting my time? I don't know.

Definitely Maybe by Oasis
Nov 25 2025

Another group I didn't pay enough attention to when they started out. This is a wonderful rock'n'roll album.

Odelay by Beck
Nov 26 2025

Very eclectic musician. This is a great album. So much going on. Gotta go back and listen to his whole catalog.

The La's by The La's
Nov 27 2025

Great pop. Well constructed songs. There She Goes is a beautiful tune. I enjoyed this album immensely.

Cypress Hill by Cypress Hill
Nov 28 2025

This doesn't reach me at all. The lyrics are clever but, unfortunately, I can't relate. The music is monotonous, overly simple, boring. I'm the wrong audience for this.

Off The Wall by Michael Jackson
Dec 01 2025

Great album. It's still follows the Motown formula a bit too closely to have the brilliance which was to come in his next albums. But, no complaints. This is a brilliant production.

Heroes by David Bowie
Dec 03 2025

This album made be a Bowie fan. I liked what he'd done before this, but this album clinched it for me. Perfectly constructed and executed songs on Side 1 and Fripp and Eno's electronics on Side 2 make for a stellar album.

Unhalfbricking by Fairport Convention
Dec 04 2025

I tried, but I could never get too enthusiastic about Fairport Convention's music. Their music sounds meandering and directionless to me. I never found Sandy Denny to be a very good singer. On the other hand, I think Richard Thompson is a sensational singer/songwriter. I did enjoy Million Dollar Bash, but everything else was lackluster.

Roots by Sepultura
Dec 05 2025

I enjoyed the percussion ensemble sections led by Carlinhos Brown and the playing by Sepultura is outstanding. I just don't like the screaming, frenetic onslaught of most metal bands.

Dusty In Memphis by Dusty Springfield
Dec 09 2025

Great voice and excellent production. She was just a bit too pop for me. Never did it for me.

The New Tango by Astor Piazzolla
Dec 10 2025

This is such a beautiful album. Gary Burton is the finest vibraphonist on the planet. Piazzolla's compositions are mind blowing.

Dummy by Portishead
Dec 11 2025

This was a nice surprise for me. She has an amazing voice. The instrumental accompaniment is sparse, but sophisticated. I can't describe it adequately, but it is powerful and moving. I'm anxious to listen to Beth Gibbons' contribution to Gorecki's Symphony No. 3.

Vivid by Living Colour
Dec 12 2025

Living Colour got me excited about rock'n'roll again. Rockhad lost a lot of its appeal to me frim the late 70's through the 90's. It got too self indulgent for my tastes. Living Colour brought back the excitement. Vernon Reid is the most exciting rock guitarist to come along in years.

Dec 15 2025

I haven't listened to this gem in a long time. All the songs are genius. I was surprised to read that the original album was supposed to include a rock'n'roll tune (Mixed Up Confusion) and some group songs, but Albert Grossman wanted to present Dylan as a solo guitar playing folkie. So, those tunes were left off. Still a great album, but I wish non-musician producers and managers would stop trying to shape the artists' image.

Tapestry by Carole King
Dec 16 2025

It's amazing that there were so many hits on this one album. Of course, she had already written so many hits for others dating back to the 50's. The backing group on this album were a who's who of rising stars and in-demand studio musicians. Carole King is a treasure. This album is a treasure.

Hot Shots II by The Beta Band
Dec 17 2025

Good musicians, I guess. But, the music is lethargic to my ears. Try as I might, I couldn't keep my attention focused on it. Disappointing.

Electric by The Cult
Dec 18 2025

They sound like second rate Led Zeppelin, Doors and AC/DC. Listen to the real thing and ignore this group.

Dec 19 2025

Quiet, lethargic and I don’t like the lead singer’s voice.

Bitches Brew by Miles Davis
Dec 22 2025

I first heard this album when I was still in high school. I had only been listening to jazz for about a year when this was released in 1969. I didn't understand it at first, but I knew something important had just happened. And it had. A new direction in jazz had been, once again, spearheaded by Miles. He created at least three tectonic shifts in jazz in the course of his career. I love this album more every time I hear it. This album started a love affair I’ve had with Miles’ music for over 55 years.

A Girl Called Dusty by Dusty Springfield
Dec 23 2025

She had a powerful voice, but I was never much of a fan for blue eyed soul. I liked some of her hits, especially “Will You Love Me Tomorrow.”

Songs Of Love And Hate by Leonard Cohen
Dec 24 2025

His first album was used as the soundtrack for McCabe and Mrs. Miller. I liked it as it fit the moodiness and darkness of the film. But, his music on its own just bores me. His poetry is brilliant, but his music is, to me, thin and listless.

I didn’t think I was going to like this when it started. But, the music is “really” good. The guitar playing and drumming are particularly exciting and driving. This is exceedingly thoughtful stuff. What a treat!

Dec 26 2025

I was fairly impressed with Spector’s Wall of Sound back in the day. Now it just sounds dated and irrelevant. Of course, generally, I’m not much of a Christmas music fan. Bah, humbug!

Low-Life by New Order
Dec 29 2025

Not a fan of alternative dance. Bernard Sumner’s voice is cringe-worthy.

Murmur by R.E.M.
Dec 30 2025

I love the jingle jangle sound of R.E.M. thanks to the use of the Rickenbacker 360/12. I thought they were unique in a field of boring (imo) and unimaginative music cluttering up the airwaves in the 80s and 90s. Stipe could be a little pretentious and lyrically nonsensical, but that didn’t really matter. The music was/is unique and interesting. I admire the music but can’t say I was ever a real fan. I thought the majority of music at that time was unimaginative, at best, and a waste of time, at worst. So I didn’t listen to much of the current music. I missed some excellent music due to my pompous attitude.

Autobahn by Kraftwerk
Dec 31 2025

I’m not a big fan of minimalism, but Autobahn was a nice listen. I did not enjoy anything on Side 2. I don’t have any gripe against Kraftwerk, I just think Terry Riley, Brian Eno, Laurie Anderson and Caroline Shaw are much more interesting.

Jan 01 2026

I love the production on this album. Brian Eno brought his ethereal minimalist approach to great effect. Great songwriting. The entire album is a great listen.

Justified by Justin Timberlake
Jan 02 2026

I think Justin Timberlake is a very talented and diversified artist, but I think his music is derivative and not that interesting. That said, this was a pleasant enough listen. Just not my kind of music.

Jan 05 2026

I didn’t listen to these guys when they first came out. What a shame. Didn’t understand or relate to it at all. Now it just sounds so good. My unbending mindset strikes again.

Slayed? by Slade
Jan 07 2026

Just uninteresting and boring rock is all I hear. Not for me.

Permission to Land by The Darkness
Jan 08 2026

Unimaginative, boring rock. It’s all been said much better before. Not for me.

Beautiful Freak by Eels
Jan 09 2026

Never heard this when it came out. What a shame! Skewed view of the world is refreshing and brilliant. I’m going to listen to more of this talented man.

Live At The Regal by B.B. King
Jan 12 2026

Killer album by B.B. His band is tight and cooking. His guitar lines are minimal and brilliant. This iteration of his band is, to me, more soulful than his later, more popular work. He and his band seem to be working harder and finding a more intense groove.

Blue Lines by Massive Attack
Jan 13 2026

This was a pleasant surprise. I didn't know what trip hop was. And now that I do, I’m impressed. This just some amazing, soulful music!

Abraxas by Santana
Jan 14 2026

Beautiful album. I didn’t get solidly into Santans until a few albums later. But, I think this is them at their peak. Brilliant playing and songwriting.

Electric Music For The Mind And Body by Country Joe & The Fish
Jan 15 2026

Unfortunately, Country Joe & The Fish (and most other San Francisco psychedelic bands) sounded dated to me when they came out in the 60s. Feel Like I’m Fixin’ To Die Rag was (is) a great anti-war anthem, the rest of their music is lackluster.

Jan 16 2026

Mostly ponderous, lethargic and listless. I felt that way about it when I first heard it back in 1974. Still sounds the same to me all these years later. I think rock operas were a thing of the past by then.

Diamond Life by Sade
Jan 19 2026

She’s got a great, soulful voice. A groovin’ band behind her. I mildly enjoyed Smooth Operator, but the rest of the album is a surprising delight. It takes some real musicianship to keep it funky in such a laid back platform.

Talking Book by Stevie Wonder
Jan 20 2026

This is one of my all time favorite albums. I didn’t listen to Stevie much before Music Of My Mind. But, his amazing music throughout the 70s brought me so much pleasure. But, Talking Book was the best. I Believe kills me every time I hear it.

Fisherman's Blues by The Waterboys
Jan 21 2026

Kind of a nice surprise. I like the writing and the folksy instrumentation and approach. Scott has a Dylanesque vocal sound which I think works well here. In fact, at times, the album reminds me of the Dylan/The Band Basement Tapes era. I shouldn’t read the reviews before I listen. Too many angry listeners out there. Reminds me not to be one. I do agree, however, that the expanded edition songs detract from the thirteen songs of the original.

Life's Too Good by The Sugarcubes
Jan 22 2026

Just love it! Great band, but Bjork just takes it to a new level. She’s an amazing musician!

Two Dancers by Wild Beasts
Jan 23 2026

Musically it is somewhat interesting. Unfortunately, it got boring to me pretty quickly. Not for me.

Madman Across The Water by Elton John
Jan 26 2026

Never could get too excited about Elton. He may be just too pop for me. I saw him live once and, although it was a high-powdered show, in the end, I still felt the songs and music to be fairly mundane. And, the whole glam thing was off-putting to me. Also, the Phil Spector-type Wall of Sound background strings and vocal choruses are unnecessary and distracting.

Red Headed Stranger by Willie Nelson
Jan 27 2026

Great songwriter, singer and guitarist. This is simple and beautiful. Go, Willy, go!

Raising Hell by Run-D.M.C.
Jan 28 2026

I didn’t like or understand this music when it came out. In retrospect, I know I was just clueless and unwilling to accept a thing new. Now I see and appreciate that this wonderful music.

A Northern Soul by The Verve
Jan 29 2026

Good psychedelic music. They sound like a bunch of young men on drugs. Not for me.

Tago Mago by Can
Jan 30 2026

I didn’t think I was going to like this, but it was surprisingly great! Musique concrete meets Stockhausen meets Miles Davis. A new and happy treat for this old man.

Band On The Run by Paul McCartney and Wings
Feb 02 2026

For the most, I think Paul lost his mojo after the Beatles. A brilliant talent, but he needed John, George and Ringo to rein him in. I tried so hard to like this. But, it’s, mostly, just too cute. One exception is “Let Me Roll It”.

Bad by Michael Jackson
Feb 03 2026

I think this album and a couple of his other albums in this period were his best work. Great tunes, arrangements and musical performances were at their peak in this period. This work is sublime. Michael hit his sweet spot.

Manassas by Stephen Stills
Feb 04 2026

This was a great band and a very enjoyable album. Stills was at the top of his game. I think his partnership with Chris Hillman was a great addition to this band and gave all involved an extra incentive to put everything into this effort. The short, but brilliant, “Bound To Fall” is my favorite song on this album. It’s unfortunate that the follow-up Manassas album fell flat.

Peter Gabriel 3 by Peter Gabriel
Feb 05 2026

There’s certainly some well-written and well-played music here (the musicians in this album are a who’s who of progressive proponents of genre bending ideas), but it’s not reaching me emotionally. That’s always been the problem I’ve had with Peter Gabriel’s music. But, the song that bumps the album up a star for me is Biko. There’s a tune that moves me.

90 by 808 State
Feb 06 2026

This music does nothing for me.

Parachutes by Coldplay
Feb 09 2026

Some nice tunes here. Chris Martin’s voice works sometimes, but can become tiresome. That said, on the whole, it’s a decent album. I really enjoy Yellow quite a lot. However, I won’t be putting this album in regular rotation.

Tres Hombres by ZZ Top
Feb 10 2026

When I hear ZZ Top I am reminded of a pool hall in El Centro, CA called the The Ember Glo. Every time I walked into the place, they were blasting ZZ Top. Their music always reminds me of dusty border towns and beer halls. But, it’s not the type of music that holds my attention for long. A little every once in a while is good enough. La Grange is classic!

Led Zeppelin by Led Zeppelin
Feb 11 2026

This absolutely knocked me out when it was released in 1969. It’s still a joy to listen to. Jimmy Page will never get any kudos for being a decent person, but he knew what he was doing when he put together this band and musical direction. The album is perfect.

Pictures At An Exhibition by Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Feb 12 2026

This was quite novel and exciting when it came out in 1971. I played Pictures in a wind ensemble at about the time of this album's release, so I was excited to hear this progressive rock treatment of the piece. It didn't really hold much interest for me at the time, although their musical prowess was undeniable. I saw them once. Their performance was bombastic and not to my liking. It just seems dated and a bit ridiculous now. Too bad. Amazing musicians who could have made more of an impression if they hadn't gone in this direction. But, who am I?

Born In The U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen
Feb 13 2026

Mr. Americana. A serviceable rock and roll band. His music just never moves me emotionally. I went to one of his concerts a few years ago and he puts on a great show. Very enjoyable. And I just love the guy. He's a wonderful spokesman for what's good about this country.

Celebrity Skin by Hole
Feb 16 2026

I didn't pay any attention to them at the time. One of those I'm sorry I missed. It's identified as alternative rock (whatever that is). It's just great music to my ears.

Urban Hymns by The Verve
Feb 17 2026

Sounds monotonous to me. The strings are superfluous. Not for me.

Highly Evolved by The Vines
Feb 18 2026

A couple of decent tunes. Too much unnecessary screaming for me. Mostly rubbish.

First Band On The Moon by The Cardigans
Feb 19 2026

The first tune made me think this was going to be pop pablum. But, there’s some interesting music here. Interesting rhythms and melodic ideas abound. The only thing I heard from this band was Loverfool which did not pique my interest. Wish I would have explored the band more. There’s more here than first meets the ear.

Marcus Garvey by Burning Spear
Feb 20 2026

Great reggae. Unfortunately, never heard this before.

Feb 23 2026

Some great tunes on this album. But, damn this band was sloppy. I guess that was part of the appeal.

Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Feb 24 2026

I should not read the reviews. Relax folks. This is supposed to be fun. I enjoyed the album. The musicianship is exemplary. Some of the tunes are spectacular. Some are meh.

Feb 25 2026

There’s a lot of raw energy here, but it’s all very monotonous to me. It’s just all so much noise to my ears. I can see how this would be very captivating to a lot of people who had tired of the self-righteous pretentiousness of most 70’s mainstream rock. But, it does nothing for me.

Fly Or Die by N.E.R.D
Feb 26 2026

Another unexpected treat. I knew nothing about these guys. Not a lot to say. Just enjoyed the music.

Junkyard by The Birthday Party
Feb 27 2026

I didn’t like this album. But, I can see why anyone who appreciates punk at all would find this wonderful. This list has given me an appreciation for different genres of music that I never would have to listened to if I didn’t wake up to a new offering every morning.

Paul's Boutique by Beastie Boys
Mar 02 2026

Didn't like the vocals too much, but the sampling was brilliant.

She's So Unusual by Cyndi Lauper
Mar 03 2026

She wrote a few tunes that I really enjoyed but, for the most part, her music is a little too pop oriented for me. Great songwriter, phenomenal vocalist and tireless humanitarian. You know you're doing something right when Miles Davis covers one of your tunes.

Be by Common
Mar 04 2026

Great music and lyrics. I can see how this hit home with so many people.

Illinois by Sufjan Stevens
Mar 05 2026

Well-constructed songs with a lot of clever melodic and rhythmic ideas. I enjoyed some of the tunes. But, some I found lethargic and lacking in dynamic range. Overall, an ambitious and very listenable work. Reminds me a bit of Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks.

American Gothic by David Ackles
Mar 06 2026

Very ambitious, well written and performed. Most of the tunes worked for me. Some didn't . It grew on me as I progressed through the album. Definitely worth further listenings.

To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar
Mar 09 2026

Interesting listen. A lot going on here - hip hop, jazz, funk, soul, social commentary. This is some deep, thoughtful music. I did not understand or appreciate rap and hip hop when they first appeared because I wasn't paying attention. My loss. Kendrick Lamar is an extremely talented musician and I will go back and listen to his catalog.

Different Class by Pulp
Mar 11 2026

I'm not a fan of Britpop. I can appreciate that fans relate to the album's critique of the British social class system. Some of the music was interesting, but didn't hold my attention for about half the album. Liked it more by the time I'd listened to the entire album.

Ágætis Byrjun by Sigur Rós
Mar 13 2026

I found this music at different junctures to be very soothing, ethereal, dreamy, emotionally powerful and musically interesting throughout. I had no preconceptions which made for interesting listening. More listenings/explorations to follow.

Sound of Silver by LCD Soundsystem
Mar 16 2026

I found most of this album monotonous and lifeless. There some listenable tunes including North American Scum, All My Friends, Us V Them, Watch The Tapes. New York I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down is just an ugly song (imo).

Doolittle by Pixies
Mar 17 2026

Competent rock and roll and songwriting. Competent to marginal musicianship. Not enough to grab my interest or give me a reason to listen to them again. I do understand why so many people love them. They brought something new to the game.

White Light by Gene Clark
Mar 18 2026

I love Gene Clark. Great songwriter and singer. He was the sound of the Byrds for their first couple of albums. Unfortunately, the guy was a tortured soul and a roaring drunk. He couldn't get out his own way. I haven't heard this in years and it holds up well. Jesse Ed Davis' guitar work is, as always, stellar. One In A Hundred is the standout track for me.

Synchronicity by The Police
Mar 19 2026

Love this album. Love this band. Great songwriting. Great musicians. Andy Summers creates magic with his ethereal guitar soundscapes. He's right up there with masters like Robert Fripp and Bill Frisell. This band was so unique and outside anything that happening. I was unhappy when they broke up. However, in retrospect, it was time. Sometimes it's best to move on when you're at the top of your game.

The Stooges by The Stooges
Mar 20 2026

Punk before punk. Got to give them kudos for coming up with a new approach that, a few years later, would become mainstream. Production is amazing (John Cale no less). I don't like this music, but I understand its appeal. 3 stars for innovation and production.

Mothership Connection by Parliament
Mar 23 2026

Great music, great fun. This is so funky, so joyful. Wish I would have listened to this more in its day. But, I'm happy it popped up today. I've got to go back and explore their entire catalog. This is so much better than a lot of rock and roll I was listening to in 1975. But, I had my head stuck in jazz back in those days.

Imagine by John Lennon
Mar 24 2026

Heaven!

Queens of the Stone Age by Queens Of The Stone Age
Mar 25 2026

At times, some fairly ripping rock and roll. At others, maddeningly monotonous. Not for me.

Juju by Siouxsie And The Banshees
Mar 26 2026

Really taken with Siouxsie's powerful voice and McGeoch's interesting guitar playing. Got a bit monotonous, but overall, a pleasant surprise.

Mar 27 2026

A true classic in my book. I didn't have much time for anything Pink Floyd did before or after this album, but this struck a nerve. The songs are beautifully structured and sonically rich. Well done, boys and girls.

Eliminator by ZZ Top
Mar 30 2026

They sound like they were on autopilot for this one. No more fire in their bellies by this point in their career. I just couldn't get excited about this album.

The Bends by Radiohead
Mar 31 2026

I enjoyed this album. The band behind Thom York is stellar. York's vocals are muffled sounding to me. I don't know if his voice is difficult to record or if it's just how he sounds. His voice is pleasant enough. I just wish it sounded more present. Other than that, good stuff.

Merriweather Post Pavilion by Animal Collective
Apr 01 2026

Repetitive. Boorish. This does not move me on any level. Occasional good ideas get beaten to death.

Rock Bottom by Robert Wyatt
Apr 02 2026

A pleasant surprise. Unfortunately, I never heard of this. Lot of great musicians on this. Really innovative music. Surprised at the amount of vitriol leveled at Wyatt for stepping out of their comfort zone. This exercise has heled teach me acceptance and tolerance. All of this music is worthwhile whether if is to my liking or not.

I See A Darkness by Bonnie "Prince" Billy
Apr 03 2026

Too dark. Musically uninteresting. I couldn't connect.

Nevermind by Nirvana
Apr 06 2026

Never got into grunge at the time, so I ignored this and all similar releases around then. Unfortunate for me. In retrospect, this is just a very powerful rock album. The band and music are intense throughout. Enjoyed it.

The Fat Of The Land by The Prodigy
Apr 07 2026

I understand that all the albums are here because they have been successful and embraced by a lot of people. This is no exception. The band is raucous and very repetitive. I guess that’s the allure for many. I liked some of the grooves, but they end up going nowhere. The video for “Smash My Bitch Up” was disturbing and misogynistic. Definitely not for me.

The Pleasure Principle by Gary Numan
Apr 08 2026

Boring, monotonous and lifeless. The songs are very repetitive. His melodic ideas are extremely elemental. I didn't enjoy this at all. I'm told his later works are much more interesting. I'll give them a listen.

Horses by Patti Smith
Apr 09 2026

I always thought Patti Smith was considered punk rock, but that doesn't seem to fit here at all. Art rock maybe. Another artist I should have paid attention to at the time. This is very good.

Surfer Rosa by Pixies
Apr 10 2026

Bad garage band music. I don't get it.

You Want It Darker by Leonard Cohen
Apr 13 2026

What a beautiful album. Other than his first album, I never listened to Cohen much. This is a ballsy statement by Cohen. It's just amazing how he waxes so honestly and eloquently about his impending demise. Expecting and accepting with such grace and courage. What a guy!

Rio by Duran Duran
Apr 14 2026

1980's funny haircuts. Slick synthetic pop indicative of a lot of 80's popular music. I just don't hear any soulfulness at all. Leaves me flat.

Document by R.E.M.
Apr 15 2026

Great rock, great writing and clever political political commentary. What's not to like. Love it!

Tanto Tempo by Bebel Gilberto
Apr 16 2026

What a beautiful voice! Carrying on the Bossa nova genius and legacy of her father. This is a delight. Gotta dig deeper into her catalog.

Devotional Songs by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Apr 17 2026

Powerful, beautiful voice. I was not familiar with qawwali, but it is a beautiful music style. I see that he did collaborations with western musicians and was a big part of world music. You can hear it. The type of Indian music that is more appealing to me was that played by the likes of Ravi Shankar or Shakti, but this is brilliant music as well.

Frank by Amy Winehouse
Apr 20 2026

Amazing voice and songwriting. She died before she could have been so much more. Here and gone too soon. Too many demons.

Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs by Derek & The Dominos
Apr 21 2026

I never understood why this album was considered such a big deal. It strikes me as overblown, self indulgent and unnecessarily busy rock and roll. What a waste some of the best players around at the time. Even Duane Altman couldn't rescue this one. It should have been so much more than this. Listening to it now just reinforces how lackluster and disappointing it remains in my opinion. Of course, I have to admit, I never thought much of anything that Clapton did that strayed too far from straight blues (although there were occasional exceptions).

Apr 22 2026

I loved Sam Cooke, but I never heard him being as soulful as he was on this album. He and this band were digging deep. Wow!

Rain Dogs by Tom Waits
Apr 23 2026

I love everything Tom Waits has done. Great musician, songwriter, poet. Some of the most profane and achingly beautiful music I've ever heard. This album, along with Swordfishtrombones and Franks Wild Years, marked a new and welcome direction for Waits. Welcome to the intriguing dark side.

In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida by Iron Butterfly
Apr 24 2026

I never listened to the first side of this album back in 1968. Now it sounds dated and unimpressive. I turned off the radio whenever In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida came on. Boring and lifeless. Never made any sense to me that anyone liked it. But, that's just me.

Sea Change by Beck
Apr 27 2026

Never followed Beck. No good reason why. So, this is pretty much my introduction to him. The songwriting is excellent and heartfelt. Breakups are painful and he expresses that eloquently. The music and production are are brilliant. Liked it very much.

Hot Fuss by The Killers
Apr 28 2026

Nothing grabs me. It's just mediocre rock.

Throwing Muses by Throwing Muses
Apr 29 2026

Interesting listening. Novel approach to punk and pre-grunge. Really enjoyed the energy of the music. Great vocals. I slowly grew on me as I listened. Ah, the surprises.

Group Sex by Circle Jerks
Apr 30 2026

Back in the day, I didn't like this music at all. But, I knew it had relevance to its audience. Now, it almost seems quaint. And, I'm not trying to be condescending. It was powerful and relevant at the time and still is to its fans. As it should be. I still consider it bad music.

May 01 2026

Ouch! This started off excruciatingly monotonous and boring and continued non stop for a painful 78 minutes. I do not like it. But, I can understand its appeal for anyone into the electronic music dance club scene.

Catch A Fire by Bob Marley & The Wailers
May 04 2026

I wasn't familiar with this particular album, but I know the majority of the tunes. Marley and band were such good musicians, songwriters, singers. Love this so much.

The Genius Of Ray Charles by Ray Charles
May 05 2026

What a great album. Ray's voice is at its best. The big band and orchestra are perfect. Feel so blessed that I got to see Brother Ray.

Traffic by Traffic
May 06 2026

I always thought Traffic's music was hit or miss. On this album, I liked Feelin' Alright, Forty Thousand Headmen, No Time To Live, Medicated Goo and Shanghai Noodle Factory. The rest of the album, like a lot of their albums, is pretty weak.

Car Wheels On A Gravel Road by Lucinda Williams
May 07 2026

Great album! Another artist I haven't listened to enough. The first artist I thought of when I initially heard her was Steve Earle. And, of course, he's on the album. Love this sort of Americana/heartland zeitgeist. I'll listen to her further.

Blood And Chocolate by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
May 08 2026

This is much better than I expected it to be from the description in Wikipedia. I expected a cacophony of an overdriven recording desk. Not so. Just great sounding rock. I don't like everything Costello has done, but this is quite nice.

Pink Moon by Nick Drake
May 11 2026

I enjoyed the guitar playing, imperfect as it was at times. There wasn't enough clarity in the recording of his vocals, so I couldn't understand most of what he was singing about. I'm sure he was a brilliant lyricist, but I had to strain too much to hear those lyrics. Sadly, I'm disappointed.

Talking Heads 77 by Talking Heads
May 12 2026

Psycho Killer is killer. Another great group I ignored at the time. Who knows why. Some great tunes here, but some marginal ones as well. I don't think they'd hit their groove yet.

May 13 2026

Most Brit Pop does not appeal to me at all. Pulp is no exception. This is lifeless and boring.

Paris 1919 by John Cale
May 14 2026

Another superb artist and album I never paid attention to. I have to come back and explore this genius talent.

Figure 8 by Elliott Smith
May 18 2026

Pleasant melodies, harmonies and tasty instrumental accompaniments. The sadness and melancholy get lost in the pleasant music. That's not a bad thing.

Aja by Steely Dan
May 19 2026

Brilliant album. All the best musicians on the scene at the time. I guess you've made it when Wayne Shorter guests on your album. The production is the best I've ever heard.

Coles Corner by Richard Hawley
May 20 2026

Well sung. Well played. But, it started off very mundane and boring. It got better as it moved along, but never really grabbed me. I liked "I Sleep Alone."

The Nightfly by Donald Fagen
May 21 2026

Great album. As usual, stellar production. Liked Fagan more without Becker. Reading about the making of the album, it's no wonder he was burned out for several years after this.

May 22 2026

This was hard for me to get through. I want to be open to different types of music, but this just annoyed me. Obviously, this appeals to a lot of people. I'm not one of those people. All I hear is mindless, boring repetition.

May 25 2026

This is an important, powerful, iconic album. Woke this white man up. The misogyny, violence and racism turns the message ugly. This album needed to happen. It was important. But, the down side only allows me to give it a 3.

Lost In The Dream by The War On Drugs
May 26 2026

Not offensive. But, very derivative and boring. Nothing new or different here.

May 27 2026

Now I know what neo soul is. Kinda like it. Not a fan of the talking sections, but that didn’t bother me. The music is well done. I won’t be adding this to my regular rotation, but would enjoy ocassional listens.

Younger Than Yesterday by The Byrds
May 28 2026

The Byrds, along with the Beatles, Beach Boys and Rolling Stones were my favorite groups during the 1960’s Younger Than Yesterday is a great album. Chris Hillman came forward as a singer songwriter, Crosby started moving toward his CSN sound, Clarence White brought his B-Bender country sound into the Byrds sound and McGuinn kept the Dylan influence intact. A couple of clunkers on this album, but mostly great stuff. The Byrds were still moving forward and I was loving it.

Phaedra by Tangerine Dream
May 29 2026

This was very innovative, given the rudimentary technology of synthesizers at the time. However, I still think the music is lifeless and uninteresting. I didn't like it then. I don't like it now.

Buena Vista Social Club by Buena Vista Social Club
Jun 01 2026

This album is significant in that it heightened my awareness and appreciation of Cuban music and it's great beauty. It also led to an awareness and appreciation of other Caribbean music styles. Ry Cooder did a great job documenting the music for which I am thankful.

Physical Graffiti by Led Zeppelin
Jun 02 2026

Led Zeppelin had lost their appeal to me at this point. Great album. They just weren’t wowing like they did initially. I listened to this years later and wondered why I had lost interest. Still blistering rock. Can’t figure it.

Birth Of The Cool by Miles Davis
Jun 03 2026

Miles Davis was at the forefront of changing the direction of jazz during his career. Birth Of The Cool was the first big shift…chamber jazz. In the coming years, he lead jazz into hard bop, orchestral jazz, modal jazz, electric jazz and rock/funk jazz. It all blows me away.

Guero by Beck
Jun 04 2026

Second Beck album I never listened to. This is why I love this list so much. Gets me to listen to music I ignored when it came out. This is such a cool album. It’s even got Petra Haden who I absolutely adore.

Forever Changes by Love
Jun 05 2026

Some very good writing on this album with tasty orchestral accompaniment. But, it’s a fairly inconsistent effort. Some tunes just fall flat. I think the turmoil within the band kept them from being huge. Nevertheless, a significant album and one I love to listen to occasionally, if only to wonder what could have been.

Doggystyle by Snoop Dogg
Jun 08 2026

I can see (and hear) why snoop was so significant when he came along. This is some powerful music. His delivery really brings you in. The background music is so dynamic. Unfortunately, I don’t like the misogyny which is much part of rap during this time. But, I’m not part of that culture, so I just need to accept it. Go Snoop!

What's Going On by Marvin Gaye
Jun 09 2026

Significant album. Absolutely! But, unfortunately, there's a lot of time spent transitioning between the three brilliant songs on the album with some marginal and/or lackluster tunes that, ultimately, lessen the album's impact for me. I hate to say that because What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me and Inner City Blues are so perfect.

So Much For The City by The Thrills
Jun 10 2026

Kinda pleasant. Kinda lame. I liked the steel guitar. Won't be listening to this again.

Power In Numbers by Jurassic 5
Jun 11 2026

Some great tunes, some repetitive and boring and often overlong.

Melodrama by Lorde
Jun 12 2026

Dull and wingey to me. But, I’m 74 and can’t relate, so my vote doesn’t count. She’s very talented, so she should definitely get away from Antonoff. He exploits and blunts talent. I’ll give her a 3 for a few decent songs.

Moving Pictures by Rush
Jun 15 2026

I like some prog rock. Some not so much. Rush landed on the not so much side for me. I think they are great musicians. Their music just doesn’t do anything for me. But, the hate, rancor and vitriol hurled by prog haters is mind numbing.

Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme by Simon & Garfunkel
Jun 16 2026

Paul Simon’s writing is brilliant. I love every bit of this album. I was unhappy when Simon and Garfunkel broke up. But, I soon found out it just continued to get better.

Protection by Massive Attack
Jun 17 2026

A couple of tunes I enjoyed, but it was mostly repetitive, ponderous, boring. Never heard Light My Fire sound like a dirge.

Peter Gabriel by Peter Gabriel
Jun 18 2026

I bought this album when it came out but, for some reason, I couldn’t connect with it at all. So, listening to it now, I find it stylistically diverse and adventurous. Really impressed. Of course, he had some great musicians helping him which helped a lot.

Dub Housing by Pere Ubu
Jun 19 2026

Alternately very interesting musically and annoying. Enjoyed listening to this just to hear which direction they would go next.i don't think I'll be listening to this again, but it was a very fascinating listen.

Appetite For Destruction by Guns N' Roses
Jun 22 2026

I love Slash's guitar playing. I don't like Axl Rose as a singer at all. Good meat and potatoes rock'n'roll. In the words of one of the more astute reviewers, "pretty average."

Van Halen by Van Halen
Jun 23 2026

He was an amazing guitarist. I love his playing. Didn't think much of the songs the band wrote and played. On this album, I loved You Really Got Me and Ice Cream Man. He covered those brilliantly. Their original tunes, not so much.

Innervisions by Stevie Wonder
Jun 24 2026

Music In My Mind, Talking Book, Innervisions, Fulfillingness' First Finale, Songs In The Key Of Life. All genius. All 5's

Alien Lanes by Guided By Voices
Jun 25 2026

I have to go Robert Christgau on this one and give it a “dud” rating.

Songs Of Leonard Cohen by Leonard Cohen
Jun 26 2026

I first heard part of this album when I went to see McCabe and Mrs. Miller. I was taken with how well his songs added to the darkness of the film. The poetry in the songs here is what I’m drawn to. It’s so insightful and beautiful. Great production, too.

1999 by Prince
Jun 29 2026

I rue the day drum machines were invented. IMO they take all the life and soul out a song. Couple of nice hits here. Otherwise, a bunch of overlong, lifeless drivel. I like a lot of Prince’s ouvre, but this album’s popularity and apparent significance baffle me.

Let's Stay Together by Al Green
Jun 30 2026

Never heard anything on this album except Let’s Stay Together. That is a great tune, but there is so much more here. His voice is so soulful and rich. The backing band kills it throughout. I look forward to hearing more of his catalogue.

Maxinquaye by Tricky
Jul 01 2026

Mostly very boring and lifeless. Most songs remind me of funeral dirges. A few tunes have a nice groove which keeps me from giving this 1 star. Topley-Bird has a great voice which, I think, is wasted here. A real chore to listen to.

Faith by George Michael
Jul 02 2026

Slick blue eyed soul. Well done.

Olympia 64 by Jacques Brel
Jul 03 2026

I know many singers were influenced by Brel and recorded their interpretations of his songs. I especially enjoyed Judy Collin's recording of Marieke. I love his music, but this recording is, unfortunately, so bad that it doesn't represent a very true representation of his talent. Never mind. His fans and the critics must have loved it and that's why it appears here. I'll give it four stars for his musical genius and knock off a star for the less than stellar recording.

Metallica by Metallica
Jul 06 2026

Unfortunately, there is nothing I like about heavy metal. Just painful noise to me.

Coat Of Many Colors by Dolly Parton
Jul 07 2026

Great album! Great vocalist, guitar player and songwriter. Liked her more before she became a mega-star. Nothing wrong with that, though.

Midnight Ride by Paul Revere & The Raiders
Jul 08 2026

This is so dated. I bought most of Paul Revere & The Raiders singles. I still enjoy those. But their albums are mostly made up with second or third rate fillers.

Tracy Chapman by Tracy Chapman
Jul 09 2026

Tracy seemed to come out of nowhere bringing a fresh new sound at a time when I wasn’t hearing anything interesting happening in rock. The societal woes Tracy sings about are still with us. Even worse now. Unfortunately, there are too many self-serving rich white men (exemplified by knuckle draggers like Secretaty Rock Boy) turning any hope for having an egalitarian society into a pipe dream.

At Newport 1960 by Muddy Waters
Jul 10 2026

I do love Muddy Waters. There a handful of early blues players I really connected with. Two of them were in this band. Muddy and James Cotton. This album has some of the finest, rawest and most soulful blues I've ever heard.

Stankonia by OutKast
Jul 13 2026

Really hot hip hop. I hear all the influences: Hendrix, Little Richard, Prince, George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic. These guys pushed hip hop into new and exciting territory. Great listen.

Being There by Wilco
Jul 14 2026

Great album. Writing and musicianship are wonderful. Americana at its best. I didn't listen to Wilco before Nels Cline was in the group. I missed out on this iteration of Wilco. Love it, love it, love it!

Jul 15 2026

On the fence about this one. Some great melodies, interesting music. It does get monotonous at times. I can't relate to the negative message. That's just my opinion.

The Poet by Bobby Womack
Jul 16 2026

Just one brilliant straight ahead soul album. Amazing singer, songwriter, guitar player.

Blonde On Blonde by Bob Dylan
Jul 17 2026

An absolute classic. I love everything Dylan did in the 60s, but this was the pinnacle of all his output (imo). Leopard Skin Pillbox Hat is one my favorite tunes.

Teen Dream by Beach House
Jul 20 2026

This music is very ethereal and I can understand why so many people are drawn to it. But, unfortunately, to me it is very dull, lifeless and boring. I can understand why they call it shoegazer music.

Jul 21 2026

I like the music behind the rapping. Some good jazz happening. And, I love it when musicians in any music genre can recognize when they might be taking themselves a little too seriously. This group is funny while talking about serious subjects.

Blood, Sweat & Tears by Blood, Sweat & Tears
Jul 22 2026

Great album. Lot of killer tunes. But, then some marginal instrumental tunes. Have to give it a 3.

High Violet by The National
Jul 23 2026

One reviewer (who gave this a 5) wrote..."probably comes off as nicely orchestrated existential whining from a baritone voiced white guy"... Couldn't have said it better myself. I'm not trying to disrespect that reviewer. He loved this. It is a major bore to me.

Time (The Revelator) by Gillian Welch
Jul 27 2026

Beautiful! Americana, country and bluegrass at its best.

Make Yourself by Incubus
Jul 28 2026

Never heard them before this, so came in with no expectations. It's not my type of music, but enjoyed it. Powerful guitar work. I doubt if I'll come back to it, but found it surprisingly good.

Here Are the Sonics by The Sonics
Jul 29 2026

I'm glad I missed this when I was a kid. But, thinking back, I did listen to a lot of crap music in those days. It sure sounds lame now.

69 Love Songs by The Magnetic Fields
Jul 30 2026

Very clever. I think much of this is done so tongue-in-cheek it's hard to take seriously. On the other hand, there is some great songwriting and I enjoyed those tunes. Ok, so the more I listened, the more it grew on me. I'll listen again.

Heaux Tales by Jazmine Sullivan
Jul 31 2026

Not really my type of music, but I understand why it resonates with young Black listeners. I don't understand the rantings of White classic rock fans who let their prejudices and narrow viewpoints make it impossible for them to explore and appreciate other music styles.

Happy Sad by Tim Buckley
Aug 03 2026

I like most jazz. I don't like meandering jazz. I didn't like this. To be fair, I listened to this on a long, bumpy flight from LA to London. Not an ideal listening environment. I'm also prejudiced against him because he was a shitty person. My vote doesn't count. Someone compared this to the brilliant work of Gary Burton and Chick Corea. Are you kidding me?!

Real Life by Magazine
Aug 04 2026

Well done, but not for me.

Mermaid Avenue by Billy Bragg
Aug 05 2026

Sometimes I just don’t understand how I missed some of these albums. I love Woody Guthrie and I love what Billy Bragg and Wilco have done with Woody’s music. I guess this is why I love this list so much. Hidden gems are out there for all of us no matter how different our tastes are.

Pieces Of The Sky by Emmylou Harris
Aug 07 2026

What an incredible voice! And this is such a beautiful album. The backing band are all killer musicians. Love every little thing about this. Thank you Gram Parsons for introducing us to her.

Wordsmith

Reviews written for 99% of albums. Average review length: 185 characters.

Other

Album origins are grouped into three buckets: US, UK, and everything else. “Other” means the artists you rate highest are from outside the US and UK.