359
Albums Rated
3.11
Average Rating
33%
Complete
730 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1960
Favorite Decade
Metal
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
31
5-Star Albums
17
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Black Monk Time
The Monks
|
5 | 2.94 | +2.06 |
|
The Who Sell Out
The Who
|
5 | 3 | +2 |
|
Billion Dollar Babies
Alice Cooper
|
5 | 3.11 | +1.89 |
|
Forever Changes
Love
|
5 | 3.22 | +1.78 |
|
Rust In Peace
Megadeth
|
5 | 3.24 | +1.76 |
|
S&M
Metallica
|
5 | 3.26 | +1.74 |
|
Wonderful Rainbow
Lightning Bolt
|
4 | 2.29 | +1.71 |
|
Live At Leeds
The Who
|
5 | 3.32 | +1.68 |
|
Deep Purple In Rock
Deep Purple
|
5 | 3.32 | +1.68 |
|
Hot Rats
Frank Zappa
|
5 | 3.36 | +1.64 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
21
Adele
|
1 | 3.69 | -2.69 |
|
Pink Moon
Nick Drake
|
1 | 3.65 | -2.65 |
|
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
|
1 | 3.46 | -2.46 |
|
Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
|
1 | 3.38 | -2.38 |
|
Melodrama
Lorde
|
1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
|
I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got
Sinead O'Connor
|
1 | 3.26 | -2.26 |
|
I'm Your Man
Leonard Cohen
|
1 | 3.09 | -2.09 |
|
Psychocandy
The Jesus And Mary Chain
|
1 | 2.95 | -1.95 |
|
What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
|
2 | 3.94 | -1.94 |
|
Arular
M.I.A.
|
1 | 2.83 | -1.83 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 5 |
| Metallica | 3 | 4.67 |
| Fleetwood Mac | 2 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 2 | 5 |
| The Who | 2 | 5 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Nick Drake | 3 | 1.33 |
| Leonard Cohen | 2 | 1 |
5-Star Albums (31)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Alice Cooper · 2 likes
5/5
Camp. Glam. Banging.
Right up my street. Every song rocks. Good fun, and even though I laugh, I Love the Dead is a great song that has it all.
Anyone else noticed all the best albums are 40 minutes long? Enough to get a good taste of it, and to leave you wanting more.
Paul McCartney and Wings · 2 likes
3/5
There are some decent songs on this. I like Jet and Mrs Vandebilt. Some others had their moments. Bluebird and the Picasso one were a bit boring and dated.
McCartney's voice doesn't really ever change, which might be part of what makes him him, but it's not something I can listen to for a long period.
Not bad overall.
Pink Floyd · 1 likes
5/5
One of my favourites. Shine on you crazy diamond is perfection
Lana Del Rey · 1 likes
2/5
Boring really, forgot it was playing
John Lennon · 1 likes
2/5
Zoned out if I'm honest
4-Star Albums (93)
1-Star Albums (17)
All Ratings
U2
3/5
It's fine. As rock goes, a bit dull, but listenable. Meh out of 10.
The Replacements
3/5
Meh
Beastie Boys
2/5
Not for me
Muddy Waters
3/5
Sex Pistols
4/5
Public Enemy
4/5
Spiritualized
2/5
Dull
Radiohead
4/5
Jethro Tull
5/5
The xx
3/5
John Lennon
2/5
4/5
Lana Del Rey
2/5
Boring really, forgot it was playing
Van Morrison
4/5
Supergrass
4/5
Depeche Mode
4/5
Steely Dan
3/5
MGMT
2/5
Boring. What I imagine people with no personality listen to. Not sure what the target demographic is meant to be.
Sonic Youth
4/5
Jane's Addiction
4/5
Super Furry Animals
3/5
Steely Dan
3/5
Iggy Pop
3/5
Rahul Dev Burman
3/5
Snoop Dogg
3/5
Tangerine Dream
4/5
Jorge Ben Jor
3/5
Tim Buckley
1/5
The Police
3/5
Steve Winwood
3/5
The Cure
4/5
Willie Nelson
3/5
Nirvana
4/5
Sister Sledge
3/5
Stereolab
2/5
Cyndi Lauper
3/5
Gang Starr
3/5
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
The Velvet Underground
4/5
Prince
4/5
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
3/5
Pavement
2/5
Neil Young
4/5
Aimee Mann
3/5
Afrika Bambaataa
3/5
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
The Byrds
3/5
Nina Simone
4/5
Dusty Springfield
4/5
Prince
3/5
The Charlatans
4/5
Black Flag
3/5
Dire Straits
3/5
The Birthday Party
1/5
Ryan Adams
3/5
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
AC/DC
5/5
Solange
2/5
Eagles
4/5
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Girls Against Boys
2/5
Tracy Chapman
3/5
Finley Quaye
3/5
Lorde
1/5
If I could rename this album, I'd call it 'Misphonic Triggers'. Alternating between straining to defecate and attempting to summon a cat, her whiney tone makes me want to pierce my own eardrums. How on Earth is Lorde in the top 300 artists on Spotify?
I suppose 'popular' has never truly equated to 'good'.
To sum this album in a word: horrible. It's the first album I've encountered so far that I have had to turn off. I tried. I really did, but by the time I got to the fourth whispering whinge, I'd had enough.
Carole King
3/5
Lambchop
2/5
Nothing about it was bad, in fact, I quite enjoyed what I heard. I just ended up zoning out from it.
Green Day
5/5
An absolute favourite of mine, and has been for the past 21 years. This album influenced my life in a sense, and it has shaped who I am today. Got me through those tough late-teens.
The messags feels more relevant than ever in 2025. The highlight for me is Homecoming: clearly inspired by The Who's A Quick One.
Metallica
5/5
Hell fucking yeah!
This is THE album I didn't know I needed.
I've always been a passive Metallica listener, never really given them much time nor thought, though wouldn't ever skip a track or turn them off. Even saw them at a festival once, and didn't realise they were this damn good.
I wasn't sure at first. The intro had me questioning if I'd put the right album on. It gave 'geeky' vibes. I realised I was digging it before the end of the second track. By the end, I felt like my mind had been blown. Why haven't I given Metallica my time or thought?
I listen to most of my albums in the car. Today, it felt like I was driving into battle rather than work. Really set me up for the day.
\m/
Miriam Makeba
4/5
Wasn't bad. She has a lovely voice but not my sort of thing overall. Nice to hear, but won't be in regular rotation.
The Incredible String Band
2/5
I ironically love this. I already know of The Incredible String Band, and can never tell if it's intentionally or accidentally hilarious. It's so bad it's good, especially when the kazoo comes out.
I haven't taken shrooms or acid for years, and this reminds me why.
2/5
The Afghan Whigs
3/5
It was alright. Not much else to report. Lyrics are a bit... childish? Odd? Probably won't listen again but it was okay.
Alice In Chains
5/5
Soundtrack to my youth. Quality.
Michael Jackson
5/5
I gain more appreciation for Jackson as I get older. This is a solid album that I've never listened to in its entirety before.
It may not be my go-to music, but it's damn good.
Mike Oldfield
3/5
Objectively, this is a great album. He is certainly good at playing instruments. He is not good at being an artist.
I just can't get into it. Albums like this should take you on a journey, and make you feel a powerful roller coaster of emotion with the transitions. I don't feel any emotional connection to this whatsoever. I felt more of a connection with Pingu playing icicles in the cave (which is what the first ten minutes or so remind me of). I did enjoy the sound of the electric guitar - though the demonic grunts were unwarranted. It was a disappointing listen.
I want to like it, but just don't.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
I'd never listened to Nick Cave until I was given the Birthday Party (aka Vulva from Spaced, the album) album a few weeks ago. That was my first introduction and this is the second. I can't see a love blossoming any time soon.
The music is good enough but his vocal is painful. The guests were crap too. It reminds me of slam poetry. I imagine the average fan is a depressed and unemployed English Literature graduate.
I don't get it.
Johnny Cash
3/5
Gorillaz
4/5
It's quite good. 19-2000 Soulchild Remix is the best track, and has been a regular listen since I played Fifa 2002.
One of the band sounds like Will Smith on tranquilisers though, so those bits were pants compared to the rest.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Not the best of Pink Floyd but still brilliant. Love their sound.
Turbonegro
4/5
A name I've heard many times yet never listened to. Turns out I really like it. It was a fun listen.
Björk
3/5
I don't hate it. It actually started to grow on me by the end.
It still sounds incredibly early-90s; perhaps you had to be there (I was 5) to get the most out of it. Might try again one day with a side of MDMA.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
The Soft Boys
4/5
The White Stripes
4/5
Fiona Apple
2/5
Vegetable cutters. I can't unhear it.
This sounds like every other modern woman who doesn't sing properly, but with added artsy fartsy.
The Prodigy
4/5
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
It's obviously not a bad album. I wasn't born for another 20 years though; it doesn't click with me.
I enjoyed Homeward Bound, and the Dylan parody. The rest fell flat.
Probably more meaningful at the time, the Silent Night felt very clichéd.
Massive Attack
4/5
Aerosmith
4/5
I like Aerosmith. I just feel like it's missing something that other 70s hard rock has about it. Not quite a 5.
Sufjan Stevens
2/5
Beastie Boys
3/5
Better than the other Beastie Boys album on here. Some tracks weren't just shouting!
Prefab Sprout
3/5
The Who
5/5
Fatboy Slim
4/5
Hole
3/5
Violent Femmes
4/5
The Crusaders
2/5
Led Zeppelin
5/5
The Louvin Brothers
1/5
N.W.A.
3/5
I liked the beats. I enjoyed the music. I found it hypnotic.
But there are far too many N-words and misogynistic? - Sexist? Alpha-male? whatever it counts as -lyrics for this middle-aged white woman to feel comfortable with.
The Who
5/5
Oh my god.
Jurassic 5
3/5
The Sonics
4/5
The Kinks
4/5
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Joni Mitchell
3/5
The Temptations
3/5
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
4/5
Gillian Welch
2/5
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
It was...okay. It reminded me of a lot of other bands, and also of late-80s video games. Probably won't listen again if I'm honest, but not rushing to turn it off either.
The Beach Boys
3/5
Fugees
2/5
Good just not my sort of thing
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Wtf
Beatles
3/5
It's fine. I'm either too young to 'get it' or spoiled by knowing that better things exist.
Aretha Franklin
3/5
Paul Simon
3/5
The Cramps
3/5
4/5
Very pleased with this one.
I only know of their biggest hit but have never bothered to listen to them otherwise. Very much what I came to this project to find - something that I REALLY enjoy but have never heard. Consider me a fan.
Joni Mitchell
2/5
Public Image Ltd.
2/5
Pulp
3/5
Loved the opening track. The rest was still good, but I feel like I was set up for better.
The Cure
4/5
Orange Juice
2/5
Dated background music. Nothing more.
Otis Redding
4/5
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Iconic.
Charles Mingus
2/5
Boring
Pink Floyd
5/5
One of my favourites. Shine on you crazy diamond is perfection
Billy Bragg
2/5
Simon & Garfunkel
2/5
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
Deep Purple
5/5
Erykah Badu
3/5
Patti Smith
3/5
The Black Crowes
3/5
Ramones
2/5
Sly & The Family Stone
2/5
John Lennon
2/5
Zoned out if I'm honest
Slipknot
4/5
Beatles
3/5
It was okay.
John Coltrane
2/5
Jesus Christ! This goes on a bit, doesn't it?
Sisters Of Mercy
4/5
Fishbone
4/5
This album was fun. I love Ma and Pa and will be adding it to regular listening!
Elvis Presley
3/5
Muddy Waters
4/5
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
4/5
Enjoyed it. Some a bit "out there" but liked it. Great voice.
Sonic Youth
3/5
The White Stripes
4/5
Soundgarden
5/5
Elton John
3/5
Bruce Springsteen
2/5
Dr. Octagon
2/5
I enjoyed some of the beats. I liked the backing to that ridiculous Earth People rap, but overall it's a no for me
Black Sabbath
4/5
The Flaming Lips
3/5
I'm not sure how I feel about this and will need to listen again.
Talking Heads
3/5
Dennis Wilson
2/5
Boring. Two hours of absolute nothingness.
Boards of Canada
2/5
Music like this always reminds me of 90s demo disc background music. Like I should be listening to this when loading up Virtual Pool on the PS1
Miles Davis
3/5
Roxy Music
4/5
The Temptations
3/5
Wild Beasts
4/5
Quite liked this, though it wasn't drawing me in so much as pleasant background music. There's a certain time and place I have in mind to listen again to see if I am drawn in. Last track was my favourite.
Nick Drake
2/5
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
LL Cool J
2/5
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Quicksilver Messenger Service
4/5
This has some really good bits. It also has some long and unnecessary bits.
Steely Dan
3/5
More Steely Dan. This is the third I've had now, and I'm only 160ish albums in. It's what I imagine my grandad would have listened to. Too boring for me
Morrissey
2/5
The Smiths
2/5
This feels like a cruel joke after pulling Morrissey yesterday. What a whinger! Every song sounds the same, and whilst not terrible musically, the vocal absolutely kills any pleasure I could find from it.
The Chemical Brothers
2/5
Mekons
3/5
Meat Loaf
3/5
Talk Talk
4/5
2/5
Madness
4/5
This was an aural funfair - a summer feeling of carefree fun. Never listened to a Madness album before, and had no expectations whatsoever. I don't quite know when I'd listen to it again, but I really enjoyed the ride.
Frank Ocean
2/5
My first thought was, 'I wonder if he's Billy's crap cousin or something'
This somehow manages to sound more dated than some of the albums I've had from the 1970s. Why is the first track just a PlayStation booting up? It improved as it went on, but the voice was annoying.
There's no way they're related.
I'm sorry, Billy.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
3/5
Um. Watching my man's face was the highlight of this.
Hair Pie gives off Zorn and Ono vibes.
I kinda dig some of it though. Moonlight On Vermont was my favourite.
Coldplay
4/5
I'm not keen on his voice, unfortunately.
I dismissed this album at the time, having had it gifted to me. I wish I liked his voice more because this album is actually great for a chilled out evening. Really good tracks, consistent and well-produced. Love the subtle psychedelic guitar. Quite nice to listen through again, 25 years on, with a more open attitude to music than my grumpy 13-year-old self. The reviews I've scanned here remind me of her 😆
Kanye West
3/5
I'd never heard a Kanye album before, and now isn't the time to start really!
That said, I still listened.
What a damn shame. Some excellent tracks.
Lightning Bolt
4/5
The Fall
3/5
I know of this band. My ex was in their cult.
This album is nothing more than okay at best. The 60s garage sound I like, but seems like they manage to diverge from it just enough to become 'meh'. It's a mix of good songs and terrible ones, but, ultimately, all were forgettable.
Maybe I'm being harsh because my ex was a pretentious twat, but that's what it is. Music for pretentious twats.
(And if that isn't convincing, my ex went to see Einstürzende Neubauten)
I would not actively put this album on, but admittedly wouldn't turn it off either.
Mercury Rev
3/5
I think I like this, but I'm not stoned enough to fully enjoy this style of music.
Little Richard
5/5
Okay...
Imagine being some miserable 50s housewife then hearing this?! Bet the pinny never hit the floor so quickly. Every other song screams 'let's have a party'. Husband, schmusband.
Somewhat ironically, this modern woman can see herself cracking this album out to do the housework to; this would make any menial task upbeat and enjoyable.
I was giving this a 4 from the start, but hearing the origins of all of my favourite music within this solidifies the 5.
The Zombies
3/5
This was disappointing for me. I had higher hopes. Still, it was good, I liked it more on second listen, and I have nothing bad to say about the songs.
Leonard Cohen
1/5
Jesus Christ, this made me want to throw myself off the Tyne Bridge 💀
If this has to be on this list, it needs to be album 1001, because you'll want to end it all before it's finished.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Is there a better opening to an album out there?
Is there a better debut album out there?
Fuck it, is there a better album out there?
If there is, I can't wait to find it on this list.
The only downside to it is how you can look at your own life and realise how useless and talentless you are.
Closest thing I've heard to perfection, and they're not even my favourite band. 5 all day long.
The Jam
3/5
My experience with the Jam is hearing the odd song, thinking 'oh, I know this one', semi-enjoying, semi-singing along, but not really caring if I hear it again.
I'm not fussed on this either way. It's not great, it's not terrible, it just is.
Rocket From The Crypt
4/5
Where's my PlayStation controller? If this isn't a Tony Hawk's Pro Skater soundtrack, then I don't know what is.
Part of this felt nostalgic to me, even though I only knew On a Rope. Reminds me of discovering this sort of music in secret, and misspent youth in grungy rock clubs.
Great fun; great doots.
Madonna
1/5
Ah, 2000. A time when well-established icons (and Victoria Beckham) disguised their ageing voices with that robot autotune sound.
When you hear the name Madonna, nobody - absolutely nobody - thinks of this album. Title track might be considered after a while, but this couldn't sound more bland and dated if it tried.
A reminder that not everything pre-9/11 was sunshine and rainbows.
It's 8 hours since I wrote the above, and I only just got to see other reviews. Considering the number of references to 9/11 in them (not something I ever do) I'm going to say that this album is not just terrorism on the ears, but contains some form of subliminal terrorism within.
Madge did it.
Iron Maiden
5/5
If you don't like this, simply, you are wrong.
I fucking love Iron Maiden, and every track on this album is amazing.
3/5
I can't think of a band I am more impartial to. I have a vivid memory of hearing U2 in Kwik Save as a child, and I've really sort of only associated them with no frills shopping and walking through plastic flaps ever since.
They are okay. Their music is okay. War (my first album on this) was okay.
This was okay.
Tricky
3/5
I can never tell if I like trip hop or not.
My busy brain can't really fully focus and relax to enjoy it. I feel like it would be more my thing with a little 'influence', but in reality I'd fall asleep on the sofa.
It's got all the right elements, it's just me who can't piece them together. I did enjoy Black Steel and You Don't.
Moby
3/5
This is an album full of songs you have heard bits of somewhere before. Video games, adverts, etc.
Thing is, you really don't need to hear any of them in full; nothing else is added.
I don't mind it though. It's quite reminiscent of a time. Bodyrock y'all.
Game of Fifa 99 anyone?
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
Oliver's Army la la la la shoooooot the whole day down. Always get those two confused. Sunday's Best because he doesn't like Mondays. They were either in cahoots or competition.
A lot of this sounds like someone practising vowel sounds to a cute litte tune. Ahhehhihhhohhuuuhhh.
Sounds like I hate it, but I don't. It was alright, if a bit long.
Unfortunately, instead of humming Costello all day, I had I Don't Like Mondays wedged in my head.
Sinead O'Connor
1/5
First miserable weather we've seen in England for literally months and this is what I get today? I may as well drive off a cliff.
I'm cominggggg Sinéaaaaaad!
Seriously, this was dreadful. Just because she's dead doesn't make it haunting or powerful.
L
Solomon Burke
4/5
Fun old timey stuff. Pleasant listen
Sigur Rós
4/5
I enjoyed this once I got into it. Made for a nice drive, decided to diverge off my route down the coast to soak it up. Not sure when I'd listen again, but this was way better than I expected.
Slint
3/5
Yeah, it's okay.
It's the sort of music that comes on through random recommendations on Spotify while I'm busy doing something, and doesn't quite catch me enough to give my attention to nor turn it off.
It's fine, nothing special, nothing I'd go out of my way to hear again.
Paul Simon
3/5
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
I'm not American, I don't believe in Jesus, and some of this was better suited to the bedroom than my morning commute, but I really liked this.
The recommendations on Spotify afterwards opened my ears to a whole bunch of new tracks too!
Randy Newman
2/5
The first song going straight in with the slurs made me uncomfortable, and I didn't particularly feel any more positive towards the rest.
Feels quite relevant to the current flag shagging going on here in the UK - you can almost picture the gammons singing 'Every man a King' at the great city of Birmingham's EDL meets.
I'm not sure what exactly this album influenced beyond more Randy Newman albums...
Could Family Guy be more accurate in their parody? Left foot, right foot.
Try it. Observe your surroundings and sing them Randy Newman style. I've been having fun doing it all day.
U2
3/5
Another unremarkable U2 album.
This is the third one so far, and I'm yet to hear any discernable difference in sound across them. This one was my 'favourite' of the three, but I'm not sure if I'm just becoming used to hearing U2 so often.
Just like the other two: it's okay, it has a couple of recognisable songs, you can sing or bop to one or two of them...
But I really struggle to view it as rock music. It's easy listening with a guitarist wasted being in U2 (sure he's not complaining though).
UB40
2/5
Seen these live. Always a good show but never listened to an album.
I guess I hoped for more, a bit more upbeat.
The same beat for every song including the little gap before a doot made me wonder if the album started over again a few times.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
Classic. Every track enjoyable.
Fairport Convention
4/5
I have never heard a Fairport song in my life. I've heard of them but know nothing of them.
Was pleasantly surprised. If I knew ahead it was female-led folk music, it would have sent shivers down my spine, but I actually got quite into it once I realised it was quite psych rocky.
Still conjures up imagery of hippies in a circle, but yeah, enjoyed it.
David Gray
3/5
I'd quite like to hear this fella sing some rock music. I think his voice would be suited to it.
It's a bit generic 90s singer songwriter, but his voice I like. Babylon was a good song. If the songs had a bit more oomph, I reckon I'd really like it.
As it progressed, it felt more like a precursor to wet music like James Blunt and his ilk. This isn't wet, so has the edge over those. Shame though: I was hoping to get more into it.
It was okay.
ABBA
5/5
This is brilliant.
ABBA is so much more than cheesy 70s pop. Something about the music makes me feel something I can't even put into words. It's almost evocative of something I never experienced. I can't explain it.
Dancing Queen is possibly one of my favourite songs ever, and I'm a rock and metal kind of girl. Knowing Me Knowing You and Money Money Money are also really banging songs.
I did get a laugh at Why Did it Have to be Me, because it sounds like The Wombles could have sung that one... not that there's anything wrong with that, of course.
They truly deserve their place in music history. What a wonderful album.
Elvis Costello
2/5
This is my second Costello album. I thought I preferred this one to the other at first, but then it didn't seem to end.
His vocal is annoying.
Why doesn't it fit with any tune? And that's every single song. The more I hear, the more it gets on my nerves. After so many songs it just sounds like "uh uh-uh UHH uhH UH-uh-uh uHHhhh."
I don't even know what the guy looks like, but I get the impression that he looks like a tosser and moves annoyingly when performing.
He'd be good if he was somebody else, because the music isn't bad - I dare say it's even good in places - I can hear the influence on skater punk rock which I love, and that's the only reason this isn't getting a 1 star review.
Two of his albums down and I'm really not convinced. Four to go (sigh)...
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Ooh, I've had the full quadrilogy now.
Zeppelin are the masters of the art of the album. They have a balance of rock and blues that keeps you hooked. It's a whole mood.
They suck you in, and this is as close to perfect as I think you can get. I said the exact same for the other three. And I don't even consider them one of my favourite bands...
I think I might do now.
The Fall
1/5
People who like The Fall are loner alcoholics who think their drunk rambling is deep and profound. They want to be Mark E Smith - and they sort of are: pompous with a face like a wilting pumpkin.
Just an observation.
This album was bollocks.
Bob Dylan
3/5
I liked this more than I expected, especially Masters of War. I really liked the bitterness at the end; it'll stick with me so I can pass it on...
I'm not really turned on by lyrics. I prefer my music to be loud, upbeat and fun, but actually this did make me pay attention. Probably because not a lot else is going on. It works though. It's even quite annoying, but I get it.
Hateful old bastards ought to listen and remember what it was like to care about, well, anything besides themselves.
It's not something I'd actively stick on, but I'm glad I listened.
The Byrds
2/5
I liked *some* of the weird noises in this. The rest was a bit dull. Was thinking I was getting some trippy hippy fest, then it turned into a whistling stove kettle and a synthesiser falling down some stairs.
It's like they're trying to capture an acid journey, but they just pretended to take it for cool points in the hippy circle.
Could be better; could be worse.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
This is awesome. I really like CCR, solid and consistent. Finally an album where the fella and I can agree on a rating.
David Bowie
3/5
Not liking Bowie is like not liking vegetables. You have to try plenty to find what you like, but you will definitely like something. If you say otherwise, I won't believe you.
Sadly, this album was peas. I don't love them, but would still have them. I prefer others. Just as dinner wouldn't be complete without peas, Bowie wouldn't be complete without this iconic phase.
Middle ground.
Iggy Pop
4/5
This sounds more Bowie than yesterday's album... which was Bowie.
Enjoyed it.
Funkadelic
4/5
Did what it said on the tin. Lovely mix of funk and guitar. Thought Super Stupid was a brilliant track.
Dr. John
3/5
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
I'm left wondering why Layla is the title track. The other assorted love songs were way better. Gorgeous guitar, obviously. Bit long in places, but overall a very enjoyable album.
Justice
2/5
First track was fine. Then in the second, someone jammed the printer and dropped their mobile phone in some coffee trying to contact IT. I picture a badger in a tie, having been employed as a clumsy admin assistant.
Then we take a trip to Sesame Street for D.A.N.C.E - I knew the song, but it sounds like it should be called 'My First Electronica'. Badger must be on a break.
Badger is back, fucking around with the fax machine for a bit. Oh no, it's on fire. He's set the fire alarm off... panic ensues.
I sort of liked this part of the album. It's slightly anxiety inducing, but I'm fine with that. Stress, Waters of Nazareth, One Minute to Midnight definitely were the 'best' bits. To call it good would be a stretch though.
But, no, this was pretty terrible. Office has burned to the ground. Badger is dead. 200 employees have perished. My ears are bleeding.
Nick Drake
1/5
This is total nothingness. Bland voice, bland guitar.
I've also had more tuneful farts than 'Know'.
I could just tell before looking at the Wiki that he offed himself. Miserable.
Paul McCartney and Wings
3/5
There are some decent songs on this. I like Jet and Mrs Vandebilt. Some others had their moments. Bluebird and the Picasso one were a bit boring and dated.
McCartney's voice doesn't really ever change, which might be part of what makes him him, but it's not something I can listen to for a long period.
Not bad overall.
ZZ Top
5/5
Banging album. Good fun. Every track was a bop - probably very underrated in the grand scheme of things.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
Well, that was a pleasant surprise.
This was smooooth. I think it's more suited to a lazy Sunday morning lie-in than my morning dash.
I imagine lying in bed, fella brings me a coffee, we snuggle for a bit, and if we fall asleep, so be it, we enjoyed it anyway.
I really enjoyed the last few tracks - Hard to Say Goodbye onwards had such a feel to it. I only wish I wasn't driving during that bit.
Genuinely pleased with this one and will listen again on Sunday morning.
John Prine
2/5
What in the Hillbilly Dylan?
Sick of hearing the word Jesus.
Jesus indeed. This is crap. It didn't seem to end. To be fair, I didn't turn it off so it's not a 1.
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
I like it. It doesn't pull me in as much as I'd hoped, but I can't fault it. I'd happily listen to any of the individual tracks again.
Tom Tom Club
2/5
It sounds like a collection of music and sound effects from platform games of yesteryear.
Didn't feel either way about this, but it's not for me.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
1/5
I used to frequent a rock club which only had regulars, and a few of them loved The Jesus and Mary Chain, so I was excited to hear this. That sharply changed.
So much reverb noise, it sounded like the shower was running and I was in the next room trying to listen to a song, only to hear the chhhhhhhhh of running water. In a Hole reminded me of trying to tune into Channel 5 on the kitchen telly in the late 90s. Ahead of its time, maybe?
More songs in, it feels like I've put in a full shift on a construction site. I can't believe this album is only 40 minutes long.
I felt like it would be okay if it wasn't so intense. There's nothing wrong with the tunes themselves. But Jesus Christ, I've now got tinnitus.
Might be worth keeping in mind in case I get yet another neighbour who blasts Adele on repeat.
Portishead
3/5
Lose the vocal, hand me a joint, and it's a 5 all day long.
I know it was the 90s and all, but the singing and music don't match up. That gets on my nerves after a while and spoilt it. It's why I'm always unsure if I like trip hop or not. In theory, I suppose.
Decent enough to snooze to though.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
4/5
Like Mayall's vocal. A good listen.
I see the reviews complaining about white boy blues and Clapton, but, like, who cares? It's great music, whatever it is or isn't.
New Order
4/5
Pretty decent. I know nothing of New Order except Blue Monday (who doesn't) and this was a lot more than I expected, I guess. I listened twice because I suspected it would be better on second hearing. I was right.
Subculture was the only one that didn't really do it for me.
It sounds very 80s, but it was a great listen. Loved the way the guitar came in at the end of Elegia - that was my favourite bit.
The Last Shadow Puppets
4/5
I only have terrible memories of 2008. I literally lost interest in everything, so the year completely passed me by. So did this, and what a shame...
This is well good. I really enjoyed some of the songs on here. Separate and Ever Deadly, The Chamber then In My Room later on all pricked my ears. Great 60s quality with added cleanness. Interesting listen.
Not quite a 5, because some tracks didn't grab me as hard as others, but definitely a strong 4.
Van Morrison
3/5
I wish this was a bit more upbeat. I like it, the voice is good, just a bit slow for a Friday morning in October. Not feeling it.
It needs to be played late on a Summer's day. Driving home: you have a touch of heatstroke and you're anticipating crashing out on the sofa when you get back. Feet slightly aching, you decided to play this because you were in the mood after hearing a busker singing Brown Eyed Girl and you want some REAL Van Morrison.
One to keep for those occasions, but not today. Still decent but without that mood, I can't give it any higher.
Alice Cooper
5/5
Camp. Glam. Banging.
Right up my street. Every song rocks. Good fun, and even though I laugh, I Love the Dead is a great song that has it all.
Anyone else noticed all the best albums are 40 minutes long? Enough to get a good taste of it, and to leave you wanting more.
Maxwell
2/5
There's nothing wrong with it. I think the reviews are being dramatic; I did get a laugh from a good few of them though. It's not really my bag, it's too slow, and R&B mostly sounds the same, but it's not terrible.
It didn't make much of an impact either way. Bit dull. I suggested I contextualise it by having sex, but my fella needed a poo.
Public Enemy
4/5
Yeah boiiiyyyy.
This is great. The sound is a bit dated, but the themes are still relevant. I love Chuck D's voice, it hits hard.
How sad that 35 years on, the attitudes they rhyme about are still rampant. Quite thought provoking.
I love driving to this too. The anger makes me feel cool.
3/5
Solid mid. Nothing wrong with it, nothing stands out about it. Slightly wine barish. Could do menial work to it. Inoffensive.
The Young Gods
2/5
Hmm...
It reminds me of when you get to the dingy rock club a bit too early. You don't know what's playing, the floor is still clean-sticky instead of spilled-drinks-and-vomit-sticky and the atmosphere is still a little uncomfortable. You get a drink and look around to see a pair of weird goths already on the dance floor, and nobody else, so you stand around for a bit, occasionally bopping your head. It's not bad, you've got something heavy and you're a few drinks into the night, but really, you're just waiting for the club to fill so they play the songs you know and love.
It's certainly not the worst thing I've heard, it sort of works. Indeed, these are my favourite 80s French Industrial band. I'm not in any rush to hear it again.
Bad Company
4/5
I like this, it's a nice soft rock with great vocal. Heard it before, so nothing surprising or mind-blowing here.
I fail to see it as anything special, and it feels a bit 'dad rock' today. Straight Shooter does it more for me personally.
Still enjoyed it.
Dolly Parton
3/5
Given these sweet little ditties, why are American hillbillies so, 'muh guns, muh racism, muh Trump'? Obviously not Dolly herself, she's a sweetheart. They ought to take notes from A Better Place to Live.
This was surprisingly much better than I expected. Quite upbeat and because it was short, it didn't become repetitive and annoying as country is. Not something I'd choose to listen to, but really, she's okay.
Badly Drawn Boy
3/5
Was alright. I fell asleep the first time around - that to me means it's not something terrible and annoying.
Primal Scream
3/5
Assorted 90s sounds. So, like, I can't particularly fault it, and I like that trippy Indian instrument they use, and the range of instruments is good, but it just doesn't do much.
It feels like waiting music. I don't mean hold or lift music, more like a loading screen; I get a sense of anticipation. It's weird.
Maybe I need a joint first. I'd like to like it, but in a solid sober state, it's not great. Would watch them at a festival rather than listen to an album.
Beck
3/5
Boring background music. His voice is alright but this could use something.
3/5
If I was alive in 1982 this might have been a nice nostalgia trip, but I wasn't. This just sounds like every other 80s pop to my millennial ears. Poison Arrow is quite fun, I guess.
I don't dislike it, it's just nothing special and of a time.
2/5
Eh, not keen. Some moments are alright and others are pants. What was that we are Devo thing all about? Mongoloid with a chromosome too many? Wtf?!
Maybe it's going over my head, but I don't really get how that's considered hear-before-I-die-worthy.
SAULT
2/5
I don't do whispering, this isn't good music, and the message a little too on the nose - albeit important and relevant in 2020.
I appreciate why it's considered for the list given the context, but, musically, it's crap. Too many references to goddy stuff too. Racism and god-bothering. In 2020. What a strange, backwards world we live in.
I thought Wildfires was something of a song, and Bow had a more interesting sound, but nah, this doesn't do it at all.
Booker T. & The MG's
3/5
In the first three tracks, I'd plotted to steal the Mona Lisa, visited Blackpool pleasure beach and run away from Benny Hill.
The guitar is pretty good. Classic 60s sound. Rock and roll with an organ. Can tell this influenced a hell of a lot. I'm just not that keen on organs.
It's not exactly something I can invest in, but it's high quality, and Green Onions is a fantastic bit of music.
Steely Dan
3/5
They're not a great listen. Four is excessive. At least they're done now. I'm too young and too female - this is proper grandad rock.
Best of the Steely Dan albums I've had though. It's was short and felt a bit more varied than the others. They're not bad musicians, they're consistent. I just find them consistently dull.
The Byrds
3/5
It's boringly pleasant I think. Upbeat entry level 60s rock. There's better out there. Sounded a bit samey but not too much that it became tedious.
Dr. Dre
2/5
I liked the beats. Especially in NWAG (don't wish to write that) Rat-Tat-Tat-Tat and Lyrical Gangbang. Not so keen on that keyboardy organ thing, and skits.
The sex skits and mentioning dicks brings out the Mary Whitehouse in me. I'm a white 40 year old woman from England - definitely not the target audience - so a lot of it sounds childish to me.
Bobby Womack
4/5
Funky, smooth and a little cheesy. Yeah, don't mind it at all. Has a late 70s hangover sort of sound, not quite fully transitioned into the 80s yet, but with some hints of synth-yet-to-come.
I felt like I was watching Top of the Pops listening to this - every song sounded like it could have been a featured song from the charts. As each track faded, I imagined the clapping and a little introduction to the next song, which is weird, because I wasn't even born yet.
I listened before 6am even hit. It really suited the time of day with nothing too intense and a lovely clean sound to pull myself round to.
It's not my go-to type of music, but I'm certainly not complaining about it. I enjoyed hearing this.
PJ Harvey
3/5
I somehow like and dislike it at the same time. It's simultaneously rock and artsy bollocks. Her vocal style is bizarre, but I quite like how it's quiet one second then BANG BANG BANG the next.
A bit too 90s maybe, but kind of appealing to my blatant undiagnosed neurodivergence. "Hey, you're starting to drift away from focusing on this, aren't you? HAHA NOW YOU'RE NOT! LISTEN TO MEEEEE! LOOOOUUUUUD!"
Is this another where I need to try again on drugs? I say that evey 25 albums or so, but I promise I don't have a habit.
I feel like I probably won't listen to it again. I think I'm fine with having experienced it. Confusion. That's what this album is.
Jimmy Smith
2/5
Sounds like a loading screen on The Sims or something. That's pretty much all I can say about it. It exists.
Blur
4/5
Woooohooooo! Naturally, the best track on the album. Road to World Cup, anyone? IYKYK.
Didn't mind this. Some decent tracks, an obvious pastiche, easy to listen to.
Wouldn't say it's a strong 4, but it's definitely better than 3. I'm left satisfied hearing it, but not really left wanting more.
Grant Lee Buffalo
4/5
I had no expectations here. The opening track was pleasantly surprising.
It wasn't bad at all. It reminds me of a lot of things, but can't place it. Bowie? Lou Reed? Placebo? Put 70s and 90s mellow moody rock in a blender and get this. I kinda like it.
Saving this one for the car. I want to hear it again.
Stephen Stills
3/5
Easy to listen to. It's nothing more than alright.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
3/5
Enjoyable enough, especially when considering my grandparents would have still been young when it came out, but I don't love it.
Maybe I set my expectations too high after hearing Little Richard.
It's clean, well-produced, and it's influential; an album you can firmly say deserves to be on the list. Hard to give a fair rating probably. If I channel my inner 50s-housewife, I'm giving it a 4, but 2025 me thinks it's a 3.
Screaming Trees
4/5
Eh, it was decent. Not keen on the vocal, was hoping for something a bit heavier.
Dying Days really stood out though, I enjoyed that one. Then read that it featured Pearl Jam's guitarist. So, that figures. Some other good songs though not leaving me craving to hear more. It is very much suitable driving music and I happened to be driving when listening.
Electric Light Orchestra
5/5
Wow.
Was not expecting this at all. I've only heard a couple of hits before, and realise they do not do ELO justice. This is fuck all like Telephone Line and shit. This is incredible.
Really loved this, especially - this sounds so ridiculous - the orchestra parts! Fabulous!
Tears For Fears
2/5
I find all these flat-vocal 80s bands really similar and don't think any of them rank higher than the others. I always get the impression that 'you had to be there.'
You can sing along with Everybody Wants to Rule the World, and Shout is not new to me. Everything else was boring and failed to keep my attention.
This whole genre is a write off for me personally.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
There's no denying this is a great album. So much power and feeling in that voice.
There is nothing bad to say about it. It's not my favourite genre, but this is flawless.
Slayer
3/5
Sick guitars and manic drums. Yes! Not so keen on the vocal style, but appreciate it's part of the genre.
Great for what it is, all sounds a bit samey though.
Heaven 17
1/5
This reminds me of being 7 and messing around on my Yamaha keyboard.
Step one: press preset drum
Step two: plink three keys. Repeat.
Step three: think of a title and sing it over and over.
This feels like a pisstake, but you just know it's not. Crap.
Alanis Morissette
2/5
I dunno. It's very 90s, it's very typical pop rock. Sounds like the soundtrack to some American teen drama breakup scenes.
It's not bad, I suppose, it's just dated and basic. I get a sense that it was everywhere for a while then everyone just got sick of her and didn't care about a follow up.
Her voice is pretty annoying. It's like she's trying too hard, but I get it was 1995. It's trying to be tomboy, but I can only see girly girls really liking it. For the modern day, it's crap.
Cream
4/5
Very cool sound. Awesome guitar. Not keen on the cockney sounding ones, but a solid album.
Marvin Gaye
2/5
Disappointed in this. I expected more from such a big name. I really thought I was getting in to soul from others I've had on this journey, but this was boring.
Some of the orchestration sounded like things you'd hear on Chrisrmas songs, so it seemed a bit odd too. I'd have an afternoon snooze to it but that's about it.
Not that there's anything wrong with his voice. It's nice. Just the music was dull and a bit cheesy. Not what I wanted, sadly.
4/5
Might have been just a little too young at the time to appreciate this. I didn't like Oasis, so this was my first time listening to an album of theirs.
I was surprised - and impressed -that I wasn't just aware of the songs, but knew them well - lyrics and all. This album obviously had a lot more impact than I remember. Anthemic.
Wonderwall is a bit pants and overplayed though, init?
I was also impressed at how such a shit singer doesn't become annoying enough to make you turn it off before 50 minutes is up. I actually enjoyed it.
I honestly thought Don't Look Back in Anger was the best song on the album though. Noel is definitely the talented one.
Good listen, and a lesson for me not to be so dismissive in future!
Fela Kuti
2/5
I think I would need to see this live to enjoy it. I imagine a lot is happening on stage that I'm missing by just listening. It's so long.
Parts of it are funky, parts of it are dull. Mostly dull. The drum solo is the biggest anticlimax ever. How do two drummers considered to be the best of their kind manage to come together and sound so bloody boring?
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I liked this. I had a bit of a stone over, and it worked so well to get me enjoying my weekend. Quality.
Very cool chilled vibes.
Ice Cube
4/5
The Stooges
4/5
Pretty good. It feels like a transition from the 60s hard rock to pure raw punk. Enjoyed it but it's not quite a 5 for me.
Wire
3/5
This was alright. Suitable for driving to. It was probably better at the time, because I couldn't get the idea that I was listening to a random band in a pub out of my head.
Nothing felt special about it.
Coldcut
1/5
Not being on Spotify is annoying.
Immediately I have an image of a curly permed woman in a leotard, hairband and tights ready to give us instructions for aerobics. Sort of like the album cover actually.
That didn't last long.
Oh no. A wild Mark E. Smith appears. No exercise going on here.
What's that noise? Indeed. It could be a scratch, a phone, a saxophone or something else. I'd say it's like a bad trip, but it's not even as good as that.
I dunno what the purpose of this album is. Is it a selection of 80s noises to use for crappy projects? To play at your pretentious art and fashion show? To piss off the neighbours?
It's hip hop without the hip. It's house without the consistency.
Stop This Crazy Thing was as good as it got, but it didn't hold up long. I liked the dooty bit.
I'm glad it's not on Spotify. Nobody who worked on this deserves a microfraction of a penny that my stream would earn it. Imagine the recommendations that would follow.
In fairness, it does as it says on the tin.
The Adverts
3/5
This was alright. Suitable for driving to. It was probably better at the time.
Nothing felt special about it.
Yes, I copied and pasted the review I gave an album 2 days ago. Because all this 70s punk sounds the same.
I like punk, it rocks and has power and speed, but none of it really sticks out, so, at the same time, I don't like punk.
The Smiths
2/5
Oh no. Not him again.
The band is okay, I just don't understand why or even how they worked with Morrissey.
Annoying voice, annoying views. Possibly paints roundabouts.
I saw an article about him and "can you separate art from the artist" using him as an example. Well, I thankfully wouldn't ever have that dilemma, because I'd never choose to listen to this.
Germs
3/5
Had a bit of a punk run lately. I think I prefer this to the British punk, but I'm not 100% sold on it.
I can hear the foundations for other bands that I can't really get from the other albums of late.
It's manic and insane. It's just not great. Vocal is a bit shit. Don't mind the overall sound though.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Best Sonic Youth album I've had yet. It was pretty good. I like the heavy. No song was what I'd consider a banger though, nothing to sing along to.
Kanye West
2/5
Eh, the other one was better. Some decent enough tracks, but instantly loses a star for featuring Rihanna, drop another for being Kanye and there's not many stars I can actually give it.
Does he show some self awareness in sampling 21st Century Schizoid Man?
G. Love & Special Sauce
2/5
I get what it's going for, but an hour of the same thing was too much. It wasn't bad, very of a time, not great either.
Fred Neil
3/5
I genuinely think he has a nice voice. But it's the kind of nice voice I've got no desire to listen to. This isn't something I'd choose but I can't deny his voice. I see the appeal for (now deceased) grandpas.
It's a good album to be fair.
The xx
2/5
Musically is fine, but a bit boring. Definitely not one for the car. The voice is meh. I'd really have to be in the right mood for this sort of thing, and today isn't it.
Metallica
5/5
This is the kind of album that makes me hyped and say 'FUCK YEAH'. Love it. Probably the best of the 281 I've had so far.
Korn
4/5
I was never into Korn, even though I was on that whole scene. Dig the heavy guitar and general sound but even at the time it felt a bit rarrr I'm 13 and edgy, ooh creepy psycho vocal. Not a favourite but happy to listen to it.
I got a bit bored of it towards the end. Some really good tracks but they need to be listened to in isolation, not at over an hour at a time.
Kings of Leon
3/5
Never given this band any time nor thought. Their other one was everywhere to the point I'd never have sought anything out by them. I thought this was *quite* good. It's almost enjoyable but never quite gets there. Singer sounds a bit like he's got something in his mouth, or he's too lazy to get the words out properly. No tracks stand out as real bangers, but the sound is alright overall. Solid mid.
Lauryn Hill
2/5
Honestly, same review as Fugees. I get it, I get why it was popular, I hear the influence, but R&B just does nothing for me at all. It's also way too long, Jesus Christ.
Taylor Swift
2/5
Well, If I was 10... my sister would like it and I'd probably be sick to the back teeth of hearing it. My friends want to do routines to it at break. Someone's singing it in assembly. End of year assembly and the dance club does Shake It Off. Catchy pop for tween girls. It's hard to view it as anything but for children, and it's giving me Spice Girls Vietnam flashbacks even though they don't sound anything alike.
Is it bad? No. I'm just a tomboy. Maybe I'd get indoctrinated into enjoying Blank Space a là Who Do You Think You Are.
Her marketing team is genius, let's say that.
Einstürzende Neubauten
1/5
Remember when Stomp was a thing? It's like they had a nervous breakdown. Or when you're a child and run at a metal fence with a stick, but the playground is haunted.
I think this was music used during psychological trials to see what happens to the brain when steelworkers are given too much overtime.
This really is shit. There is no other word for it. Is it meant to be art?
As a side note, Taylor Swift was yesterday's pick; only here could someone listen to that and this sequentially. Spotify data analysts must be baffled.
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
I couldn't tell you why, but I like this. Something is pulling me in and I'm embracing it. Made for really good driving music.
I love that bizarre vocal style of his; it really works for me. I'm curious to hear more, especially something more upbeat - I'm assuming they've got other upbeat songs.
Yes
3/5
I like it but I wish it would do something a bit more oomphy. I don't know how to explain what it is that stops me from loving it. Perpetual Change could be awesome but just misses the mark for me.
Weirdly reminds me of Queen if they took a slightly different direction.
The Auteurs
3/5
Didn't mind it.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
4/5
Just a bit of fun. Not taking itself seriously. I like that sort of thing. I quite liked it, but it not really something for the regular.
Air
4/5
Sexy Boy is a hell of an atmospheric tune. This album was nice and chill, I just wish it wasn't Monday morning! Could have done with listening in bed.
2/5
Baaba Maal
3/5
Quite like when world music comes up, it's something I'd never listen to or know about otherwise. I'd definitely like this more if I was on a beach in Senegal and not driving to work at 7am.
It was alright.
Def Leppard
4/5
I love this shit. Cheesy rock just for fun. Surface level singalong. People are being harsh I think - you're not meant to take it seriously.
Are they super talented? No
Are the lyrics deep? No
It's just good fun man, lighten up, grab a hairbrush and enjoy it.
The real highlight was actually the songs after on Spotify. Cheesy 80s rock. It's like a guilty pleasure, except I don't feel guilty.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I liked this, but it's pretty tame sounding for 60s rock. Had the UK version since I'm not offended by a long record.
It's funny to read that people might be offended by lyrics about women or allusions to a man, who, if he even existed, died 2000 years ago. Oh no! And they call us the snowflake generation.
This was decent anyway.
Method Man
3/5
This had a cool atmosphere, but the music wasn't amazing. Liked it enough to give a 3
Buena Vista Social Club
2/5
Kraftwerk
2/5
Sounds like 16 bit games. This is overrated. Not very exciting at all.
Bert Jansch
2/5
Boring. Dull and boring.
Grateful Dead
4/5
I like the sound. A lot. It's just very stretched out and doesn't do a lot.
Some of the guitar is wonderful, I just wish they were actual songs and not extended jams.
If it was 1969 and I was off being a hippy I'd probably buy in to it, but I'd likely fall asleep listening to them, miss the bus to the show, and be kicked out of the club for not being committed enough a deadhead.
Alas, it's not 1969 so I'm working and sober... this isn't the right fit for today. Maybe next week.
Sepultura
4/5
Decent album, this.
De La Soul
3/5
Fun but long. Not really for the modern ear.
The Dandy Warhols
3/5
Common
2/5
I listened 8 hours ago and have completely forgotten what I was going to say about it.
So there's that...
It was forgettable. Obviously. Not terrible.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
I dunno. It was alright but weird.
Missy Elliott
2/5
This is somewhere between hypnotic and annoying. It's not for me, but definitely remember Work It being all over at the time.
Various Artists
4/5
Decent and appropriate. Merry Christmas!
The Mamas & The Papas
4/5
Don't mind it but there's good reason they're known for hits and not more.
Mariah Carey
2/5
Did I have to get her two days after Christmas? That makes her my most heard artist of December and it's not consensual.
Honestly, girl can sing, but these songs are all boring as all hell. She's upbeat at Christmas and she should try that more often. This is what I call karaoke music, where the backing track sounds like it could be by any female singer of the 80s and 90s.
Meh.
Sonic Youth
3/5
These again?
I really fail to see why this band got so many entries on this list when it's not even considered an all-time great, and, to the best of my knowledge, doesn't even exist now.
This album was like the rest of them: okay, no bangers.
Metallica
4/5
All the yes. One is such a classic. Nothing better than Metallica to start a Monday morning. It's not my favourite, but it's still damn good.
Beck
2/5
Pretty impartial to this. It was on, it played, it was music. I didn't feel anything either way.
Christina Aguilera
2/5
As solo women go, could be way way worse.
She's alright, but I don't think she needs a double album. Way too long unless you're really really into her. Especially since by the time disc 2 (the way better one) you're a bit sick of hearing it.
I was never into that R&B mainstream stuff though her voice suits it. The album is mostly upbeat and her ooOOOuuuuUuuuUUUuh thing is less obvious than when she released stuff like Beautiful (which sucks).
It sounds a bit dated now, but I also need to accept that 2006 was 20 years ago. It was the style at the time. Time to hang up the belt onions.
Can
3/5
It's like a cool intro or outro that never ends. Unfortunately doesn't go anywhere either. I don't mind the sound, drum focus is cool, bit of an atmosphere, but nah, needs something else for me.
Wu-Tang Clan
3/5
The Undertones
3/5
Sterile as anything. I wasn't keen but it's not the worst I've ever heard. Little boppy tunes suitable for the car I guess. I saw them live, an opening act at a free festival. That's what this album is ideal for: people who go to festivals because they're free, not because there's music on.
Rufus Wainwright
2/5
Oh man.
The first track had me really intrigued: it was weird and the voice was cool, spooky and somewhat familiar. By the third track I felt cheated, lured in by the spiritual chanting vibe.
It just didn't do anything except whinge. Real shame. Dude has a voice that could be used so much better. Old Whore's Diet was probably my 'favourite' after the first one.
Let's just say it was disappointing.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Mehhh, of the time. I can appreciate that they'd never heard rock music so this was probably peak.
Got to try to contextualise, haven't you?
I've been washing dishes and shake n vac'ing all day. A delightful homemade pie is in the oven, and the spuds are bubbling away on the stovetop. The house looks and smells wonderful, and I put on my dotty frock and do up my hair just before husband comes home. He comes in, wraps his arms around me and gives me a twirl in the kitchen to some romantic lyrics. The swinging lets me know we're makin whoopie later so we can add to our brood. Oh how wonderful.
Then he slaps me about for tea being late to the table.
Anyway, it was fine for what it was.
Megadeth
5/5
It's another "fuck yeah" album for me. Give me any of the big 4 any day. I don't listen to them for ages but when I do, I get hyped and love them more than the last time.
What I especially like about Megadeth over the others is that I can 'sing' along to the guitar. In fact, I can't help but do it.
Weeeeeeoooooohweeeenuhnuhhyeeeeeee dudududu dudududu duduludduh duh duh duh dududududuuuuuuuhhhhh.
M.I.A.
1/5
Ba nah nah ba nah nah ba nah nah
M I A M I A M I A M I A pull up the people pull up the people bucky done gun bucky done gun bucky done gun...
I can only assume this was designed and used as a torture method during the Iraq war.
No.
Silver Jews
2/5
Reminds me of one of those singer-songwriters but don't know which one. Cohen? Dylan? Reed? Someone else? Maybe a bit of all of them.
It isn't as annoying as whoever it reminds me of, but blimey, pretty boring. The fact the music has more than a whinging acoustic guitar gets it an extra point.
Herbie Hancock
3/5
Is this my thing? Not really.
However, I must have put hundreds of hours into The Sims games back in the day and this reminds me of it. I'm almost transported back to sitting in the converted garage, hiding away from family, hours at a time alone and at peace, designing homes and then living out better lives than mine until deleting the pool ladders and drowning them. Ahh.
This is what I call 'not a listening album': it's an accompaniment to something else.
I could listen to this happily in the background while doing something chill to wind down - reading, writing, drawing, slowly organising things.
Yeah. As jazz goes, it's pretty good.
Mudhoney
4/5
Superfuzz bigmuff means something else in the UK.
I took the 1988 version, since the other is 2 hours long and I want to hear it as it was.
The tracks are decent, I do like the grunge sound, but prefer other singers to this guy. Switch him out and this is banging.
6 tracks is a nice length - it's too short if anything - which is better than taking the 32 track option and getting absolutely fed up of hearing it.
In 'N' Out of Grace is how the whole thing should sound. Hell yeah that's a tune.
Tom Waits
3/5
This is a strange one. I wouldn't say I liked it, exactly, but I got soaked up in the atmosphere. I'm there with the crowd. I appreciate the art rather than the singing.
I get it. Doesn't mean I like it, but it's well done. It's pretty immersive and engaging. Reminds me of the bar in Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
It's a classic, though I have never been a fan of the title track. It's a good album, the type of accessible rock that everyone can enjoy in some capacity.
Not into rock? You'll like some of it. Into rock? You'll like some of it.
Calexico
4/5
I don't know what I expected with this. It made for pleasant driving music.
I liked it.
The Monks
5/5
This was fantastic. I had so much fun listening to it. The world wasn't- and probably still isn't- ready for The Monks.
Punk AF. I loved it. Right up my street.
Brian Eno
3/5
- He can make some pretty sounds
- I don't mind the vocals
- I can hear influence on stuff 20 years on from this
It's just a bit slow and boring. It felt like it needed a bit of spice. Maybe he should add a poppadom to his synthesiser. Though that's just a stupid pun.
It has nice moments, but it failed to hold my interest.
Frank Zappa
5/5
Actual cool stoner-jazz-metal. I've been looking forward to getting some Zappa to properly check him out.
It was fun and cool. So cool. So cool, in fact, I keep saying this is cool. I can't even find another word that fits. Funky and experimental. I want to get stoned now.
It's banging. I'm not sure if it's truly a 5 to my tastes, but it's so cool that it's getting one.
Adele
1/5
Oh no. I've dreaded this day.
Since 2011, I've had five different next door neighbours who've blasted 'Someone Like You' at inopportune times, presumably whilst crying into a sharing bag of Maltesers. I naturally wince at even the thought of that song.
They were all sad, fat and lonely, so I can only assume that has to be a prerequisite to listening to her music. I am none of those things.
It triggers me already because of that, but then her voice has something horrible about it that's irritating. It's not that she can't sing, but the tone or something (don't know music words) is really unpleasant to me.
The album cover makes her look like she's doing what I call picking her nits - when people scratch their head then inspect their nails. What are they looking for? Reminds me of chimps. That just adds to it all.
Objectively though: this was just a bit shit. She's bland. She isn't half as powerful vocally as people claim, and the songs are naff. Music for people who don't like music and only listen because they think that's what they're supposed to like.
GZA
3/5
Some of these tracks were pretty good. I keep discofering that I enjoy hip hop and rap way more than I ever thought I would.
I'm not really in the right mood today unfortunately. I'm also not a big fan of skit bits - just keep the flow going please. That said, when I popped out in the car, it was banging. Gold especially.
Wouldn't argue if I heard any of it again.
Hugh Masekela
2/5
Eh, he can play but how boring? Afrobeat? I just hear a slow piano.
Expected something more engaging. This was just dull. Should have all been like the children's song at the end.
Love
5/5
Good, this.
It's probably the best rock-folk-psychedelic-hippie album I've heard.
It's got substance and it's sophisticated. The guitar is excellent, great use of crash cymbals. I'm totally on board with this.
Os Mutantes
4/5
This was weird. In a good way. It's pretty eccentric and cool, and I had fun listening to it. Great range of instruments, cool as hell guitar in places, summery feel...
I just wish I knew what they were singing!
Janet Jackson
3/5
She is what she is. Unfair to compare to other singing Jacksons.
That would be like comparing God to his brother, Simon.
I swear every introduction was the same - felt like I was going mad, but you can just say tell the songs are different.
Her voice is alright. The songs are typical 80s pop. The production is alright. It's something you'd hear in a shopping centre: inoffensive and... alright.
It doesn't exceed alright.
It's just alright.
Anyone want to guess my 'favourite' track?
Bruce Springsteen
2/5
There's just something about Springsteen that I don't enjoy. It's not one element that I can pinpoint, it's more that it's sort of dull, even when it isn't.
Songhoy Blues
4/5
Well cool. Upbeat and fun. I just have to trust it's not about bludgeoning kittens and shit because I don't understand a single word.
Most of the world music on here is really good and not something I'd ever encounter in the wild. These guys can play.
John Martyn
3/5
This quickly became background music. It was far from unpleasant though. My ears pricked at I'd Rather be the Devil; that one was good.
There atmosphere was nice, but the vocals weren't, and the songs were a bit meh.
Not bad for 70s singer-songwriter but not my sort of thing.
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Another solid mid.
I don't mind the sound honestly.
I don't mind the vocal either, but is it English? It's like Prisencolinensinainciusol - oh yeah this sounds English, but no word in particular is distinguishable.
It's a bit samey throughout, so it becomes a bit boring, but individually, they'd be alright. Not life-changing or anything.
Another solid mid.
The Roots
4/5
Decent. Enjoyed a lot of it.
Donovan
3/5
When it's good it's good, but when it's bad it's absolute bollocks. Plinky toy piano thing is terrible.
Season of the Witch is the best on there - I like that one.
Hard to decide if it's more good than shite, or vice versa.
Joe Ely
2/5
I don't even know what to say about this. It's music.
It all sounds the same. How many times does he say hahhhnky tahhhhnk?
James Brown
3/5
Kinda cool, but would prefer it not to be live. I feel like you'd need visuals for James Brown.
I like the doots.
Scott Walker
2/5
Some had a nice backing,
But his voice didn't fit,
This album was lacking,
A little bit shit.
Not fully shit though. It's just doesn't work especially well.
Some tracks, like Get Behind Me, would be good if they were better. I know what I mean...
Interesting that the songs after on Spotify were a really random mix of 60s and 70s. I think he broke the algorithm.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
2/5
The opening tricked me. I thought it was all going to be 'jeebuz lurves me' country music when that woman started.
It was actually quite fun for a bit, but nobody needs two hours of banjo-wielding hillbillies.
It went awn fur so lawng that ah furgawt ahm even English. Gyuck!
The jeebuz woman comes back too for some cyclical cringe. Like hippies but with added inbreeding. What a horribly tacky American way to end a record. Bleh!
Oh god! I thought that circle being unbroken was the end. It has another 5 tracks after!
The early middle part gets a 3. The length and woman gets a 1. Balanced out at 2 - not listening to that again.
Radiohead
3/5
This is alright. Like, they're obviously really good at what they do. The guitar on Lucky was really nice. I think they're great musicians.
But it was so miserable that I wanted to slit my wrists. I'd probably not choose to hear this again, as good as the tracks are.
The computer using Microsoft Sam was a bit of a throwback - we used to put song lyrics into it and make it "sing".
Simple Minds
3/5
They're one of the better bands that sound exactly like this.
This 80s stuff just isn't my cuppa. It's not their fault. They're decent at what they're doing, but it's not for me.
Frank Black
4/5
First track made me say aloud: what on earth is this?!
Kinda liked it.
Not bad this. Not life changing nor mind blowing, but decent enough.
The Sabres Of Paradise
3/5
Another "not a listening album".
I realised as I was driving to work that I was quite zoned out from the music but focused on the road more than usual (good job as there were some idiots about).
I'm very easily distracted by sights and sounds - not in a neurodivergent way as far as I know - and this might be ideal for focusing on my pile of marking.
I feel this may be useful! We shall see...
As a listening album it would be bollocks.
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
Held up better than I expected, except the line about Terry Wogan.
Reminds me of being free of school and starting to go out on the lash. Enjoyable. Take me Out will always remind me of Back Off Boogaloo though. The vocal on Michael sounds like Mr. Weebl... remember him?!
Not 5 enjoyable, but good fun and a nice throwback.
The Mothers Of Invention
3/5
Hell yeah a kazoo!
This is fun, gets a laugh now and then, but it's not exactly something I can relate to nor would I listen it to for leisure.
Feels like a bit of a waste of good musicians.
The Pogues
2/5
Shove your tin whistles up your arse.
David Bowie
5/5
Bowie is great, and he's got something for everyone. THIS is the one for me. I really loved this.
I bet listening to this in 1977 sounded like you were listening to something from 50 years in the future. And with 50 years almost gone, it's still an amazing piece of work.
Warszawa actually scared me a bit. It's like the aliens have landed. I mean that in a good way though; I haven't been scared of music since I was a young child. I can sort of picture the last part paired with some creepy 80s claymation for a lifetime of trauma.
It's so funky and cool sounding. Really impressed with it. This is the best discovery of this project so far.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
2/5
The mix of styles and instruments is a good idea, but this might serve as an example of why not many people do it.
It's alright for a one-time listen. A lot of the tracks were used on adverts and promos in the 90s and they sounded good in that context.
It's not great. They weren't very impressive when I saw them at a festival either. It's not fair to say it's *bad* either. But I probably won't listen again.
John Martyn
2/5
Pretty dull. I could maybe stick it on for a nap. I was getting dressed to it this morning and it just turned into background sounds. Nothing of note here.
Elis Regina
2/5
Overall, meh. I didn't really care for nor dislike this.
I quite liked O Trem Azul. The more upbeat songs reminded me of The Sims (cos I don't understand a word) and the rest merely exists.
Nick Drake
1/5
Oh not this miserable git again.
I'm on a run of duds at the moment, this one being the worst in 5 days.
Was there really any need for 3 albums of his? Please say there's no more!
This is only the second album of 357 that I've switched off.
Eminem
2/5
Bit puerile honestly. Ooh I'm so edgy, I got kicked out of schooool, ooh I'm so edgy I'm going to be horrible about womeeeeen. Like he's some paedo weirdo trying to impress kids on a playground.
Some alright beats and that, but the annoying, childish vocal is, frankly, crap. At least we know he grew up.