277
Albums Rated
3.21
Average Rating
25%
Complete
812 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
2010
Favorite Decade
Soul
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Perfectionist
Rater Style ?
10
5-Star Albums
6
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The College Dropout
Kanye West
|
5 | 3.31 | +1.69 |
|
The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
|
5 | 3.48 | +1.52 |
|
To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
|
5 | 3.63 | +1.37 |
|
Justified
Justin Timberlake
|
4 | 2.68 | +1.32 |
|
Moondance
Van Morrison
|
5 | 3.7 | +1.3 |
|
Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
|
4 | 2.71 | +1.29 |
|
Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
|
5 | 3.78 | +1.22 |
|
Metallica
Metallica
|
5 | 3.78 | +1.22 |
|
Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
|
4 | 2.8 | +1.2 |
|
I Am a Bird Now
Antony and the Johnsons
|
4 | 2.84 | +1.16 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Eliminator
ZZ Top
|
1 | 3.37 | -2.37 |
|
evermore
Taylor Swift
|
1 | 3.03 | -2.03 |
|
The Nightfly
Donald Fagen
|
1 | 3.02 | -2.02 |
|
Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
|
1 | 2.94 | -1.94 |
|
A Northern Soul
The Verve
|
1 | 2.91 | -1.91 |
|
Songs From The Big Chair
Tears For Fears
|
2 | 3.74 | -1.74 |
|
A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
|
2 | 3.63 | -1.63 |
|
Welcome to the Afterfuture
Mike Ladd
|
1 | 2.56 | -1.56 |
|
Gorillaz
Gorillaz
|
2 | 3.53 | -1.53 |
|
The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
|
2 | 3.4 | -1.4 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Radiohead | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Super Furry Animals | 2 | 1.5 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| The Verve | 1, 4 |
5-Star Albums (10)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Kanye West · 3 likes
5/5
Exclude the people review bombing this album and this would easily be the highest ranking album of 2004 on this site.
Pity the people that can't separate the art from the man.
Suggest clicking "did not listen" and save the rest of us the holier than thou BS.
Bernie Mac intro kills me every time.
I remember the MTV days and seeing Jesus Walks for the first time. Blew me away. Took a mental note of the artist and song so I could torrent it later.
This could easily be considered Kanye's best album. So many bangers on this one. Production value is through the roof. Runs a little long though.
4.5/5. Raising to a 5.
The War On Drugs · 1 likes
3/5
Blend of Dylan and Springsteen. Red Eyes is a great tune. The rest was uninspiring. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Snoop Dogg · 1 likes
3/5
Of it's time. I don't think this can be taken seriously in any sense and the skits did have me laughing. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
1-Star Albums (6)
All Ratings
The Doors
3/5
Janelle Monáe
4/5
Impressive debut, hits multiple genres, which is a pro and con, probably too long. 3.5/5 if possible but will round up to 4.
Gorillaz
2/5
I'd give this one star but it had Clint Eastwood. 1.5/5. Rounding up to 2.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Very good. Dont think it's the best LZ album. Favourite song is a cover/rearrangement (Babe I'm Gonna Leave You). 4/5.
4/5
Classic. 4/5. Starts so strong with 3 iconic songs but peters out.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Think I would need to listen to this 5 more times before it clicks and I absorb the lyrics. Initial reaction is it's solid but not something I would seek out. 3/5.
The Damned
2/5
Not the typical political brit punk I've heard before. Seems less 'serious' and hits various styles. I don't hate it but I don't love it either. I can see what it's one of the 1001. 2/5.
Sufjan Stevens
4/5
This deserves more than one listen and it is something I would happily come back to. Stylistically I really like this. Got early Arcade Fire and Death Cab for Cutie vibes at times. 4/5.
Eminem
5/5
One of the greatest rap albums of all time and solidified Eminem as the most popular and talented rapper in the world at the time. Don't think he ever hit these heights again but rode the wave a long time. It's an iconic album. 4.5/5. Rounding up to 5.
Haircut 100
2/5
I admire some of the jazzy/funky elements but dear god this music has the edge of a butter knife. The lyrics are wet trash. I heard pieces of Duran Duran, Robert Smith on one occasion, and a sprinkle of Nile Rodgers on guitar. Generic British New Wave with some decent instrumentals. 2/5.
2/5
Drivin' is horrendous every time it hits the chorus. I wanted that to end as quickly as possible. Music just doesn't click with me, found getting through this album a slog. 2/5.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
Interesting and pretty unique album. Probably won't revisit, I don't hate it, just not my cup of tea. 2.5/5. Rounding up to 3.
Frank Sinatra
4/5
Big band, 1950s sheen, very enjoyable and easy listen. Probably not his best album of all time but I can't imagine rating any Sinatra album less than 4. 4/5.
The Black Keys
3/5
Solid album, Tighten Up, Howlin for You and These Days being the stand outs. 3/5.
Simply Red
3/5
Mick Hucknall has a great voice here. Get some Phil Collins vibes at times, maybe they were influenced by Genesis(?) Definitely an 80s album, wasn't a slog to get through by any means. A solid first album but two of the better songs aren't originals. 3/5.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
4/5
Album art completely threw me. This is exactly the type of surprise I was looking for from the generator. I had never heard of Quicksilver Messenger Service and glad I now have. Great record. Shocked to learn it was live. Could be seen as self-indulgent jam session though. 3.5/5. Adjusting up to a 4.
Peter Frampton
2/5
Initial thoughts: ugh a live album from someone I don't know.
3 songs in I check the wiki:
"It was the best-selling album of 1976, selling over 8 million copies in the US and becoming one of the best-selling live albums to date"
How?
Baby, I Love Your Way is the only song I recognise because of a later cover version and Do You Feel Like We Do made a Simpsons reference from "Homerpalooza" finally makes sense.
It certainly didn't stand the test of time.
1.5/5. Raising to 2.
John Coltrane
2/5
If you are a musician or really like jazz this will probably be a god tier 5. I know very little about jazz, but generally like what I've heard/seen. I know nothing about avant-garde jazz but I know the name John Coltrane.
This kinda washed over me and I listened to some more familiar jazz after and confirmed I don't like/appreciate this style of jazz.
It's not bad. Prefer to watch Jazz live.
2/5.
The Band
3/5
The Weight is a classic. Having looked into the history I can see why this is an important album and I like how it sounds but it doesn't stand out to me, maybe it did at the time. 3/5
Thelonious Monk
3/5
Feels like I need a PhD in Musicology to appreciate this. I enjoyed it but wouldn't seek it out again. 3/5.
Pantera
3/5
Some catchy riffs, Walk being the standout. Never really clicked with Pantera when I first got into metal. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Blue Cheer
3/5
Another album I never would have come across previously.
Lots of imperfections but I can see why it's on the list.
Some riffs sound like they were inspired from a Hendrix record but this could also be a White Stripes demo...just a few decades ahead. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Funkadelic
3/5
Can You Get To That is etched in my brain as an all time great funk song. First two tracks are strong but the rest of the album sounds like they overindulged in LSD and it went downhill from there. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Steely Dan
3/5
Strong start with "Ricky Don't Lose That Number".
Nothing stood out after. Won't revisit, I don't hate it, just doesn't float my boat. 2.5/5 raising to 3.
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
Great voice. Not the kind of music that moves me though. 3/5.
Michael Jackson
5/5
I don't care if it's nostalgia or familiarity this is THE masterpiece of pop. It's lasted the test of time. Love it. First 5/5.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
It's fine. Felt a bit hit and miss. Don't really get the hype. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
The Stone Roses
4/5
Released before I was born and Oasis etc. had taken over the airwaves in my youth by then. Such a good album. Pity they never hit the heights of the bands they inspired. 80% of the tracks are great. If they trimmed it down to 45mins it could have been a perfect album. 4/5.
Talking Heads
4/5
I like the Talking Heads, always had a really cool and unique sound. Mind is the highlight of this album. 3.5/5, raising to 4.
Massive Attack
3/5
One of those albums on here for pioneering a new genre but it's never been my thing.
Unfinished Sympathy is the highlight. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
David Crosby
2/5
Got excited when I saw the album. First song was kind of off putting and 'Cowboy Movie' was decent and the rest of the album was tame. For the list of talented people on this album its a disappointing one. Originally had this as 2.5 but came to Song with No Words. Now thats some self-indulgent shite. 2/5.
Beck
3/5
It's a very cool album stylistically. He's definitely a talented guy, just not for me. 3/5.
Sister Sledge
4/5
Could hear Nile Rodgers within 3 seconds of the album opening and I'm a sucker for it. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Nick Drake
3/5
A sad folk album with some interesting brass and wind instruments. Didn't grab me. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Doves
2/5
"the first great album to come from Manchester since Definitely Maybe...". Nonsense. The Verve is just one example and their 1997 album is miles ahead of this. It's Radiohead if they were from Manchester and shite. This doesn't belong on this list. 2/5.
Sebadoh
2/5
First track really set this up then takes a hard left. Didnt enjoy the music when it took that hard left but it did make me smirk. I tend to enjoy sad boy music and those parts were fine. Album is kinda all over the place and I don't see myself returning to it. 2/5.
Donald Fagen
1/5
The relatively low-key but long-lived popularity of The Nightfly led Robert J. Toth of The Wall Street Journal in 2008 to dub the album "one of pop music's sneakiest masterpieces." - Wiki
Masterpiece? Robert J. Toth has a favourite colour and it is beige.
There is nothing technically wrong here but this is soulless music and will be the first 1 I hand out.
1/5.
Beck
3/5
Wasn't in the mood for Beck but it's the same as Odelay. Cool album stylistically. A talented guy, but not for me. 3/5.
Deep Purple
3/5
Thought it would be better. 3/5.
Muddy Waters
4/5
An enjoyable live blues album. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Lou Reed
4/5
First time listening to a Lou Reed album. It was good, with Perfect Day and Walk On the Wild Side being the standouts. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
AC/DC
4/5
Undeniably catchy with some iconic songs but it becomes a bit samey. Big, loud and basic but it works. Music made for Roadtrip Action-Comedy movies. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Foo Fighters
3/5
Initial reaction was it's good to see a Foo Fighters album I've never listened to.
I then checked what other Foo Fighters albums made the list. None. The creator picked this over 'The Colour and the Shape'...the first album with actual band members and not just Dave Grohl.
Anyway this is a decent debut album but no songs worth revisiting. Supposedly a lot of lyrics were written 15mins before recording. 3/5.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Never heard this album before, more familiar with their 60s singles and probably because they are more radio friendly. It's not a bad album by any means, was expecting more of a hard rock sound but got more blues.
It finished strong with Shine A Light and Sole Survivor. I don't know why this goes down as their 'best' album on critics lists though. To quote the wiki:
"Exile is not one of my favourite albums" - Jagger
"Jagger also stated he did not understand the praise among Rolling Stones fans because the album did not yield many hits."
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Skunk Anansie
3/5
Never heard of the band before so had high hopes going in. Didn’t grab me. Was expecting something heavier and grittier. Lead singer has a clean vocal and overall this is quite polished. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
The Beta Band
2/5
One of those albums where after the first few songs I start to question how this made the list and I go in search of other albums that year that aren't included.
Interpol - Antics didn't make this list.
Jesus wept. This is boring music that nobody needs to hear before they die. 1.5/5. Raising to a 2.
The Beach Boys
4/5
Really set the bar for music production innovation on a pop album.
'Wall of Sound' really comes through with everything so densely layered.
Just never really liked the barber quartet style of singing and the cheesy harmonies so it loses a point purely on that.
Songs like God Only Knows are pure magic though.
4/5.
Eagles
4/5
Hotel California is iconic but overall I dont know why this get's listed in various Greatest of All Time lists other than it sold a tonne. It's easy listening that was very popular but theres nothing ground breaking here. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
I like the sound of the Appalachian dulcimer so favoured those songs. California is the highlight. The unusual song structures, lack of rhyme/stream of consciousness and vocal can be off putting at times.
It's a very good album but I don't really see why this is so often mentioned as one of the greatest ever among critics.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Django Django
3/5
If I was out of my brain at a music festival this would be fine. Did I need to listen to it before I die? No.
Layering looping sound effects with mostly shit lyrics. Wor is the standout.
This is another more recent release where I can see multiple other albums released in 2012 taking its place.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Röyksopp
3/5
So Easy is catchy and familiar because of TV adverts that have been etched into my brain.
Mixed feelings on this album. There is a time and place for slow tempo electronic music. Elevators. Trippy movie scenes. Advertisements. Something to have on in the background.
Poor leno picked up the pace but it seemed like fairly generic dance I've heard a million times before. For reference, Daft Punk released Discovery in 2001. Different dance genre but that is an example of an iconic album back then.
I won't be revisiting and I don't see this being anyones favourite album but I can kinda see why it's on the list.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Album was released in two sides and the first side is distinctly weaker. First four tracks are ok but forgettable. Album really picks up with Exodus. The songs on side two are some of Bobs greatest hits.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Born in the U.S.A. is a great song to start a Friday with, gets you pumped and is a great reminder how lucky I am to have not been Born in the U.S.A. Other standouts are I'm On Fire, Glory Days, and Dancing in the Dark.
Wouldn't be a big fan of Bruce in general but with the amount of stand outs on one album and how many bands have made careers off imitating him, looking at you Sam Fender, this deserves a 4/5.
Janis Joplin
4/5
Rough, raw, genuine music. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Ash
3/5
The vocal is flat and this hasn't aged well. Why is this on the list? It would easily be replaced with Weezer - Pinkerton also released in 1996 and miles ahead of this. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Antony and the Johnsons
4/5
Great album, deeply personal lyrics with haunting and unique vocal. 4/5.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
First thoughts were worry this would be instrumental. Thankfully not.
Reviewing the tracks it's mostly covers/reinterpretations.
Its fine, average rock with middling jazz. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
PS Abbey Road lost a Grammy to this. Wild.
Beastie Boys
3/5
You can really tell this was produced by Rick Rubin. Striking stylistic similarities between She's Crafty and 99 Problems released 18 years layer by a much better rapper.
I'm gonna assume the rap style and the corny lyrics are intentional. Girls genuinely made me chuckle. Similar to how Eminem would so I can see how this would influence him.
They also can't get all the credit for this style of rock/rap when acts like Run DMC clearly influenced them.
3/5.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Stevie doesn't disappoint. Standouts were Living For The City and Higher Ground. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
3/5
A song was missing on Spotify. Don't think I needed to listen, I got the vibe. Vocal is impressive. Spotify link leads to a double-release Love Songs and Devotional Songs. I realised half way through the last song on the former. 3/5.
Primal Scream
3/5
Such a strong start with Movin' on Up. Hit and miss from there. Loaded was another highlight. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
I think of the 80s when I hear Pet Shop Boys but a very specific scene. I find the vocal irritating. It's a Sin is the highlight and I don't look forward to anymore Pet Shop Boys on the list. 2/5
Rush
2/5
As with most big name prog rock band I'm sure the musicians are highly skilled technically but this doesn't lead to an engaging or interesting album. Could be for someone else, just not for me. Didn't find any standout song. 2/5.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Another great album from Led Zep. Whole Lotta Love and Ramble On being the standouts. 4/5.
The The
2/5
Initial thoughts - this is early 80s thrash.
Uncertain Smile grew on me. My biggest issues are with the odd spoken word vocal and combining these type of lyrics with synth pop. There was definitely signs of potential with how the music was layered but the next The The album would need to move away from the Synth Pop genre to score higher.
This album can be lumped in with the New Wave thrash. 2/5.
Lorde
4/5
Green light is an absolute banger. That song will definitely last the test of time.
Production is truly great on this album. The style and vocal gets repetitive at times. Enjoyed the album more than I thought I would. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Hints of a Chilli peppers bass line in the opener. Halfway through and I'm just not feeling this album. Don't like the vocal. Been Caught Stealing is the one I recognise the most. Album takes a stylistic turn halfway but I'm still not feeling it. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
CHIC
4/5
Saw the album and I assumed it would be along the lines of Sister Sledge. It's actually a bit slower. Standouts are Le Freak, Savoir Faire and I Want Your Love. Had high expectation going in but theres are few songs on this album that are too repetitive to justify their length. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Cat Stevens
4/5
Easy listening, solid song writing and has Father and Son which could be one of the greatest ever written. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Kraftwerk
4/5
This is a funny one because they laid the foundations for my favourite dance duo Daft Punk but also influenced some of my least fave in the likes of the Pet Shop Boys.
After a minute of the first track I was worried. Clear sailing from there though. I can hear parts of this that could easily be on Random Access Memories. The album is still fresh nearly 50 years later, must have been wild to hear this back in the 78. Didn't think I'd rate this so high so this is a nice surprise from the list. 4/5.
Justin Timberlake
4/5
4 of the first 6 songs were the singles. Those singles are all bangers but the album takes a nose dive after. It ends up being too long and 20mins could easily be chopped.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Talking Heads
3/5
"Same as it ever was, same as it ever was..."
Once in a Lifetime is the standout.
Didn't really vibe with the rest of the album.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Adele
4/5
This album had a really interesting history in terms of production. The songs recorded as demos end up being the best versions/songs on the album and the Rick Rubin produced songs are the weakest on the album.
The various production ideas come through when listening but not in a good way.
I thought this would be a nailed on 5 but it's no Thriller.
Great vocal and 5 top tier songs. 4/5.
Moby
4/5
The first four songs on this album are bangers.
Where did Moby go?
Easy 4/5.
Lana Del Rey
2/5
Boring, bland, repetitive and over-produced. Nothing new or interesting. The breathy vocal is annoying.
How does this qualify as an album you must hear before you die?
1.5/5. Raising to 2.
Living Colour
4/5
LOOK IN MY EYES WHAT DO YOU SEEEEEEEE?!
I only know that song since it's the theme song of a wrestler. It's pretty catchy.
The vocal is so 80s. Sounds like a mix of Huey Lewis, Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins at times. This man can belt out a tune.
This is the kind of album I never would have heard if not for this list. I like the various style changes from hard rock to funk.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
The Strokes
3/5
Thought this would be a get a higher rating since I'm familiar with the Strokes.
Its ok. First Impressions of Earth is a far superior album. 3/5.
Talking Heads
4/5
Psycho Killer is timeless. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Black Sabbath
4/5
Pretty sick to hear one of the first doom metal songs off the bat which is completely contrasted when the second song kicks off with a harmonica.
Black Sabbath and NIB are the highlights.
Ground breaking record that stands up pretty well. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
Not as good as Blue.
It's not bad, I just wouldn't be putting on this album again. 3/5.
The Who
3/5
Listened to the original tracklist not the extended.
Is this a album that needs to be listened to before you die? I don't think so. If this is considered one of the greatest live albums of all time then live albums aren't my thing.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Beatles
5/5
I smiled like a Cheshire cat when I saw what todays album is.
"Come Together" is iconic, "Something" is beautiful, "Here Comes the Sun" is stunning. They truly went out on top with this album.
I love "Golden Slumbers" gets me in the feels every time.
The oddest song on the album is "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" - Harrison recalled: "Sometimes Paul would make us do these really fruity songs. I mean, my God, 'Maxwell's Silver Hammer' was so fruity." He's right.
The Medley on Side 2 - has everything and I even heard the Alabama Shakes Hold On riff in "Sun King".
5/5.
Korn
3/5
People out here giving Steely Dan 5's and Korn 1's are showing their age and their thrash taste.
My album yesterday was Abbey Road. Safe to say this won't be another 5 but if you can't appreciate Freak on a Leash I pity you.
Limp Bizkit had more an influence on me than Korn but they are still groundbreakers when it comes to nu metal. I haven't listened to this album much. I like it. It's a bit repetitive and overly long but I can definitely see how teenagers filled with piss and vinegar would love this.
3/5.
Van Morrison
5/5
Love this album. So much so I even have the vinyl. Blend so many styles and could be seen as the greatest non-American soul album.
4.5/5. Raising to 5.
Robbie Williams
2/5
Wtf is Robbie Williams doing on this list?
Sounds like knockoff Oasis at times.
I get that leaving Take That was a culturally significant moment in the UK and Ireland but that doesn't mean a mid album belongs on the list of albums to listen to before you die.
Angels and Let Me Entertain You keep this from being a 1.
2/5.
Throbbing Gristle
3/5
I couldn't stop laughing when I heard the wailing "hit by a rock". I don't think thats the intention though haha.
The album is abrasive and experimental. I don't think this deserves to be the lowest rated album on the site. It's certainly belongs on the list. The lyrics and topics are pretty disturbing too. Will is listen to this again? Probably not but I think this album is intended to challenge the listener which it succeeds at.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
ZZ Top
1/5
80s dad rock. I have friends that enjoy this (born late 80's/early 90s). I never have and probably never will.
4 songs in and I'm bored already. At least Throbbing Gristle kept my attention.
Usually pretty good at separating the artist from the art but they didn't credit Linden Hudson on a bunch of stuff and they stole a full song which was proven in court so that directly impacts the art.
Due to lack of personal enjoyment and the lack of credit given on song writing this was going to get a 1.5...then TV Dinners came on. Jesus wept. 1/5.
Steely Dan
4/5
When I saw Steely Dan I wasn't happy.
4 songs in and all good so far. Pretty catchy and I'm familiar with a few so far.
Guitar on Reelin ' In The Years is sick. Getting a Phil Lynott vibe from the vocal.
Thinking Donald Fagens solo record left a bad taste in my mouth.
This is a good album. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Mike Ladd
1/5
Pretty uninspiring. I like new experimental things but I don't really get what was trying to be achieved here. Will never revisit and would never recommend this. 1/5.
Jamiroquai
3/5
Hard not to tune out mentally when listening to this one. I like funky music but this wasn't my jam. Kinda came across like a Stevie Wonder rip off. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
R.E.M.
3/5
Liked the songs I knew already but thought the rest of the album was average and nothing special. 3/5.
Otis Redding
4/5
The majority of the tracks on Otis Blue are cover versions so this album will never be a 5 for me. It seems to be his strongest album, I haven't listened to the others fully but the track lists seem to have 1-2 standout songs. This album is a solid 30 mins of soul. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Talking Heads
4/5
Theres too many Talking Heads albums on this list but I vibed with album. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Fairport Convention
4/5
Never heard of Fairport Convention. I like the vocal. Sad how life turned out for the lead singer. Bands and albums like this, that I've not heard before, this make me appreciate the generator/list again. 4/5.
Super Furry Animals
1/5
I've heard the band name a million times but couldn't tell you a song of theirs.
Why in Gods name should anyone listen to this before they die? You know you're in trouble when the most listened to song on the album is shite. Tool - Ænima and Weezer - Pinkerton were also released in 1996 and both deserve to be on this list ahead of this nonsense. Poor vocal, poor lyrics, poor production. There is a serious amount of Britpop/Britrock shite on this list that needs to be trimmed. 1/5.
Kings of Leon
3/5
I like old Kings of Leon. They have better albums though. The two following this were better. The Bucket is the stand out song. 3/5.
Traffic
2/5
Pearly Queen is a pretty sick song. Jimi Hendrix came to mind when listening.
That was the only song I liked. The album is all over the place. It's not terrible but should this be on a list of albums to listen to before you die? No. 2/5.
Dire Straits
3/5
Blues, folk and country mixed with Bob Dylan vocals. Guitar is pretty sick.
I was only familiar with Sultans of Swings before this.
Stylistically not for me but it's a solid debut album. 3/5.
Jane's Addiction
2/5
2nd JA album and once again I'm just not feeling this album. Really dislike the vocal.
Based on other reviews on here this seems to have stood out in 1988 but in 2025 it's certainly not a timeless listen. Wouldn't re-listen, wouldn't recommend. 2/5.
Massive Attack
3/5
This is the 2nd Massive Attack album. I don't see how this album warrants inclusion on this list after the 1st?
It's fine musically but I don't see massive steps forward from the 1st album to make this mandatory listening. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
George Harrison
4/5
I dont see how people are rating this 5. A perfect album? Hardly.
Has multiple songs that just don't land and the production is messy at times.
That said it's still a good album and I actually liked the instrumental songs on the last LP.
Side note: When listening to Art of Dying all I could think was that sounds like Eric Clapton on guitar and sure enough it was.
Feeling generous so I'll go 4/5.
Fred Neil
4/5
It sucks when the wiki doesn't have critical reception or any historical relevance. Asked my friendly neighbourhood bot instead and it told me what I need to know in terms of the music shift at the time and the artists he influenced.
Great example of an album that would never have crossed my path and deserves to be on the list.
It's nice. Moody, laid back and stripped down. The album grew on me. That 8 min track at the end came outta nowhere. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Electric Prunes
3/5
I Had Too Much To Dream (Last Night) is the highlight. There some really interesting stuff here, felt unsettling at times but then you would have a song that felt so out of place.
Seems they didnt write the majority of the album either. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Rod Stewart
3/5
Should you hear Rod Stewart before you die? Yes. Should you hear Gasoline Alley? I don't think so.
I don't know enough about the Rod Stewart and Faces back catalogue but I'd like to believe there is an album from each that is better than this.
It's not a bad album I just don't think it's a mandatory one. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Paul McCartney and Wings
4/5
Shocked at the amount of 5's being handed out for this album. Had the same issue with George Harrisons solo release. People have a strange Beatles bias.
Its a solid album, it's not perfect and it's not groundbreaking. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
3/5
Got irritating after awhile. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Pere Ubu
3/5
Haha what an awful way to open an album.
This weirdly grew on me but I tend to like experimental music.
I was watching Becketts plays on film the weekend so I'm probably in the right head space for this kinda stuff.
I can see how this would have influenced bands like Pixies and Joy Division.
Is this music easy to listen to and super accessible? No.
Does this deserve a place on the list? Yes.
I'll take this any day over Donald Fagens solo work. 3/5.
Jimmy Smith
3/5
I like this kind of Jazz. "Soul-Jazz". Some of the avant-grade stuff can be unapproachable and hard to enjoy in you aren't a Jazz player/musician. 3/5.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
I view Cohen as more of a poet than singer. A bunch of his stuff is practically spoken word. No doubt he's a great songwriter/poet but I don't think you can rate this album highly since it's lacking on the instrumental side. I also really dislike the mouth harp. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
The Incredible String Band
3/5
Saw some of the reviews and the global rating and assumed the worst. People are being way too harsh here. It's experimental sure but it's not as bad as some of the generic crap that made the list.
It would be a very boring list if experimental and innovative albums like this were excluded.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
AC/DC
3/5
What an opener. The top review comparing this to chocolate ice cream and every bite being the same is spot on. I don't think it deserves a 4 though...it's supermarket branded ice cream. 3/5.
Supergrass
2/5
Alright was huge. Not a fan of the rest of the album. Dont think this is a album to listen to before you die. Blur and Oasis have you covered. 2/5.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
Not the ideal album to come back to after a holiday. Pretty dated, the 20min intro song just comes across as pretentious but prog rock is in general. 2/5.
Air
4/5
I'm familiar with this album but this is only the second time I've listened to it fully through. Very familiar with Sexy Boy due to one of those Lynx ad that was played around the clock.
The range of styles and instruments on display deserves praise alone. It's not often I seek out something like this with so many slow tempo instrumentals but I can appreciate it. I was thinking a 3 but going with 3.5/5 because it deserves a place on the list and like it or not it stands out from the crowd. Raising to 4.
David Bowie
3/5
I've never listened to a Bowie record from start to finish other than Blackstar. Heroes could be one of my all time favourite songs. As a whole album does nothing for me though.
Some pretty interesting recording techniques were used and it's pretty innovative but that doesn't translate to an enjoyable listen. My feeling is people are seeing Bowie and some sort of bias sets in. No way this is a 5* album. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Miriam Makeba
4/5
Great vocal, poor quality recording. I'm familiar with Miriam Makeba through Pata Pata and the Click Song.
I feel like this list would be more accurate/interesting with more foreign language artists.
It's a nice listen and deserves its place on the list. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Public Enemy
3/5
Certainly deserves its place on the list. Chuck D's vocal is iconic. The album and beats are super dated though. It's certainly of it's time and it's just not my thing. I'm not a big hip-hop or rap fan outside of a handful I grew up on so this album is doubly lost on me. 3/5.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
This is art born of tragedy. A parent dealing with the death of their child. Absolutely haunting album that I think anyone who has lost someone before their time will resonate with. Felt like a real gut punch.
4/5.
Johnny Cash
4/5
Iconic album. Iconic voice. What a way to go out. CD version omits Wichita Lineman and Big Iron. So I listened to these on Johnny Cash - Unearthed separately.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Queen
4/5
Bit disappointed by this one. Just didn't live up the name in my eyes. Bohemian Rhapsody is one of the greatest/iconic songs of all time but there are far too many duds for this to be a "great" album.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Alice Cooper
3/5
Not for me. Kinda cheesy. Of it's time I suppose.
Learnt that The Ramones I Wanna Be Sedated is 100% a rip off of Elected.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Kanye West
5/5
Exclude the people review bombing this album and this would easily be the highest ranking album of 2004 on this site.
Pity the people that can't separate the art from the man.
Suggest clicking "did not listen" and save the rest of us the holier than thou BS.
Bernie Mac intro kills me every time.
I remember the MTV days and seeing Jesus Walks for the first time. Blew me away. Took a mental note of the artist and song so I could torrent it later.
This could easily be considered Kanye's best album. So many bangers on this one. Production value is through the roof. Runs a little long though.
4.5/5. Raising to a 5.
Steve Earle
2/5
Tough listen. Theres a very specific type of country music I enjoy and this is not it. Can see why the album was significant for the time and why its on the list but that doesn't make it an enjoyable listen. 2/5.
Gary Numan
3/5
Pioneer of synthpop which is impressive but the world didn't need the Pet Shop Boys.
3/5.
CHVRCHES
3/5
Went from Gary Numan to this. The evolution of Synthpop.
The Mother We Share is the best song on the album. It's feels overly long and got a bit samey towards the end.
3/5.
Fleet Foxes
4/5
I am familiar with Fleet Foxes, think they were hyped up on some end of year, decade etc metacritic list and grabbed my attention so I have definitely listened to this before.
Nice and easy listen. A folky Beach Boys sound. Finding it easy enough to link a lot of the production and stylistic decisions on this album to Pet Sounds. It's just not as impressive in 2008.
This music is too inoffensive across the whole album so never really impacted me.
Certainly an impressive debut and the album cover is very cool but it's just too "nice" for me. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
First Elvis Costello album on this and first time listening to one completely. Other reviewers seem to be sick of him. 6 albums does seem excessive.
I like how raw this is. It's like pre-grunge. Vocal was off putting at the start but I warmed up to it. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Tom Waits
4/5
Certainly deserves a place on the list. Such a unique album. The vocal is something else. Man must have been drinking whiskey and smoking filterless Marlboro Reds straight out of the womb. 4/5.
Arcade Fire
4/5
Initially didn't like Arcade Fire other than Wake Up. Had multiple mates that are huge fans and I've tried and tried and repeatedly listened but I just don't hear what they hear. It's good. It's not amazing. That could also just be based on forced familiarity.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Astor Piazzolla
2/5
Not for me. Vibraphone sucks. I'm ok with the Bandoneon and Violin and think I would have given a higher score if it was just those instruments. I had to skip a bunch, couldn't take it anymore. 2/5. This isn't a 1 simply because it unique. It would get a 0 for enjoyment.
Tom Tom Club
3/5
A talking heads side project?
I was wondering why this is a must listen then "Genius of Love" came on. Now thats an iconic song that I've listened to in full and only ever heard sampled.
Stopped after Under the Boardwalk. Even that felt too long. Anyone listening to the Spotify Deluxe version I recommend the same unless you want remixes and extra long version of songs you've already heard.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Missy Elliott
2/5
Timbaland's production is great but overall it's an average 90s rap album. It's overhyped and you could question it's place on the list, especially when there is another Missy album on the list.
Runs too long and has too many duds. 2/5.
Radiohead
4/5
I find it hard to understand what Thom is saying. It often washes over me. It's a stylistic choice and I'm not reading lyrics to understand what someone is saying. Never been a die-hard Radiohead fanboy but I definitely appreciate the artistry. 4/5.
Side note:
I loved the pay what you like concept. This was before Spotify took over and let's face it, in 2007 the majority of people my age were using torrents etc. to access music. To put this endeavour into context. This is album 132. If I was to pay for all of those back in 2007 at 20 a pop I'd be down 2640. Now I pay my monthly fee to Spotify and in my eyes we have the democratisation of music.
Suede
3/5
Anyone giving this a 5 needs their head checked. Putting Suede in the same bracket as the Beatles, Fleetwood Mack, Nirvana or Stevie Wonder is crazy.
Average Britpop.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
It's fine, his better work is yet to come. You need to be there live to really appreciate it.
3/5.
The Isley Brothers
3/5
Pretty good, nothing mind blowing and it doesn't have my fave Isley Brothers songs.
3/5.
Love
3/5
Didnt leave much of an impact, maybe I'm getting used to psychedelic rock. Last track was pretty cool but I wouldn't be seeking this out again.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Queen
3/5
Killer Queen is super catchy. Rest of the album is solid but I think Queen just aren't my jam. 3/5.
Fats Domino
4/5
Easy listening classic. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Bob can't sing. That is clear. I know the 1001 includes people based purely on songwriting but I'm not dissecting Bob Dylan lyrics upon a first listen. Feels like you'd need to force yourself to listen 10 times and read the lyrics to be a Dylan fan. “Like a Rolling Stone” is a great song though. 3/5.
Talk Talk
4/5
I was worried when I saw New Wave but this is decent and no over reliance on synths is a win.
Pretty cool album, surprised it had commercial success since it's pushes the boundaries and I wouldn't have expected that to be popular with the masses. Singing style gets a bit repetitive though. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Deep Purple
3/5
I'm 3 mins into the 2nd track and thinking this is solid. We'll see how I feel after the 76th minute when I firmly believe the sweet spot for an album is 40-50mins.
Yep it's a solid live album. Don't see it being for everyone and wouldn't consider it mandatory listening. 3/5.
Neil Young
3/5
Slightly depressing, nothing outstanding, vocal is hit and miss. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Radiohead
4/5
Similar to my In Rainbows review I often find it hard to understand what Thom is saying. It's a stylistic choice and not on every track but I'm not reading lyrics to understand what someone is trying to say.
Overall it's a hit and miss album, some big highs followed by lows. I liked it but it definitely runs too long, 2-3 weaker tracks could have been cut. I preferred In Rainbows overall which was a 4 so I'm going 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
3/5
I can see why it's on the list. Not for me though. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Cocteau Twins
3/5
You know when you can hear a certain time though music? This just sounds like the early 90s to me.
This just isn't for me though. It all kind of sounds the same and it's not something I would seek out or listen to again. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
If this had been cut from 2hrs to 1 hr it could have been 5 stars. On the first disc you have a 9min song that in no way justifies the length or a place on the album. The self-indulgence really let's this down along with some melodramatic lyrics. It's a shame but you also have a bunch of timeless pieces on this album.
I like The Smashing Pumpkins and have seen them live. Originally had this as a 4 but 2hrs is just too much and the 2nd disc is a slog at times. 3/5.
The Temptations
3/5
Music that's nice to cook your dinner to on a Friday evening to or breakfast on a weekend morning.
Seems to have been revolutionary at the time so props to the producer. It just doesn't blow my mind in 2025. 3/5.
Björk
4/5
Kate Bush is the first thing that has popped into my head. Album starts strong and then goes on an eclectic journey through London's 80s/90s club culture. Very cool album. The list has thrown up a gem I should have heard already. 4/5.
Madonna
3/5
Like a prayer is the stand out and a classic but the rest was middling pop. Expected more from the Prince collab. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Marvin Gaye
5/5
Take it easy Marvin.
I'm in an office environment and this is wildly inappropriate.
5/5.
Van Morrison
3/5
Big fan of Moondance but not so much Astral Weeks. It's a fusion of folk, jazz, and blues that I don't particularly like. Definitely deserves a place on the list, it's just not for me. Sweet Thing is the highlight. 3/5.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Opening track has 280mil streams, thought that would be a guarantee I'd like it but it was only ok.
Wild Horses is the standout.
This is my 2nd Rolling Stones album and I'm starting to think, and I could be talking brown here, but they've released over 20 albums and have written some of the greatest rock songs ever, I just have the feeling they are completely spread out over these albums and there isn't one album that stands out head and shoulders above the rest. They could easily have one of the greatest hits albums ever but I don't really get the hype with this album. 3/5.
Thin Lizzy
4/5
It's a fun and polished live album. Possibly the best live album on the list so far. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Pharcyde
4/5
The list has throw up a gem I've never heard before. Really enjoyed that. Ya Mama and Quinton's On The Way genuinely made me laugh. Pretty innovative and I prefer rap that doesn't take itself seriously. 4/5.
Public Enemy
4/5
I preferred this to It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
Iconic voice. 3 knock out songs and a few decent ones sprinkled in-between. 4/5.
Green Day
3/5
Hugely popular back in the day. Very catchy and clean punk pop. 3/5.
Elvis Presley
3/5
Suspicious Minds is the highlight and stands out by a country mile. Wanted to rate this higher but there isn't enough at that level to justify a higher score. 3/5.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Bit all over the place stylistically with some very obvious Beatles and Beach Boys influences. The album has one of the greatest songs of the 60s and some weaker covers. Not too familiar with the story of the band but based on the comments I'll be jumping down a youtube rabbit-hole later. 3/5.
R.E.M.
3/5
Highlight is Orange Crush. Lowlight was Hairshirt which has a annoying beeping in the background. 3/5.
KISS
4/5
Zero expectations going in. Super cheesy but surprisingly fun. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
10cc
4/5
Never heard of the band. Really enjoyed it. All over the place stylistically but it came across as fun and innovative. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
2Pac
2/5
I wanted to like this but its super dated. It was a first time listen and it's way too long at 65 mins. The production and background tracks are what stands out as the most dated/weak. Sounded like it was a lot older than '95 and not as good as what came before it. The rap style isn't interesting either, it's the same thing over and over. Sure the lyrics are introspective but it goes from I love my mama to the usual gangsta rap shoot em up nonsense. Make up your mind.
My guts says his early death, nostalgia and romanticism have led to the 2pac overhype.
2/5.
Meat Loaf
4/5
Fun, over the top, theatrical cheese. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Taylor Swift
1/5
No.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
AI bot answer to my question on whats so unique about the guitar work on this album:
"The guitar work on Loveless was revolutionary due to Kevin Shields' "glide guitar" technique, which involves using the tremolo bar to create a warbling, out-of-tune sound, and layering countless guitar tracks with different amps and mic setups. This resulted in a unique, thick texture that created a sense of atmosphere and sound design rather than traditional riffs, largely forgoing effects like chorus that were common in other shoegaze bands at the time."
Good man Kevin. I haven't a clue what ye are saying though and and I had to skip 'to here knows when' because it hurt my head.
1 point for innovation. 1 point for deserving a place on the list. .5 points for personal enjoyment. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Not as good as Born In The U.S.A.
I'm a sucker for a sax but it always makes me link Bruce to Sam Fender. Definitely influential.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Black Sabbath
3/5
Its fine, I don't dislike it, just not sure we need another Sabbath album on the list when it's weaker than the previous two.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Dr. Octagon
3/5
Why do rappers refuse to release anything that's a solid 40mins?
It's unique, interesting, funny at times but runs too long and I wouldn't be revisiting.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Guided By Voices
3/5
Agree with the general consensus that this sounds like a solid demo tape. 28 songs in 41 mins is crazy. I kinda like the short punchy songs but it feels like cheating a bit when they aren't fleshed out. A potentially great album was left behind here. 3/5.
The Prodigy
4/5
I can still remember tuning in weekly to watch "Top 30 Hits" on Irish television (RTE Network 2).
The black and white "Firestarter" video with Keith Flint is one of my earliest memories. I was fascinated.
Nearly 3 decades later this shit still bangs. Got to see them once before Flint passed away and that was wild. 4/5.
LTJ Bukem
2/5
It's not bad but a two disc compilation of D&B is just too much. 2/5.
Ice Cube
2/5
Firstly, I don't care about what people deem offensive or not. Giving something a 1 because of offensive lyrics is silly.
In Ice Cube you have a proven fake gangster who ditched rapping and started acting the second he got a chance and didn't look back. Having listened to some of the most important 'gangsta rap' albums I'm finding 95% of these guys are cardboard gangsters and they seem to end up harming their communities more than helping. The 'gansta rap' genre is a joke and this album is super dated and cringey. 2/5.
The Kinks
2/5
Blur came to mind straight away. Definitely influential. This is the 2nd Kinks album and the previous was Arthur. I think this is even worse. 1.5/5. Raising to 2.
Megadeth
2/5
Just can't get on board with the vocal. 2/5.
The National
3/5
Monotonous. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Elbow
3/5
2 great songs in Grounds for Divorce and One Day Like This. The rest is ok, kind of boring overall. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Public Enemy
4/5
Not sure we need to listen to 3 Public Enemy albums before we die.
I preferred this to It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back and probably on par with the other one. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Hookworms
4/5
Immediately thought of Kraftwerk. Album then shifted to an upbeat Death Cab For Cutie vibe. It's a good album. Never heard of the band previously. Does it deserve to be on the list? I'm unsure. There's some thrash on this is that this is miles better than. 3.5/4. Raising to 4.
Tito Puente
4/5
Hard to sit still to this. Enjoyable listen and deserves it place on the list. 4/5.
Elvis Costello
3/5
Impressive debut. Nothing groundbreaking but nothing my ears disliked. 3/5.
Common
4/5
First listen and I liked it. Kanye production shines through. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Cure
4/5
I wasn't in the mood for this today but there are some undeniably good songs on here. Could probably be considered a masterpiece for getting such gloomy, dark, introspective songs into the pop charts. 4/5.
Fever Ray
2/5
Yeesh. Maybe it's on here for the lyrics? 2/5.
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
Innovative, hard-hitting, funny. Production is incredible. It's a experimental hip-hop masterpiece. 5/5.
Turbonegro
3/5
It was fine, music makes up for the lyrics. 3/5.
Boston
3/5
More Than a Feeling is a classic. Solid power pop/rock. 3/5.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
As much as I like the RHCP this album has a bunch of duds and runs too long. When it comes to playing the instruments they are undeniably good. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Mothers Of Invention
3/5
Pretty innovative for 1966. Sgt Pepper comes out the following year so maybe it was just the time these psychedelia albums came out.
Was growing tired of this towards the end.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Slayer
4/5
Speed and aggression. Some of the most iconic metals riffs. Super clean vocal too for all the shouting. 4/5.
PS
Blew my mind how super chill the lead singer is off stage.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
3/5
Solid album. Sparse arrangement. Think you'd need to be in a specific mood to rate this higher. 3/5.
Charles Mingus
3/5
Avant-garde jazz parts just aren't for me. The rest is cool, I could hear various styles but don't understand Jazz enough to rate this higher. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Linkin Park
4/5
I was 10 when this came out so I'm 100% bias. Don't need to re-listen. This thing is one of the highest selling albums of all time. Couldn't get enough of it as a teen and I still dig it. 4/5.
Lucinda Williams
2/5
Not terrible but it is middle of the road stuff. Pretty boring stuff. 2/5.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
3/5
As amazing as Joplins vocal can be it gets grating here. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
I can see why it's on the list. The music sounded innovative for the time just dont see myself re-listening. 3/5.
OutKast
4/5
Couple of bangers spread across a double album. Ballsy to release a double able with distinctly different styles on each. Feeling generous. 4/5.
Joan Armatrading
4/5
Crazy how I've never heard this artist before. 1001 throws up a diamond in the rough. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
OutKast
4/5
Few great tracks, with lots of unique aspects but it's overly long. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Pentangle
3/5
Deserves a place on the list. I don't think this will be anyones 'favourite' album though. 3/5.
Eels
4/5
Catchy, dark, but preferred the upbeat moments. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Stan Getz
3/5
I think everyone knows The Girl from Ipanema without knowing it's The Girl from Ipanema. Shame it has become associated with Elevator music but it is. 3/5.
Fiona Apple
4/5
Enjoyed that. Imagine I've heard her without knowing before. Recording this at 19 is insane. 4/5.
Orange Juice
3/5
Started strong then got a bit shit. Average overall. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Grizzly Bear
3/5
I'm sure the song structures and production is worth praise but the music just didn't affect me. Pretty inoffensive. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
What a start. Love that song and never knew who did it.
Really takes a nosedive from there. Guitar work is good and I can hear how this influenced later bands (weirdly got a Stone Roses vibe at one stage).
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Soft Cell
2/5
Tainted Love is a banger and I can see why this is on the list but that doesn't make it very good. 2/5.
The War On Drugs
3/5
Blend of Dylan and Springsteen. Red Eyes is a great tune. The rest was uninspiring. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Dolly Parton
3/5
Not the style of country I'm into. 1 point for Dolly being iconic. 1 point for songwriting. 1 for it being a 27 min album. 3/5.
The Byrds
2/5
An album of lacklustre Bob Dylan covers. 2/5.
Arcade Fire
4/5
Same review for the previous Arcade Fire album applies here. Initially didn't like Arcade Fire other than Wake Up. Had multiple mates that are huge fans and I've tried and tried and repeatedly listened but I just don't hear what they hear. It's good. It's not amazing. That could also just be based on forced familiarity.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Cult
2/5
The top comments on this album have pretty much nailed it. Generic and I dont see why this is on the list. 2/5.
Snoop Dogg
3/5
Of it's time. I don't think this can be taken seriously in any sense and the skits did have me laughing. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Doves
2/5
I knew one song, "Pounding", pretty decent song but it's also what I wanted to do with my head off the table in front of me for the rest of the album. 1001 albums and Doves win the lottery twice and end up with 2. 1.5/5. Raising to 2.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
It's fine, won't be listening again. Lyrics are more interesting than the melodies. 3/5.
Peter Gabriel
4/5
In Your Eyes could be one of my fave love songs of all time. Opening 3 songs on the album are great too. 4/5.
The Replacements
3/5
A post-punk album with coming-of-age themes. Nothing special to my ears. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Aretha Franklin
3/5
Clearly an over rated album based on the name alone. It's a decent album. Respect is the clear stand out and one of the greatest covers of all time but the rest isn't as earth shattering as people are making out. Can't question the vocal but everything else is nowhere near deserving of a perfect scores being handed out. The best songs are also all covers. 3/5.
Supergrass
3/5
Certainly better than the other album but you have 1001 albums to listen to before you die and Supergrass gets 2? Piss off. 3/5.
Oasis
4/5
I'm completely bias because I'm over familiar with the music, I'm a product of the 90s, I was at their reunion gig and I've seen Liam and Noel separately in their solo careers.
Hands down one of the best debuts of all time. Basic musicianship but some of the most iconic songs of the 90s are here.
4/5.
Björk
4/5
Production sounds great here. I preferred Debut though, it had more on an impact on me. This kind of washed over me. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Brian Eno
3/5
Mood music. It's not bad, it's not mind blowing. Would I throw this on again? Probably not. 3/5.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
3 songs I would consider all time greats. 11 min version of I Heard It Through The Grapevine that doesn't touch the original was too over indulgent for my liking. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Prince
4/5
Just finished watching the finale of Stranger Things and the first song and last song on this album are used to great effect.
Purple Rain is one of the greatest songs ever recorded. The last 4 songs on the album really end it on a bang. Not a perfect album though due to some weak songs in the middle.
4/5.
The Verve
1/5
Awful stuff. No business being on this list. 1/5.
Various Artists
4/5
Didn't realise so many of the most well known renditions of xmas songs were on this album. Didn't need the message from Phil at the end. 4/5.
David Bowie
4/5
Jean Genie is the only song I was previous familiar with. It's a well produced album but it didn't move me. I will have to come back to it but for now it's 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Todd Rundgren
3/5
Double albums should be banned outright. Can't deny the guy is talented but I had to start skipping songs. 3/5.
Public Image Ltd.
2/5
Yeah, not good. Unique enough to deserve a place on the list. 2/5.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
4/5
Was apprehensive but it grew on me, better than most of the hip-hop I've encountered through the list. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Wilco
2/5
Don't understand the critical praise. Maybe I'm missing something. 2/5.
Cowboy Junkies
3/5
Too slow for me and it's also a bunch of covers. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
The Soft Boys
3/5
2.5/5
Black Sabbath
4/5
3rd Black Sabbath album. Best so far. Filled with all time classics. 4/5.
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Dude is a prodigy to produce this music whilst blind. That said I preferred Innervisions. 3/5.
Faust
3/5
Experimental and weird. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Frank Ocean
4/5
Familiar with the album. Bit of an overhyped album that I've never clicked with. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Verve
4/5
Miles ahead of A Northern Soul. One of the great songs of the 90s and a few other greats sprinkled in. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Points for being experimental. Not very enjoyable. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
The Clash
4/5
These boys an play. Impressive album but wouldn't be my thing. Certainly deserving of a place on the list. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Arrested Development
3/5
I'll take this over "Gansta rap" anyday. Can get repetitive and the delivery could be better but it's a solid album. Definitely of its time. 3/5.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
4/5
Some all time classics. 4/5.
Led Zeppelin
3/5
"The eight songs extended beyond the length of a conventional album, almost spanning three sides of an LP, so the group decided to create a double album, adding material they'd recorded for previous albums but never issued."
So they put songs that weren't strong enough for previous albums on this to fill a double album. It's too long, Kashmir is the only stand out and it's so good it stands miles above the rest. Found this a slog to get through. 3/5.
Paul McCartney
4/5
13 tracks in 35mins? It must be Paul McCartney. It's nothing ground breaking but still better than average. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Television
4/5
These albums are the rare gems that make the 1001 process worth it. At the start I wasn't sure but as the album progressed it really grew on me. The vocal sounds so familiar but I can't put my finger on it. Guitar work is incredible, it really grabs you but I just can't explain why. 4/5.
Japan
2/5
The people of Japan are owed an apology. 2/5.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
I'm sure it's an important album with depth but it's not enjoyable. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
Manic Street Preachers
2/5
I skipped through tracks. I'm familiar with the band and A Design for Life being on every car advert ever.
No business being on this list. I'm repeating myself but Ænima by Tool and Pinkerton by Weezer both came out in 1996. There isn't a single valid argument I could hear to convince me why MSP made the list and they didn't. 2/5.
Radiohead
5/5
I think it's a near perfect album. There are about 6 all time great songs on the album. I don't think there are any bad songs on it. I was going to go with 4.5/5 but I've talked myself into a 5/5.
Bebel Gilberto
3/5
It's nice. It blends Brazilian bossa nova and samba with contemporary electronic production, lounge, and downtempo beats.
I don't have the knowledge of the style to differentiate good from bad but it was a pleasant listen. 3/5.
Iron Butterfly
2/5
This sold over 30 million copies worldwide? How?!
In 1969 it outsold Led Zeppelin I, Johnny Cash At Folson Prison and The Beatles White Album.
How high was everyone in 1969?!
2/5.
Beatles
4/5
It's a great album, but it's not Abbey Road so it's not a 5.
4/5.
Minor Threat
3/5
Landmark record. Not my thing but I can see why it makes the list. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Super Furry Animals
2/5
How these lads have 2 albums on this list is crazy.
Its much better than the previous album but it feels forced, the death metal scream and the electronic drum and bass for example.
Its ambitious which deserves credit but it certainly doesn't land. I don't think theres a song I'd want to listen to again.
2/5.
The La's
2/5
Awful stuff. Heads need to be checked as to why this got on the list. 1.5/5. Raising to 2.
James Brown
4/5
The Godfather of Soul has one album on this list. Let that marinate. Think of all the empty soulless records you've endured on this journey.
4/5.
The Residents
3/5
Weird and experimental. Found myself smirking at points because it's so ridiculous. Genuinely found Constantinople catchy. I could see how this could be nails on a chalkboard to most and depends on your mindset at the time.
Give me this over anymore bang average brit bands from the 80s/90s. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Tortoise
2/5
Instrumental. Just not my kind of instrumental. 2/5.
Tears For Fears
2/5
It's the sound of the 80s. An entire album of it is too much though. 2/5.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
4/5
Surprised with the amount of hate for this album.
I didn't look at the tracklist so when Gang Bang came on that was hilarious.
Rocky Horror Picture Show vibes at times and looks like this came out the same year as the play, so I think there has to be some sort of connection there.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
I don't like or dislike it. Kinda boring but not annoying. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Mudhoney
3/5
Can see why it's on the list in terms of history. Lacking in the enjoyment department. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Fatboy Slim
4/5
4 iconic songs on one album. The other 7 are fine and maybe the I'm just nostalgic about the other 4. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
DJ Shadow
4/5
Taking little pieces of others creations from vinyl and reworking it into something ambient/dreamy over 2 years? This is the perfect example of the type of albums that should be on this list. Whether you like it or not is irrelevant. It demands a spot. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
Talvin Singh
2/5
Ambitious and unique but I didn't really enjoy it. 2/5.
Elton John
5/5
Its a near perfect album. Some of his all time great songs are here. Could do with some trimming, maybe if it wasn't a double album I'd consider it perfect. 4.5/5. Raising to 5.
Gene Clark
3/5
Dutch rock critics picked this over Led Zeppelin IV which was also a 1971 record. Shows you what critics know. It's fine, it's a style that has been done to death. I hear some basic music and basic lyrics. Not hearing anything innovative or worth a re-listen. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
2/5
"According to Spence, the Nashville sessions were intended by him to only be a demo, which he gave to Rubinson with the intent that the songs would be fleshed out with full production for the actual album. Instead, Rubinson had the demo recordings released by Columbia."
Half-baked ideas on a cohesion-less album.
Pity since there was clearly potential for something more interesting. 2/5.
Dead Kennedys
2/5
Just not clicking with me. 2/5.
Jurassic 5
3/5
Never heard this before. Old-school hip-hop in an era dominated by commercialised "gangsta" rap. Better than most. Probably wouldn't relisten though. 3/5.
Tangerine Dream
3/5
You should really read the up on this one before writing it off as beep boop beep music.
This is out there even by todays standards. Imagine listening to Phaedra in 1974. 3/5.
Ms. Dynamite
3/5
The UK bias strikes again. Ignoring that it's fine. Well produced. Definitely Nelly Furtado vibes, which is odd since she is supposed to be from London. Looks like Nelly Furtado didn't make the list. Loose deserves a place above this. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Van Halen
3/5
Not for me but can see how they are for others. 3/5.
Mike Oldfield
3/5
Who new the Exorcist Theme was part of a 26 minute long Prog Rock track? I certainly didn't. Deserves a place on the list. Just not a major Prog Rock fan. 3/5.
Morrissey
3/5
Its ok. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
Metallica
5/5
One of the all time great Heavy Metal albums. Run's a little long. 2 or so tracks could have been cut for a tighter album. 4.5/5. Raising to 5.
PS
I'm just over a quarter of the way through this list now. I'm all for expanding my music knowledge/taste but my feeling is there is more disappointment than gems to be found. Starting to believe there isn't 1001 albums worth listening to before you die and this list could seriously be condensed. We'll keep trucking along though.