Metallica- Master of Puppets Before listening- growing up, my friends loved Metallica. I dug a few of the singles, but I have never sought out anything further. It’s hard to be a sports fan and not know Enter Sandman or For Whom the Bell Tolls. I know Master of Puppets and Sanitarium. I have no idea what will be on this album, but I am interested. Okay- on this track list I have heard OF the song Orion. A friend in college was explaining music to me, and explained that Orion was essentially a classical song performed by guitars. Battery- I can hear the classical music in the intro Master of Puppets- wow, at least two movements for this song- the passing in the medium is an unexpected transition The Thing That Should Not Be Welcome Home (Sanitarium)- I think this is the best song on the album Disposable Heroes Leper Messiah Orion Damage, Inc After listening- I’m not a metal guy, and I have enough irritated memories from high school to sneer whenever I hear Metallica deepcuts. But the good stuff is excellent- Master of Puppets and Sanitarium are legitimate hard rock anthems. I listen to these at school, so I often start over from the beginning, which means I’m not as familiar with the second side of the album.

It's this weird, synth-y, acoustic, blues, techno, Enrico Morricone, lo-fi thing. I have never heard anything like it.

My first favorite album. Probably still in my Top 5 albums of all time, even though I have not listened to it in years. Excited to listen to it again. I wonder if it holds up from being 16 years old. Curse you Spotify. Will I have to download Amazon Music so I can listen to this in order? This album CANNOT be played on random. It MUST be played in order. Amazingly, some of the songs still transition almost perfectly, but that feels even more disappointing. I can't bring myself to give this four stars, but I am afraid the shine is off, after 20 years.

More to come- love the grimy energy

Completely digging the whole fuzzy guitar- almost proto-grunge thing he is doing.

Wow- I wish I had been listening to this when it came out. It would be prime listening for me. I was 19 or 20. Starting to understand and appreciate soul and r&b. My loss, but thankfully, my gain as well.

Interesting- haven't heard something like this before. Kinda folky. Kind of dancy. Almost feels like a 90s thing, proto emo, before emo stunk. Maybe shades of Bright Eyes.

Bleh. I remember buying this at a church rummage sale. I was so excited to have my own U2 tape. There was a man in his 40s who offered me (I don't remember what) an immense amount of value for the album. It meant something to him. I listened to the tape a few times. I should have taken the trade. 30 years later, listening to Achtung Baby only reinforces that. The worst thing that can happen to U2 is people listening to other music. Unlike the Beatles who borrowed from other genres and created something unique, U2 has only stolen from other genres to create a regrettable regurgitation of noise. 'One' is the saving grace of this album.

Is he hip-hop's Eddie Vedder? Watch Lupe write a great song about a topic no one else would and make it a classic. He takes topics that other rappers touch on, and writes full songs about them. Skateboarding, growing up without a father- but also the effects at school. I never liked when people talked about Sonic Youth or the Kinks as the greatest rock band ever. If they were "great" they would have sold more albums. But Lupe Fiasco makes me rethink all my arguments. He's gotta be on a shortlist of greatest rappers ever. He's more talented than BIG. He's more relatable than Tupac. His lyrics are more everyman than Jay-Z.

I don't think I hated it, but I definitely did not enjoy it. The best thing I can say, is that I may reconsider my opinion on Achtung Baby, which I actively disliked.

Oh, we are starting like this? P-Funk has to be one of the best opening tracks ever.

Damn, i forgot how hard these songs were. It was this or Wu-Tang Forever before every football game. Some of DeLa Rocha's lyrics do not hold up- not the politics, but just the phrasing. Still, we could use his anger today.

Its some cool dance music. It isn't my thing, but it is a nice change of pace. It's upbeat, it's electronic. It would keep people moving at a club. I did a smidge of research on the book, and I am a bit concerned and a bit disappointed that this list is super white, super 65-75 based. I had been giving them credit for a wide variety of music. I will be curious to see where it goes.

Love this, love this, love this. One of my great musical regrets is not listening to Prince earlier in my life. I think I was so stuck in listening to single genres, I didn't know how to classify Prince, so he just fell outside my range. This was the first Prince album I ever bought, and it basically didn't leave my car CD player for a month. 1999- completely overplayed, and still a classic. There is more stuff happening in the background than many bands have on an entire song. Little Red Corvette- I don't think this song is about a car. Because his music is so varied, I think my immature mind didn't realize that I was a Prince fan. I knew tons of these songs (and from other albums), but I didn't realize they were all Prince. Delirious- he created this ridiculous Sesame Street beat and then puts one layer over it, and just rocks Let's Pretend We're Married- did he just say we I'm going to fuck the taste out yer mouth? DMSR- Automatic- Something in the Water- Free- after several electronic, drum machine driven songs, Prince creates this anthemic performance, with a piano, guitar and drum Lady Cab Driver All the Critics Love U in New York- International Lover- The sheer 80s-ness drum machine of the songs in the middle keep this from a five star.

Straight Outta Compton- still the Boom Bap that defined the early days of hip hop, but so much angrier. Fuck tha Police- I was only eight when this came out, so I didn't listen to it until about a decade later. I think this was the most explicit anger directed at the police, even though other groups had voiced that anger before Gangsta Gansta- a strangely placed song about how they have embraced their roles as rebels- gangsta rap was not inherently about traditional "gangsterism", but more about rebels living at the edges or society. Homophobia and sexism are huge in this song. If It Ain't Ruff-not about sex as you might expect, more of a brag track about how tuff they are Parental Discretion Iz- funky background- probably Dre's best sampling so far 8 Ball (Remix)- I think Eazy E is bragging about doing cocaine Something Like That Express Yourself Compton'S N tha House I ain't Tha 1- perhaps the high point of misogyny on the album, led by Ice Cube Dopeman- a rare overtly positive message- stay away from crack

Rag Mama Rag The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down- maybe the best song ever written about the Civil War- not sure why Canadians memorialized the Confederacy

Better than I expected. I did not make it all the way through, because of time.

What can I say? Like several of these albums, I am glad I listened to it. But I would never buy it. I may have to reconsider my rankings.

How many songs does this album have? YouTube only has four songs available? Spotify will play them out of order. He does have a great voice I would listen to more of this. Unfortunately, I was unable to listen to the entire album.

Loved this album 20 years ago. Probably should have had a little more Prince in my life at that point. When the Man Comes Around- completely moving Hurt Give My Love to Rose Bridge Over Troubled Water I Hung My Head The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face Personal Jesus In My Life This album could change how I rate all the other albums. I truly enjoyed this as young man. But it is largely carried by Cash's failing baritone, and other writers' songs. There isn't much that is overly creative or adventurous.

The good stuff is excellent. The slop is really sloppy. I never really got into Eminem, even though I am probably the ideal age and perfect demographic for him- light skinned guy from the suburbs. Public Service Announcement 2000 Kill You Stan- yuuuup- great cut from Dido, great story, great passion- he is at his best when he is looking at the world differently Paul Who Knew- Eminem makes interesting points about people being hypocrites, but a lot of times it just feels like he is excusing his own behavior Steve Berman The Way I Am- what made this a single? The Real Slim Shady- if Eminem had more songs like this, he could be in the conversation for greatest rapper ever. But he doesn't. Remember Me I'm Back Marshall Mathers Ken Kaniff Drug Ballad Amityville- whatever Bitch Please 2- Dr. Dre was never a great rapper, and he got worse over the years- still probably the best ear for beats and sound ever. Nate Dogg may be the voice in hip hop ever. Kim Under the Influence Criminal- wait, another song about how his music shouldn't bemisinterpreted? How many of these will there be? The Kids

Good for whatever it is. Happy to listen to it- would not listen to it on my own. Time to Pretend Weekend Wars The Youth Electric Feel Was this one of their big singles? This feels a bit familiar Kids Oh, this is the big single 4th Dimensional Transition Pieces of What Of Moons, Birds & Monsters The Handshake Future Reflections

Nitin Sawheny Beyond the Skin Before listening- I have absolutely never heard of this band, so I have no preconceptions Broken Skin- whoa- IMMEDIATELY started tapping my feet- just a few instruments on this track- maybe the most important one is the snare drum keeping time- looked up the lyrics and the topic is crushing Letting Go- forgive my ignorance, but there is a strong North African/Middle East vibe on the backing track Homelands Pilgrim- I am not up on modern hip hop, but this is surprisingly modern for something made nearly 30 years ago Tides Nadia- not sung in English, and I was listening at school, so the websites with translations are blocked Immigrant- beautiful piano ballad about why people immigrate, maybe emigrate? Serpents- repetitive chant- finger cymbals, flute? Recorder? Very cool- haven't listened to anything like this before Anthem without Nation - if the translation that someone provides on YouTube is correct, this is a wonderful poem Nostalgia The Conference - not loving it, but at the very least, I think I am picking up on an artistic version of “a conference” lots of voices speaking quickly, all at one time Beyond Skin After listening- bingo- this is why the list exists- I never heard of this artist, I never would have picked this up, and I thoroughly enjoyed it- the lyrics are moving, the vocals are wonderful 3.5 stars- I thoroughly enjoyed it, but would I buy it?

Human Behavior- funky electronic stuff Crying- slowed down funky electronic stuff Venus as a Boy There's More to Life Than This Like Someone in Love Big Time Sensuality One Day Aeroplane Come to Me

Woof. This was tough listening. Two stars for talent. One star for how much I enjoyed it. Part 1 is this just soft piano music?- yup, it's just soft piano music Part 2a how can you tell the difference between parts? Part 2b I mean the guy is talented Part 2c this is a weird fusion of jazz, without any soul, classical and easy listening I wanted to make this two stars because of the talent, but I hated this in my soul.

Its a good album- i genuinely like The Who. But putting an album like this on the list really leans into that Anglo-centric, 65-75 era. What Fela Kuti album was left off in exchange for this? Armenia City in the Sky Heinz Baked Beans- fake ad like the rap albums from the 90s Mary Anne with the Shaky Hand- strange acoustic-ish Odorono- fine Tattoo- classic Daltrey falsetto, with that Townshend build Our Love Was- Keith Moon is the greatest drummer ever I Can See For Miles- one of the greatest Who songs, and thus rock songs, ever I Can't Reach You- good, traditional Who rock. Daltrey saves the screaming, Moon gets to show off Medac Relax Silas Stingy Sunrise Rael 1&2 End of the Original Album (YouTube plays a much longer extended version) Pictures of Lily Doctor, Doctor The Last Time Under My Thumb

I am Trying to Break Your Heart Kamera Radio Cure War in War Jesus, Etc Ashes of American Flags Heavy Metal Drummer I'm the Man Who Loves You- really cool groove Pot Kettle Black Poor Places Reservations There is a slow build to this album- it starts off as traditional-ish alt-country and builds to an electric rock-ish album.

It's a great mix of soul, funk, jazz and hip-hop. There is some great storytelling on here.

What the fuck is this? These dudes are amazing. And how on earth have I never listened to Kool Keith before? Oh look Marshall, you can write a rap song that doesn't require you to be angry about some random shit. Intro 3000 I Got to Tell You Earth People No Awareness Real Raw General Hospital Blue Flowers- was this the lead single? If there was a radio single? Technical Difficulties A Visit to the Gynecologist Bear Witness Dr. Octagon Girl Let Me Touch You I'm Destructive Wild and Crazy Elective Surgery Halfsharkalligatorhalfman- some of the weirdest shit I have heard, and yet a completely compelling story Blue Flowers (Revisited) Waiting List 1977

3.5 my gut says that Carey abandoned more creative song writing in exchange for hip-hop production beats. And yes, rap can be incredibly creative (Thank you Dr. Octagon) But when you give Puffy the reins, you're getting production, not words. Honey- love this song, even with Puffy acting the fool in the background Butterfly- standard Ballad about letting something go and hoping it returns My All The Roof (Back in Time)-Mariah's amazing voice over a dark hip hop beat Fourth of July Breakdown Baby doll- Carey is almost like a jazz artist- even if you don't know the words, her voice is a beautiful instrument Close My Eyes Whenever You Call- the intro is wildly unnecessary, it Mars a pretty good song. Fly Away The Beautiful Ones- Dru Hill still sucks, but the Prince feel on this song is incredible Outside Honey (Radio Mix) Honey (Def Club Mix) Mi Todo

Festival Junction- fun, high-spirited introduction Blues to Be There- the trumpet player with the mute is the hero- don't love the end, which sounds like something from a 50s sitcom Newport Up- clarinet and trumpet solos to open Jeep's Blues Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue- feels like a goshdarned juke joint, which is strange, because that wasn't Ellington's thing- he led the classics, most talented Orchestra in the world

It's fine. I wasn't offended by listening to it. Do the Strand Beauty Queen Strictly Confidential Editions of You In Every Dream Home a Heartache- weird prog rock finish The Bogus Man Grey Lagoons For Your Pleasure

Oh man, when I read that a criticism of this list was how Anglo-American dominated it was, I made up some half-hearted excuse about Western music. Because that's where the mass appeal is and even if they borrowed and, in many cases, stole the music from Black artists, they were the ones who sold the millions of albums. But this album is representative of the nonsense about Anglo-American bias. Introduction Hazey Jane 2 At the Chime of a City Clock One of These Things First Haley Jane 1 Bryter Layter Fly Poor Boy Northern Sky Sunday

Whoa! I used to love this album. I think this was the album that helped me love the Rolling Stones. I'd bought a few greatest hits albums to kind of acclimate to them. And my dad was a fan when I was growing up. But this was the first one that had a bunch of singles that made me go, "These guys really know what they are doing." I think it is still my second favorite album after Exile on Main Street, but they are completely different feeling albums. Gimme Shelter- why did it take me 30 years to look up these lyrics? Love in Vain- Robert Johnson's version is better, and not just because it is the original. The Stones do a great job with country and country blues. But I don't think Mick's voice carries country songs well. Country Honk Live with Me Let It Bleed- a cool country rocker about drugs Midnight Rambler You Got the Silver Monkey Man- the only song on the album I never got into You Can't Always Get What You Want- what a wonderful closing to the album- and if you think about it- the opener is a raging protest song against (probably) the Vietnam War. The closer is an acknowledgment that the war may not end. That protesting may not work. That people will protest against each other. So look for the happiness where you can get it.

I have listened to some of his work, and it is incredible. I had no idea Ginger Baker worked with him. It must have been an interesting transition from Clapton's racism. Okay- listened all day- maybe the first album I have listened to multiple times in a while.

Never listened to anything but singles, which I have mostly enjoyed. I would be hard to describe myself as "a fan", but I'm interested in seeing where this goes. Wow- I really enjoyed this. I grew up in the 90s- a time when pop music made us choose sides- Biggie v. Tupac; Nirvana v. Green Day, Britney v. Christina; Backstreet v. NSync. 25 years ago, I said that Christina would win, because her voice would win, even after she didn't have a 15 inch waist and she couldn't dance. (That's not me being judgmental- blame the record industry.) I'm pretty sure I'm correct. Christina's voice on this album makes every song worthy of repeat.

Cool funky sound. This is why I got into the project in the first place. I never would have listened to this, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Mojo Pin Grace- a vibe similar to Radiohead on The Bends Last Goodbye- I can't really pick up on the lyrics- he has an emotional voice, but I can't understand anything he is saying Lilac Wine So Real Hallelujah Lover, You Should've Come Over Corpus Christi Carol Eternal Life Dream Brother Forget Her Dream Brother (alternate take) Lost Highway (studio outtake) Alligator Wine (studio outtake) Mama, You Been On My Mind (studio outtake) Parchment Farm Blues/Preachin' Blues (studio outtake) The Other Woman (studio outtake) Kanga-Roo (studio outtake) I Want Someone Badly Eternal Life (road version) Kick Out the Jams (live at Columbia Records Radio Hour Dream Brother (nag champa mix) Strawberry Street (live rehearsal at Knitting Factory)

Lively Up Yourself No Woman, No Cry Them Belly Full But We Hungry Rebel Music 3 O'clock Roadblock So Jah Seh Natty Dread Bend Down Low Talkin' Blues Revolution

Growing up in the 90s, it was impossible to miss Song 2. I taped the album from a friend. I don't remember much, so this is mostly a new listening experience. Beetlebum Song 2 Country Sad Ballad Man M.O.R. On Your Own Theme from Retro You're so Great Death of a Party Chinese Bombs I'm Just a Killer for Your Love Look Inside America Strange News from Another Star Movin' On Essex Dogs

Are the Velvet Underground actually any good? I think they may be one of those bands that people pretend they like, without knowing more than one or two songs. White Light/White Heat - if this first song is any good, they ARE that good. The Gift- It's a cool blues-style riff, but what is the story being told? Lady Godiva's Operation Here She Comes Now I Heard Her Call My Name Sister Ray

And the Gods Made Love Have You Ever Been- if you have heard this album before, this is a perfect intro track (with respect to the real intro track) Crosstown Traffic- Hendrix wasn't great lyrically, but his understanding of sound was unlike anyone else's Voodoo Chile- Hendrix does his best to make something that sounds like a juke joint in the 30s- and then turns it onto a ten minute jam session Little Miss Strange- can't stand the vocals on this one- if you can get past them, it's got some soloing that is different for Hendrix Long Hot Summer Night- this song does not get enough credit for being a great Hendrix jam Come On (Let the Good Times Roll)- a Hendrix take on an classic blues anthem Gypsy Eyes Burning of the Midnight Lamp Rainy Day, Dream Away 1983 Moon, Turn the Tides... Gently, Gently, Away Still Raining, Still Dreaming House Burning Down All Along the Watchtower- Bob Dylan said the song belongs go Hendrix Voodoo Chile (Slight Tower) Maybe the greatest guitar song ever

Otis Redding Otis Blue I have always loved Otis Redding, even if what I know is a 20 song greatest hits. Over the years, I’ve found more of his albums, mostly scrolling through youtube. I think he’s the greatest male vocalist of the 20th century, just edging out Marvin Gaye. Ole Man Trouble Respect- no wonder Aretha Franklin wanted to make this song- and she kills it, no doubt. But Otis’s version is incredible A Change is Gonna Come- Ctrl C, Ctrl V about Sam Cooke- maybe the greatest protest song ever written. Down in the Valley I’ve Been Loving You too Long Shake- the closest thing to a weak link on the album. For some reason, I just never got into this song. My Girl- I wonder what made Redding make an album that is half originals and half covers? It speaks to his talent that the album is incredible even without more originals. Wonderful World Rock Me Baby (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction You Don’t Miss Your Water This is the kind of music I would buy on CD, just to have it, even in an era of streaming.

What a different album. Short songs telling brief stories. Completely stripped down- a guitar and a mandolin sometimes, Willie's nasally voice. Some of the songs are entirely instrumental. Incredibly different. Time of the Preacher I Couldn't Believe It Was True Time of Preacher Theme Medley: Blue Rock Montana/Red Headed Stranger Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain Red Headed Stranger Time of the Preacher Theme Just as I Am Denver O'er thr Waves Down Yonder Can I Sleep in Your Arms Remember Me Hands on the Wheel Bandera Bach Minuet in G I Can't Help It A Maiden's Prayer Bonaparte's Retreat

Please Forgive Me Babylon My Oh My We're Not Right Night blindness Silver Lining White Ladder This Year's Love Sail Away Say Hello, Wave

Ya know, when I saw this one pop up, I wasn't super excited. I had a good Stones phase, but I haven't listened to them in years. My memory of this was kind of country-ish and acoustic-ish. But maybe that's what kept them grounded before 1975. I was happy to give this another listen. Sympathy for the Devil- the rare song that cannot be overplayed- and yeah, people have tried. What's those drums? Conga? That's a great beat that holds the entire song together. No Expectations- when I was a kid, I didn't realize how many blues standards the Rolling Stones were playing- not all of them are improvements though- this sounds like a blues standard even though it is an original Dear Doctor- a funny song about a guy who is getting married to a girl he has no attraction to and getting drunk- well-written if nothing else Parachute Woman Jigsaw Puzzle- a bluegrass rocker about depression Street Fighting Man- I don't think I ever liked this as much as I was supposed to- they are going hard on the maracas in this song Prodigal Son Stray Cat Blues- Keith Richards at his best is great, this is one of his better showings Factory Girl- Salt of the Earth- why don't more Americans get down with this as a drinking song? I think we hate the actual idea of being Salt of the Earth- we all want to be middle class

I always knew Curtis Mayfield, and I liked the few songs I heard, but I'm embarrassed to say I didn't really know his music. So thank you to the 1001 Album Generator for dialing this up. I'm going to listen to this all day tomorrow. Billy Jack- fantastic vocals, never heard a guitar like this- the drum is almost Ringo-esque- snare and high hat doing all the work When Seasons Change- what is there, three instruments on here? A bass, guitar and a keyboard? And it sounds so deep and layered So In Love Jesus Blue Monday People Hard Times Love to the People

So Many Sides of You- one thing we lose with all the streaming services- the ability to listen to an album all the way through, and see how someone sets up the order of the songs- this is an upbeat, driving love song Lay Your Lovin' On Me Secrets- this guy made a Kentucky Fried Chicken reference without irony Just My Imagination- not a cover of The Temptations' classic, but it stands beside it- this was the first time I heard the song, but was so impressed. Stand Up Games If You Think You're Lonely Where Do We Go From Here

One Nation Under a Groove- just one long groove to open the album Groovallegiance- bring the funk to me dammit. Bring the funk to me. Great guitar solo on here- wouldn't have minded hearing it longer Who Says a Funk Band Can't Play Rock?! -not me Promentalshitbackwqshpsychosis (Enema Squad) Into You Cholly (Funk Getting Ready to Roll)- so far, easily a four star album, but there isn't much lyrically, not that it is the point- Clinton is clearly a smart guy- that's why he wrote Funk Band, but I would love to know what he is thinking Maggot Brain/Chant- this rocks as hard as anything else from the 70s. Funkadelic was a better rock band than a lot of the stadium rock bands of the 70s. Ugh, Styx.😒 Lunchmeataphobia PE Squad/Doo Doo Chasers

Back at the Chicken Shack When I Grow Too Old to Dream i had to check to see what instrument Smith played- i love that he is able to take a backseat to the saxophonist on these tracks Minor Chant and then on the very next song, he completely takes control Messy Bessie On the Sunny Side of the Street

I'm listening on YouTube so I will have to pay close attention to where the song breaks are So What- love how Davis takes the lead, but almost immediately gives the saxophonist equal time Freddie Freeloader Blue in Green All Blues Flamenco Sketches On Green Dolphin Street Fran-Dance Stella by Starlight Love for Sale

It has some excellent songs on it, but I don't know if it is as great as many of us remember.

Growing up, I had a Ray Charles Greatest Hits Album that I truly enjoyed. As I've grown older, I realized how much great music wasn't on there. Amazingly, NONE of these songs were on there. Thrilled to be listening to this. Let the Good Times Roll- was this song made famous by Ray Charles? It feels like an American standard, in the way that Stagger Lee and Summertime Blues are standards It Had to Be You Alexander's Ragtime Band Two Years of Torture- how much Black love has been documented in popular music, especially by an artist this prominent and in this era? When Your Lover Has Gone Deed I Do- I haven't mentioned the big band aspect of this album- was he inspired by Duke Ellington? I often think of Charles as a solo artist, but the band really shines on this album Just for a Thrill You Won't Let Me Go Tell Me You'll Wait for Me Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin' Am I Blue Come Rain or Come Shine I loved this- I will listen to it again. The best part about the entire list is knowing there is stuff out there you are missing and then finding a way to listen to it.

Why are the UK and US editions so different? I'm going with the US edition, but at some point I may listen to the UK order. The albums come fast and hard- when I was really in my music phase, I would listen to an album for days. Purple Haze- i love this song, but how did it become the iconic Jimi Hendrix track? Manic Depression Hey Joe Love or Confusion May This Be Love I Dont Live Today The Wind Cries Mary- there was a time when this was my favorite Hendrix song-still a bluesy classic Fire Third Stone From the Sun Foxey Lady Are You Experienced? Stone Free 51st Anniversary Highway Chile- great opening riff in... is that a minor key? Can You See Me Remember Red House- my favorite closing line ever, "If my baby won't love me, I know her sister will"

When I was 12 I listened to a Beach Boys Greatest Hits album. For about a year I thought it was pretty great. And then its idealized America about dancing with girls and cars and surfing grew old. Enter Rage Against the Machine, Wu-Tang Clan and Pink Floyd (i can't explain that transition either). Do You Wanna Dance? Good to My Baby Don't Hurt My Little Sister - they really do harmonies better than anyone not signed to Motown. Its a strangely upbeat rhythm for the subject matter When I Grow Up (To Be a Man) Help Me Rhonda Dance, Dance, Dance Please Let Me Wonder I'm So Young Kiss Me Baby She Knows Me Too Well In the Back of My Mind Bull Session with Big Daddy Wow- this is not a rock band. This is a pop band that had the ability to play guitar. The music is solid, but overall, they don't come across as immensely talented other than their vocals.

My mom loved Prince. And I respected his talent, but i didn't realize how great he was. As I have gotten older, I am starting to realize how many songs he performed that I didn't realize were his. All of that demonstrates how much talent he had, and how wide of a musical net he cast. Let's Go Crazy- how many other albums are bookended by tracks this good? Off the top of my head- Born to Run and What's Going On. Take Me With U- a Ballad that is not power at all The Beautiful Ones- electric power Ballad, with a good dose of funk in it Computer Blue Darling Nikki- I don't go to strip clubs, but this feels like it could be a strip club classic When Doves Cry I Would Die For Baby I'm a Star Purple Rain - to my earlier point- isnt this right there with the operatic glory of Inner City Blues and Jungleland?

Pearl Jam Ten I mostly enjoyed this album when I was younger. It’s the only Pearl Jam album I ever owned, which is a little strange, because they are arguably the most successful rock band of the last 35 years. Or at least the most consistently successful- Metallica and Foo Fighters would probably have something to say about that. But I really enjoyed the energy on the album. And there was a multitude of singles- Even Flow, Alive, Black and Jeremy all got significant radio play. I’ll admit it- I’m a sucker for the music that is put in front of me. Once Even Flow- my major criticism of Pearl Jam was always that I couldn’t understand what Eddie Vedder was singing- I’d catch a few lines of the chorus and go back to having no idea what he was saying. Turns out, I’d always known what he was saying in this song. But I had no idea it was about a homeless man, even though the lyrics make perfect sense. Alive- I think this is my favorite song they ever did Why Go Black Jeremy- I always assumed that this was about a bullied student who killed his classmates; I read a little more and its based in two stories Vedder knew about students who committed suicide in front of their classmates Oceans Porch Garden Deep Release From front to back, a very solid rock album. Between the talent of the musicians and Vedder’s lyrics (admittedly, I had to look up many of them), you can see why they would last for nearly 40 years.

Stan Getz- Jazz Samba Before listening: So far, the stuff I would find in the “World Music” section has been great. Excited to hear what happens on this album. Desafinado Samba Dees Days O Pato Samba Triste- kind of sultry, the guitar is super faint in the back Samba De Uma Nota So- a little mystery to this song. All of it sounds like it is from a sixties movie about spies. E Luxo So- a little faster than the other songs on the album- nice alto sax work, but certainly not Coltrane Baia- is this a refrain from this first song? I don't mean that in a bad way- it just seems like it would link up the album well. After listening- I try to give all these albums at least two listens, aside from the ones I have already listened to 100 times. But so far, I’m not enjoying it. It’s a classic “I respect the musicianship, but I don’t love the music.” This is the epitome of “smooth jazz” and “elevator music”. I promise I kept an open mind about it, but It just didn’t move me. Saxophones, guitars and something like a maraca do a ton of work on this album

Brown Sugar D’Angelo I remember listening to one song off this album when I was little. It might have been the title track. I think he was partly responsible for the neo-soul movement with guys like Raphael Saadiq and 112. I’m looking forward to getting familiar with this. Brown Sugar- of course he found a girl in Philly Alright- great groove- can barely understand the lyrics, but he’s gonna make love to someone tonight Jonz in My Bonz Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Shit, Damn, Motherfucker Smooth Cruisin’ - excellent cover of a classic love song When We Get By- old school bluesy, jazz feel- would be just as home on a public radio station as Urban/R&B Lady Higher I will definitely return to this album at some point. I wish I'd been listening to it more when I was younger.

The Sabres of Paradise- Haunted Dancehall- Never heard of this band, never heard of this album- at no point in my life, did I ever listen to electronic music- heck I barely ever listened to dance music, other than mainstream R&B. But this has been an interesting listen. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again- this is why the list exists- I probably won’t ever listen to it again, but I’m glad I have heard it. Bubble and Slide- woof this wasn’t very good Bubble and Slide 2 this was considerably better Duke of Earlsfield- not being an electronica fan, I guess this is what it is Flight Path Estate- honestly, I don’t know where the cuts are (that could be my fault for listening on Youtube)- but ugh, I really don’t understand it Planet D (Portishead Remix)- this is the remix? Thank goodness they threw away the original Wilmot- now that I know Limp Bizkit made this list (missed the album and will have to give it one honest listen, but I’m 44, I’m aware) it will be hard to give anything a score lower than that, but what if I get something I will never listen to again, and actively resent listening to? Tow Truck- hey! Is that a hook? This might be the first thing on the album that doesn’t sound like the backing tracks to a 90s sci-fi movie Theme Theme 4- I suppose there was a Theme 2 and 3, but I’m not upset that I missed them Return to Planet D- some albums I come back to over multiple days- I listen to them over and over to immerse myself in the music. This album? I took multiple days just to get through it once Ballad of Nicky McGuire- not terrible- kind of a bouncy funk feeling, an Ennio Morricone feel at the end Jacob Street 7am- Chapel Street Market 9am Haunted Dancehall- I just couldn't get into it. I gave it multiple chances, and nothing grooved at all.

Who’s Next- The Who At one point, this was a Top 10 Album for me. I truly loved it. I’m not sure there is a weak track on this album. It goes back and forth between some incredible hard rock and some ballads that almost veer into silliness. And even that near silliness on My Wife and Going Mobile isn’t overtly silly. It’s light-hearted. Baba O’Riley- greatest opening to a rock song ever? Bargain- hard driving love song- if you aren’t paying attention, you could miss it Love Ain’t For Keeping- the Who called themselves an R& B band… maybe a bit of a stretch for our understanding of R&B, but they definitely leaned into rhythm and blues. This is a bit of a country and western rock tune My Wife- funny song about a man’s wife coming to kill him after he’s done something wrong Song is Over Getting In Tune Going Mobile- light fun rocker about being on the road- is this about their early days touring? Behind Blue Eyes- is this an autobiographical song about Roger Daltrey, or is it a social song about WASPiness? Won’t Get Fooled Again- is this the greatest rock song ever? It’s everything you would want in a rock song- angry, loud, passionate, everyone in the band gets to shine How many other rock albums open and close this strong? Born to Run comes to mind, with Thunder Road and Jungleland. But other than that? This may be one of the only albums I know where I’ve heard every song on the radio. Remember that radio was a big thing for those of us born in the 1980s. The phrase "timeless" gets thrown around too often, but this is one of the few bands that has a legitimate claim to "best of all time" at all four parts of the band.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo Shaka Zulu I know almost nothing about them. Were they the inspiration for Paul Simon’s Graceland? Maybe the backing band? Unomathemba- it will be interesting to see what I can pick up from this album- jazz and classical don't have lyrics at all, but if their are lyrics, should I know what they mean? Hello My Baby- the title is in the chant, but I am still working on the lead singer; is this an a capella? Golgotha- for some reason I thought there was a more instrumental element to their music, but it is still beautiful King of Kings- is there a difference Lomhlaba Kawunoni How Long? Ikhaya Lamaqhawe (Home Of The Heroes) Yibo Labo (These Are The Guys) Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain Wawusho Kubani? (Who Were You Talking To?) This Little Light of Mine- the most iconic Sunday School song is given a beautiful gravity and maturity, while still being perfect for children After listening: so many beautiful voices- I'm not sure this is "got a long drive in the car" music, but it could be perfect for 10PM and reading a book. I think the whole thing is a capella, which is not normally a thing I enjoy. Probably 3.5 stars, but four stars is more for albums I will buy.

Dexys Midnight Runners- Searching for the Young Soul Rebels I know Come on Eileen. You know Come on Eileen. That’s all I’m going into this with. Burn It Down Tell Me When My Light Turns Green The Teams that meet in Caffs- nice to have a saxophone driving a pop rock album I’m Just Looking- seems ballad-ish, about a lost love- more emotion than I expected Geno- was their horn section really this powerful? Seven Days Too Long- I don’t know what year this came out, but where are they in the annals of ska I Couldn’t Help It if I Tried- Thankfully Not Living in Yorkshire It Doesn’t Apply- Keep It Love, Pt 1 (Poem) There There My Dear Overall, a surprisingly enjoyable album. They are definitely working that proto-ska thing with all the horns. I had trouble with some of the lyrics. At some point, I will go back and listen to this. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this. Enjoyed it mostly as background music though.

Before listening: I truly enjoy Coltrane, but I admit that I can’t tell one jazz saxophonist from another. It’s part of the reason that I’m doing the list. Can I develop the ability to distinguish one saxophonist from another? One piano player from another? An so on and so forth. Good liner notes- learning that Coltrane created this article in order to give thanks to God really changes the understanding of this album Part 1– Acknowledgement- it opens with a longing, wailing note as if pleading for understanding, it closes with a slow chant of “A Love Supreme” Part 2- Resolution- I won’t admit to knowing enough about jazz to differentiate between songs, but the transitions and the feel on these albums are noticeable if you sit down and listen Part 3- Pursuance/Part 4- Psalm I have heard all the songs on this album- sometimes as part of a randomized Spotify playlist, sometimes as background music while teaching. Listening to it straight through in the car is something completely different. It really is an experience, with four distinct tracks that flow into each other- the best rock equivalent is Dark Side of the Moon. I highly recommend WBGO’s extensive writing about John Coltrane. https://www.wbgo.org/music/2019-09-23/deep-dive-the-presence-of-the-past-in-john-coltranes-expressive-and-searching-music

Before listening- As a kid growing up the 90s, I loved Black Sunday. They seemed to be having more fun that a lot of artists, while brining a previously unheard Mexican slant to hip hop Pigs- anger at the violent policing of the late 80s and early 90s with some homophobic slurs, but also the recognition that the police weren’t going to treat a gay cop much differently than a perceived criminal in the city How Could I Just Kill a Man- definitely not a beat that anyone had rapped over before 1991- weird, squeaky Hand on the Pump- who would have thought you could use the chorus from “Duke of Earl” on a song about shooting someone?- weird to start your album with three songs about killing someone- the video for this is so authentically 1990s LA, Hispanic/Black badass- abandoned warehouse on the waterfront? Probably $10 million condos now Hole in the Head- a hallmark of the best rappers was their ability to write a song about incredibly violent subject matter while also making light of the event Ultraviolet Dreams- brief, unnoticeable interlude Light Another- a funky jam style rap, almost like they were freestyling over a DJ; this is the Cypress Hill that kids raised in the suburbs know The Phuncky Feel One- strong bragging song about how awesome B-Real and SenDog are- they trade stanzas pretty well over DJ Muggs scratching Break It Up Real Estate Stoned Is the Way to Walk Psycobetabuckdown Something for the Blunted Latin Lingo The Funk Cypress Hill Shit Tres Equis Born to Get Busy After listening- I am aware that rap was often about the day to day experience of what people saw in the city- in the early days, usually New York or Los Angeles. But on this album the first four songs are all about murder- was life in the city really that violent? (Definitely more violent than my life in the suburbs- I get that.) I love how Cypress Hill entirely embrace their Hispanic roots and still became a major commercial success.